Tamper evident container and process for its realisation

Abstract

The present invention relates to a tamper-evident container (1) comprising: a storage unit (2) for housing at least one product, a locking system (7) disposed at a passage opening (5) of the storage unit (2) and configured to occlude said passage opening to define a closed condition of the container (1). The locking system comprises a plug-in portion (10) engaged and at least partially facing a first coupling portion (12) coupled to a second coupling portion (13) to enable locking of the container. At least one of the locking system (7), the storage unit (2), the first and second coupling portions (12, 13) comprises a weakening configured to allow the first and / or second coupling portions to break. The at least one of the walls of the storage unit (2) is provided with at least one support portion (16) for supporting the second coupling portion (13) of the locking system (7) in at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the locking system (7), when transitioning from an open condition to a first closed condition of the container (1).

Description

[0001] TAMPER EVIDENT CONTAINER AND PROCESS FOR ITS REALISATION

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a tamper-evident container and a process of making it. The container can be used in fields involving product packaging and where security is required to detect tampering of the packaging. Examples of fields where the container could be used include packaging, communications (e.g. for postal services), food, transport and logistics.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Tamper-evident foil containers are well-known in the packaging industry. A first example, described in Document No. EP2239203A1 , is a container with a lockable storage unit. During the closed condition of the container, two tabs emerge laterally from the locking system and are configured to be folded by the user and inserted into the storage unit, engaging with a folded tab. The side tabs carried by the locking system are designed to break when the container is first opened. A second example, as described in Document No. US2008308619A1 , shows a tamper-evident container comprising a storage unit that can be closed using a locking system. The container includes a tab that emerges from the locking system. When the container is closed, the user can fold this tab above an outer surface of the locking system and insert it into the storage unit, where it engages with a folded tab. The tab carried by the locking system is designed to break when the container is first opened.

[0006] The Applicant noted that the containers described in the first and second examples could easily be tampered with and were unable to provide evidence of tampering.

[0007] To provide a higher-performance container than the solutions mentioned above, the Applicant proposed a tamper- evident container with a lockable storage unit in document No. WO2015 / 170203A1 , which uses at least one locking system. The container includes a first coupling portion on the locking system and a second coupling portion disposed in the storage unit. The first and second coupling portions engage when the container is closed. The second coupling portion defines a removable portion that is configured to separate from the container in the first open condition, after the first closure. The storage unit has a through opening that allows the removable portion to be displayed.

[0008] A fourth example of a tamper-evident container is described in document No. EP3461756A1 , which is owned by the same Applicant. Unlike the container illustrated and described in document No. W02015 / 170203A1, document No. EP3461756A1 shows a tamper-evident container in which the second removable coupling portion is affixed to a side wall of the storage unit, allowing relative rotation with respect to the wall. During the process of first-stage container forming which is to ensure stable engagement between the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion, as well as providing evidence that the container has never been opened, the first coupling portion comes into contact with the second coupling portion, which is tilted slightly towards the inside of the container. During this phase of contact between the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion, it is essential to avoid excessive rotation of the second coupling portion due to the stresses involved, as this would have an adverse effect on the structural integrity of the container. To keep the second coupling portion in an ideal position and inclination to allow for the correct engagement of the coupling portions, the container has a laminar support structure that engages internally with the same lateral wall that carrying the second coupling portion. The laminar support structure is substantially parallel to the second coupling portion, providing support or an end surface for rotation and tilting of the second coupling portion. When the second coupling portion tilts towards the inside of the container, it therefore substantially overlaps and intercepts the surface of the laminar support structure, which initially flexes, counteracting the stroke of the second coupling portion. This allows the first coupling portion to engage with the second coupling portion during the first-stage container forming process.

[0009] Although the solutions set out in the above-mentioned documents show tamper-evident containers in which tamper evidence is taken into account, the Applicant has found that these containers can be further improved in several respects. In particular, with reference to the container illustrated and described in Document No. EP3461756A1 , the Applicant has found that it is possible to improve the support provided by the second coupling portion during the contact phase between the latter and the first coupling portion when the container is subjected to the first-stage container forming process. Specifically, the Applicant believes that the configuration of the support structure, which is designed to prevent excessive rotation or inclination of the second coupling portion by providing a support and contrast surface, could be improved in terms of its ability to withstand the stresses involved, and therefore its resistance to the thrust exerted by the second coupling portion during the contact phase between the latter and the first coupling portion.

[0010] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The aim of the present invention is therefore to propose further improvements to tamper-evident containers in two areas: the immediacy with which any tampering with the locking system can be visualized, and structural devices that protect the integrity of the containers during automated folding and forming in the respective production machines.

[0012] The invention first aims to provide a container with a simple structure that can be easily produced using existing equipment and that can effectively detect tampering attempts. In particular, the invention aims to provide a low-cost tamper-evident container that does not require modifications to existing equipment normally used for the producing standard containers.

[0013] Another purpose of the invention is to improve support for the second coupling portion of the container locking system during the first-stage container forming process.

[0014] Another purpose of the invention is to prevent the second coupling portion from assuming an orientation during the of first-stage container forming process that is unsuitable for finalizing of the container closure, which could result in structural damage to the container.

[0015] One or more of the above purposes and / or objectives will become clearer in the following description and are substantially achieved by a tamper-evident container and a process for producing it, as set out in one or more of the following claims and / or aspects.

[0016] SUMMARY SECTION

[0017] In a 1stindependent aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tamper-evident container (1) comprising: a storage unit (2) presenting a predetermined number of walls (4a, 4b) defining an internal volume (3) for housing at least one product in which the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) define at least one end edge (6) delimiting a passage opening (5) configured to allow access from the outside to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); at least one locking system (7) comprising a closure portion (9) engaged to the storage unit (2), an plug-in portion (10) engaged to the closure portion (9), a first coupling portion (12) engaged to the plug-in portion (10) and / or to the closure portion (9), and a second coupling portion (13) carried by the storage unit (2); wherein the locking system (7) is switchable between: a container (1) closure condition, wherein the closure portion (9) is configured to interdict access, from the outside, to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2), through the passage opening (5) and the plug-in portion (10) is at least partially housed in the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); and, a container (1) opening condition, wherein the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) is accessible from the outside through the passage opening (5); wherein the at least one of the locking system (7), the storage unit (2), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) comprises a weakening (15) configured to structurally fail in response to a predetermined stress; wherein the failure of the weakening (15) results in the weakening (15) transitioning from a state of intact structure to a state of non-intact, compromised structure; wherein: (I) in a first closed condition of the container (1), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) interact with each other, according to a mutual engagement, to lock, for the first time, the container (1) in the closed condition with the weakening (15) in the intact structure state in such a way as to perceptually demonstrate the structural integrity of the locking system (7) and / or the container (1); (ii) in a first opening condition, subsequent to the first closed condition, the weakening (15) is at least partly broken so that it is in the state of non-intact and compromised structure perceptively demonstrating, also in the case of subsequent closures of the container (1), that the first closed condition of the container (1) has been violated; wherein at least one of the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) is provided with at least one respective support portion (16) which is predominantly in a respective lying plane and has at least one support rib (16a) transverse to the respective lying plane, wherein at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) from the open condition to the condition of first closure of the container (1), the lying plane of the support portion (16) is oriented transverse to the second coupling portion (13) and the second coupling portion (13) rests on the support rib (16a) of the respective support portion (16).

[0018] In a further independent aspect 1stbis which is combinable with the previous aspect or with one or more of the following aspects, there is provided a tamper evident container (1) comprising: a storage unit (2) having a predetermined number of walls (4a, 4b) defining an internal volume (3) for housing at least one product in which the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) define at least one end edge (6) delimiting a passage opening (5) configured to allow access from the outside to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); at least one locking system (7) operatively arranged at the passage opening (5) of the storage unit (2), the locking system (7) being provided with a first coupling portion (12) to the storage unit (2) and a second coupling portion (13) carried by the storage unit (2) on the opposite side to the first coupling portion (12); wherein the locking system (7) is switchable between: a container (1) closed condition, in which the passage opening (5) is closed, and a container (1) open condition, in which the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) is accessible from the outside through the passage opening (5); wherein the at least one of the locking system (7), the storage unit (2), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) comprises a weakening (15) configured to structurally fail in response to a predetermined stress; wherein the failure of the weakening (15) results in the weakening (15) transitioning from a state of intact structure to a state of non-intact, compromised structure; wherein: (I) in a first closed condition of the container (1), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) interact with each other, according to a mutual engagement, to lock, for the first time, the container (1) in the closed condition with the weakening (15) in the intact structure state in such a way as to perceptually demonstrate the structural integrity of the locking system (7) and / or the container (1); (ii) in a first opening condition, subsequent to the first closed condition, the weakening (15) is at least partly broken so that it is in the state of non-intact and compromised structure perceptively demonstrating, also in the case of subsequent closures of the container (1), that the first closed condition of the container (1) has been violated; wherein at least one of the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) is provided with at least one respective support portion (16) which is predominantly in a respective lying plane and has at least one support rib (16a) transverse to the respective lying plane, wherein at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) from the open condition to the condition of first closing of the container (1), the lying plane of the support portion (16) is oriented transverse to the second coupling portion (13) and the second coupling portion (13) rests on the support rib (16a) of the respective support portion (16).

[0019] In a further independent aspect 1stter which is combinable with any of the previous aspects or any of the following aspects there is provided a tamper evident container (1) comprising a storage unit (2) having two main walls (4a) facing each other and two side walls (4b) facing each other and transversely interposed between the main walls (4a) which define an internal volume (3) for housing at least one product and define at least one end edge (6) delimiting at least one passage opening (5) configured to allow access from the outside to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) at least one locking system (7) comprising a closure portion (9) engaged to the storage unit (2), a plug-in portion (10) engaged to the closure portion (9), a first coupling portion (12) engaged to the plug-in portion (10) and / or to the closure portion (9) and a second coupling portion (13) carried by the storage unit (2); optionally, the closure portion (9), the plug-in portion (10) and the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) being developed from a corresponding main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) being arranged on the opposite main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2); wherein the locking system (7) is switchable between: a container (1) closure condition, wherein the closure portion (9) is configured to interdict access, from the outside, to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2), through the passage opening (5) and the plug-in portion (10) is at least partially housed in the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); and, a container (1) opening condition, wherein the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) is accessible from the outside through the passage opening (5); wherein the at least one of the locking system (7), the storage unit (2), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) comprises a weakening (15) configured to structurally fail in response to a predetermined stress; wherein the failure of the weakening (15) results in the weakening (15) transitioning from a state of intact structure to a state of non-intact, compromised structure; wherein: (I) in a first closed condition of the container (1), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) interact with each other, according to a mutual engagement, to lock, for the first time, the container (1) in the closed condition with the weakening (15) in the intact structure state in such a way as to perceptually demonstrate the structural integrity of the locking system (7) and / or the container (1); (ii) in a first opening condition, subsequent to the first closing condition, the weakening (15) is at least partially broken so that it is in the state of non-intact and compromised structure perceptively demonstrating, also in the case of subsequent closures of the container (1), that the first closing condition of the container (1) has been violated; wherein at least one of the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) is provided with at least one respective support portion (16) which is predominantly on a respective lying plane and has at least one support rib (16a) transverse to the respective lying plane, wherein at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) from the open condition to the condition of first closure of the container (1), the lying plane of the support portion (16) is oriented transverse to the second coupling portion (13) and the second coupling portion (13) rests on the support rib (16a) of the respective support portion (16).

[0020] In a further independent aspect 1stquarter which is combinable with any of the previous aspects or any of the succeeding aspects, there is provided a tamper-evident container (1) comprising: a storage unit (2) presenting a predetermined number of walls (4a, 4b) defining an internal volume (3) for housing at least one product wherein the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) define at least one end edge (6) delimiting a passage opening (5) configured to allow access from the outside to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); at least one locking system (7) comprising a closure portion (9) engaged to the storage unit (2), an plug-in portion (10) engaged to the closure portion (9), a first coupling portion (12) engaged to the plug-in portion (10) and / or to the closure portion (9), and a second coupling portion (13) carried by the storage unit (2); wherein the locking system (7) is switchable between: a container (1) closure condition, wherein the closure portion (9) is configured to interdict access, from the outside, to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2), through the passage opening (5) and the plug-in portion (10) is at least partially housed in the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); and, a container (1) opening condition, wherein the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) is accessible from the outside through the passage opening (5); wherein the at least one of the locking system (7), the storage unit (2), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) comprises a weakening (15) configured to structurally fail in response to a predetermined stress; wherein the failure of the weakening (15) results in the weakening (15) transitioning from a state of intact structure to a state of non-intact, compromised structure; wherein: (I) in a first closed condition of the container (1), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) interact with each other, according to a mutual engagement, to lock, for the first time, the container (1) in the closed condition with the weakening (15) in the intact structure state in such a way as to perceptually demonstrate the structural integrity of the locking system (7) and / or the container (1); (ii) in a first opening condition, subsequent to the first closed condition, the weakening (15) is at least partly broken so that it is in the state of non-intact and compromised structure perceptively demonstrating, also in the case of subsequent closures of the container (1), that the first closed condition of the container (1) has been violated; wherein the storage unit (2) has at least one support portion (16) which is predominantly on a respective lying plane and has at least one support rib (16a) transverse to the respective lying plane, wherein at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the condition of first closure of the container (1), the lying plane of the support portion (16) is oriented transversely to the second coupling portion (13) and the second coupling portion (13) rests on the support rib (16a) of the respective support portion (16).

