Packaging container, manufacturing method, and manufacturing device

Abstract

The container body provides a container wall that defines the container space. The end insert, configured to terminate the container space, terminates the container space. The container body has a curled portion that first advances inward toward the central axis of the container space, then advances toward the container space distal to the second or first end, and then advances toward the container wall and returns toward the first end. The end insert has a curled portion within the folded portion of the container wall, whereby the end insert is secured within the folded portion by the shape of the sheet material. The container maintains flexibility and resilience. A flexible and resilient packaging container has members that are assembled and secured solely by their shape, eliminating clamping, adhesive or bonding steps, or the need for rigid or ductile materials, such as metal.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to improvements in packaging, such as tube packaging, and methods for manufacturing packaging. [Background technology]

[0002] An example of conventional packaging provides a container defined by a wall that typically terminates near the base of the container, with a disk-shaped element of material spanning the interior of the wall. This type of container is used to package a stack of items contained within the wall and supported by the material spanning the interior of the wall.

[0003] Generally, this type of packaging is produced by providing a walled container, positioning a disk-shaped element spanning the interior of the wall, and providing a bead of adhesive at the joint between the element and the wall to secure the element in place.

[0004] The various steps involved in producing this type of packaging, known to those skilled in the art, are labor intensive and time consuming.

[0005] As known to those skilled in the art, using a bead of adhesive to secure a disk-shaped element to a container wall presents various limitations and technical challenges. The adhesive is a relatively rigorous and complex operation. Furthermore, the adhesive may affect the flexibility and resilience of the joint and the packaging container as a whole. Alternatively, the adhesive joint may suffer from reliability issues when the packaging container is bent during use.

[0006] Other conventional containers have components formed from ductile metals that allow items to be clamped to a shape and, once in that shape, are strong, providing reliable fastening of the items. One limitation of these containers is that they must be formed from metal, which does not suit all packaging applications, particularly those requiring flexibility and resilience. Another limitation is that the clamped joints in these containers are generally not flexible or resilient. Yet another limitation is that the clamping typically involves several movements and / or complex devices.

[0007] Other types of conventional devices are formed from sheets of material that are held together by adhesive or ties. Many of these involve fastening seams, which require a fastening device to move around the base, for example. One limitation of these containers is the complex operation and / or coating required to form the adhesive or ties. Another limitation is that adhesive bonds generally require sufficient surface contact, which affects the resilience and flexibility of the joint and the container as a whole.

[0008] It would therefore be advantageous to have improved packaging and / or manufacturing methods that could address some or all of the above challenges, or at least provide the industry with alternative options.

[0009] It would therefore be particularly advantageous to have an improved packaging and / or manufacturing method and / or apparatus for manufacturing packaging containers formed from flexible and resilient sheet material that can address some or all of the above challenges or at least provide the industry with an alternative option.

[0010] It would therefore be particularly advantageous to have an improved packaging and / or manufacturing method and / or apparatus for producing packaging containers formed from flexible and resilient sheet material that can address some or all of the above challenges or at least provide the industry with an alternative option. Summary of the Invention

[0011] One aspect of the present invention is to provide a packaging container formed from one or more sheets of flexible and resilient material, the packaging comprising: a container body formed from a sheet material and providing a container wall defining a container space; and an end insert formed from sheet material, having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and having a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate the first end of the container space; Equipped with the container body has a curled, folded portion that first advances inward toward a central axis of the container space and then advances toward a second end, i.e., a container space distal to the first end; The end insert has a curled, folded portion that first extends inward toward the central axis of the container space and then extends toward the second end, i.e., the container space distal to the first end, and the folded portion of the second portion of the end insert is positioned within the folded portion of the container body.

[0012] The sheet material may be a material provided as a sheet.

[0013] The sheet material may be flexible.

[0014] The sheet material may be elastic.

[0015] The sheet material may be formable into a shape and may be flexible and / or resilient after being formed into a shape.

[0016] The sheet material may be thermoformable into a shape and may be flexible and / or resilient after being formed into a shape.

[0017] The second portion of the end insert may provide an affixation proportion.

[0018] The rolled portion of the end insert may be formed of a flexible and resilient material and is secured to the container body by the rolled portion of the container body, which is also formed of a flexible and resilient material.

[0019] The rolled portion of the container body and the rolled portion of the second portion of the end insert continue outwardly toward the container wall.

[0020] The rolled portion of the container body and the rolled portion of the second portion of the end insert further turn back toward the first end of the container volume.

[0021] The convoluted portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert may convolve at more than a 180° angle from the container wall.

[0022] The convoluted portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert may convolve at an angle of more than 270° from the container wall.

[0023] The vessel wall member and the second portion of the end member may be convoluted from the vessel wall at an angle of more than 360°.

[0024] The first portion of the end insert can provide a support element that is arranged to support items in the container volume adjacent the end of the container wall, the support element arranged to deform under force from one or more items.

[0025] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to deform due to static forces from the one or more items.

[0026] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to deform under the weight of the one or more items.

[0027] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to be deformed by a force having a component resulting from the momentum of the one or more items.

[0028] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items, to be deformed by a force having a component arising from one or more items, and to provide a reaction force.

[0029] This reaction force may be caused by the elastic force of the support element due to deformation caused by one or more items.

[0030] This reaction force may be provided by the shape of the support element prior to the deformation caused by the item or items.

[0031] This reaction force may be caused by the shape of the support element due to deformation caused by one or more items.

[0032] The force causing the deformation and / or the reaction force may be characterized by vibration of one or more items.

[0033] Momentum may be characterized by one or more items being loaded into the container space.

[0034] Momentum may be characterized by one or more items being introduced into the container space.

[0035] The support elements may be arranged to deform and provide damping and / or reaction forces due to dynamic loads expected during loading of items into the container space by dropping the items onto the support surface.

[0036] The support elements are arranged to deform under dynamic loads expected during transport of the container with the contained items.

[0037] The support elements are arranged to prevent collision of the support elements due to deformation, to prevent movement of items which would cause dynamic loads, to provide impact due to deformation, and to provide a surface against which the container wall can rest.

[0038] The support element may include one or more reinforcing features that may stiffen the surface on which the packaging container is supported to prevent movement of one or more items.

[0039] The support element is shaped and positioned to terminate the container space at one end.

[0040] The support element may have a convex shape relative to the container space.

[0041] The support element may be the first part of the end insert in any of the paragraphs above.

[0042] The support element may be arranged to remain in contact with and deform the one or more items over a range of deformation of the support element caused by the one or more items.

[0043] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a packaging container, comprising: providing an end insert, the container body being formed from a flexible and resilient sheet material and providing a container wall defining a container space; providing an end insert formed of a flexible and resilient sheet material, having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate the first end of the container space; rolling a section of the container body, the rolling portion first traveling inward toward a central axis of the container space and then toward a second end, i.e., a container space distal to the first end; and curling a second portion of the end insert, the curling first proceeding inwardly toward the central axis of the container space and then proceeding toward the second end, i.e., the container space distal to the first end; Including, The turn-ups on the second portions of the end inserts are positioned within the turn-ups on the container body so that the terminating member is secured to the container body.

[0044] The rolling of the section of the container body and the rolling of the second portion of the end insert may be performed simultaneously.

[0045] The method may include positioning an end insert within the wall prior to the rolling.

[0046] Rolling the container body and the second portion of the end insert may include forcing the container body and the second portion of the end insert into a cavity provided by a tool.

[0047] The cavity may be a tapered cavity provided by a tool.

[0048] Rolling the second portion of the end insert may include forcing the container body and the second portion of the end insert against a radius formed in the tool.

[0049] Rolling the vessel wall and rolling the second portion of the termination member may include forcing the vessel wall and the termination portion received therein against an end face of the cavity provided by the tool.

[0050] The method may include heating the section of the container wall and the second portion of the end insert; The flexible and resilient material of one or both of the container body and end insert is adapted to retain its shape after heating and subsequent cooling while remaining flexible and resilient, and the retained shape allows the end insert to be flexibly and resiliently secured to the container wall.

[0051] The method may include forming an end insert by providing a sheet material lying in a plane, forming from the sheet a shape extending out of the plane suitable for providing the end insert, and separating the end insert shape from the remainder of the sheet at a line outside the plane formed by the remainder of the sheet.

[0052] The method includes a cutting head that is received in an end insert shape formed from the sheet material and pierces the shape from within the shape using a blade that can be moved around the base shape to separate it from the rest of the sheet.

[0053] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a packaging container, comprising: providing a container body and a container wall defining a container space, the container body and the container wall being formed of a flexible and resilient sheet material; providing an end insert formed of a flexible and resilient sheet material, having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate the first end of the container space; Rolling up a section of the container body into a curl; curling the second portion of the end insertion portion; Including, The rolling of the container body is performed simultaneously with the rolling of the second portion of the end insert.

[0054] Another aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing a packaging container, comprising: a mandrel onto which a container body formed of a flexible and resilient sheet and providing a container wall defining a container space can be attached; a support on a mandrel for an end portion of a container formed of a flexible and resilient material, the end insert having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion arranged as a wall that can be inserted into the container wall near the first end of the container space when on the support, the support being arranged to position the end insert into the container wall at the first end of the container space to terminate the container space; and a tool capable of convoluting the container wall at the first end of the container space, the tool convoluting the second portion of the end insert and being positioned within a convoluted portion defined by the convoluting member of the container body; Equipped with.

[0055] The tool defines a cavity with the end portion, into which the container wall at the first end in the container space and the second portion at the end insert are engaged.

[0056] The tool may define a tapered cavity.

[0057] The apparatus may include an actuator operable to move the mandrel relative to the tool.

[0058] A packaging comprising: a container wall arranged to define a prismatic container space for one or more items; a support element arranged to support an item in the container space adjacent the end of the container wall; Equipped with The support element is arranged to be deformed by a force from one or more items in the packaging.

[0059] The packaging may include one or more of the features in any of the paragraphs above.

[0060] The support element may be provided by an end insert formed of a flexible and resilient material having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate the first end of the container space.

[0061] The container wall may be provided by a container body having a curled convolution that first advances inward toward the central axis of the container cavity and then advances toward a second end, i.e., the container cavity distal to the first end.

[0062] The end insert may have a convoluted portion arranged in a curl that first advances inward toward the central axis of the container cavity and then advances toward a second end, i.e., toward the container cavity distal to the first end, with the convolutions in the second portion of the end insert disposed within the convoluted portion of the container wall member.

[0063] The packaging may include any of the features in any of the paragraphs above.

[0064] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to deform due to static forces from the one or more items.

[0065] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to deform under the weight of the one or more items.

[0066] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to be deformed by a force having a component resulting from the momentum of the one or more items.

[0067] This force is characterized by the vibration of one or more items.

[0068] This momentum may be characterized by one or more items being loaded into the container space.

[0069] This momentum may be characterized by one or more items being introduced into the container space.

[0070] The support elements may be arranged to deform due to dynamic loads expected during loading of items into the container space by depositing the items onto the support surface.

[0071] The support elements are arranged to deform under dynamic loads expected during transport of the container with the contained items.

[0072] The support elements are arranged to provide a deformation impulse to impede movement of the items causing dynamic loads, thereby preventing collision of the support elements with deformation, and to provide a surface against which the container wall rests.

[0073] The support element may include one or more reinforcing features that may stiffen the surface on which the packaging container is supported to prevent movement of one or more items.

[0074] The support element is shaped and positioned to terminate the container space at one end.

[0075] The support element has a convex shape relative to the container space.

[0076] The support element may be the first part of the end insert in any of the paragraphs above.

[0077] The support element may be arranged to remain in contact with and deform the one or more items over a range of deformation of the support element caused by the one or more items.

[0078] The size range may be approximately 0.5 centimeters.

[0079] This range of movement may be approximately one centimeter.

[0080] This range of deformation may be approximately 2 centimeters.

[0081] This range of movement can be 1 to 2 centimeters.

[0082] The convex portion may be oval in shape.

[0083] The convex portion may have a different profile on each of two perpendicular axes, each perpendicular to a central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the container body.

[0084] The support element may be arranged to deform with a first strain coefficient for a smaller deformation and a second strain coefficient for a larger deformation, the second coefficient being greater than the first coefficient.

[0085] The support elements may be arranged to provide damping to the moving items.

[0086] The end member of the support element may be provided as a first portion of an end insert that is secured to the wall of a section of the tubular wall of the container body adjacent the end of the container region, the end of the container region being a section of the container wall arranged in a curl that extends from the terminated end back toward the end of the container space distal to the first convolution, and a second portion of the end insert that is disposed in a second convolution disposed within the first convolution to secure the end insert to the container wall.

[0087] The first convolution may extend inwardly, initially towards the container space.

[0088] The second portion of the end insert may define a prism with a cross-section that is complementary to the cross-section of the prismatic vessel region defined by a wall provided by the vessel body for the second portion of the end insert to be received within the prismatic vessel region.

[0089] The element is formed from a sheet of material.

[0090] The end inserts may be formed from a sheet material having fastening members defining a prism that is separated from the sheet material at a cut in the fastening member, the cut extending around the periphery of the prism.

[0091] Another aspect of the present invention provides a packaging container comprising: a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and an end member having a first portion received within the tubular wall at a first end of the container space, terminating the first end of the container space, and a second portion secured to the tubular wall to position the first portion within the tubular wall, wherein a section of the tubular wall adjacent the end of the container space terminated by the first portion in the end insert extends from a terminating lower end back toward the distal end of the container space and into a first convolution, and a second portion of the end member extends into a second convolution inside the first convolution; Equipped with.

[0092] The end member may be sized to be inserted into the wall during manufacture.

[0093] The second portion of the end member initially extends in a curled inward direction toward the center of the prismatic container cavity and then extends in a curled direction toward the distal end of the container cavity.

[0094] Another aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for producing packaging, comprising: one or more mandrels each capable of receiving a container body having a wall defining a prismatic container region therein; one or more mandrels, each mandrel configured to be received in an end of the body to terminate the prismatic region at the first end, the mandrel including a support surface operable to support and position the end insert, and the mandrel including a wall extending along a section of the wall of the body at the first end of the prismatic vessel region; and a tool capable of convolving a wall of the end insert and a section of the wall of the body to secure the insert to the body; Equipped with.

[0095] The tool can reel in the wall of the insert and a section of the wall, and simultaneously reel in the end section of the wall and a second portion of the end insert.

[0096] The device may include a tool that provides a tapered cavity into which the section of container wall and the second portion of the insert are forced.

[0097] The mandrel and tool are movable relative to one another to insert and compress the walls and wall sections of the insert.

[0098] 1. A method of manufacturing a packaging container, the method comprising: providing a wall defining a prismatic vessel region; applying an insert, the insert being shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into the prismatic region, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic region and a second portion capable of being secured to the wall; and securing the wall to the insert by rolling an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and by rolling a second portion of the insert; Includes:

[0099] The wall adjacent the insert and the second portion of the insert may be rolled back toward an end of the container space distal from the terminal end.

[0100] The end section at the wall adjacent the insert and the second portion at the insert may be rolled in simultaneously.

[0101] The rolling can be performed by inserting and forcing the section and the second part of the vessel wall into a cavity provided by a tool.

[0102] The inserting and forcing includes moving the mandrel relative to the tool.

[0103] The end inserts provide a sheet that overlies the surface, by forming a suitable shape to provide an end insert formed from the sheet and extending out from the surface; and by separating the end insert from the remainder of the sheet at a line outside the surface formed from the remainder of the sheet to prevent excess flange from extending beyond the end insert; It can be provided.

[0104] Another aspect of the present invention provides packaging, comprising: a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and an end insert received within the tubular wall at a first end of the container space, the end insert having a first portion terminating the first end of the container space and a second portion secured to the wall to position the first member within the wall, the second portion of the end insert being secured to the section of the wall by convoluting the second portion and the section of the tubular wall; Equipped with.

[0105] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, the method comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; providing an end member having a first portion capable of terminating a prismatic space and a second portion shaped to define a prism complementary to the prismatic space defined by the wall, thereby allowing one of the wall and the second portion of the end member to be received within the other; and securing the end member to the wall by convoluting an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and a second portion of the end member; Includes:

[0106] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a method of manufacturing an end insert for a container that provides a container space within a wall, the end insert being capable of terminating the container space, the method comprising: providing a sheet material overlying a surface; forming a suitable shape to provide an insert formed from the sheet and extending out from the surface; Includes:

[0107] The method may include separating the formed shaped member from the remainder of the sheet at a line positioned out from the surface to provide the base.

[0108] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, the method comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; and providing an insert shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into the prismatic space, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and a second portion capable of being secured to a wall, the insert being formed from a sheet material and separated from the sheet at a line outside a face formed by the remainder of the sheet; Includes:

[0109] As used herein, the terms "convoluted," "convolve," and the like may be intended to refer to the static shape after manufacture, or to refer to the dynamic method of convolving during manufacture.

[0110] The term "advancing" to curl as used herein may be intended to refer to the static shape or dynamic manner of curling, or to refer to the dynamic manner of curling during manufacturing.

[0111] As used herein, the term "element" is intended to be used broadly to describe a mechanical element or member.

[0112] In various aspects and embodiments, the term "end member" as used herein may be substituted with "end insert."

[0113] As used herein, the term "associated with" is used to encompass the movement of one device towards or away from another device, and vice versa, or both members moving together or away from each other.

[0114] Other aspects include any combination of the features recited in any of the paragraphs above.

[0115] Additional and further aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of embodiments thereof, given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0116] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a cutaway side view of a base member of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a cutaway side view of the tube body of the packaging member of FIG. 1 with the end insert received within the tube body prior to fastening. [Figure 3] 3 is an enlarged cutaway side view of the packaging member of FIG. 2 with the end insert secured to the tube body. [Figure 4] 1-3 shows the initial step in the manufacturing process of the tube packaging of Figures 1-3, where the body is added to the mandrel and end inserts, and shows a close-up view of the mandrel used in the method of Figure 3 supporting the tubular wall and end inserts in position to the tube body. [Figure 5] 4 is a close-up view of a mandrel used in the method of FIG. 3 supporting the tubular wall and end inserts. [Figure 6]5 illustrates a subsequent step in the method of FIG. 4, in which the insert is secured to the tube body. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates an apparatus operable to form a base for tube packaging. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a close-up view of a base separation device. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a bottom view of the cutting head. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a side view of a station of the apparatus that assembles a tube body with a base to provide a tube package. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a top view of an apparatus used to form terminated tubes for tube packaging. [Figure 12] 10A-10C illustrate a tool used to secure a base to a tube body according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10A-10C illustrate a tool used to secure a base to a tube body according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 10A-10C illustrate a tool used to secure a base to a tube body according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 shows a first part of a mold tool used to manufacture the base. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 shows a first part of a mold tool used to manufacture the base. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 shows a first part of a mold tool used to manufacture the base. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 shows a second part of the mold tool used to manufacture the base. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 shows a second part of the mold tool used to manufacture the base. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 shows a second part of the mold tool used to manufacture the base. [Figure 21] 10 is a schematic diagram of the shape of the roll-up used to secure the end insert to the container body. FIG. [Figure 22]10 is a schematic diagram of the shape of the roll-up used to secure the end insert to the container body. FIG. [Figure 23] 10 is a schematic diagram of the shape of the roll-up used to secure the end insert to the container body. FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a side view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] 25 is a side view of the end insert according to the embodiment of FIG. 24 being deformed by an item during use. [Figure 26] 26 is a side view of the end insert of FIG. 25 further modified by an item. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a side view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a side view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 36] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an end insert according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 37] FIG. 10 is a side view of an end insert according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 38] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an end insert according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 39] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of an end insert according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0117] Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention, given by way of example only of specific embodiments.

[0118] FIG. 1 shows a base section 1 of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] The package has a body portion 2, which provides walls 3 that define a prismatic space 4 to contain the goods or items to be packaged. This space 4 may be referred to herein as the container space.