[0021] In a further independent aspect 1stquinquies which is combinable with any of the previous aspects or any of the succeeding aspects, there is provided a tamper evident container (1) comprising: a storage unit (2) having a predetermined number of walls (4a, 4b) defining an internal volume (3) for housing at least one product wherein the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) define at least one end edge (6) delimiting a passage opening (5) configured to allow access from the outside to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); at least one locking system (7) comprising a closure portion (9) engaged to the storage unit (2), an plug-in portion (10) engaged to the closure portion (9), a first coupling portion (12) engaged to the plug-in portion (10) and / or to the closure portion (9), and a second coupling portion (13) carried by the storage unit (2); wherein the locking system (7) is switchable between: a container (1) closure condition, wherein the closure portion (9) is configured to interdict access, from the outside, to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2), through the passage opening (5) and the plug-in portion (10) is at least partially housed in the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); and, a container (1) opening condition, wherein the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) is accessible from the outside through the passage opening (5); wherein the at least one of the locking system (7), the storage unit (2), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) comprises a weakening (15) configured to structurally fail; wherein the failure of the weakening (15) results in the weakening (15) transitioning from a state of intact structure to a state of non-intact, compromised structure; wherein: (i) in a first closed condition of the container (1), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) interact with each other, according to a mutual engagement, to lock, for the first time, the container (1) in the closed condition with the weakening (15) in the intact structure state; (ii) in a first opening condition, subsequent to the first closed condition, the weakening (15) is at least partly broken so that it is in the state of non-intact and impaired structure; wherein the container (1) has at least one support portion (16) that is predominantly in a respective lying plane and has at least one support rib (16a) transverse to the respective lying plane, wherein at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the condition of first closure of the container (1), the lying plane of the support portion (16) is oriented transverse to the second coupling portion (13) and the second coupling portion (13) rests on the support rib (16a) of the respective support portion (16).

[0022] In a 2ndaspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the support portion (16) is integral with the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0023] In a 3rdaspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the support portion (16) is bound to the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0024] In a 4thaspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the support portion (16) is rotatable with respect to the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) to assume a support position in which the respective lying plane is transversely oriented with respect to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to support the latter in backing, at least in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from an open condition to a first closed condition of the container (1).

[0025] In a 5thaspect according to the previous aspect, the support portion (16) is rotatable with respect to the corresponding wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) around a corresponding folding line (16b).

[0026] In a 6thaspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the support portion (16) develops from the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0027] In a 7thaspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the support portion (16) develops from the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) from the end edge (6) of the latter.

[0028] In an 8thaspect according to the preceding aspect, when dependent on any one of claims 5 to 6, the folding line (16b), around which the support portion (16) of the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) is rotatable, is developed at the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

[0029] In a 9thaspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the storage unit (2) comprises four walls (4a, 4b) facing each other two by two, of which: two main walls (4a) facing each other, wherein at least one of the main walls (4a) is provided with the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) and the opposite main wall (4a) is provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7); and two side walls (4b) facing each other and transversely interposed between the main walls (4a).

[0030] In an aspect 9thbis according to the previous aspect, the support portion (16) comprising at least one support flap (17) engaged to one of the side walls (4b) of the storage unit (2), the support flap (17) presenting a respective support rib (17a) facing, at least partially, the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0031] In a 10thaspect according to the previous aspect, the size and / or shape of the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) and the size and / or shape of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) disposed in the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) are configured to allow, in a contacting step between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1), a nat least partial overlap between the second coupling portion (13) and the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) and the support of the second coupling portion (13) on the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17).

[0032] In an 11thaspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) develops from the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a length sufficient to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (17a) at least a fraction of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0033] In a 12thaspect according to any one of the three previous aspects, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) develops from the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a length sufficient to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (17a) at least two-thirds of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0034] In a 13thaspect according to any one of the four previous aspects, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) develops from the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a length sufficient to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (17a) at least half of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0035] In a 14thaspect in accordance with any one of the previous five aspects, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) develops from the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a length sufficient to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (17) at least one-third of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0036] In a 15thaspect according to any of the previous six aspects, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a shape that narrows as it moves away from the corresponding side wall (2).

[0037] In a 16thaspect according to any one of the previous seven aspects, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a substantially trapezoidal outline in which a major base is arranged at the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) and a minor base is arranged opposite the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0038] In a 17thaspect according to the previous aspect, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a substantially isosceles or scalene trapezoid outline whereby two oblique sides develop between the major base and the minor base, the oblique side facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) engaged to the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) defining the support rib (71 a) of the support flap (17). In an 18thaspect according to the previous aspect, the support flap (17) outline of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) presents, at the intersection of each oblique side and the respective major base, a respective structural enlargement terminating at a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), optionally each structural enlargement presenting a linear development oblique to the major base of the support flap (17) outline or a development according to a broken line partially oblique and partially orthogonal to the major base of the support flap (17) outline.

[0039] In a 19thaspect according to the 16thaspect, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a substantially rectangular trapezoid outline whereby between the major base and the minor base a side orthogonal with respect to the bases and an oblique side develop respectively, the side facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) defining the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17).

[0040] In the 20thaspect according to the previous aspect, the support flap (17) outline of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) presents, at the intersection of the oblique side and the respective major base, a respective structural enlargement terminating at a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), optionally the structural enlargement presenting a linear development oblique to the major base of the support flap (17) outline or a development according to a broken line partially oblique and partially orthogonal to the major base of the support flap (17) outline.

[0041] In a 21staspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the oblique side with respect to the bases is directed to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) located on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) to allow said second coupling portion (13) to rest on the respective support rib (17a), in a contacting phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1), while the side orthogonal to the bases is facing the opposite side of the support rib (17a), optionally in proximity to or in contact with the opposite main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2).

[0042] In a 22ndaspect according to the 15thaspect, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a substantially rectangular outline having a respective enlargement at the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), the side of the rectangular outline of the support flap (17) facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) defining the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17).

[0043] In a 23rdaspect according to the previous aspect, the width of the support flap (17) is less than the width of the respective side wall (4b).

[0044] In a 24thaspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the enlargement of the rectangular outline of the support flap (17) is of an asymmetrical type whereby it is localized at only one side of the rectangular outline of the support flap (17).

[0045] In a 25thaspect according to the previous aspect, the enlargement of the rectangular outline of the support flap (17) is located at the side facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2).

[0046] In a 26thaspect according to the 24th aspect, the enlargement of the rectangular outline of the support flap (17) is located at the side facing away from the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the respective main wall (13) of the storage (2).

[0047] In a 27thaspect according to any one of aspects 22thto 23th, the enlargement of the rectangular outline of the support flap (17) is symmetrical, whereby it is located at each of the sides of the rectangular outline of the support portion (17). In a 28thaspect according to any one of the four previous aspects, each enlargement of the rectangular outline of the support flap (17) exhibits either a linear oblique development towards the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) or a development according to a broken line partially oblique and partially orthogonal to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0048] In a 29thaspect according to any one of the aspects from the 9thaspect to the 14thaspect, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a constant-width outline.

[0049] In a 30thaspect according to any one of the aspects from the 9thaspect to the 14thaspect or the previous aspect, the support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a substantially rectangular outline in which two opposite sides of the outline are orthogonal to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), the side of the outline of the support flap (17) facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) defining the support rib (17a) of the support portion (17).

[0050] In a 31staspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the width of the outline of the support flap (17) is substantially equal to the width of the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0051] In a 32ndaspect according to any one of the previous twenty-three aspects, the support flap (17) has at least one transverse protrusion (17b) developing from a support rib (17c) opposite the respective support rib (17a), the transverse protrusion (17b) ending at or near the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) opposite the second coupling portion (13) of the locking system (7) carried by the corresponding main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2).

[0052] In a 33rdaspect according to the previous aspect, the transverse protrusion(17b) develops substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of development of the respective support flap (17).

[0053] In a 34thaspect according to any of the two previous aspects, the transverse protrusion(17b) is located on the support flap (17) on the opposite side of the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

[0054] In a 35thaspect according to any of the three previous aspects, the transverse protrusion (17b) is located on the respective support flap (17) on the opposite side of the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2). In a 36thaspect according to any of the four previous aspects, the transverse protrusion(17b) is located at an end edge (17d) of the respective support flap (17) opposite the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0055] In a 37thaspect according to any one of the previous twenty-eight aspects, the support flap (17) has at least one transverse support appendage developing from the support rib (17a), the transverse support appendage defining a support portion for the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) disposed on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container

[0056] (1).

[0057] In 38thaspect according to the previous aspect, the transverse support appendage develops substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of development of the respective support flap (17).

[0058] In a 39thaspect according to either of the previous two aspects, the supporting transverse appendage is located on the respective support flap (17) opposite the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

[0059] In a 40thaspect according to any of the three previous aspects, the supporting transverse appendage is located on the respective support flap (17) on the opposite side of the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0060] In a 41staspect according to any one of the four previous aspects, the supporting transverse appendage is located at an end edge (17d) of the respective support flap (17) opposite the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2). In a 42ndaspect according to any one of the thirty-three previous aspects, the support flap (17) has a base piece (17e) engaged to the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) at the end edge (6) thereof and at least one end piece (17f) engaged to the base piece (17e) on the opposite side to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit

[0061] (2), the end piece (17f) being oriented transversally with respect to the base piece (17e).

[0062] In a 43rdaspect according to the previous aspect, the end piece (17f) of the support flap (17) is rotatable with respect to the corresponding base piece (17e) to assume a transverse orientation with respect to said base piece (17e).

[0063] In a 44thaspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the end piece (17f) is integral with the base piece (17e) of the respective support flap (17).

[0064] In a 45thaspect according to any of the three previous aspects, the end piece (17f) is bound to the base piece (17e) of the respective support flap (17).

[0065] In a 46thaspect according to any of the four previous aspects, the end piece (17f) of the support flap (17) is engaged to the base piece (17e) by means of a respective folding line (17g).

[0066] In a 47thaspect according to the previous aspect, the folding line (17g) connecting the end piece (17f) to the base piece (17e) of the respective support flap (17) defines a hinge for the relative rotation of one piece (17e, 17f) with respect to the other.

[0067] In a 48thaspect according to any of the previous six aspects, the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17) exhibits a development according to a broken line, during the transition from the closed condition to at least the first closed condition of the container (1) or when the container (1) is in the closed condition.

[0068] In a 49thaspect according to any one of the previous seven aspects, the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17) has at least one corner between the respective base piece (17e) and the respective end piece (17f) during the transition from the closed condition to at least the first closed condition of the container (1) or when the container (1) is in the closed condition. In a 50thaspect according to the previous aspect, the corner of the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17) between the respective base piece (17e) and the respective end piece (17f) is concave towards the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) and convex on the opposite side to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2), during the transition from the closed condition to at least the first closed condition of the container (1) or when the container (1) is in the closed condition.

[0069] In a 51staspect according to any of the previous nine aspects, the end piece (17f) of the respective support flap (17) is oriented transversely with respect to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) in such a way as to allow the second coupling portion (13) to rest on the respective support rib (17) in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0070] In a 52ndaspect according to any one of the previous ten aspects, the end piece (17f) of the respective support rib (17) defines the support portion of the support rib (17) for the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) disposed on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0071] In a 53rdaspect according to any one of the eleven previous aspects, the end piece (17f) of the respective support flap (17) is oriented with respect to the base piece (17e) to define a substantially L-shaped structure developing from the respective side wall (6) of the storage unit (2), the end piece (17f) of the respective support flap (17) developing towards the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2).

[0072] In a 54thaspect according to any of the previous twelve aspects, the end piece (17f) of the respective support flap (17) lies within the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2).

[0073] In a 55thaspect according to any one of the aspects from the 9thaspect to the 42ndaspect, the support flap (17) has a base piece (17e) engaged to the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) at the end edge (6) thereof, a connecting piece (17h) engaged transversely to the base piece (17e) and an auxiliary piece (17i) engaged transversely to the connecting piece (17h).

[0074] In a 56thaspect according to the previous aspect, the connecting piece (17h) is integral with the base piece (17e) of the respective support flap (17).

[0075] In a 57thaspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the connecting piece (17h) is bound to the base piece (17e) of the respective support flap (17).

[0076] In a 58thaspect according to any of the three previous aspects, the connecting piece (17h) is engaged to the base piece (17e) of the respective support flap (17) by means of a respective folding line (17j).

[0077] In a 59thaspect according to any of the four previous aspects, the auxiliary piece (17i) is integral with the connecting piece (17h) of the respective support flap (17).

[0078] In a 60thaspect according to any of the five previous aspects, the auxiliary piece (17i) is bound to the connecting piece (17h) of the respective support flap (17).