[0120] In this embodiment, the wall 3 has the shape of a tube intended to be upright and extend vertically. In this embodiment, the tubular wall 3 forms a cylindrical tube and the prismatic container space 4 is cylindrical. In other embodiments, the wall is arranged as an alternative to a tube, such as with a square cross section or other cross section.

[0121] FIG. 1 shows an end insert 5 providing an end element 6 or stop, which is positioned within wall 3 substantially at the end of body 2 to bound, close or terminate container space 4.

[0122] When the package is in use, the tubular wall 3 defines a container space for the packaged items, and the end element 5 defines a lower end of the container space 4. In this example, the goods are packaged in the container space. In this particular example, the packaged goods are horticultural goods.

[0123] End insert 5 is shown to be received or inserted into the tubular wall during the manufacturing method described and illustrated herein. The end insert in this embodiment is formed from sheet material into a prism shape that is received or inserted into the end of the container cavity. In this case, the prism is cylindrical, specifically a short cylinder closed at one end by end element 6.

[0124] The end insert 5 has two parts. The first part of the end insert 5 is an end element 6 or stop, which terminates the container space 4. The second part of the end insert is an anchoring member 7, which is anchored to the tubular wall and positions and / or secures the end element 6 in the tube body to terminate the container space 4.

[0125] Figure 2 shows the tube body 3 with the end insert 5 received therein prior to fastening. The gap or separation shown in Figure 2 between the tubular wall 3 and the end insert 5 is merely representative of the separation of these components, but in this embodiment the insert 5 is received in the tube body 3 with tighter tolerances. Typically the tolerances are such that the end insert 5 fits snugly and yet the end insert can be inserted into the inverted wall 3 with minimal force, such as due to the weight of the end element.

[0126] Figure 2 shows a first member 6 of the end insert 5, with the end element spanning the space within the pipe body. Figure 2 also shows a second member 7 of the insert 5, which is affixed to the wall 3 to position and / or secure the end element 6 within the pipe body. The second member 7 defines a wall section that gives the end insert a prismatic shape that is complementary to the prismatic cross-section of the pipe body at the end member 8 of the wall 3. This complementary shape allows the insert to fit within the wall.

[0127] In this embodiment, the end inserts 5 are vacuum formed members. In this embodiment, the end inserts are formed from flat sheet material into the prism shown in cross section in FIG.

[0128] The first part of the end element is end element 5, a stopper, which terminates the container space. The end element is positioned within the tubular wall by a second part formed as a wall shaped to fit within the tubular wall. In this example, the wall is dimensioned for a snug fit, making the wall of the insert parallel to the tubular wall prior to the fastening step described below.

[0129] FIG. 3 shows an enlarged cutaway side view of the packaging of FIG. 1 at the end where the end insert 5 is secured to the wall 3. The securing portion 8 of the body 2 is shown arranged or formed in a convoluted shape. The securing portion is formed from the end portion of the wall body 2. The securing portion 7 of the insert 5 is shown formed in a complementary shape to the end portion 8 of the wall 3. FIG. 3 shows the securing portion 7 of the end insert and the end portion 8 of the body in a convoluted configuration, arranged as a double-layered, overlapping convoluted structure. A first, outer layer 9 is provided by the end portion 8 of the tube body 2, and a second, inner layer 10 is provided by the securing portion 7 of the end insert 5. The second layer 10 is shown convoluted within or inside the first layer 9. In this embodiment, the convoluted portion followed by the end portion 8 of the wall first advances toward the central axis (not shown) of the prismatic container space 4 and then returns toward the end of the container space 4 distal to the end portion 8 of the wall. The turn-up tracked by the fastening member of the end insert is within the turn-up at the end portion 8 of the body, where the term "tracking" refers to the description of the static turn-up shape.

[0130] Figure 4 illustrates steps in the manufacture of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present invention. Shown in Figure 4 are bodies 103a-103d, which are open tubes, referred to herein as tube bodies. Body 103 in this embodiment has the features of body 2 in Figure 1, although possibly with different dimensions. In this embodiment, the wall of body 2 is a circular prismatic tube.

[0131] Also shown in Figure 4 are end inserts 105a-105c suitable for demarcating, terminating, or closing the end of each tube 103. End insert 105 in this embodiment has the features of end insert 5 in Figure 1, but may have different dimensions in some cases.

[0132] Body 103 is similar to wall 3 of FIG. 3, except that it does not yet have the end portions rolled up to secure end inserts 105.

[0133] FIG. 4 also shows a series of mandrels fitted onto the tube body 103 .

[0134] In the method step shown, the end insert is inserted into the upper end of the tube body 103, shown upside down compared to Figure 1, and pressed into abutment against the upper support 125. In this example, the end insert 105 rests on the upper support 125.

[0135] 4, mandrels 104a and 104d mate only with tube body 103, leaving exposed upper support 125. Mandrel 104b is in the process of being provided with end insert 105b.

[0136] In other instances, the end insert may be a tight friction fit to the tube body. The upper support may serve only to locate the end insert 105.

[0137] In other examples, the end inserts may have a tolerance range that allows the weight of the end inserts to move into the tube body 103. The upper support 125 positions the end inserts 105 against portions of the wall 103.

[0138] Mandrel 104c is shown with end insert 105c fitting into the end of the tube body and abutting upper support 125c. With the positioning of the lower support for a given extension of the tube body, the upper end of the end insert is flush with the upper end of the tube body as shown. Although shown as upper ends of the end insert and tube body, these are intended to be the bottom of the package consisting of the tube body and end insert in use, i.e., when the package is in use. In use, the end insert will demarcate or close the bottom of the tube body and tube package.

[0139] 4 also shows a moving platform 110 to which the mandrels are attached, which is capable of moving the mandrels to stations for different manufacturing steps, as described and illustrated below.

[0140] Figure 5 shows a tube mounted on a mandrel 120. The mandrel 120 has a base 121 attached to a platform or table 110. In this example, the table is a rotary table that allows the mandrel to be rotated to align with various manufacturing stations not shown in Figure 5 but exemplified below.

[0141] The mandrel 120 has a lower support 122 for the tube body 103, which can support the lower end of the tube body 103 at a given distance from the upper end of the mandrel 120. The position of the lower support relative to the upper support places the upper ends of the end inserts and the wall provided by the body 103 at the same height. In this embodiment, the relative position of the lower support relative to the upper support is adjusted for a given extension of the wall and the attached portion of the end insert.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 5, the tube body 103 is inverted for its intended use. As shown in FIG. 5, the upper end of the tube becomes the lower end of the tube in its intended use. The lower support 122 for the tube may be referred to herein as the lower tube support. In this example, the tube support 122 has an insert portion 123 that is inserted into the tube by the action of fitting the tube onto the mandrel, allowing the tube to rest on the lower support. The insert portion 123 of the lower tube support tapers to a tube support flange 124 that serves as a rest for the tube 103 to support the tube 103. This tapered portion allows the tube 103 to align with the mandrel even when simply dropped onto the mandrel, improving the speed and minimizing the associated labor of fitting the body 103 to the mandrel. The tube support flange 124 may be referred to herein as the mandrel flange or support flange.

[0143] As shown, the mandrel 122 has an upper support 125, which may be referred to herein as the end insert support or the upper mandrel support. In this example, the upper support is secured to a mandrel post 126, which is secured to the base, and provides structural support for the remainder of the mandrel.

[0144] The distance from the upper support 125 to the tube support flange and the extension of the tube body determine the distance 127 that the tube body 103 extends above the upper support 125 .

[0145] In this example, the lower support 122 is adjustable for height above the mandrel post, which allows for the distance that a given extension of the tube body extends above the upper support 125.

[0146] In various embodiments, the mandrel-mounted tube body 103 rests on a lower support flange that is positioned at a point that allows the tube body on the mandrel post to extend a selected extension above the upper support.

[0147] In the embodiment of Figure 5, the end insert is shown abutting the upper support, which positions the end insert so that the top of the end insert is adjacent the end of the tube body, as shown. In alternative embodiments, the top end of the end insert and the top end of the tube body may not be at the same height or aligned, as shown.

[0148] 6 shows a series of mandrels 103e and 103h onto which tube bodies 103e-103h and end inserts 105e-103h are fitted. In this embodiment, the method steps include securing the end inserts in their intended positions relative to the tube body when the inserts are positioned by the upper support. The tube body is positioned by the tube body support. The secured end inserts provide secured lower elements for the containment space provided by the tube.

[0149] In the illustrated embodiment, the illustrated upper end portion of the tube body and end insert are rotated or rolled to secure the end insert in place on the tube body, which in this example is determined by the position of the lower support relative to the upper support and the extension of the tube body.

[0150] In this embodiment, the tube body and end insert are rolled into a cavity (not shown) by applying heat and force to the ends. In this embodiment, the cavity is tapered. In this example, the roll is inward toward the center of the tube as shown and back away from the top of the tube body. This is inward and upward because the tube body is intended to be used inside and down, as shown in Figure 6. The ends of the tube body and end insert are in a double layer rolled configuration. The rolled ends form the base for the tube.

[0151] In one example, the cavity is provided by a tool that provides the cavity in a metal disk. In one example, the metal is brass. In some examples, the heating is performed by a heating element that the tube contacts.

[0152] The rolled end forms a double layered, rolled end, or rolled end, for the tube body, which secures the end insert in place and provides a lower surface for the tube's receptacle space during use. In this embodiment, the shape of the rolled end secures the end insert in place. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this securing means allows the flexible and resilient walls and end insert to be secured simply by their shape, allowing them to remain secured while remaining flexible and resilient.

[0153] In some alternative embodiments, heating and rolling the end also bonds the end insert to the tube body. Various alternative embodiments may use different combinations of form or bond fastening.

[0154] The moving platform with the mandrel attached can move the mandrel with the tube body and end inserts from a station where the tube body is placed on the mandrel to a station where the end inserts are added and to a station where the ends are rolled in. The moving platform can also move the tube body and end inserts to a station where the end inserts are secured to the tube body.

[0155] 7 illustrates an apparatus 200 operable to provide an end insert having a base shape 201 for tube packaging. The end insert bounds or terminates a container space defined by the walls of a container body. In this example, the container body defines a prismatic container space. In a particular example, the prismatic container space is cylindrical.

[0156] As shown in FIG. 7, a sheet of material 202 has a set of base shapes formed therein. In this embodiment, the bases are formed by heating the sheet material 202 and clamping it between tools to form the base or end insert shape for the tube packaging. The shapes in the sheet shown are joined by the remainder of the sheet positioned between the base shapes. Other than the base shapes, the remainder of the sheet material is defined in a plane. The base shapes 201 formed from the sheet must be separated from the remainder of the sheet to be used as the base for the tube packaging.

[0157] The sheet 202 is shown on a support 203 .

[0158] In this embodiment, the first and second actuators are arranged to move the separating device 206 in a horizontal plane relative to the support 203 and the sheet 202 on a horizontal surface.

[0159] The first base sheet actuator 204 is operable to move the separation device 206 in a first axis relative to the support 203. The second base sheet actuator 205 is operable to move the separation device 206 in a second axis relative to the support 203.

[0160] 7 shows a base separating device 206 operable to separate a base shape 201 formed on a sheet from a sheet 202. Movement by the first and second moving devices can be arranged to align the base separating device with a horizontal surface, as shown with any base shape formed on the sheet. The base separating device 206 is attached to a vertical actuator 207 operable to move or move the cutting device vertically relative to the aligned base shape 201.

[0161] Sheet 202 is shown with base shape 201 positioned concavely upward as shown. The support in this embodiment has a cylindrical cavity to receive the base shape and can be thought of as a fixture. In this example, the fixture has an aperture formed in a plate of support material to provide the cavity.

[0162] 8 shows a close-up view of the base separator 206. As shown, the base separator has a mount 210 for attaching the base separator to a vertical actuator. The base separator has a motor 211 and a cutting head 212.

[0163] 9 shows a bottom view of the cutting head 212. This view is a view from below of what is shown in FIGS.

[0164] As shown in Figure 9, the cutting head 212 has a blade mount 213 and an attached blade 214. The blade in this particular embodiment is adapted to punch a hole in the base shape and has a point 215 extending from the member providing the mount 213. In this case, the hole is placed by moving the blade from within the concave base shape 201 outward. The blade is further adapted to cut the base shape around a wall formed in the base shape to separate the base from the rest of the sheet and provide an end insert for the container packaging. The blade mount allows the position of the blade to be adjusted to adjust how far the point 215 extends.

[0165] In this embodiment, the base separator actuator is operable to move the base separator so that the blade-mounted member of the cutting head 212 is received upwardly in the concave base shape. In this embodiment, the base separator 206 can move the cutting head so that the blade 214 pierces the sheet at the base shape 201 outside the remaining surface of the sheet material. In this embodiment, the blade pierces the base shape near the periphery of the concave shape of the base shape. In one example, the base shape has a base portion positioned to terminate the tube container and has side walls positioned parallel to the tubular wall when the base is inserted into the tube packaging. In this example, the base separator is operable to cut around the wall and separate the base shape at the wall to provide the base. In this example, the base shape 201 has walls defining a cylinder that fits within the cylinder of the tube body, and cutting the wall separates the base shape from the sheet.

[0166] 10 shows a side view of station 220 of apparatus 221 according to another embodiment. The apparatus shown combines a tube body with a base to provide a tube package, where the base is equivalent to the end insert of the embodiment described herein. Station 220 has a movable mandrel 222. In this example, mandrel 222 is movable to move between this station and other stations in apparatus 221.

[0167] In this example, the mandrel 222 has a post onto which the tube body 223 can fit. The station shown in FIG. 10 is operable to position the base 221 on the tube body 223 before affixing the base to provide a base termination for the tube. In this embodiment, the base is inserted into the end of the tube and may be viewed as an end insert. The tube may be viewed as defining a prismatic container space. In this particular embodiment, the base 221 is shaped to have walls that define a prism that is complementary to the prismatic space defined by the walls of the tube body 223.

[0168] The mandrel 222 shown in Figure 10 is fitted to the tube body 223. The mandrel provides an upper support 224, which is exposed by the tube body before the base 225 is provided. The base rests on the upper support 224. The upper support is positioned at a height such that the top of the base, or the top of the wall of the base defining a complementary prism, is aligned with the end of the tubular wall (not shown), as shown in Figure 10. This may not be perceived as a wall of the base or a wall of the tube body extending beyond the other.

[0169] 11 shows a top view of an apparatus 230 used to form terminated tubes for tube packaging. In this embodiment, the tube packaging is provided by a terminated tube and a lid or cap (not shown). In this example, the terminated tube is provided by a tubular wall or body, end insert, or base.

[0170] The first station 231 is operable to drill apertures (not shown) in the wall of the tube body distal from the end terminated by the base. In use, these apertures are at the top end of the tube packaging. In use, the apertures are engaged by protrusions (not shown) formed on the lid.

[0171] Apparatus 230 has five mandrel actuators 232-236, each fitted with a base and operable to move mandrels 237-241 to the left across the page as shown in FIG.

[0172] 11 shows clamping stations 242, 243 provided for each mandrel actuator 232. The first clamping station 242 shown has a tool defining a heated cavity. The tool of the first clamping station 242 may be referred to as a hot tool. The heated cavity is operable to heat the end of the tubular wall and the adjacent end of the wall of the end insert or base. The tubular wall and base in this embodiment are formed from a material that softens and conforms when heated.

[0173] The first bonding station 242 is operable to move a hot tool down, or into the page as shown, over the tube and conformable base to heat each end.

[0174] The second bonding station 243 shown has a tool defining a cavity that is cooler than the heated cavity. The tool of the second bonding station may be referred to as a cold tool. In this embodiment, the cold cavity is at a temperature selected for the material used for the tube body and end inserts, which sets the material into its final shape or configuration. In this embodiment, the cold cavity is at room temperature.

[0175] The first bonding station 242 is operable to move a hot cavity downward into the page and over the tube body and base insert, as shown in Figure 11, and heat the ends of the tube body and end inserts. In this embodiment, the ends of the walls defined by the tube body and end inserts are received into a cavity in a hot or heated tool and heated to conform.

[0176] The second fastening station is operable to move the cold cavity downward into the page and over the tube body and base insert as shown in Figure 11. In this embodiment, the end of the wall defined by the tube body and end insert is received into the cavity with a cold tool.

[0177] The hot and cold tools act to form the end of the tube body wall and the end of the base wall into a shape that secures the end insert to the tube body, which in this example is a two-layer convolution, one layer provided by the tubular wall and the other layer provided by the base wall.

[0178] For example, the mandrel actuator 232 is operable to move the mandrel with the tube body to a first fastening station and then to a second fastening station to allow the end insert to be fastened to the tube body.

[0179] 12-14 show an embodiment of a tool 250 used to secure end inserts to tube bodies of the various embodiments of the invention described herein.

[0180] FIG. 12 is a plan view of the tool.

[0181] Figure 13 is a cutaway elevation view of the tool. The stations in the embodiment of Figures 7-11 are operable to move the tool vertically, i.e., up and down the page as shown in Figure 13, to move the tool relative to the tube body. In other embodiments, the mandrel may move.

[0182] FIG. 13 also shows the tube body 223 in an inlet position. The base or end insert that would fit into the tube body has been omitted from FIG. 13 for clarity. As shown, the tool 250 defines a cavity 252 on its underside. The cavity 252 shown has a width, or diameter in this example, that is wider than the tube. The cavity tapers upward and inward toward the interior of the cavity. The tube body is heated and has the tool applied with force against it. The tube body has a leading edge, or upper end as shown, that is oriented inward toward the interior of the cavity and toward the center of the tube body.

[0183] FIG. 14 shows a close-up cutaway elevation view of a member of a tool 250, illustrating the shape of the cavity provided by the tool. As shown in FIG. 14, the cavity 252 in this embodiment has an outer edge 253 at the cavity's open end 254, which is wider than the tube body and end insert and is received within the tube body. As shown in this embodiment, the cavity has an outer peripheral wall 255, which tapers inward and upward from the outer edge of the open end. The cavity in the embodiment of FIG. 14 has a cavity end or cavity termination 256, which is distal to the cavity opening 254. In this embodiment, the cavity end 256 is aligned parallel with the end member of the base (not shown) that terminates the tube packaging and parallel to the leading edge 257 of the tube body. As shown in FIG. 14, a radius 258 is formed between the cavity wall 255 and the cavity termination 256. In this embodiment, the radius extends beyond the cavity termination, or above the cavity termination as shown. In an alternative embodiment, the radius 258 may not extend beyond the cavity termination.

[0184] The method of manufacturing the tube packaging, excluding the lid, using the pre-formed end inserts is shown below.

[0185] In preliminary step S3-1, a set of base shapes is formed on a sheet of material and separated to provide individual bases.

[0186] In a first step S2-1, a sheet of material is formed into a tube.

[0187] In a second step S2-2, the tube is cut into extensions that provide the tube body.

[0188] In a third step S2-3, apertures are formed in the sides of the tube body, or in the wall formed by the tube body, to form openings in the tube packaging at the ends, which will be terminated by lids or caps, and these apertures will be engaged by protrusions on the lids or caps.

[0189] The tube body is placed on a mandrel 222 in a fourth step S2-4. The mandrel provides a lower support for the tube body and an upper support 224 for the base of the tube adjacent the end of the tube body 223 that will be terminated by the base.

[0190] The tube base, or end insert, is received or inserted into the end of the tube body 223 and positioned by the upper support in a fifth step S2-5. The position of the upper support 224 is positioned so that the top of the base is flush with the adjacent end of the tube body. In this embodiment, the base defines walls with a shape complementary to the walls of the tube body. In parallel steps, the end inserts are placed on each of the mandrels in the five parallel lines shown in FIG. 11.

[0191] In a sixth step S2-6, the mandrel 222 is moved to the first fastening station 242 and the tube 223 and tool 250 are aligned as shown in FIG.

[0192] In a seventh step S2-7, the hot tool is moved downward and over the end and base of the tube body, and the tube and base are received in the hot cavity, which in this embodiment is cavity 252 provided by tool 250. Parallel steps are performed for each of the five lines represented in FIG. 11 by actuators 232-236.