[0079] In a 61staspect according to any of the previous six aspects, the auxiliary piece (17i) is engaged to the connecting piece (17h) of the respective support flap (17) by means of a respective bending line (17k). In a 62ndaspect according to any one of the previous seven aspects, the respective base piece (17e) of the respective support flap (17) develops from the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) to end at the respective connecting piece (17h) which develops transversely from the respective base piece (17e), while the respective auxiliary piece (17i) develops transversally from the respective connecting piece (17h) to the same side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) from which the respective base piece (17e) develops, so that the base piece (17e) and the respective auxiliary piece (17i) face each other and are spaced from each other according to at least the length of the connecting piece (17h).

[0080] In a 63rdaspect according to the previous aspect, the base piece (17e), the connecting piece (17h) and the respective auxiliary piece (17i) of the respective support flap (17) define a structure having a width, measurable at least in the vicinity of the respective connecting piece (17h), substantially equal to the length of the latter, detectable between the respective base piece (17e) and the respective auxiliary piece (17i).

[0081] In a 64thaspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the respective base piece (17e), the respective connecting piece (17h) and the respective auxiliary piece (17i) of the respective support flap (17) define a structure having a substantially constant width equal to the dimension (length or width) of the respective connecting piece (17h) detectable between the respective base piece (17e) and the respective auxiliary piece (17i).

[0082] In a 65thaspect according to any of the three previous aspects, the base piece (17e) and the respective auxiliary piece (17i) of the respective support flap (17) are substantially parallel to each other.

[0083] In a 66thaspect according to any of the four previous aspects, the auxiliary piece (17i) of the respective support flap (17) lies within the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2).

[0084] In a 67thaspect according to any one of the five previous aspects, the connecting piece (17h) of the respective support flap (17) lies at least partially within the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2).

[0085] In a 68thaspect according to any one of the previous six aspects, the support rib (17a) of the respective support flap (17) is defined along the respective base piece (17e), the respective connecting piece (17h) and the respective auxiliary piece (17i), the support rib (17a) presenting a broken line development optionally with a first corner having concavity facing the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) and convexity facing the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) and a second corner facing the first corner having concavity facing the concavity of the first corner and convexity facing the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2).

[0086] In a 69thaspect according to any of the seven previous aspects, the auxiliary piece (17i) of the respective support flap (17) is engaged to the same side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) from which the corresponding base piece (17e) develops, on the opposite side to the respective connecting piece (17h).

[0087] In a 70thaspect according to the previous aspect, the auxiliary piece (17i) of the respective support flap (17) is engaged to the same side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), from which the corresponding base piece (17e) develops on the opposite side to the corresponding connecting piece (17h) and by means of a respective engagement tab (171) lying in overlapping relation to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) within the internal volume (3) of the latter.

[0088] In a 71staspect according to the previous aspect, the engagement tab (171) of the auxiliary piece (17i) of the respective support flap (17) is glued to the respective side wall of the storage unit (2) inside the internal volume (3) of the latter.

[0089] In a 72ndaspect according to any one of the sixty-three aspects above, the support portion (16) comprises for each side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), a respective support flap (17) that is predominantly developed on a respective lying plane and has at least one respective support rib (17a) transverse to the respective lying plane, wherein in at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the condition of opening to the condition of first closing of the container (1), the respective lying plane of each support flap (17) is oriented transversely to the respective second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), which support rib (17a) of each support flap (17).

[0090] In a 73rdaspect according to the previous aspect, the support flaps (17) of the side walls (4b) of the storage unit (2) are identical and are specularly arranged with respect to a plane of symmetry lying at the midline of the container (1). In a 74thaspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the support ribs (17a) of the respective support flaps

[0091] (17) of the respective side walls (4b) of the storage unit (2) support in backing of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) disposed on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1) by defining a match at least at opposite ends of the second coupling portion (13), in particular, the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) resting at least its opposite ends on the support ribs (17a) of the respective support flaps (17) of the respective side walls (4b), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) from the open condition to the condition of first closing of the container (1).

[0092] In a 75thaspect according to any one of the previous sixty -five aspects, wherein the support portion (16) comprises a support structure (18) engaged to the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), the support structure (18) being engaged to the corresponding main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) in proximity to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0093] In a 76thaspect according to the previous aspect, the size and / or shape of the support structure (18) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) and the size and / or shape of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) disposed on the same main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) are such as to allow, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1), at least a partial overlap between the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) and a support rib (18a) of the support structure (18) and the support of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) on the support rib (18a) of said support structure

[0094] (18).

[0095] In a 77th aspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the support structure (18) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) develops from the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a sufficient size and / or a suitable shape to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (18a) at least a fraction of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0096] In a 78thaspect according to any one of the three previous aspects, the support structure (18) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is developed from the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a sufficient size and / or a suitable shape to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (18a) at least two-thirds of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), along the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0097] In a 79thaspect according to any one of the previous four aspects, the support structure (18) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is developed from the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a sufficient size and / or a suitable shape to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (18a) at least half of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0098] In an 80thaspect according to any one of the previous five aspects, the support structure (18) of the respective side wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is developed from the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a sufficient size and / or a suitable shape to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (18a) at least one-third of the development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0099] In an 81staspect according to any one of the previous six aspects, the support structure (18) of the respective side wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is developed from the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) according to a sufficient size and / or a suitable shape to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib (18a) at least substantially the entire development of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), along the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0100] In an 82ndaspect according to any of the previous seven aspects, the support structure (18) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) has a substantially ”C”- or ”V” -shape having a central element (18b) from whose opposite ends corresponding lateral connecting elements (18d) develop.

[0101] In an 83rdaspect according to the previous aspect, the outline of the support structure (18) presents a concavity facing the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2).

[0102] In an 83rdbis aspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the outline of the support structure (18) has a concavity facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the same main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2).

[0103] In an 84thaspect according to any one of the previous three aspects, the central element (18b) of the support structure (18) defines the respective support rib (18a) facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), at least in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0104] In an 85thaspect according to any one of the previous four aspects, each lateral connecting element (18d) of the support structure (18) is engaged to the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) between the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the same main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) and the corresponding side wall (4b) of the latter.

[0105] In an 86thaspect according to any of the previous five aspects, the lateral connecting elements (18d) of the support structure (18) are engaged to the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) on either side of the second coupling portion (13) of the storage unit (2).

[0106] In an 87thaspect according to any one of the previous six aspects, the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is located between the lateral connecting elements (18d) of the support structure (18) on the same main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2).

[0107] In an 88thaspect according to any one of the previous seven aspects, the central element (18b) of the support structure (18) has, on the side opposite the respective support rib (18a), a support rib (18c) configured to lie adjacent to or in contact with the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) opposite the main wall (4a) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) and to which the respective connecting element (18d) is engaged.

[0108] In an 89thaspect according to the previous aspect, the support rib (18c) of the central element (18) runs substantially parallel to the respective support rib (18a).

[0109] In a 90thaspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the support rib (18c) of the central element (18b) of the support structure (18) has a length of at least one-third, optionally at least two-thirds, even more optionally at least three-quarters, of the width of the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) opposite the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), the width of each main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) being detectable from one side wall (4b) to the other.

[0110] In a 91staspect according to any of the previous nine aspects, each lateral connecting element (18d) of the support structure (18) is bonded to the same main wall (4a) that carries the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0111] In a 92ndaspect according to any of the previous ten aspects, each lateral connecting element (18d) of the support structure (18) is integral with the same main wall (4a) that carries the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0112] In a 93rdaspect according to any one of the previous eleven aspects, each side connecting element (18d) of the support structure (4a) is engaged to the same main wall (4a) which carries the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) by means of a respective folding line (18f), optionally located at the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

[0113] In a 94thaspect according to any one of the previous twelve aspects, each lateral connecting element (18d) of the support structure (18) is rotatable with respect to the same main wall (4a) which carries the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to enable the support structure (18) to also rotate with respect to the main wall of the storage unit (2).

[0114] In a 95thaspect according to any one of the previous twenty aspects when dependent on any one of the aspects from the 72ndaspect to the 74thaspect, the support structure (18) is configured to overlap with the support flaps (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) so as to support in backing, together with said support flaps (17), the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) disposed on the same main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) on which the support structure (18) is engaged, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0115] In a 96thaspect according to any one of the aspects from the 9thaspect to the 74thaspect, the support portion (16) comprises a support tab (19) arranged opposite the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0116] In a 97thaspect according to the previous aspect, the support tab (19) is located at a main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) opposite the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0117] In a 98thaspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the size and / or shape of the support tab (19) and the size and / or shape of the second coupling portion (13) of the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) are configured to allow, in a contacting phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1), at least a partial overlap between the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) and a support rib (19a) of the support tab (19) and the support of the second coupling portion (13) on the support rib (19a) of said support tab (19). In a 99thaspect according to any one of the previous three aspects, the support tab (19) has a substantially rectangular shape with the long sides substantially parallel to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), the long side of the support tab (19) facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the opposite side of the support tab (19) defining, at least in part, the support rib (19a) of the support tab (19).

[0118] In a 100thaspect according to any one of the previous four aspects, the support tab (19) is directly engaged to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), in particular to the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) opposite the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0119] In a 101staspect according to any one of the aspects from the 96thaspect to the 99thaspect, the support tab (19) is engaged to an auxiliary panel (20) of the storage unit (2) which internally engages a respective main wall (4a) of the latter according to an overlapping relationship.

[0120] In a 102ndaspect according to the previous aspect, the auxiliary panel (20) of the storage unit (2) is fixed internally to the main wall (4a) of the latter opposite the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) by means of gluing or the application of adhesive fixing elements or strips.

[0121] In a 103rdaspect according to any one of the previous seven aspects, the support tab (19) develops between the main walls (4a) of the storage unit (2), the support rib (19a) of the support tab (19) being disposed in proximity to the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) in such a manner as to ensure support of the second coupling portion (13) on the support rib (19a) of the support tab (19) in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0122] In a 104thaspect according to any one of the previous eight aspects when dependent on any one of the aspects from the 70thaspect to the 72ndaspect, the support tab (19) is configured to overlap with the support tabs (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) in such a way as to support in backing, together with said support tabs (17), the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) of the storage unit (2), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13), from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

[0123] In a 105thaspect according to any of the previous aspects, the second coupling portion (13) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is prominent with respect to the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

[0124] In a 106thaspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the second coupling portion (13) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) has a prominent end edge (13b) relative to the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

[0125] In a 107thaspect according to the previous aspect, the prominent end edge (13b) of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) protrudes relative to the passage opening (5) defined by the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

[0126] In a 108thaspect according to any one of the previous three aspects, the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) develops in a transverse reference plane, in particular substantially perpendicular, to at least one of the walls (4a, 4b), in particular to all of the side walls (4a, 4b), of the storage unit (2), the second coupling portion (13) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) traversing, at least partially, transversely, the transverse reference plane of the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2), to protrude from the storage unit (2) away from the end edge (6) thereof.

[0127] In an independent aspect 109ththat can be combined with any one of the previous aspects, there is provided a process for making a container (1) having structural features according to one or more of the previous aspects, wherein the process comprises: a step of preparing a respective blank (100) (the obtaining of the blanks is carried out by means of cutting and / or shaping operations and / or formation of corresponding bending lines and / or formation of corresponding pre-breaking lines and / or the structural weakening of a material in sheet form or laminar form, according to a configuration suitable for making the respective container (1), one or more bending steps of the blank (100) and one or more fixing steps of one or more parts of the blank (100), optionally overlapping each other, for forming a three- dimensional body, in particular substantially box-like, corresponding to a container (1).

[0128] In a 110thaspect according to the previous aspect, the blank (100) is made in such a manner as to present a core, optionally rectangular, (where core means a grouping of the panels and / or parts and / or elements of the blank) composed of four substantially rectangular panels corresponding to the main (4a) and side (4b) walls of the storage unit (2) of the respective container (1).

[0129] In a 111thaspect according to the previous aspect, the panels relating to the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be constructed are arranged adjacent to each other according to an alternating configuration, in which each larger rectangular panel corresponding to a main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is adjacent to at least one smaller rectangular panel and vice versa.

[0130] In a 112thaspect according to the previous aspect, the sequence of the rectangular panels relative to the walls (4a, 4b) of the respective container (1), provides for an alternating arrangement, in which a large rectangular panel corresponding to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is adjacent, on a respective long side by a small rectangular panel corresponding to a respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), which is in turn adjacently flanked by another large rectangular panel corresponding to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) which is also in turn adjacently flanked by a further small rectangular panel corresponding to a respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2). In a 113thaspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, one of the large rectangular panels corresponding to a respective side wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is interposed between two small rectangular panels corresponding to respective side walls (4b) of the storage unit (2).

[0131] In a 114thaspect according to any of the previous three aspects, one of the small rectangular panels corresponding to a respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) is interposed between two large rectangular panels corresponding to the respective main walls (4a) of the storage unit (2).

[0132] In a 115thaspect according to any of the previous four aspects, the assembly of the large and small rectangular panels corresponding to the respective main (4a) and side (4b) walls of the storage unit (2) define the core of the blank (100), which corresponds to a tubular structure defining, at least in part, the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made. In a 116thaspect according to any one of the previous five aspects, the core of the blank (100) has a substantially rectangular outline in which the long sides of that core define the corresponding end edges (6) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made.

[0133] In a 117thaspect according to any of the previous six aspects, the long sides and the large and small rectangular panels, relative to the corresponding main (4a) and side (4b) walls forming the core of the blank (100) define corresponding joining lines between those panels and corresponding bending lines allowing relative rotations between the large rectangular panels and the small rectangular panels for the formation of a tubular structure defining the body of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be formed.