[0193] In an eighth step S2-8, the cold tool is moved downwardly over the tube and the tube and end inserts are received in the cold cavity.

[0194] The effect of the hot and cold tubes is to wrap the ends of the tube body adjacent the end inserts, securing the inserts to the tube body at the ends of the tubular wall, which define the container space, and the end elements of the end inserts terminate the container space at the ends intended to be near the base of the packaging container.

[0195] In a final step, the tube body with the attached base is released from the device.

[0196] The method of manufacturing the end insert, base, or base termination of the tube packaging is as follows.

[0197] In a first step S3-1, a set of base shapes 201 are formed in a sheet of material.

[0198] In a second step S3-2, the sheet material with the formed base shapes is placed in a fixture 203 of the apparatus, as shown in Figure 7. The base shapes in this embodiment are upwardly concave. This step generally involves forming each base shape in turn.

[0199] In a third step S3-3, the base isolation device is moved by actuators 205, 206 and 207 to a position above the base shape.

[0200] In a fourth step S3-4, a blade 215 is forced through the sidewall of the base shape and moved around the wall to separate the base shape from the rest of the sheet material. Separation in this manner leaves no excess flange formed on the wall of the base shape. This prevents any flange from interfering with the rolling action used to secure the base to the tube body. The base shape, once separated from the rest of the sheet, provides an end insert, such as end insert 5 in one embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

[0201] Figures 15-17 show a first member 260 of a mold tool used to manufacture the base or end insert. Figures 18-20 show a second member 261 that is complementary to member 260. Typically, a sheet of material is heated and then clamped between the two members 260 and 261 shown. First member 260 defines a convex shape 262 and is used to form the convex shape in the sheet of material. In this embodiment, the convex shape is elliptical.

[0202] The periphery of the convex region 262 in the first member is an edge 263 above a wall 264 .

[0203] The second member 270 shown in Figures 18-20 has a concave cavity 271 that is used to form the convex portion of the base shape. The material that is heated and clamped between the first member 260 and the second member 270 is formed into a generally dome-like shape in this particular embodiment. This dome shape can deform to allow the base to act as a spring or biasing element to absorb momentum and / or vibration and / or shock of items within the container. Alternate base shapes can be used in alternative embodiments.

[0204] Around the periphery of the recessed area 271 in the second member 270 of Figures 18-20 is a ring-shaped area 272 that protrudes from the member and is arranged to be complementary in shape to the edge of the member of Figures 15-17. During use, material is clamped between this edge and the ring-shaped area and formed into the base shape.

[0205] The second member shown in Figures 17-20 has a bore 273 and recess 274 to facilitate connection to other parts of the device (not shown), such as an actuator or mount for clamping action.

[0206] The working mechanism for securing the end insert to the container wall is further illustrated with reference to Figures 21-23.

[0207] 21 shows a section of a container wall member and a fastening portion of a second end insert at a first end of the container space, both of which are convoluted. The fastening portion of the second end insert is disposed in a curled configuration within the convoluted portion of the section of the container wall member. In this example, the convoluted portion extends toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall and further toward the second end of the container space. As shown, the convoluted portion extends through angle A, greater than 180° from the line formed by the side of the wall, i.e., from the central axis of the container space.

[0208] 22 shows a section of a container wall member and a fastening portion of a second end insert at a first end of the container space, both of which are convoluted. The fastening portion of the second end insert is disposed in a curled configuration within the convoluted portion of the section of the container wall member. In this example, the convoluted portion extends toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall, then toward the second end of the container space, then toward the container wall, and then back toward the first end of the container space. As shown, the convoluted portion extends through angle B, greater than 270° from the line formed by the side of the wall, i.e., from the central axis of the container space.

[0209] 23 shows a section of a container wall member and a fastening portion of a second end insert at a first end of the container space, both of which are convoluted. The fastening portion of the second end insert is disposed in a curled configuration within the convoluted portion of the section of the container wall member. In this example, the convoluted portion runs toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall, then toward the second end of the container space, then toward the container wall, then back toward the first end of the container space, and then away from the container wall. As shown, the convoluted portion extends by angle C, which is greater than 360° from the line formed by the side of the wall, i.e., from the central axis of the container space.

[0210] In a method of manufacturing a container, a convolution of greater than 180°, 270°, or 360° is formed by forcing a full extension of the container body and a full extension of the fastening member of the end insert against a tool. In some embodiments, the container body and end insert are forced against a surface terminating a cavity in the tool. In other embodiments, the container body and end insert are forced against a radius formed in the tool.

[0211] The rolled-up container wall, formed of a flexible and resilient sheet material, provides a flexible and resilient fastening portion for the end insert, with the second portion of the end insert also being formed flexibly and arranged in a curl within the roll. The provided fastening portion relies solely on the resilient material to retain its shape while allowing the material to bend. Thus, embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that is generally flexible and resilient. In particular, embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging with flexible and resilient fastening portions for the end members, end inserts, or terminal ends. Packaged containers formed of flexible sheet material are generally flexible and resilient.

[0212] FIG. 24 shows a container 201. The container 1 has walls 202 that define a container space 203 and contain one or more items (not shown in FIG. 1). In this example, the container is a packaging item suitable for packaging the contained items. In this example, the items are fruit. In other examples, the items may be any item known to those skilled in the art to be suitable for a container to contain. Generally, the items have dimensions suitable for being loaded into and contained within the container space.

[0213] The container has support elements 204 for supporting contained items. The support elements support the items within the container walls. Figure 24 shows the base end of the container. The support elements support the items, terminate the base end of the container volume, and prevent the items from escaping through the base end of the container volume.

[0214] The support element 4 shown in FIG. 24 has a profile with a central horizontal portion 206 and a relatively vertical portion 205 at its outer edge adjacent the container wall 202, as seen in a vertical cutaway view. This profile allows the support element to deform near the center with a given force, but deforms toward the outer edge with a greater force. In some embodiments, the horizontal and relatively vertical portions provide a graduated strain coefficient in response to stress posed by one or more items. This stress may be caused by the static weight of the items. More specifically, this stress has a dynamic component caused by items moving within the container space. For example, an item may be dropped onto the support element. Further, for example, an item may vibrate or rock during transport. In some embodiments, the graduated strain coefficient allows for a range of deformation due to a given force posed by an item. The force causing the initial deformation is less than the force required to cause continued deformation. The initial deformation occurs primarily in the horizontal portion. Continued deformation also requires deformation of the relative vertical portions of the support elements.

[0215] In the illustrated embodiment, the support element is resilient and provides a counter force against the item. This can be a biasing force. In some embodiments, the support element acts as a spring. In various embodiments, the support element acts as a biasing element, biasing the item away from the base end of the container region.

[0216] In some embodiments, the support element has an oval profile.

[0217] In some embodiments, the support element has a generally oval outer shape.

[0218] In some embodiments, the support element has a spheroidal profile.

[0219] In some embodiments, the support element has a generally semi-spheroidal outer shape.

[0220] Figure 24 shows the support element as an end member of a container with a first portion 207 that terminates the container space 203 and a second portion that is secured to the container wall 2 to position the end member.

[0221] As shown, the end members or support elements are positioned adjacent the ends of the vessel walls 202 .

[0222] FIG. 24 shows the end, or container wall, which provides the base for the container.

[0223] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the second portion of the end member has a shape complementary to the container wall. In this embodiment, the second portion is secured to the container wall by the edge of the container wall, and the second portion of the end member curls inward toward the central axis of the container cavity and then curls back upward, away from the edge of the container adjacent the end member. This is inward and upward, as shown in Figure 24.

[0224] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 24, the support element is vacuum formed.

[0225] The support element in the embodiment of Figure 24 is vacuum formed from a sheet of material.

[0226] The support element in this embodiment is formed from sheet material and has an anchoring portion defining a prism that is complementary to the container wall, which may provide tolerances so that the prism defined by the second portion or end member of the support element has the same cross section of the container shape but a smaller width to allow the support element to be received within the container wall.

[0227] In this embodiment, the bond is separated from the sheet material at a cut in the bond that extends around the periphery of the post, removing any flange that may be left by the tolerances around the post of a punch moving longitudinally relative to the post, or downward as shown in FIG.

[0228] In this example, the support element is formed from the sheet material using a horizontally oriented mold to form a support element with vertical walls defining a prism, and then the support element is separated from the remainder of the sheet material using a cut made around the vertical wall. In other examples, the mold may not be horizontally oriented, and the orientation of the other members and the steps described would be adjusted accordingly.

[0229] FIG. 25 shows a container according to the embodiment of FIG. 1 with a support element supporting an item 210. FIG. 25 shows a central portion 205 of the support element being deformed by the item and providing a reaction force to support the item. The item can be considered to be floating; it can be suspended above the surface 211 on which the container 201 is supported. If the item 210 is moving toward the surface 211, the reaction force provided by the support element is shown in FIG. 25 as impeding this movement. In some example situations, the movement of the item 210 is impeded before it experiences an opposing impact from the surface 211 that could damage and / or injure the item.

[0230] FIG. 25 shows the area within the curved perimeter 212, which is deformed concavely towards the container area.

[0231] Figure 25 shows item 210 supported adjacent the base edge of container wall 2. Figure 2 shows item 210 supported adjacent the base edge of container 1.

[0232] Figure 26 shows a container according to the embodiment in Figures 24 and 25 with the support element supporting an item 210 that has moved further towards the base end of the container, approaching the end adjacent the end of the container wall 202 that provides the base.

[0233] In this example, Figure 26 shows the movement of the item 210 in Figure 25, which is impeded by a larger reaction force. In this example, Figure 25 shows the movement, such as the vibration of the item, which is impeded by the support element. In this example, Figure 26 also shows the movement of the item, such as when the stacked item is deposited at the top of the container space.

[0234] In another example, Figure 25 shows the deformation before the movement is impeded, and Figure 26 shows the item afterwards.

[0235] In another example, deformation at the inner portion of the periphery of the curved recess and opposing forces on the remainder of the convex support element dissipates energy and dampens movement of the supported item.

[0236] In other embodiments, the material of the support element, the thickness of the material form, or any other parameter known to those skilled in the art, is selected to provide damping.