[0134] In a 118thaspect according to any one of the previous seven aspects, at least one large rectangular panel corresponding to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is provided, on one of its short sides, with a protruding group of panels corresponding to the closure portion (9), the plug-in portion (10) and the first coupling portion (12) of a respective locking system (7) of the container (1) to be made, while the other large rectangular panel, corresponding to the other main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made, relative to the same end edge (6), is provided with corresponding notch and / or pre-cut lines defining the second coupling portion (13) of the same locking system (7).

[0135] In a 119thaspect according to the previous aspect, each protruding panel assembly is provided with a protruding rectangular panel corresponding to the closure portion (9) of the respective container (1) and an end panel shaped similarly to the plug-in portion (10) and first coupling portion (12) of the corresponding locking system (7) of the respective container (1) to be made.

[0136] In a 120thaspect according to the previous aspect, the protruding rectangular panel relating to the closure portion (9) of the container (1) to be made is connected to the respective short side of the respective large rectangular panel corresponding to the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) container (1) to be made by means of a corresponding folding line.

[0137] In an 121staspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the end panel corresponding to the plug-in portion (10) and the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) of the container (1) to be made, is connected to the respective protruding rectangular panel relating to the respective closure portion (9) of the container (1) to be made by means of a respective folding line substantially parallel to the short side of the respective large rectangular panel relating to the respective main rectangular wall (4a) of the container (1) to be made. In a 122ndaspect according to any one of the previous twelve aspects, the blank (100) provides, for each short side of each small rectangular panel corresponding to a respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made, a respective flap corresponding to a respective support flap (17) of the corresponding container (1) to be made.

[0138] In a 123rdaspect according to any of the previous thirteen aspects, the blank (100) is provided with an end portion developing from the short side of each large rectangular panel corresponding to the respective main wall (4a) at which respective notch and / or pre-cut lines are provided, wherein the end portion has a substantially "C"-shaped outline corresponding to a support structure (18) of the container (1).

[0139] In a 124thaspect according to any one of the previous fourteen aspects, the blank (100) comprises an auxiliary panel (20) having a rectangular outline substantially similar to the outline of the large rectangular panels corresponding to a respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made and is arranged adjacent to a respective small rectangular panel relating to a respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1).

[0140] In a 125thaspect according to the previous aspect, the auxiliary panel (20) is connected to the respective small rectangular panel relative to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made by means of a respective folding line running along the corresponding long side of the auxiliary panel (20).

[0141] In a 126thaspect according to the previous aspect, the auxiliary panel (20) is provided on its short sides with respective substantially rectangular projecting flaps corresponding to the support tabs (19) of the respective container (1) to be made.

[0142] In a 127thaspect according to the previous aspect, the rectangular protruding flaps corresponding to the support tabs (19) of the container (1) to be made are engaged to the short sides of the auxiliary panel (20) by means of respective folding lines.

[0143] In a 128thaspect according to any one of the previous two aspects, the auxiliary panel (20) is configured to overlap internally with one of the large rectangular panels relative to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made, such that, after at least one folding step of the each protruding rectangular flap relative to a respective support tab (19) is facing, internally, the respective notch and pre-cut lines of a respective large rectangular panel relative to the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made.

[0144] In a 129thaspect according to any of the previous twenty aspects, following the preparation of the blank (100), the process includes a step of forming the storage unit (2) of the respective container (1) to be made.

[0145] In a 130thaspect according to the previous aspect, the step of forming the storage unit (2) of the container (1) to be made is carried out by bending the core of the blank (100) in such a way that the large and small rectangular panels corresponding to the main (4a) and side (4b) walls are arranged two by two facing and opposing each other according to a tubular structure.

[0146] In a 131staspect according to the previous aspect, there is provided the application of a predetermined amount of glue or similar adhesive fasteners to respective joint portions (G) of the blank (100) and / or to other parts thereof, the application of glue or similar fasteners resulting in the retention of the tubular structure of the storage unit (2) obtained from the bending phase of the blank (100).

[0147] In a 132ndaspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the step of forming the storage unit (2) by means of folding the large and small rectangular panels corresponding to the main (4a) and side (4b) walls of the container (1) to be made, defines at least one side of the storage unit (2) through which at least one product can be inserted or is inserted.

[0148] In a 133rdaspect according to the previous aspect, a closing step of the open side of the storage unit (2) is carried out after at least one product has been inserted into the storage unit (2).

[0149] In a 134thaspect according to the previous aspect, the closing step of the open side of the storage unit (2) is carried out by folding the flaps corresponding to the support tabs (17) of the container (1) to be made, towards each other, in particular towards the inside of the storage unit (2).

[0150] In a 135thaspect according to any one of the previous aspects when dependent on any one of the aspects from the 118thaspect to the 133rdaspect, subsequent to or simultaneously with the folding of the flaps relative to the respective support flaps (17), the protruding group of panels relative to the closure portion (9), to the plug-in portion (10) and to the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) of the respective large rectangular panel corresponding to the respective main wall (4a) of the container (1) to be made, is folded towards the respective notch and / or pre-cut lines referred to in the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7).

[0151] In a 136thaspect according to the previous aspect, the rectangular protruding portion panel relative to the respective closure portion (9) of the corresponding locking system (7) is bent with respect to the corresponding large rectangular panel relative to the respective opposing main wall (4a) of the container (1) to be made, towards a position perpendicular to the latter.

[0152] In a 137thaspect according to the previous aspect, before the protruding rectangular panel relative to the respective closure portion (9) is arranged perpendicularly with respect to the corresponding large rectangular panel relative to the respective main wall (4a) of the container (1) to be made, the end panel corresponding to the respective plug-in portion (10) and the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) is bent with respect to the protruding rectangular panel (the closure portion 9) to be directed towards the respective notch and / or pre-cut lines (the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7) carried by the large rectangular panel corresponding to the respective opposing main wall 4a of the storage unit (2).

[0153] In a 138thaspect according to the previous aspect, the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) of the container (1) to be made, is folded inwardly into the storage unit (2) assuming an inclined orientation with respect to the respective large rectangular panel corresponding to the corresponding main wall (4a) of the storage unit

[0154] (2) of the container (1) to be made in order to facilitate insertion of the first coupling portion (12) into the second coupling portion (13).

[0155] In a 139thaspect according to the previous aspect, the insertion of the first coupling portion (12) of the locking system (7) into the second coupling portion (13) of the same is carried out: bringing these coupling portions (12, 13) into contact with each other; exerting a thrust of one coupling portion (12, 13) of the respective locking system (7), in particular the first coupling portion (12), towards the other, in particular the second coupling portion (13).

[0156] In a 140thaspect according to the previous aspect, previously to or simultaneously with the contact between the coupling portions (12, 13) of the respective locking system (7), the flaps (the support flaps 17) of the small rectangular panels (the side walls 4b) are positioned in such a way as to support, optionally from the inside, the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7). In a 141staspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the second coupling portion (13) is made to rest on the support ribs (17a) of the respective support flaps (17) of the container (1) under construction, defined by the flaps of the small rectangular panels of the respective side walls (4b) of said container (1).

[0157] In a 142ndaspect according to the previous aspect, the contrast of said flaps (the support tabs 17) ensures the insertion of the first coupling portion (12) into the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) during the mutual pushing action between said coupling portions (12, 13), as well as the coupling between said coupling portions (12, 13).

[0158] DRAWINGS

[0159] Certain embodiments and aspects of the container according to the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting, in which:

[0160] Figure 1 is a partially interrupted perspective view of a tamper-evident container, according to a first embodiment of the present invention, shown during the first closing process of the container;

[0161] Figure 2 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in figure 1 ;

[0162] Figure 3 is a partially interrupted perspective view of a tamper-evident container, according to a second embodiment of the present invention, shown during the first closing process of the container;

[0163] Figure 4 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in figure 3;

[0164] Figure 5 is a partially interrupted perspective view of a tamper-evident container, according to a third embodiment of the present invention, shown during the first closing process of the container;

[0165] Figure 6 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in Figure 5;

[0166] Figure 7 is a partially interrupted perspective view of a tamper-evident container, according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention shown during the first closing process of the container;

[0167] Figure 8 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in Figure 7;

[0168] Figures 9 and 10 are partially interrupted perspective views of a tamper-evident container, according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, shown according to different stages of the first closing process of the container;

[0169] Figure 11 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in Figures 9 and 10;

[0170] Figures 12 and 13 are partially interrupted perspective views of a tamper-evident container, according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, shown according to different stages of the first closing process of the container;

[0171] Figure 14 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in Figures 12 and 13;

[0172] Figures 15 and 16 are partially interrupted perspective views of a tamper-evident container, according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention, shown according to different stages of the first closuring process of the container;

[0173] Figure 17 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in Figures 15 and 16;

[0174] Figures 18 and 19 are partially interrupted perspective views of a tamper-evident container, according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention, shown according to different stages of the first closing process of the container; Figure 20 is a schematic view of a blank configured for the container in Figures 18 and 19.

[0175] DEFINITIONS

[0176] In the present detailed description corresponding parts that are shown in the various figures are indicated by the same numerical references.

[0177] The term "product" means an article or a group of articles of any nature. The term "product” may also be understood as packaging, e.g. bearing a plurality of articles.

[0178] The term "paper material" means paper, paperboard, cardboard and / or other similar material obtained by processing wood pulp or cellulose pulp, optionally containing at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 70% by weight, of organic material comprising one or more of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, lignin derivatives. The paper sheet material that can be used to make the container may have a basis weight of between 50 and 500 g / m2, optionally between 200 and 400 g / m2. The paper material in question develops between a first and second prevailing surface. The sheet paper material used for making the container may be covered for at least a part of the first and / or second prevailing development surface by a plastic coating, for example a film, the purpose of which is to reinforce the paper material. The coating may also be used to define a kind of water and / or moisture barrier useful to prevent weakening and loss of structure of the coupling system and the container (optionally of the band or envelope) with consequent uncontrolled deformation of the paper material constituting the latter component. The coating can be applied to the paper material in the form of a so-called solution-deposited or sprayed coating or lacquer, the thickness of which is generally between 0.2 and 10 pm. Alternatively, the coating may comprise a plastic film, e.g. a polycoating, applied by a lamination process, on one or both sides of the paper material. If the coating is applied by means of lamination, the values of the plastic film (coating) may vary, for example, between 5 and 400 pm, optionally between 10 and 200 pm, even more optionally between 10 and 100 pm, of coating material (i.e. polythene). The plastic coating material can be chosen, by way of example, from the following materials: PP, PE (HDPE, LDPE, MDPE, LLDPE), EVA, polyesters (including PET and PETg), PVdC.

[0179] The term "softening point” refers to a thermodynamic state represented by a temperature value at which a material that does not have a defined melting point (e.g. a plastic material) begins to change its state of aggregation from solid to fluid.

[0180] The term "temperature sensitive material" refers to the property of the material to vary at least one among an optical and physical property as a result of a change in temperature. In particular, the temperature-sensitive material used for the container of the present invention is configured to vary at least one between an optical and physical property at temperatures greater than room temperature, for example at temperatures of 50 °C or higher.

[0181] The term "first closing condition" or "first closing” refers to a condition in which the locking system is first arranged to occlude the passage opening / access of / to the storage unit to allow engagement between the first and second coupling portions. In the first closing condition, the first and second coupling portions define the closing condition of the container to occlude the passage opening of the storage unit. In the closure condition, the first and second coupling portions are intact (undamaged) and obstruct the passage of the container from the first closing condition to a first opening condition. The term ‘first opening condition ” or "first opening” refers to the first passage of the container from the first closing condition to the opening condition afterwards. In fact, the first opening condition corresponds to the first opening that is made on the container after the first closing of the container, i.e. after the first and second coupling portions have defined the closing condition.

[0182] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0183] Container

[0184] A tamper evident container made of foil material, e.g. paper material, for the containment and / or wrapping of products, was collectively referred to as 1 .

[0185] The container 1 is made from the folding of a respective blank 100 (Figures 2, 4, 6, 8, 11 , 14, 17 and 20) or a respective structure in laminar material or sheet form, optionally paper, in such a way as to assume a final three-dimensional configuration, optionally substantially box-like, as visible in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19.

[0186] Once the blank 100 have been folded in such a way as to overlap the corresponding portions of the same in accordance with the final three-dimensional shape to be realized, the joint portions are glued using one or more glue dots or glue beads, e.g. hot or cold-melt glue, or adhesive fastening elements or similar adhesive fastening strips.

[0187] In the final three-dimensional configuration, the container 1 comprises a storage unit 2 with a predetermined number of walls 4a, 4b which define and delimit an internal volume 3 for housing one or more products. The storage unit 2 is a tubular, closed-profile body, which has a substantially prismatic or parallelepiped shape, having a polygonal, in particular rectangular base. Of course, the concept of a storage unit 2 is not limited to the specific prismatic or parallelepiped shapes shown in the construction forms shown in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19. The shape of the storage unit 2 is strictly dependent on the desired shape of the container 1 , which in turn depends on the configuration of the starting blank 100.

[0188] In relation to the embodiments shown in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, the storage unit 2 has four walls 4a, 4b two by two opposed and parallel to each other. In particular, the storage unit 2 comprises two main walls 4a facing each other and two side walls 4b also facing each other and positioned between the main walls 4a. In the case of the embodiments shown, the main walls 4a of the storage unit 2 are substantially perpendicular to the side walls 4b of the same, defining a prismatic or parallelepiped shapes, the bases of which may be defined by squares or rectangles respectively. However, it must be considered that the walls 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 may not necessarily be mutually orthogonal. In fact, it is also possible to envisage a storage unit 2 having a pair of side walls 4b parallel to each other and inclined at angles other than right angles with respect to the pair of main walls 4a. In this case, the bases of the storage unit 2 have a substantially parallelogram shape. It is also possible for the bases of the storage unit 2 to have a trapezoidal outline. In this case, there may be no geometric parallelism between the opposite walls.

[0189] As can be seen in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, the main and side walls 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 each have a substantially rectangular outline. The main walls 4a have a greater surface area than the side walls 4b since, for the same length detectable between the respective bases of the storage unit 2, the width of each main wall 4a is greater than that of each side wall 4b. The main walls 4a are identical to each other in size and shape. The side walls 4b are also identical to each other in size and shape.

[0190] Each main wall 4a forms a unit with at least one side wall 4b, and vice versa. In the final three-dimensional configuration, each main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 is connected to the two side walls 4b of the storage unit 2, particularly at its long sides. The walls 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 define corresponding end edges 6 from opposite sides. Each edge delimits a passage opening 5 that allows access to the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 from outside. The passage openings 5 are configured to allow access along a direction that is substantially parallel to the long sides of the walls 4a, 4b. The passage openings 5 allow one or more products to be inserted into or withdrawn from the internal volume 5 of the storage unit 2.

[0191] In accordance with an alternative embodiment, which is not shown in the attached figures, it is possible that the storage unit 2 is provided with a single passage opening 5 and has a back wall on the opposite side that engages with the other walls 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 in a known manner.

[0192] The container 1 further comprises at least one locking system 7, which is made of laminar or sheet material, optionally paper, and is arranged at each passage opening 5 of the storage unit 2. Each locking system 7 comprises a closure portion 9 engaged to one of the main walls 4a of the storage unit 2, a plug-in portion 10 engaged to the closure portion 9 and a first coupling portion 12 engaged to the plug-in portion 10 and / or the closure portion 9 on opposite sides with respect to the corresponding main wall 4a. The closure portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7 form a structure that develops from the end edge 6 of the storage unit 2 from the respective main wall 4a.

[0193] Each locking system 7 also includes a second coupling portion 13 which is carried by the storage unit 2, in particular by the main wall 4a of the latter, which is located opposite the first coupling portion 12.

[0194] Advantageously, each locking system 7 can be switched between a locking condition, in which the respective closure portion 9 is configured to prevent access to the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 through the corresponding passage opening 5 and the plug-in portion 10 is at least partially housed in the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 and, an opening condition, in which the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 is accessible from the outside through the corresponding passage opening 5.

[0195] Each locking system 7 actually defines a respective movable container 1 lid, which is used to control, the passage of products through the respective passage opening 5 when in use.

[0196] In more detail, the closing portion 9 of the locking system 7 is engaged directly with the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 at its end edge 6 and can be moved with respect to the main wall 4a, particularly by rotation, to switch the respective locking system 7 between open and closed condition. In the closed condition, the closure portion 9 of the respective locking system 7 completely occludes the respective passage opening 5 of the storage unit 2, effectively preventing communication between its internal volume 3 and the external environment, and therefore preventing access to it. Conversely, in the open condition, the closure portion 9 of the respective locking system 7 disengages from the corresponding passage opening 5, allowing communication between the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 and the external environment, thereby providing access to the internal volume 3.

[0197] The closure portion 9 of the respective locking system 7 has a polygonal profile, for example a rectangular or square. The profile of the closure portion 9 of the respective locking system 7 reproduces the profile of the respective passage opening 5, so that if the configuration of the storage unit 2 changes, resulting in a different configuration of the corresponding passage opening 5, the profile of the closure portion 9 would differ from those of the embodiments shown in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, and would be similar to the profile of the respective passage opening 5 in order to effectively close the latter when the respective locking system 7 is in the closed condition. The plug-in portion 10 of the respective locking system 7 is seamlessly developed from the respective closure portion 9 on the side opposite the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 and is configured to fit, in the closed condition, into the internal volume 3 of the latter. Specifically, the plug-in portion 10 is engaged to the respective closure portion

[0198] 9 of the respective locking system 7 via a respective folding line 10a, around which the plug-in portion 10 can move by rotation with respect to the closure portion 9. When the respective locking system 7 is in the closing condition, the corresponding plug-in portion 10 is fully arranged within the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2. The plug-in portion

[0199] 10 is also made of flat foil and paper material and has the same thickness as the respective closure portion 9 and the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, giving continuity to said main wall 4a.

[0200] The first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7 seamlessly develops from the respective plug-in portion 10 on the opposite side to the respective closure portion 9 and is configured to cooperate with the respective second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, which is carried by the opposite main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. to ensure, at least once, a stable closing condition. The first coupling portion 12 is also made of a flat sheet of paper material and has the same thickness as the respective closure portion 9, the respective plug-in portion 10 and the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. Furthermore, the first coupling portion 12 is substantially arrow-shaped, with the pointed portion facing away from the respective plug-in portion 10.

[0201] As can be seen in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, the first coupling portion 12 of each locking system 7 comprises at least one hook 12a that defines at least one undercut portion, which is delimited by a respective gripping edge 12b. In a preferred embodiment, the first coupling portion 12 has two respective hooks 12a, that are mutually symmetrical with respect to an axis passing through the midline of the first coupling portion 12 and that define two respective gripping edges 12b.

[0202] The second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 also has a substantially laminar or sheet-like body and, as can be seen in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, it is engaged with the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 at or near its respective end edge 6.

[0203] In accordance with the embodiments shown in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, the second coupling portion 13 is advantageously integral with an end portion 4a' of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. Specifically, the second coupling portion 13 is formed in or from the respective main wall 4a through corresponding bending and / or pre-cutting and / or structural weakening lines.

[0204] As can be seen in Figures 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, the second coupling portion 13 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 is connected to the respective main wall 4a by at least one folding line 13a, in particular at least two folding lines 13a suitably spaced apart to ensure a certain stability when the second coupling portion 13 interacts with the first coupling portion 12. Each folding line 13a defines a corresponding hinge between the second coupling portion 13 and the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, allowing a relative rotation between the second coupling portion 13 and said main wall 4a.

[0205] Alternatively, the second coupling portion 13 is defined by an independent body that is applied to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 in an appropriate position to interact with the first coupling portion 12 when the container 1 is first closed. In this case, the second coupling portion 13 is constrained or engaged to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, in particular by bonding or by one or more adhesive fixing elements. In accordance with an embodiment not shown in the attached figures, the second coupling portion 13 can be internally engaged to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. Accordingly, the second coupling portion 13 at least partially lies, in particular entirely, within the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2. It is also possible for the second coupling portion 13 to be engaged outside the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. In such a case, however, the main wall 4a bearing the second coupling portion 13 must provide a recess that allows the second coupling portion 13 to be tilted towards the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 during the interaction of the latter with the first coupling portion 12.

[0206] Again in relation to the embodiments shown in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, the second coupling portion 13 comprises at least one hook 14 made of sheet material. The hook 14 is substantially "C"- or "V"- shaped. Alternatively, the hook 14 may be rectangular, trapezoidal, circular or semicircular.

[0207] The hook 14 defines at least one undercut portion, which is bounded by a gripping edge 14a that has a substantially "C" or "V" configuration, alternatively trapezoidal or semicircular. The gripping edge 14a is delimited laterally by the respective connecting portions 14b of the hook 14 of the second hook portion 13 to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 and is symmetrical with respect to a midline axis passing through the same hook 14.

[0208] The second coupling portion 13 is defined by the respective hook 14 which is integral with, in particular formed in or from, the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 and movable by rotation relative to said main wall 4a around the respective folding lines 13a. In particular, the hook 14 can be moved by rotation about an axis defined by the respective bending lines 13a that delimit the connecting portions 14b of the hook 14. In greater detail, the hook 14 can be moved by rotation through angles of less than 90°, particularly within an angular range of between 0° and 70°, even more specifically between 0° and 45°. The rotation of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 is measured from a configuration in which the hook 14 lies substantially parallel to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 or lies in the same lying plane as the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2.

[0209] Advantageously, at least one of the locking system 7, the storage unit 2, the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 comprises a weakening 15 that is designed to fail structurally under a predetermined amount of stress. Failure of the weakening 15 results in a transition from an intact structure to non-intact and compromised structure, which can be visually and / or tactically perceived as evidence of structural integrity violation of the container 1 its locking system 7.

[0210] In particular, the weakening 15 acts as a kind of guarantee seal, that allows obtaining a first closure condition of the container 1 without incurring any structural damage to the elements or components that cooperates for its closure, and providing evidence of tampering of the container 1 and the respective locking system 7, by means of the evident damage of one or more elements or parts of the container 1 and the respective locking system 7, after the container 1 is first opened.

[0211] In more detail, when the container 1 is first closed, the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 interact with each other, according to a mutual engagement, to lock the container 1 for the first time in the closing condition, with the weakening 15 in the intact structure state in such a way as to perceptually demonstrate the structural integrity of the locking system 7 and / or the container 1. In the first opening condition, subsequent to the first closed condition, the weakening 15 is broken, at least partly, in particular entirely, so that the structure is compromised and this is perceptible, even subsequent closures and openings of the container 1 , demonstrating that the first closed condition of the container 1 has been violated.

[0212] According to the embodiment solution shown in the attached figures, the weakening 15 should be carried out in line with the bending lines 13a of the connecting portions 14b of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, so that, following the first closing condition, i.e. the first ever closure that is carried out during a formation process of the container 1 , any opening of the latter carried out by disengaging the respective first coupling portion 12 from the respective second coupling portion 13, results in the rupture of the weakening 15 and the consequent detachment of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 from the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2.

[0213] As can be seen Figures 2, 4, 6, 8, 11 , 14, 17 and 20, relating to the blanks 100 of different container 1 embodiments, each main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 is provided, on one side, with the closure portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12 of one of the two locking systems 7 and, on the other side, with the second closure portion 13 of the other locking system 7. In order to ensure proper functioning of each locking system 7 in the storage unit 2, the opposing main wall 4a must provide that the position of the closure portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12 is reversed with respect to the position of the second coupling portion 13. In particular, each first coupling portion 12 of a respective locking system 7 disposed on a respective side of a respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 must correspond, on the same side of the opposite main wall 4a, to the second coupling portion 13 of said locking system 7.

[0214] The inverted arrangement of the elements that comprises each locking system 7, shown in the embodiments illustrated in figures 2, 4, 6, 8, 11 , 14, 17 and 20, may also be different. In fact, in accordance with the blank 100 shown in Figure 20, it is possible to envisage, for example, that one of the main walls 4a of the storage unit 2 is provided, on each of its opposite sides, with the closure portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7. Accordingly, the opposite main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 is provided, on each of its opposite sides, with the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7.

[0215] Advantageously, the at least one of the walls 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 is provided with at least one respective support portion 16 which predominantly lies in a respective lying plane and has at least one support rib 16a, which is in particular determined by the thickness of the same support portion 16, and lies transverse to the respective lying plane. From the condition of opening to the condition of first closing of the container 1 , in the phase of contact between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, the lying plane of the support portion 16 is oriented transversely with respect to the second coupling portion 13 which, rotating towards the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2, rests on the support rib 16a of the respective support portion 16.

[0216] In more detail, since during the transition from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1 , the interaction between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 requires that the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 is rotated towards the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2, the support portion 16 must be positioned and oriented so as to intercept, with its support rib 16a, the hook 14, providing the same with a contrast on which to rest. In other words, in the phase of contact between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, the support portion 16 is arranged substantially shear with respect to the second coupling portion 13 preventing the hook 14 from continuing in its rotation towards the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2. The support portion 16 thus limits the angular excursion of the hook 22 of the second coupling portion 13 in the phase of contact between the latter and the first coupling portion 12, during the transition from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1 .

[0217] According to a preferred embodiment, the support portion 16 is integral with the respective wall 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2. However, it is not excluded that the support portion 16 may be bound to the respective wall 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 by appropriate engagement elements operatively interposed between the support portion 16 and the respective wall 4a, 4b.

[0218] As can be seen in Figures 1 , 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 19, the support portion 16 develops from the respective wall 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2, in particular seamlessly, starting from the end edge 6 thereof. The support portion 16 is also rotatable with respect to the respective wall 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 in such a way as to switch from the flat configuration of the respective blank 100 to a three-dimensional configuration of partial formation of the container 1 or to a final three-dimensional configuration of the container 1 . The freedom of rotation of the support portion 16 allows the same to assume a support position, in which the respective lying plane is transversely oriented with respect to the second coupling portion 13 in order to support the latter in backing, at least in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, from an open condition to a first closed condition of the container 1 .