[0237] In alternative embodiments, the support element may be part of an end member of the container for terminating the container space. In these embodiments, the end member may also have an anchoring member that is anchored to the container wall for positioning the support element.

[0238] In an alternative embodiment, the support element is the base cap of the container.

[0239] In an alternative embodiment, the support element is secured by a portion that receives the end of the container wall.

[0240] Another additional embodiment is as follows.

[0241] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for adhesives.

[0242] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for adhesives or bonds.

[0243] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for rigid shape-retaining materials.

[0244] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging, methods of manufacturing, or apparatus for manufacturing that eliminate the need for clamping seams.

[0245] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a container package, a method of manufacturing, or an apparatus for manufacturing that allows the container package to be made in a few steps.

[0246] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a container package, method of manufacturing, or apparatus for manufacturing that makes container packaging fast and cost-effective.

[0247] Another additional embodiment is as follows.

[0248] An alternative embodiment of the present invention is a method of manufacturing a tube packaging. The method includes providing a tube body similar to the tube body embodiment described above. In another step, a vacuum-formed tube insert is placed over a mandrel. In this example, the vacuum-formed end insert has a prismatic portion sized to be inserted into a given tube body. In this example, the prismatic portion is either circular prismatic or cylindrical in shape for insertion into a cylindrical tube body.

[0249] In this example, the vacuum-formed end inserts are sized to extend a short distance into the tube body.

[0250] In a separate step, the tube body is fitted over the end insert, which in turn is attached to the mandrel.

[0251] In a separate step, the tube body is secured to the cylindrical portion of the end insert. In this example, the two bodies are secured by plastic welding.

[0252] In another step, the tube body and end insert are cut so that selected extensions of the tube body and end insert extend away from the interior space of the tube body. In this example, the cut is made by moving a blade relative to the tube body and rotating the mandrel with the mating end insert.

[0253] In another step, the tube body and end insert are forced longitudinally of the tube body against the tool, the tapered cavity, and the heated cavity end, causing the walls of the tube body and the end insert to close against themselves to provide a two-layer rolled or rolled base for packaging and further sealing the space formed by the tube body and the end elements provided by the end insert.

[0254] In alternative embodiments, the tubular wall is replaced by a wall configured in an alternative shape to a tube. In alternative embodiments, the wall configured in an alternative shape to a tube is replaced by a tube body. The configured wall may be any prismatic shape known to those skilled in the art. Alternative shapes are suitable for the particular application or implementation of the invention and may include, but are not limited to, a square prism, a triangular prism, a star-shaped prism, and an oval prism.

[0255] In various embodiments, the insert's end element can be substituted to terminate the space within the container wall or within the tubular wall. In these and various other embodiments, the end element can be substituted with a closure element that can close all or part of the container space. In these and various other embodiments, the end element can be substituted with a termination element that can close all or part of the container space.

[0256] In various embodiments, an end member or end insert may be secured to terminate the middle of the container cavity. The terms "end member" and "end insert" are used interchangeably herein. The term "end insert," as used in connection with packaging to refer to a member, simply refers to a member that is inserted into the container wall during the manufacturing process of the package.

[0257] As used herein, the term "portion" is intended to refer broadly to a member within a whole.

[0258] As used herein, the term "container" is used broadly to include any packaging capable of containing an item, and is not limited to a container with a lid.

[0259] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the end elements of some of the embodiments shown herein terminate the container space at its base.

[0260] In various alternative embodiments, the vessel wall, or similar member described herein, may not have a circular cross section or define a circular area, but may have alternative geometries and define alternative prisms known to those skilled in the art to be suitable for a given application.

[0261] The space 4 defined by the wall 3, and similar spaces in other embodiments, may be referred to herein as a reservoir space, a prismatic reservoir space, or a reservoir region.

[0262] In alternative embodiments, the actuators for the first and second base sheets are positioned vertically or in an orientation other than horizontal with other members of the apparatus positioned to have the same relationship to the actuators, as shown with reference to FIG.

[0263] In alternative embodiments, the blade is replaced with an alternative separator, which in various examples may be a cutting wheel, a laser, a water cutter, or any alternative known to those skilled in the art.

[0264] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that separating the base shape from the rest of the sheet at the periphery of the base shape may preclude the formation of a flange portion at the periphery of the base shape, which may be the case, for example, when the base shape is separated by a base shape wall.

[0265] In alternative embodiments, the base separator is operable to move the cutting head as a whole. In these embodiments, the base separator is operable to move the cutting head such that the blade pierces the base shape. This may be understood as radial movement relative to the base shape.

[0266] In various embodiments, the tool shown in Figures 12-14 provides a hot tool to heat the end inserts and tube bodies as described herein.

[0267] In various embodiments, the tool shown in Figures 12-14 provides a cold tool as described herein.

[0268] In some embodiments, the hot and cold tools are similarly shaped tools that differ only in the temperature they operate at. In one of these embodiments, the tool shown with reference to Figures 12-14 provides both a hot tool and a cold tool.

[0269] In some embodiments, only the hot tool is used and the cold tool is omitted.

[0270] In various embodiments, the radius formed between the cavity wall provided by the tool and the end of the cavity is positioned so that the tubular wall and the wall of the end termination are rolled inward toward the cavity and rolled away from the cavity when the tube body and end insert are forced into the cavity.

[0271] In alternative embodiments, the clamping members, such as those illustrated in Figures 15-20, are alternatively shaped in area to form alternative base shapes. Various embodiments include graduated shapes, high domes, low domes, oval shapes, and various profiles in the axis perpendicular to the axis of movement of the clamping action, as well as other shapes known to those skilled in the art to be suitable for a given weight, type of item being packaged, fruit maturity, and characteristics of the type of fruit or item being packaged.

[0272] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a base suitable for terminating a container space defined by a walled container and / or a tube container. The base is formed from a sheet material such that, when the base is separated from the remainder of the sheet, it is separated from the sheet without excess flanges in the remaining material. Embodiments may provide a base without flanges that may prevent the base from being rolled up to secure the base to the container body or container wall.

[0273] Embodiments of the present invention may provide an end insert for a container body defining a walled container and / or a tube container. The base is formed from a sheet material and, when the base is separated from the remainder of the sheet, separates from the sheet without excess flanges in the remaining material. Embodiments may provide a base without flanges that may inhibit rolling to secure the base to the container body or container wall.

[0274] In an additional embodiment, the dome of the base for the tube packaging can act as a cushion, providing mechanical damping in addition to acting as a spring.

[0275] In alternative embodiments, the rolling of the container wall and the portion or wall, end portion, or base of the end insert may be replaced by any suitable method known to those skilled in the art for securing the end insert, end portion, or base to the container wall.

[0276] In alternative embodiments, the convolution of the container wall and portions of the end insert or wall, termination, or base (base) may be replaced by any method of arranging a contour for the insert, base, or termination, and wall contour known to those skilled in the art as suitable for securing the end insert, termination, or base to the container wall. This contour may include folding, convolution, or bending about the entire perimeter of the wall and base, or about one or more portions at the perimeter of the wall and base.

[0277] In various additional aspects and embodiments, equivalent components may be substituted for given components, e.g., any of the end inserts, inserts, bases, base terminations, and terminations may be substituted for any other of these in other aspects and embodiments.

[0278] In the embodiment of Figure 5, the end insert is shown abutting the upper support, which positions the end insert so that the top of the end insert is adjacent to the end of the tube body, as shown. In alternative embodiments, the top end of the end insert and the top end of the tube body may not be at the same height or aligned, as shown. In some alternative embodiments, the wall may extend beyond or above the anchoring portion of the end insert, as shown.

[0279] 27-30 show an end insert 305 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figures 27-30 show the end insert with a second or fastening portion. As can be seen, this is before it is rolled onto a container body (not shown) to secure the end insert to the container body. The end insert 305 of this embodiment has an annular region 321, which extends upward as shown and faces upward during use. A recessed region 322 is also shown. The recessed region is shaped to distribute forces and reduce pressure on the surface of an item (not shown) supported by the end insert during use. When the supported item moves upward during use, the item is supported by the recessed region, distributing forces and reducing pressure. The recessed region is supported by the annular deformation region 321. The annular region 321 is supported by the fastening portion 321. The annular region 321 deforms or curves to absorb any impact or movement of an item (not shown) towards the surface on which the package is supported. The item can be described as being suspended by the recessed region 322 and the deformed region 321.

[0280] Figures 31-34 show an end insert 405 according to another embodiment of the invention. The fastening portion 407 is visible. Also shown is a support area 422 for supporting an item (not shown). The end inserts of these Figures 31-34 have a reinforcing element 421 with an end 423 that abuts the surface on which the container is supported and supports the support area 422. Depending on the dimensions of the reinforcing element, the reinforcing element may prevent movement of items within the container, absorbing shock and preventing movement.

[0281] 36-39 show end insert 405 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fastening portion 507 is clearly shown. As shown, in use, the horizontal deformation element extends from fastening portion 507 to first support region 422, which supports second support region 421. In use, an item (not shown) is supported by regions 422 and 423, and region 421 deforms. Depending on the particular application, the deformation element deforms to impede movement of the item, dampen movement of the item, or absorb shock that the item may experience.

[0282] A first aspect of the present invention provides a packaging item, comprising: a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and an end insert received within the tubular wall at a first end of the container space, the end member having a first portion terminating at the first end of the container space and a second portion secured to the tubular wall to position the first portion within the tubular wall, the section of the tubular wall adjacent the end of the container space terminated by the first portion of the end insert extending back into the first convolution toward the end of the container space distal from the terminating lower end, and the second member of the end insert extending into the second convolution inside the first convolution; Equipped with.

[0283] Another aspect of the present invention provides a packaging item, comprising: a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and an end member positioned at a first end of the prismatic container space to terminate the container space, the end member having a first portion terminating the container space and a second portion secured to the tubular wall to position the first portion, the second portion of the end member being secured to the section of the tubular wall by a method of convoluting the second portion and the section of the tubular wall; Equipped with.