[0219] In detail, the support portion 16 engages the corresponding wall 4a, 4b of the storage unit 2 by means of a respective folding line 16b, which is developed along the respective end edge 6 of the storage unit 2. The support portion 16 is rotatably movable around the respective folding line 16b to position itself in the support position and support the second coupling portion 13 when it contacts the first coupling portion 12 from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1.

[0220] In accordance with the embodiments shown in the attached Figures, the support portion 16 comprises, for each side wall 4b of the storage unit 2, at least one respective support rib 17. Therefore, each side wall 4a of the storage unit 2 is provided with a respective support flap 17 which is predominantly on a respective lying plane and has at least one respective support rib 17a transverse to the respective lying plane. In the phase of contact between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, from the open condition to the first closing condition of the container 1 , the lying plane of each support flap 17 is oriented transversely to the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13, which is supported on the support rib 17a of each support flap 17. The support ribs 17a of the respective support flaps 17 of the corresponding side walls 4b of the storage unit 2 support, in backing, the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 by defining a match at least at opposite ends of the hook 14. In other words, during the interaction between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13, the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 rests, in backing, at least its own opposite ends, on the support ribs 17a of the respective support flaps 17 of the corresponding side walls 4b of the storage unit 2.

[0221] Preferably, the support flaps 17 of the side walls 4b of the storage unit 2 are identical to each other and are specularly arranged with respect to a plane of symmetry lying at the midline of the container 1 .

[0222] The size and / or shape of each support flap 17 of the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 and the size and / or shape of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the main wall 4a of the storage container 2 are configured to allow, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13, from the open position to the first closed condition of the container 1 , at least a partial overlap between the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 and the support rib 17a of the respective support flap 17 ensuring the support of the second coupling portion 13 on the support rib 17a of the respective support flap 17.

[0223] In particular, each support flap 17 develops from the end edge 6 of the storage unit 2 according to a length sufficient to support in backing, by means of the respective support rib 17a, at least a fraction of the development of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 along the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, when the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 are in mutual contact during the transition from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1 .

[0224] In order to support the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 during the interaction between the latter and the first coupling portion 12, it is preferable that each support flap 17 of the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 develops from the end edge 6 thereof so as to cover at least two-thirds, optionally at least half, in particular at least one-third, of the development of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 along the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. In the event that each support flap 17 has a development capable of covering two-thirds or half of the development of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 along the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, it is possible to provide a partial overlapping of the support flaps 17 when they are in a support position of the second coupling portion 13, i.e. when they are oriented at least 90° with respect to the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2. According to the embodiments shown in the enclosed figures, each support flap 17 of the respective side wall 4b of storage unit 2 has a shape that narrows as it moves away from the respective side wall 4b.

[0225] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4, 7, 8 and 15 to 20, each support flap 17 of the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 has a substantially trapezoidal outline in which a major base is arranged at the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 and a minor base is arranged on the opposite side of the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2.

[0226] In detail, the outline of each support flap 17 may be substantially shaped as an isosceles or scalene trapezoid whereby two oblique sides are developed between the major base and the minor base, of which the oblique side facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 defines the support rib 17a of the respective support flap 17.

[0227] The outline of each support flap 17 may have a respective structural enlargement at the intersection of each oblique side and the respective major base, which terminates at the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. Each structural enlargement may have a linear development oblique to the major base of the respective support flap 17 outline, or a development, according to a broken line, partially oblique and partially orthogonal to the major base of the respective support flap 17 outline.

[0228] In accordance with a further embodiment, which is not shown in the attached figures, each support flap 17 may also have a substantially rectangular trapezoidal outline, whereby a side orthogonal to the bases and an oblique side respectively develops between the major base and the minor base. The side facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 defines the support rib 17a of the respective support flap 17. Also in this case, the outline of each support flap 17 may have a respective structural enlargement terminating at a respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, at the intersection of the oblique side and the respective major base. Similar to the embodiment described above, the structural enlargement may present a linear development oblique with respect to the major base of the respective support flap 17 outline or a development according to a broken line partially oblique and partially orthogonal with respect to the major base of the respective support flap 17 outline.

[0229] According to the embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, each support flap 17 may have a substantially rectangular outline having at least one respective enlargement at a corner of the base located in proximity to one of the main walls 4a of the storage unit 2. Also in this case, the side of the rectangular outline of each support flap 17, facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective main wall 4a, defines the respective support rib 17a.

[0230] As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, the width of the outline of each support flap 17 is less than the width of the respective side wall 4b from which it develops. In this case, the enlargement of the rectangular outline is of an asymmetrical type so that it is positioned in correspondence with only one side of the rectangular outline of each support flap 17, preferably facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7. However, it is not excluded that the enlargement may be located on and faced the opposite side to the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7.

[0231] Alternatively, the enlargement of the rectangular outline of each support flap 17 may also be of a symmetrical type whereby it is localized at each of the sides of the rectangular outline. Also in this case, each enlargement of the rectangular outline of each support flap 17 may present a linear oblique development towards the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 or a development according to a broken line partially oblique and partially orthogonal with respect to the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2.

[0232] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, each support flap 17 has a constant width template. In this case, the two opposite sides of the outline of each support flap 17 are orthogonal to the corresponding side wall 4b of the storage unit 2. Similarly to the other embodiments described above, the side of the outline of each support flap 17 facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 defines the respective support rib 7a on which the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 rests when the latter contacts the first coupling portion 12. The width of the outline of each support flap 17 may also be substantially equal to the width of the respective side wall 4b, resulting in fact in an extension of the latter.

[0233] In accordance with the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8, irrespective of the outline of each support flap 17, in the event that the latter has at least one structural portion having a width less than the width of the respective side wall 4b, it may be provided with a transversal projection 17b developing from a support rib 17c opposite the respective support rib 17a to end near or at the main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 opposite the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7.

[0234] As can be seen in Figures 7 and 8, the transverse protrusion 17b of each support flap 17 develops substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of development of the respective support flap 17. In particular, the transverse protrusion 17b of each support flap 17 is located on an opposite side to the end edge 6 of the storage unit 2 and the respective side wall 4b thereof. In other words, the transverse protrusionl 7b of each support flap 17 is located at an end edge 17d of the respective support flap 17 opposite to the respective side wall and, optionally parallel, to the end edge 6 of the storage unit 2.

[0235] According to a further embodiment which is not shown in the attached figures, it is also possible to provide that each support flap 17 has at least one supporting transverse appendage developing from the support rib 17a towards the main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, which carries the second coupling portion 13. The supporting transverse appendage defines a corresponding support portion for the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 which supports the latter during interaction with the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7. Similarly to the transversal protrusion 17b described above, the transversal support appendage develops substantially perpendicularly with respect to a longitudinal axis of development of the respective support flap 17 to end at a distance from the main wall 4a provided with the second coupling portion 13 sufficient to ensure support of the latter during interaction with the first coupling portion 12. Also in this case, the transversal support appendage is located on the respective support flap 17 on the opposite side to the respective side wall 4b and the end edge 6 of the storage unit 2, optionally parallel to said end edge 6.

[0236] Furthermore, it is not excluded that the presence of transverse support protrusion 17b and / or transverse support appendage is accompanied by other similar structural elements arranged in other parts of each of the support flaps 17. Furthermore, the position of the transverse support protrusion 17b and / or the transverse support appendage may also vary according to contingent requirements and is not limited to the end of the respective support flap 17.

[0237] According to the embodiment shown in Figures 9 to 11 , each support flap 17 has a more complex and articulated structure than the embodiments described above. In this case, each support flap 17 has a structure that develops predominantly in length starting from the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2.

[0238] In detail, each support flap 17 has a base piece 17e engaged to the corresponding side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 at the end edge 6 thereof and at least one end piece 17f engaged to the base piece 17e on the opposite side to the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2.

[0239] According to the embodiment shown in Figures 9 to 11 , the base piece 17e has a substantially trapezoidal outline the major base of which is located in correspondence with the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 along the respective end edge 6 thereof and the minor base of which is disposed on an opposite side to the respective side wall 4b, while the end piece 17f has a substantially rectangular outline having, as its width, the measure of the minor base of the base piece 17e. Of course, the shape of the outline of the end pieces 17e, 17f of each support flap 17 may be different from the shape shown in Figures 9 to 11.

[0240] The end piece 17f of each support flap 17 is either integral with or constrained to the respective base piece 17e. Advantageously, the end piece 17f of each support flap 17 is engaged to the respective base piece 17e by a respective folding line 17g defining a hinge for relative rotation of one end piece 17e, 17f relative to the other. Accordingly, the end piece 17f of each support flap 17 is rotatable with respect to the base piece 17e to assume a transverse orientation with respect to the latter, at least in a contacting phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7. In such a situation, i.e. in a condition of the end piece 17f being rotated with respect to the respective base piece 17e of each support flap 17, the support rib 17a of the latter exhibits a broken line development in which at least one corner is defined between the respective base piece 17e and the respective end piece 17f, which is concave towards the respective internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 and convex on the opposite side to the respective internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2.

[0241] When the end piece 17f of each support flap 17 is oriented transversely with respect to the second coupling portion 13 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 so as to allow the second coupling portion 13 to rest on the respective support rib 17a, the latter defines a support portion for the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 during the interaction of the latter with the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7. As can be seen in Figures 9 to 11 , the end piece 17f of each support flap 17 is pivotable with respect to the corresponding base piece 17e to define a substantially "L-shaped" structure extending from the respective side wall 6 of the storage unit 2. In such a configuration, the end piece 17f of each support flap 17 develops towards and / or into the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2. Accordingly, the end piece 17f of each support flap lies at least partially, in particular entirely, within the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2.

[0242] According to the embodiment shown in Figures 12 to 14, each support flap 17 has a base piece 17e engaged to the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 at the end edge 6 thereof, a connecting piece 17h engaged transversely to the base piece 17e and an auxiliary piece 171 engaged transversely to the connecting piece 17h. The connecting piece 17h of each support flap 17 is integral with or bonded to the respective base piece 17e. In particular, the connecting piece 17h of each support flap 17 is engaged to the respective base piece 17e by a respective bending line 17j. Similarly, the auxiliary piece 171 of each support flap 17 is also integral with or bonded to the respective connecting piece 17h. In particular, the auxiliary piece 171 of each support flap 17 is engaged to the respective connecting piece 17h by a respective bending line 17k.

[0243] As can be seen in figure 14, the base piece 17e of each support flap 17 has a substantially trapezoidal or rectangular shape having a major base arranged in correspondence with the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 and the end edge 6 thereof. The base piece 17e of each support flap 17 develops from the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 to end at the connecting piece 17h which develops, during the transition between the open condition and at least the first closed condition, transversally with respect to the respective base piece 17e, while the respective auxiliary piece 171 develops transversally from the connecting piece 17h towards the same side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 from which the respective base piece 17e develops, so that the base piece 17e and the respective auxiliary piece 171 face each other and are mutually spaced apart according to at least the length of the connecting piece 17h.

[0244] As can be seen in Figures 12 and 13, the base piece 17e, the connecting piece 17h and the auxiliary piece 171 of each support flap 17 define a structure having a thickness or width, at least in the proximity of the connecting portion 17h, substantially equal to the length of the connecting portion 17h, detectable between the respective base piece 17e and the respective auxiliary piece 171. In particular, the thickness or width of the structure defined by the base piece 17e, the connecting piece 17h and the auxiliary piece 171 of each support flap 17 is substantially constant and optionally equal to the length of the connecting piece 17h, detectable between the respective base piece 17e and the respective auxiliary piece 171. The base segment 17e and the auxiliary segment 171 of each support flap 17 are substantially parallel to each other.

[0245] The auxiliary piece 171 of each support flap 17 is configured and intended to lie within the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2, while the respective connecting piece 17h lies at least partially, in particular entirely, within the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2.

[0246] In this case, the support rib 17a of each support flap 17 is defined along the side of the base piece 17e, the connecting piece 17h and the auxiliary piece 171 facing the main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 provided with the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7. The support rib 17a thus presents a broken line development with a first corner having concavity facing the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 and convexity facing on the opposite side to the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2 and a second corner facing the first corner having concavity facing the concavity of the first corner and convexity facing the internal volume 3 of the storage unit 2. In order to give consistency to the structure defined by the base piece 17e, the connecting piece 17h and the auxiliary piece 17i of each support flap 17, the auxiliary piece 17i is engaged to the same side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 from which the corresponding base piece 17e develops on the opposite side to the corresponding connecting piece 17h and by means of an engagement tab 171 (Figure 12) which lies in overlapping relation to the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 within the internal volume 3 of the latter. The engagement tab 171 of the auxiliary piece 17i of each flap of support 17 is bonded to the respective side wall of the storage unit 2 inside the internal volume 3 thereof.

[0247] In accordance with a further embodiment shown in Figures 15 to 18, the support portion 16 comprises a support structure 18 engaged to a respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, in particular to the main wall 4a provided with the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 in the proximity of the second coupling portion 13. The dimensions and / or shape of the support structure 18 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 and the dimensions and / or shape of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 disposed on the same main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 are such as to allow, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, from the open position to the first closed condition of the storage unit 2, at least a partial overlap between the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 and a support rib 18a of the support structure 18, as well as the support of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 on the support rib 18a of said support structure 18.

[0248] As it can be seen in Figures 15 to 18, the support structure 18 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 develops from the respective end edge 6 thereof according to a sufficient size and / or a suitable shape to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib 18a, at least a fraction of the development of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 along the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1.

[0249] In detail, the support structure 18 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 develops from the respective end edge 6 of the storage unit 2 according to a sufficient size and / or a suitable shape to support in backing, by means of the corresponding support rib 18a, at least two-thirds, in particular at least one half, even more particularly at least one- third, preferably substantially the entirety, of the development of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 along the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1 .

[0250] Again with reference to the figures, the support structure 18 of the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 has a substantially "C"- or "V"- shape having a central element 18b from the opposite ends of which respective lateral connecting elements 18d are developed which are engaged to the same main wall 4a on which the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 is arranged. Each connecting element 18d of the central element 18b of the support structure 18 results engaged to or integral with the side wall 4a of the storage unit 2 bearing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7.

[0251] In particular, each lateral connecting element 18d of the central element 18b of the support structure 18 engages the respective main wall 4a by means of a respective folding line 18f, which is located at the respective end edge 6 of the storage unit 2. Each folding line 18f defines a kind of hinge between the respective lateral connecting element 18d of the support structure 18 and the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, it then results in the support structure

[0252] 18 being rotatable with respect to said lateral wall 4a to assume a support position in which the support structure is oriented transversely with respect to the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 carried by the same main wall 4a of the storage unit 2.

[0253] The outline of the support structure 18 also exhibits a concavity facing the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 and, in particular, towards the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7.

[0254] The central element 18b of the support structure 18 defines the respective support rib 18a facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 at least in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13, from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1. Each lateral connecting element 18d of the support structure 18 is engaged to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 between the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 2 arranged on the same main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 and the respective side wall 4b thereof. In other words, the lateral connecting elements 18d of the support structure 18 are engaged to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 on the sides of the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system arranged on the same main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. The hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 is located between the side connecting elements 18d of the support structure 18 on the same main wall 4a of the storage unit 2.

[0255] As can be seen in Figures 15 to 17, the central element 18b of the respective support structure 18 of the respective locking system has, on the opposite side to the respective support rib 18a, a support rib 18c configured to lie in proximity to or in contact with the main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 opposite to the main wall 4a on which the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system is located and to which the respective connecting elements 18d are engaged. The support rib 18c of the central element 18b of the support structure 18 runs substantially parallel to the respective support rib 18a.

[0256] In addition, the support rib 18c of the central element 18b of the support structure 18 has a length of at least one-third, optionally two-thirds, even more optionally three-quarters, of the width (detectable from one side wall 4b to the other of the storage unit 2) of the main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 opposite the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7.

[0257] Advantageously, as can be seen in Figures 15 and 16, the support structure 18 is configured to overlap the support flaps 17 of the respective side wall 4b of the storage unit 2 in such a way as to support in backing, together with said support flaps 17, the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13, from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1.

[0258] In accordance with a further embodiment shown in Figures 18 and 19, the support portion 16 comprises a support tab

[0259] 19 disposed opposite to the main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 provided with the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7. In detail, the support tab 19 is disposed at a main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 on an opposite side from the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 13 and has a support rib 19a facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7.

[0260] The size and / or shape of the support tab 19 and the size and / or shape of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 disposed on the corresponding main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 opposite to the main wall 4a at which the support tab 19 is disposed, are configured to allow, in a contact phase between the first coupling portion

[0261] 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1 , at least a partial overlap between the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 and the support rib 19a of the support tab 19, as well as the support of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 on the support rib 19a of said support tab 19.

[0262] As can be seen in Figures 18 to 20, the support tab 19 has a substantially rectangular shape with its long sides developing substantially parallel to a respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2. The long side of the support tab 19 facing the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 effectively defines the support rib 19a, above mentioned, of the support tab 19.

[0263] In accordance with an embodiment which is not shown in the attached figures, the support tab 19 may be directly engaged to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 opposite the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, e.g. by means of gluing or the application of suitable adhesive fastening elements or strips.

[0264] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 20, the support tab 19 is engaged to an auxiliary panel 20 of the storage unit 2 which is configured to internally engage the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2, following the bending of the respective blank 100 and an operation to secure said auxiliary panel 20 to the respective main wall 4a of the storage unit 2.

[0265] Advantageously, the support tab 19 is arranged between the main walls 4a of the storage unit 2 and the respective support rib 19a is arranged in the vicinity of the main wall 4a of the storage unit 2 provided with the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 to be supported and supported in a contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container 1 .

[0266] Also in this case, the support tab 19 can be provided together with the support flaps 17 of the respective side walls 4b of the storage unit 2. In this case, the support tab 19 is configured to overlap with the support flaps 17 of the respective side walls 4b of the storage unit 2 so as to support in backing, together with said support flaps 17, the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 arranged on the main wall 4a to which the support rib 19a and the support ribs 17a of the support tab 19 and the support flaps 17 respectively are facing.

[0267] As can be seen in the attached figures, the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 and, in particular, the hook 14 thereof, can end at and / or flush with the respective end edge 6 (Figures 1 , 2, 9 to 20), or it can protrude from the respective end edge 6 (Figures 3 to 10).

[0268] In order to facilitate support between the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of each locking system 7, it is preferable for the respective hook 14 to be prominent with respect to the corresponding end edge 6 of the storage unit 2. In this case, the second coupling portion 13 has a prominent end edge 13b with respect to the corresponding end edge 6 of the storage unit 2. In the contact phase between the first coupling portion 12 and the second coupling portion

[0269] 13 of the respective locking system 7, the inclination of the respective hook 14 causes the prominent end edge 13b of the second coupling portion 13 to protrude through the corresponding passage opening 5.

[0270] Of course, the prominent edge 13b of the second coupling portion 13 can also be provided for in the embodiments described and shown with a coupling portion 13 that ends flush with the corresponding end edge 6 of the storage unit 2, i.e. the embodiments shown in Figures 1 , 2, 9 to 20. Process for making the container

[0271] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a process for making a container 1 in accordance with one or more of the previous aspects and / or the following claims and / or the above description.

[0272] The process includes preparing of a blank 100 of the type shown in Figures 2, 4, 6, 8, 11, 14, 17, 18 and 20, which can be obtained by cutting and shaping a sheet of paper material according to the ideal configuration to reproduce the respective container 1 . This is followed by one or more folding, overlapping and fixing operations of one or more parts to form substantially three-dimensional box-like bodies (containers 1), which are similar in design to those shown in Figures 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19 and 20.

[0273] In accordance with the embodiments shown in Figures 2, 4, 6, 8, 11, 14, 17, 18 and 20, the starting blank 100, from which the corresponding container 1 is obtained, has a group of elements that is common to all the embodiments shown. For the sake of clarity, the elements of each embodiment's blank 100 are identified by the same reference number used to identify the corresponding element of the corresponding container 1 .

[0274] With reference to Figures 2, 4, 6, 8, 11, 14, 17, 18 and 20, it can be seen that each blank 100 is composed of four substantially rectangular panels that correspond to the main walls 4a and side walls 4b of the respective container 1 . The panels relating to the walls 4a, 4b are arranged adjacent to each other in an alternating configuration: each larger rectangular panel corresponding to a main wall 4a of the respective container 1 is adjacent to at least one smaller rectangular panel, and vice versa. Since they are blanks 100, the sequence of the rectangular panels relating to the walls 4a, 4b of the respective storage unit 2, provides an arrangement, from left to right in the respective figures, in which a large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) is adjacent to a small rectangular panel (the side wall 4b) on the long side. This small rectangular panel is in turn adjacent to another large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a), which is adjacent to a further small rectangular panel (the side wall 4b). Thus, one large rectangular panel is interposed between two small rectangular panels and one small rectangular panel is interposed between two large rectangular panels. The assembly of the large and small rectangular panels, relative to the corresponding main walls 4a and side walls 4b, defines the rectangular core of the blank 100 which corresponds to a tubular structure that partially defines the storage unit 2 of the respective container 1. The long sides of the rectangular core of the blank 100 define the respective end edges 6 of the storage unit 2 of the respective container 1 .

[0275] The large and small rectangular panels (the main walls 4a and he side walls 4b) are joined together along their respective long sides via folding lines, whereby they are arranged so that they can rotate to each other, forming the tubular structure from which the body of the corresponding storage unit 2 is obtained.

[0276] In accordance with the embodiments shown in Figures 2, 4, 6, 8, 11, 14 and 17, each large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) has a protruding group of panels on one of its short sides that corresponds to the closure portion 9, the plugin portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7 of the respective container 1 . On the other short side are corresponding notches and / or pre-cut lines that define the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of another separate locking system 7 of the respective container 1. In relation to the two large rectangular panels (the main walls 4a), the position of the protruding panel assemblies (the closure portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12) and of the corresponding notch and / or pre-cut lines (the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13) are inverted, such that on each long side (the end edge 6) of the rectangular core (the main walls 4a and the side walls 4b) of the blank 100, a protruding group of panels and the corresponding notch and / or pre-cut lines are respectively arranged on different large rectangular panels (the main walls 4a) so as to define a corresponding and distinct locking system 7 of the container 1 to be formed.

[0277] In accordance with the embodiment solution illustrated in Figure 20, one of the long rectangular panels (the main wall 4a) has a respective protruding panel assemblies (the closure portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first hook portion 12) on both short sides, while the other large rectangular panel (main wall 4a) has corresponding notch and / or pre-cut lines (the hook 14 of the second hook portion 13) on both short sides. Also according to this embodiment, each long side (the end edge 6) of the rectangular core of the blank 100 is provided with a protruding group of panels (the closing portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12) as well as respective notch and / or pre-cut lines (the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13).

[0278] With particular reference to each protruding panel assembly, there is a rectangular protruding panel corresponding to the closure portion 9 of the respective container 1 , and an end panel shaped similarly to the plug-in portion assembly 10 and the first coupling portion 12 of the corresponding locking system 7 of the respective container 1 .

[0279] The rectangular protruding panel (the closure portion 9) is connected to the respective short side of the respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) by a corresponding folding line. The end panel (the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7) is connected to the respective protruding rectangular panel by a bending line that is substantially parallel to the short side of the respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a).

[0280] Each of the blanks 100 shown in the attached figures provides a corresponding flap for each short side of each small rectangular panel (the side wall 4b), which corresponds to a respective support flap 17 of the corresponding container 1.

[0281] In accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the blank 100 has an end portion that develops from the short side of each large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a), at which respective notch and / or pre-cut lines are provided (the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13). This end portion is substantially "C"-shaped and corresponds to the support structure 18 of the container 1 shown in Figures 15 and 16.

[0282] As can be seen in Figure 20, the auxiliary panel 20 has a substantially similar rectangular outline to the large rectangular panels (the main wall 4a) and is arranged next to a respective small rectangular panel (the side wall 4b), and separated by a respective folding line running along the corresponding long side of the auxiliary panel 20.

[0283] The auxiliary panel 20 has respective substantially rectangular protruding flaps on its short sides, which correspond to the support tabs 19 of the respective container 1 . These rectangular protruding flaps (the support tabs 19) are engaged with the short sides of the auxiliary panel 20 by corresponding folding lines. The auxiliary panel 20 is configured to overlap one of the large rectangular panels (the main wall 4a) internally, so that, after folding of the blank 100 appropriately, each rectangular protruding flap (the support tab 19) faces the respective notch and pre-cut lines of the respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a).

[0284] Following the preparation of the blank 100, the process includes the step of forming the storage unit 2 of the respective container 1 . The step of forming the storage unit 2 is carried out by bending the core of the blank 100 so that the large and small rectangular panels (the main walls 4a and the side walls 4b) are arranged two by two facing and opposing each other according to a tubular structure. To maintain the tubular shape of the storage unit 2, the process may comprise applying a predetermined amount of glue to the joint G on the blank 100 and / or on other parts of the latter, such as, for example, the auxiliary panel 20 (Figure 20).

[0285] In the tubular shape obtained by folding the large (the main walls 4a) and small (the side walls 4b) rectangular panels, the storage unit 2 has two opposite open sides through which one or more products can be inserted.

[0286] Once formed, the process involves closing each open side of the storage unit 2. The step of closing each open side of the storage unit 2 is carried out by folding the flaps (the support flaps 17) towards each other, i.e. towards the inside of the storage unit 2. Subsequently or simultaneously, the protruding panel assembly (the closure portion 9, the plug-in portion 10 and the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7) of the respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) is also folded towards the respective notch and / or pre-cut lines (the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7) made on the other large rectangular panel (main wall 4a).

[0287] In detail, the protruding rectangular panel (the closure portion 9) is bent towards a perpendicular position with respect to the corresponding large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a). Before arranging the protruding rectangular panel (the end panel portion 9) perpendicular to the respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a), the end panel (the plugin portion 10 and the first hook portion 12 of the respective locking system 7) is also bent towards the respective notch and / or pre-cut lines (the hook 14 of the second hook portion 13 of the respective locking system 7), which are carried by the opposite large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a).

[0288] To enable coupling between the hooks 12a of the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7 defined by the respective end panel of the blank 100, and the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13, defined by the respective notch and / or pre-cut lines on the opposite large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a), the hook is folded towards the inside of the storage unit 2, assuming an inclined orientation with respect to the respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a), to accommodate the insertion and engagement of the hooks 12a of the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7.