[0284] Another aspect of the present invention provides a packaging item, comprising: a vessel wall arranged to define a prismatic vessel space; and an end member positioned to terminate a prismatic container space, the end member having a first portion terminating the container space and a second portion secured to the tubular wall for positioning the first portion, the second portion of the end insert secured to the section of the tubular wall by the second portion and the section of the container wall, each being positioned in a curl with one of the container wall and the second portion of the end member disposed within the other; Equipped with.

[0285] Another aspect of the present invention provides packaging, comprising: a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and an end insert received within the tubular wall at a first end of the container space, the end member having a first portion terminating the first end of the container space and a second portion secured to the wall to position the first member within the wall, the second portion of the end insert secured to the section of the wall by convoluting the second portion and the section of the tubular wall; Equipped with.

[0286] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, the method comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; applying an insert, the insert being shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into the prismatic space, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and a second portion capable of being secured to a wall; and securing the wall to the insert by rolling an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and by rolling a second portion of the insert; Includes:

[0287] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, the method comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; providing an end member having a first portion capable of terminating a prismatic space and a second portion shaped to define a prism complementary to the prismatic space defined by the wall, thereby allowing one of the wall and the second portion of the end member to be received within the other; and securing the insert to the wall by rolling an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and a second portion of the end member; Includes:

[0288] The rolling of the end section of the wall and the rolling of the second portion of the insert may be performed simultaneously.

[0289] Another aspect provides an apparatus for producing tube packaging, the apparatus comprising: one or more mandrels each capable of receiving a body having walls defining a prismatic space therein; one or more mandrels, each mandrel having a support surface operable to support an insert shaped to be received in an end of the body to terminate a prismatic space at one end, and having a wall extending along a section of the wall of the body at said end of the prismatic space; and a device that can roll up sections of the wall of the insert and the wall of the body to secure the insert to the body; Equipped with.

[0290] The rolling of the end section in the wall and the second portion of the insert may include rolling the end section of the wall and the second portion of the insert simultaneously.

[0291] The rolling may include forcing the wall and / or second portion of the insert into a tapered cavity formed by the tool. In embodiments where the prismatic shape is cylindrical, the cavity may have a frusto-conical shape. The cavity may have a frusto-conical shape. The tapered cavity may include a radius at the junction between the cavity wall and the cavity end.

[0292] The rolling may include heating the wall and / or the second portion of the insert.

[0293] The second portion of the insert may be arranged as a wall having a shape complementary to the wall defining the prismatic space so as to allow the insert to be inserted into the end of the prismatic space defined by the wall.

[0294] The wall may be a container wall. The prismatic space may be a prismatically shaped container space. The container space may be capable of containing an item to be packaged.

[0295] The insert may be formed from a sheet of material.

[0296] The insert is vacuum formed from a sheet of material.

[0297] The insert may be vacuum formed from a plastic sheet material.

[0298] The wall may be a tubular wall defining a tubular-shaped container space.

[0299] The end member may be an end insert that may be inserted into the space defined by the tubular wall.

[0300] An aspect of the present invention provides a method for fastening an end element of a prismatic container to a container wall by simultaneously rolling the wall of the end element and the wall of the container. This may position the rolled end of the container wall and the complementary wall of the end element. In one example, the method may provide the rolled end of the wall, with the rolled wall of the end element positioned within the rolled section of the container wall. The container may be a packaging container suitable for packaging items.

[0301] An aspect of the invention provides a method for terminating an end of a space within a container wall with an insert. The insert has an end element capable of closing the end of the space and a wall element arranged to fit within the wall. The method may include arranging the wall element and the section of the container wall in a rolled configuration to secure the insert to the container wall. The method may include arranging the wall element and the section of the wall in a two-layer rolled configuration, with a first layer comprising the wall element of the insert and a second layer comprising the section of the wall.

[0302] An aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an end insert for a container providing a container space within a wall, the end insert being capable of terminating the container space, the method comprising: providing a sheet material overlying a surface; forming a suitable shape to provide an insert formed from the sheet and extending out from the surface; Includes:

[0303] The method may include separating the formed shaped member from the remainder of the sheet at a line positioned out from the surface to provide a base. This may provide a base without excess flange at its periphery.

[0304] The method may include separating the formed shaped member from the remainder of the sheet at a line positioned out from the surface, which may provide a base without excess flanges at its periphery.

[0305] The method may include separating a formed shaped member from the remainder of the sheet at a wall formed in the base shape to provide a base.

[0306] The method may include separating the shaped member formed from the remainder of the sheet at a portion extending transversely to the remainder of the sheet to provide the base.

[0307] An aspect of the invention provides a method for terminating an end of a space in a container wall with an insert having an end element capable of closing the end of the space and a wall element arranged to fit within the wall.

[0308] The method may include providing a sheet of material overlying a surface and having a shape suitable for providing an insert formed from the sheet and extending out from the surface. The method may include separating the formed shaped member from the remainder of the sheet at a line positioned out from the surface.

[0309] The shape may comprise an area extending transversely to the plane of the sheet material. The method may include separating a member of the formed shape from the remainder of the sheet at the transverse area.

[0310] The shape may comprise a region extending perpendicular to the plane of the sheet material, and the method may include separating a member of the formed shape from the remainder of the sheet at the perpendicular region.

[0311] The shape may define a wall portion that defines a prismatic space. The method may include separating the shape from the remainder of the sheet at the wall.

[0312] The shape may define a wall portion that defines a prismatic space. The method may include cutting the shape from the remainder of the sheet at the wall.

[0313] The shape may include an area extending out from the surface of the sheet material. The method may include separating a member of the shape formed in the area extending out from the surface. The method may include separating the base shape from the sheet using a blade.

[0314] The invention may involve punching holes in a base shape formed from a sheet of material with a blade and moving the blade around the base shape to separate it from the rest of the sheet.

[0315] The method may include a cutting head that is received in a recessed area of ​​a base shape formed from a sheet material, and a blade that can be used to cut a hole in the base shape from within the recessed area and move the blade around the base shape to separate the base shape from the remainder of the sheet.

[0316] The method includes a cutting head received within a recessed area of ​​a base shape formed from a sheet material, and a blade can be used to punch holes in the base shape from within the recessed area and move the blade around the base shape to cut the base shape.

[0317] The method may include placing the wall element and the section of the vessel wall in a rolled configuration to secure the insert to the vessel wall.

[0318] The method can include arranging the wall elements and wall sections in a two-layer convolution with a first layer comprising the wall elements of the insert and a second layer comprising the wall sections.

[0319] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, the method comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; providing an insert shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into the prismatic space, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and a second portion capable of being secured to a wall, the insert formed from a sheet material and separated from the sheet at a line outside a face formed by the remainder of the sheet; Includes:

[0320] The method may include securing the insert to the wall by rolling an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and by rolling a second portion of the insert.

[0321] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, the method comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; providing an insert shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into a prismatic space, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and a second portion capable of being secured to a wall, the insert formed from a sheet material and separated from the sheet at lines in the insert's members that define the walls of the prism defined by the insert; Includes:

[0322] The method may include securing the insert to the wall by rolling an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and by rolling a second portion of the insert.

[0323] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, the method comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; providing an insert shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into a prismatic space, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and a second portion capable of being secured to a wall, the insert formed from a sheet material and separated from the sheet at a contour at which members of the insert define the walls of the prism defined by the insert; Includes:

[0324] The method may include securing the insert to the wall by rolling an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and by rolling a second portion of the insert.

[0325] As used herein, the term "transversely extended" refers to extending in a transverse direction or, for example, across a surface.

[0326] In the foregoing description and in the following claims, the term "comprises" or equivalent variations thereof is used inclusively to specify the presence of stated features. This term does not exclude the presence or addition of other features in various embodiments.

[0327] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, and that alternative and additional embodiments within the spirit and scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the examples shown and described with reference to the figures. In particular, the present invention may reside in any combination of the features described herein, or in alternative embodiments or combinations of these features with known equivalents for given features. Modifications and variations of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A packaging container formed from one or more sheets of flexible and resilient material, comprising: a container body formed from a flexible and resilient sheet material and providing a container wall defining a container space; an end insert formed of a flexible and resilient sheet material, having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate the first end of the container space; Equipped with the container body has a curled portion arranged in a curl, which first advances inward toward a central axis of the container space and then advances toward a second end, i.e., the container space distal to the first end; the end insert has a curled, folded portion that first advances inward toward a central axis of the container space and then advances toward a second end, i.e., the container space distal to the first end; the rolled portion of the second portion of the end insert is disposed within the rolled portion of the container body such that the second portion of the end insert is secured to the container body. packaging container.

2. 2. The packaging container of claim 1, wherein the rolled-up portion of the end insert, formed of a flexible and resilient material, is secured to the container body by the rolled-up portion of a container wall member, also formed of a flexible and resilient material, to provide a flexible and resilient packaging container.

3. The packaging container of claim 2 , wherein the rolled portion of the container body and the rolled portion of the second portion of the end insert continue to curl outward toward the container wall.

4. 4. The packaging container of claim 3, wherein the rolled-up portion of the container body and the rolled-up portion of the second portion of the end insert further curl back toward the first end of the container space.

5. 2. The packaging container of claim 1, wherein the rolled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert roll from the container wall at an angle of more than 180 degrees.

6. 6. The packaging container of claim 5, wherein the rolled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert roll from the container wall at an angle of more than 270 degrees.

7. 7. The packaging container of claim 6, wherein the container wall member and the second portion of the end member wrap around from the container wall by more than 360 degrees.

8. A method for manufacturing a packaging container, comprising: providing a container body formed from a flexible and resilient sheet material, the container body providing a container wall defining a container space; providing an end insert formed of a flexible and resilient sheet material, the end insert having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate a first end of the container space; rolling a section of the container body first inwardly toward a central axis of the container space and then progressively toward a second end, i.e., the container space distal to the first end; and rolling the second portion of the end insert first inwardly toward the central axis of the container space and then progressively toward a second end, i.e., the container space distal to the first end; Including, rolling the second portion of the end insert into the rolled portion of the container body so that the end is secured to the container body. Method of manufacturing.

9. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the rolling of the section of the container body and the rolling of the second portion of the end insert are performed simultaneously.

10. 10. The method of claim 8 or 9, comprising positioning the end insert within the wall prior to the rolling.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein rolling the container body and the second portion of the end insert comprises pressing the portion of the container body at the first end and the second portion of the end insert against a tool.

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the cavity is a tapered cavity provided by a tool.

13. 13. The method of claim 11 or 12, wherein rolling the second portion of the end insert comprises forcing the container body and the second portion of the end insert against a radius formed in the tool.

14. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein rolling the container wall and rolling the second portion of the end insert comprises pressing the container wall and a terminal portion received within the container wall against an end face of a cavity provided by a tool.

15. heating the section of the vessel wall and the second portion of the end insert; the flexible and resilient material of one or both of the container body and end insert is adapted to retain its shape after heating and subsequent cooling while retaining its flexibility and resilience; the end insert is flexibly and resiliently secured to the container wall by a retained shape; The method according to any one of claims 8 to 14.

16. A method according to any one or more of claims 8 to 15, comprising forming the end insert by providing a sheet of material lying in a plane, forming from the sheet a shape suitable for providing the end insert and extending out of the plane, and separating the shape for the end insert from the remainder of the sheet at a line outside the plane formed by the remainder of the sheet.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: a cutting head received in the shape of the end insert formed from the sheet material; piercing the shape from within the shape using a blade; and moving the blade around a base shape to separate the base shape from the remainder of the sheet.

18. A method for manufacturing a packaging container, comprising: providing a container body formed from a flexible and resilient sheet material, the container body providing a container wall defining a container space; providing an end insert formed of a flexible and resilient sheet material, the end insert having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate a first end of the container space; rolling a section of the container body into a curl; curling the second portion of the end insertion portion; Including, The rolling of the container body is performed simultaneously with the rolling of the second portion of the end insertion portion. Method of manufacturing.

19. An apparatus for manufacturing packaging containers, comprising: a mandrel formed of a flexible and resilient sheet onto which a container wall member can be attached, said wall member providing a container wall defining a container space; a mandrel support for a terminal end of a container formed of a flexible and resilient material, the end insert having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and a second portion arranged as a wall that can be inserted into the container wall near the first end of the container space when on the support, the support being arranged to position the terminal member within the container wall at the first end of the container space, terminating the container space; and a tool capable of rolling the vessel wall at the first end of the vessel space and rolling the second portion of the end member to be positioned within a roll defined by a rolled portion of the vessel wall member; An apparatus comprising:

20. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the tool defines a cavity with an end thereof against which the vessel wall and the second portion of the terminating member are convoluted at the first end of the vessel space.

21. 21. The apparatus of claim 19 or 20, wherein the tool defines a tapered cavity.

22. Apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 21, comprising an actuator operable to move the mandrel relative to the tool.

23. A packaging container, a container wall arranged to define a prismatic container space for one or more items; a support element arranged to support an item in the container space adjacent an edge of the container wall; Equipped with the support element is arranged to deform under force from one or more items; packaging container.

24. 24. The packaging container of claim 23, wherein the support element is arranged to support one or more of the items and to be deformed by static forces from one or more of the items.

25. 25. The packaging container of claim 23 or 24, wherein the support element is arranged to support one or more of the items and to deform under the weight of one or more of the items.

26. 26. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the support element is arranged to support one or more of the items and to be deformed by a force having a force component caused by the momentum of one or more of the items.

27. 27. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the force is characterized by vibration of one or more of the items.

28. 28. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the momentum is characterized by one or more of the items being loaded into the container space.

29. 29. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 28, wherein the momentum is characterized by one or more of the items being thrown into the container space.

30. 30. The packaging container according to any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the support elements are arranged to deform due to dynamic loads expected during loading of the items into the container space by depositing them onto a support surface.

31. 31. Packaging container according to any one of claims 23 to 30, wherein the support elements are arranged to deform under dynamic loads expected during transport of the container with the contained items.

32. 32. The packaging container of claim 23 or 31, wherein the support elements are arranged to impede movement of items that cause dynamic loads to prevent the support elements from being affected by deformation, resulting in impulses due to deformation, and to provide a surface against which the container wall can be supported.

33. 33. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 32, wherein the support element is shaped and positioned to terminate the container space at one end.

34. The packaging container according to any one of claims 23 to 33, wherein the support element has a shape that is convex with respect to the container space.

35. 35. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 34, wherein the element is arranged to deform to maintain contact with the one or more items over a range of deformation of the support element caused by the one or more items.

36. 36. The packaging container of claim 35, wherein the deformation range is approximately 0.5 centimeters.

37. 37. The packaging container of claim 35 or 36, wherein the deformation range is approximately 1 centimeter.

38. The packaging container according to any one of claims 35 to 37, wherein the deformation range is approximately 2 centimeters.

39. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 18, wherein the range of movement may be 1 to 2 centimeters.

40. 14. The packaging of claim 13, wherein the convex shape may be oval.

41. 41. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 40, wherein the support elements are arranged to deform with a first strain coefficient for a smaller deformation and a second strain coefficient for a larger deformation, the second coefficient being greater than the first coefficient.

42. 42. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 41, wherein the support elements are arranged to provide damping to moving items.

43. 43. A packaging container as claimed in any one of claims 23 to 42, wherein the end member of the support element is provided as a first part of an end insert that is secured to a wall of a section of the tubular wall of the container body adjacent to an end of the container region, the end of the container region being a section of the container wall arranged in a curl that extends from the terminated end to a first convolution that returns towards the end of the container space distally, and wherein the second part of the end insert is arranged in a second convolution that is arranged within the first convolution so as to secure the end insert to the container wall.

44. 44. The packaging container of claim 43, wherein the first convolution initially extends inward toward the container space.

45. 45. The packaging container of claim 43 or 44, wherein the second portion of the end insert defines a prism with a cross-section that is complementary to a cross-section of a prismatic container region defined by a wall provided by the container body for the second portion of the end insert to be received within the prismatic container region.

46. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 45, wherein the support element is formed from a sheet material.

47. 47. The packaging container of any one of claims 23 to 46, wherein the end insert is formed from a sheet material having fastening members defining a prism, the fastening members being separated from the sheet material at a cut in the fastening member, the cut extending around the periphery of the prism.

48. A packaging container, a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and an end insert received within a tubular wall at a first end of the container space, the end member having a first portion terminating at the first end of the container space and a second portion secured to the tubular wall to position the first portion within the tubular wall, a section of the tubular wall adjacent the end of the container space terminated by the first portion of the end insert extends from the terminated end back toward an end of the container space distal to the first convolution, and the second portion of the end insert extends inside the first convolution into a second convolution; A packaging container comprising:

49. 49. The packaging container of claim 48, wherein the second portion of the end member initially extends in a curled inward direction toward a center of the prismatic container space and then extends in a curled direction toward a distal end of the container space.

50. 1. An apparatus for producing packaging, comprising: one or more mandrels each capable of receiving a container body having a wall defining a prismatic container region therein; one or more mandrels, each mandrel configured to be received in an end of the body terminating the prismatic region at a first end, the mandrel including a support surface operable to support and position an end insert, and the mandrel including a wall extending along a section of the wall of the body at the first end of the prismatic vessel region; a tool capable of convolving a wall of the end insert and a section of a wall of the body to secure the insert to the body; An apparatus comprising:

51. 51. The apparatus of claim 50, wherein the tool is capable of retracting the wall and section of the wall of the insert and simultaneously retracting the end section of the wall and the second portion of the end insert.

52. 52. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the device comprises a tool that provides a tapered cavity into which the section of the container wall and the second portion of the insert are forced.

53. 51. The apparatus of claim 50, wherein the mandrel and tool are movable relative to one another to insert and compress the wall and the wall section of the insert.

54. A method for manufacturing a packaging container, comprising: providing a wall defining a prismatic vessel region; providing an insert, the insert shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into the prismatic region, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic region and a second portion capable of being secured to the wall; securing the insert to the wall by rolling an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and by rolling the second portion of the insert; A method comprising:

55. 55. The method of claim 54, wherein the rolling up of the end section of the wall adjacent to the insert and the second portion of the insert is performed by rolling back toward an end of the container space distal from the terminal end.

56. 56. The method of claim 54 or 55, wherein the rolling of the end section of the wall adjacent the insert and the second portion of the insert is performed simultaneously.

57. 57. A method according to any one of claims 54 to 56, wherein the rolling is performed by inserting and forcing the section and second part of the container wall into a cavity provided by a tool.

58. 58. The method of claim 57, wherein the inserting and forcing includes moving a mandrel relative to the tool.

59. The end inserts may be provided with a sheet of material lying on the surface, by forming a suitable shape to provide the end insert formed from the sheet and extending out from the surface; and by separating the end insert from the remainder of the sheet at a line outside the surface formed from the remainder of the sheet to prevent excess flange from extending beyond the end insert; 59. The method of any one of claims 54 to 58, wherein

60. Another aspect of the present invention provides a package comprising: a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and an end insert received within a tubular wall at a first end of the container space, the end member having a first portion terminating the first end of the container space and a second portion secured to the wall to position the first portion within the wall, the second portion of the end insert secured to the section of the wall by convoluting the second portion and the section of the tubular wall; Equipped with packaging.

61. Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of manufacturing an item of packaging, comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; providing an end member having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and a second portion shaped to define a prism complementary to the prismatic space defined by the wall, thereby allowing one of the wall and a second portion of the end member to be received within the other; securing the end member to the wall by rolling over an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and the second portion of the end member; A method comprising:

62. A method of manufacturing an end insert for a container providing a container space in a wall, said end insert being capable of terminating said container space, said method comprising: providing a sheet material lying on a surface; forming a suitable shape for providing said insert formed from said sheet and extending out from said surface; A method comprising:

63. 38. A method according to claim 36 or 37, comprising separating the formed shaped member from the remainder of the sheet at a line positioned out from the surface to provide a base.

64. 1. A method of manufacturing an item of packaging, comprising: providing walls defining a prismatic space; and providing an insert, the insert shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into the prismatic space, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and a second portion capable of being secured to the wall, the insert formed from a sheet material and separated from the sheet at a line outside a plane formed by the remainder of the sheet; A method comprising:

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