[0289] Prior to or simultaneously with the contact between the hooks 12a of the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7 and the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, the flaps (the support tabs 17) of the small rectangular panels (the side walls 4b) support the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13. In this situation, the hook 14 rests on the support ribs 17a of the support tabs 17, which are defined by the flaps of the small rectangular panels (the side walls 4b). The contrast of said flaps (the support tabs 17) ensures coupling between hooks 12a of the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7 with hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the same locking system 7, thereby preventing the hook 14 from rotating inwards into the storage unit 2.

[0290] When coupled, the open side of the storage unit 2 is closed for the first time, defining a respective seal which causes the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 to break and detach when the storage unit 2 is subsequently opened.

[0291] The closing operation is repeated in a similar manner on the other open side of the storage unit 2 to close the container 1 and ensure the structural integrity of the container 1 and its contents.

[0292] With reference to the embodiments shown in Figures 11 and 14, the flaps (the side flaps 17) of the short rectangular panels (the side walls 4b) are elongated, strip-like structures divided into different pieces (the pieces 17e, 17f, 17h, 171 and the engagement tab171), which are separated by respective folding lines. In accordance with the embodiment shown in figure 11 , the folding of the flaps (support flaps 17) of the short rectangular panels (the side walls 4b) is carried out in such a way as to form an "L" configuration with at least one structural part developing inside the storage unit 2, so that to provide the hook 14 of the second hooking portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 with the necessary support to interact with the hooks 12a of the first portion of the same locking system 7.

[0293] In accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 14, the folding of the pieces (the engagement tabs 171) of the short rectangular panels (the side walls 4b) is carried out in such a way that each piece (the engagement tab 17I) forms a square tubular configuration with at least one structural part inside the storage unit 2, so as to provide the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 with the necessary support to interact with the hooks 12a of the first portion of the same locking system 7. In this case, the final piece (engagement tab 171) is suitably glued to the respective small rectangular panel (side wall 4b) inside the storage unit 2.

[0294] In accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the end portion (the support structure 18) of the respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a), which is provided with the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, is bent towards the opposite large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) and / or towards the interior of the storage unit 2 to assume an orientation that is substantially perpendicular to the large rectangular panels (the main walls 4a), before bending the hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7 towards the opposing large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) so that the hook 14 can rest on the respective support rib 18a of the support structure 18, which is defined by the end portion, to accommodate the engagement of the hooks 12a of the first coupling portion 12 of the same locking system 7.

[0295] With reference to the embodiment shown in Figure 20, during the formation of the storage unit 2 it is essential that the auxiliary panel 20 is overlapped and glued internally to a respective large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) in such a way that the respective rectangular protruding flaps (the support tabs 19) are arranged opposite the hooks 14 of the second hooking portions 13 of the corresponding locking systems.

[0296] In this case, the closing of each side of the storage unit 2 requires, prior to the folding of the respective hook 14 of the second coupling portion 13 of the respective locking system 7, each side of the storage unit 2 requires the rectangular protruding flap (the support tab 19) to be folded towards the hook 14 of the opposite large rectangular panel (the main wall 4a) in order to limit, in backing, the angular excursion of the hook 14 towards the inside of the storage unit 2 when the hooks 12a of the first coupling portion 12 of the respective locking system 7 are engaged.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Tamper-evident container (1) comprising:- a storage unit (2) having a predetermined number of walls (4a, 4b) defining an internal volume (3) for housing at least one product, the side walls of the storage unit (2) defining at least one end edge (6) delimiting a passage opening (5) configured to allow access from the outside to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2);- at least one locking system (7) comprising: a closure portion (9) engaged to the storage unit (2); a plug-in portion (10) engaged to the closure portion (9); a first coupling portion (12) engaged to the plug-in portion (10) and / or to the closure portion (9); and a second coupling portion (13) borne by the storage unit (2), wherein the locking system (7) is switchable between: o closure condition of the container (1), wherein the closure portion (9) is configured to interdict access, from the outside, to the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2), through the passage opening (5), and the plug-in portion (10) is at least partially housed in the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); o open condition a container (1), wherein the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) is accessible from the outside through the passage opening (5),- wherein at least one of the locking system (7), the storage unit (2), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) comprises a weakening (15) configured to structurally fail under a predetermined stress, the failure of the weakening (15) resulting in its transition from a state of intact to a state of non-intact and compromised structure;- wherein:(i) in a first closed condition of the container (1), the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) interact with each other, according to a mutual engagement, to lock the container (1) in the closed condition with the weakening (15) in the intact state in such a way as to perceptively demonstrate the structural integrity of the locking system (7) and / or the container (1);(ii) in a first opening condition, subsequent to the first closing condition, the weakening (15) is at least partly broken so that it is in the state of a non-intact and impaired structure, perceptively demonstrating, even in the case of subsequent closures of the container (1), that the first closing condition of the container (1) has been violated;- wherein the at least one of the walls (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) is provided with at least one support portion (16) that is predominantly in a respective lying plane and has at least one support rib (16a) transverse to the respective lying plane, wherein at least in one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13), from the open condition to the first closed condition, the lying plane of the support portion (16) is oriented transverse to the second coupling portion (13) and the second coupling portion (13) rests on the support rib (16a) of the support portion (16).

2. Container (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the support portion (16) is integral with or constrained to the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) and is rotatable with respect to the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2)around a respective folding line (16b) to assume a support position wherein the respective lying plane is transversely oriented with respect to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to support the latter in backing, at least in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), during the transition from an open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

3. Container (1) according to claim 2, wherein the support portion (16) develops from the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) starting from the end edge (6) of the latter, in particular from the folding line (16b), around which the support portion (16) of the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) is rotatable, developing at the end edge (6) of the storage unit (2) so that the support portion (16) is rotatable with respect to the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2) around the respective folding line (16b) .

4. Container (1) according to any one of claim 1 to 3, in which the storage unit (2) comprises four walls (4a, 4b) facing each other two by two, of which: two main walls (4a) facing each other, wherein at least one of the main walls (4a) is provided with the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) and the opposite main wall (4a) is provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7); and two side walls (4b) facing each other and transversely interposed between the main walls (4a), wherein the support portion (16) comprises at least one support flap (17) engaged to one of the side walls (4b) of the storage unit (2), the support flap (17) having a respective support rib (17a) facing, at least partially, the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), the support rib (17a) of the respective support flap (17) defining a limit of excursion for the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) in the phase of contact between the latter and the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7), during the transition from an open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

5. Container (1) according to claim 4, wherein the support portion (16) comprises at least one support flap (17) engaged to each respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), the support flaps (17) being identical to each other and being specularly arranged with respect to a plane of symmetry lying in the midline of the container (1), substantially parallel to the side walls (4b) of the storage unit (2), the support flaps (17) developing transversally from the respective side walls (4b) of the storage unit (2) towards each other in such a way as to offer to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) respective support ribs (17a) configured to define a contrast for the support of said second coupling portion (13) in the contact phase between the same and the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7), during the transition from an open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

6. Container (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein each support flap (17) of the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) has a support rib (17c) facing opposite to the respective support rib (17a), the support rib (17c) ending or having at least one transversal projection which ends near or at the main wall (4a) of the respective storage unit (2) oppositethe second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) so as to interact with said main wall (4a) to counteract the rotation of the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) towards the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) during the phase of contact between the latter and the first coupling portion (12) of the same locking system (7) during the transition from an open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1), optionally during the first closing condition of the container (1), the support rib (17c) of each support flap (17) interacting with the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) opposite to the main wall (4a) of the same provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to define a solid stop structure for the support of the coupling portion (13) on the support ribs (17a) of the support flaps (17).

7. Container (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein each support flap (17) exhibits a substantially trapezoidal outline wherein a major base is disposed at the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) and a minor base is disposed on an opposite side to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) or a substantially rectangular outline having a substantially constant width that remains the same along its development from the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), the support rib (17a) of each support flap (17) being disposed in proximity to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), during the transition from an open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1), whereby the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) rests, at least temporarily, on the support rib (17a) of each support flap (17).

8. Container (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein each support flap (17) has a base piece (17e) engaged to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) at the end edge (6) thereof and at least one end piece (17f) engaged to the base piece (17e) on the opposite side to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), the end piece (17f) being orientable transversally with respect to the base segment (17e) to define a substantially L-shaped structure developing from the respective side wall (6) of the storage unit (2), the end piece (17f) of the respective support flap (17) developing towards the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2), the support rib (17a) of the support flap (17) having a development according to a broken line, during the transition from the closed condition to at least the first closed condition of the container (1) or when the container (1) is in the closed condition, the end piece (17f) of the respective support flap (17) being oriented transversally with respect to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) in such a way as to allow said second coupling portion (13) to rest on the respective support rib (17) in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) during the transition from the open position to the first closed condition of the container (1).

9. Container (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein each support flap (17) presents:- a base piece (17e) engaged to the corresponding side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) at the end edge (6) of the latter;- a connecting piece (17h) engaged transversely to the base piece (17e) on the opposite side to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), the connecting piece (17h) being engaged to the base piece (17e) by means of a respective bending line (17j) and lying at least partially within the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); and,- an auxiliary piece (17i) engaged transversely to the connecting piece (17h) on the opposite side to the respective base piece (17e), the auxiliary piece (171) being engaged to the connecting piece (17h) of the respective support flap (17) by means of a respective bending line (17k) and lying within the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2); wherein the respective base piece (17e), the respective connecting piece (17h) and the respective auxiliary piece (171) of the respective support flap (17) define a structure having a width, measurable, at least in the proximity of the respective connecting piece (17h), substantially equal to the respective dimension of the connecting piece (17h), detectable between the respective base piece (17e) and the respective auxiliary piece (171), wherein the respective auxiliary piece (171) of the respective support rib (17) is engaged to the same side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2), from which the respective base piece (17e) develops, on the opposite side to the corresponding connecting piece (17h) and by means of a respective engagement tab (171) lying in overlapping relation to the respective side wall (4b) of the storage unit (2) within the internal volume (3) thereof, wherein the support rib (17a) of the respective support flap (17) is defined at least along the respective connecting piece(17h), optionally along the connecting piece (17h) and the auxiliary piece (171), even more optionally along the connecting piece and the base piece (17e), the connecting piece (17h) and the auxiliary piece (171), in particular the support rib (17a) presenting a broken line development, more specifically with a first corner having concavity facing the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) and convexity facing away from the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2) and a second corner facing the first corner having concavity facing the concavity of the first corner and convexity facing the internal volume (3) of the storage unit (2).

10. Container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the storage unit (2) comprises four walls (4a, 4b) two by two opposed, wherein: two main walls (4a) facing each other, wherein at least one of the main walls (4a) is provided with the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) and the opposite main wall (4a) is provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7); and, two side walls (4b) facing each other and transversely interposed between the main walls (4a), wherein the support portion (16) comprises a support structure (18) having a substantially "C"- or "V" -shape having a central element (18b) from the opposite ends of which corresponding lateral connecting elements (18d) are developed, wherein each lateral connecting element (18d) of the support structure (18) is engaged to the same main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) and is rotatable with respect to the same main wall (4a) bearing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to allow the support structure (18) to also rotate with respect to the main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), the outline of the support structure (18) having a concavity facing the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) arranged on the same main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), the central element (18b) of the support structure (18) defining a respective support rib (18a) facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to allow the second coupling portion (13) to rest on the support rib (18a) of the support structure (18) at least one contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), during the transition from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).11 . Container (1) according any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the storage unit (2) comprises four walls (4a, 4b) two by two opposed, wherein: two main walls (4a) facing each other, wherein at least one of the main walls (4a) is provided with the first coupling portion (12) of the respective locking system (7) and the opposite main wall (4a) is provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7); and, two side walls (4b) facing each other and transversely interposed between the main walls (4a), wherein the support portion (16) comprises a support tab (19) disposed opposite to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) and located at a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) opposite to the main wall (4a) provided with the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), the support tab (19) having a substantially rectangular shape with its long sides substantially parallel to a respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2), the long side of the support tab (19) facing the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) disposed on the opposite side with respect to the support tab (19) defining, at least in part, a support rib (19a) in order to allow the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to rest thereon at least in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), during the transition from the open condition to the first closed condition of the container (1).

12. Container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second coupling portion (13) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) is prominent with respect to the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

13. Container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second coupling portion (13) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) presents an end edge (13b) prominent with respect to the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2).

14. Container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second coupling portion (13) of the respective main wall (4a) of the storage unit (2) has a prominent end edge (13b) projecting with respect to the passage opening (5) which is defined by the respective end edge (6) of the storage unit (2), in particular when the second engaging portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) is inclined with respect to the respective main wall (4a) to which it is engaged.

15. Container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the support portion (16) is rotatable with respect to the respective wall (4a, 4b) of the storage unit (2), in particular around a respective folding line (16b), so as to assume a support position in which the respective lying plane is transversely oriented with respect to the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7) to support the latter in backing, at least in a contact phase between the first coupling portion (12) and the second coupling portion (13) of the respective locking system (7), from an open condition to a first closed condition of the container (1).

Images