Reusable display container

Abstract

The present invention relates to a reusable display container (1) for transporting, storing and, in particular, displaying articles, comprising a base (2) and four wall sections (3, 4, 5, 6) arranged on the base. Two opposite wall sections form longitudinal sections (3, 4) and two remaining opposite wall sections form end sections (5, 6). Each of the longitudinal sections (3, 4) forms one of two opposite long side walls (7, 8), each having a securing tab (11, 12), and each of the end sections (5, 6) forms one of two opposite end side walls (9, 10), each having at least one first folding tab (13, 14, 17, 18) and a second folding tab (15, 16, 19, 20). The respective bottom end of the long side walls (7, 8) is fixedly connected to the respectively adjacent long side of the base (2), preferably along the entire length (L1) of the base (2) via a fold (3',4'), such that at least two latching lug receptacles (25, 26) are provided in each fold (3', 4') or in the base 2. The securing tabs (11, 12) are foldably articulated inwards into the container at the upper edge of the long side walls (7, 18) by means of a respective fold (11',12'), and at their edge remote from the base each have at least two latching lugs (23, 24) and in each case at least one engagement opening (40) as an edge cutout, wherein the engagement opening (40) is arranged between two latching lugs (23, 24). The display container (1) is formed from a hollow-chamber multi-wall sheet having at least one undulating intermediate layer between two outer layers or a bubble-structure sheet.

Description

[0001] BOCKHORNI www.patc 7BRÜNTJEN PartG B

[0002] Schoeller Ventures GmbH, Zugspitzstr. 15, 82049 Pullach, Germany

[0003] VAT ID: DE 319 186 450

[0004] Munich, December 18, 2024 T 96240 WO

[0005] The present invention relates to a reusable display container for the transport, storage and in particular the display of items, especially foodstuffs and similar goods.

[0006] STATE OF THE ART

[0007] For the distribution and offering of goods, such as food, sales and display containers are already known, in which these goods are held for storage, advertising, and sale. The aforementioned goods are usually sold loose or in pre-packaged units. Accordingly, the sales and display containers, which are used particularly in self-service sales, must be adapted accordingly. The range of sales and display containers used extends from simple, trough-shaped containers, known as bulk containers, to shelf or hanging systems in which the goods are arranged, for example, in different compartments on an inclined plane, so that when a product is removed, the goods behind it are visible. The corresponding goods are always visibly displayed on the front.Typically, at least one wall has a display opening for this purpose.

[0008] The material of conventional display containers is primarily cardboard. For retailers, cardboard packaging is typically provided for displaying goods. With these standard cardboard packages, an unpacker removes a film wrapping after transport in the store if the packaging is partially open, or, in the case of fully closed packaging, tears off a section of the packaging, often marked by tear lines (usually partially perforated for easy removal). This reveals a display opening on the side of the container and usually an access opening on the top of the display-ready transport packaging. The access opening on the top can also serve as a display opening and be provided instead of the display opening on the side.

[0009] A major disadvantage of disposable display containers is their poor environmental impact. Since the cardboard or corrugated board is no longer usable after a single intensive use as a display box (scratched, bent, destroyed), it is either disposed of with general waste or recycled. Disposal with waste paper is only possible for clean cardboard boxes. Food-contaminated display boxes are sorted out by the recycler and regularly end up in the general waste.

[0010] Another disadvantage is the cumbersome process of flattening the display carton. Due to the often glued corners and bottom, the carton has to be pressed flat in several steps. Usually, the display carton is thrown on the floor and then stomped on to flatten it as much as possible. This is time-consuming and therefore uneconomical.

[0011] Furthermore, there is no organized return process for standard cardboard display containers to the manufacturer. Instead, these containers are passed on as waste and, at best, recycled as waste paper. Cardboard display containers are not suitable for reuse. Moreover, such cardboard display containers are not stable; in particular, if exposed to moisture, they can soften, causing the goods to fall out during transport, storage, or even display.

[0012] TASK OF INVENTION

[0013] The object of the following invention is therefore to provide a reusable display container (also simply referred to as a "display box" or, in short, a "container") that can replace conventional disposable display containers made of cardboard, in particular corrugated cardboard or corrugated board. This reusable display box should be made of a material that makes a significant contribution to the circular economy and decarbonization, while at the same time not increasing the cost per use compared to conventional disposable display boxes. Above all, a large number of cycles with one and the same reusable display container between the seller and the customer should be guaranteed, and the return transport should be quick and easy.

[0014] Furthermore, a reusable display container should be provided that is versatile, easy to handle, and can be folded quickly and repeatedly. It should also be robust and easy to manufacture. Additionally, it should be easy to clean, particularly with water and / or cleaning agents, and suitable for unpackaged food items, allowing for multiple uses.

[0015] Another task is to provide a reusable display container in which the offered goods can be stored clearly and concisely. Furthermore, the display container should allow for both easy removal of the items it contains and sufficient inspection of the goods. In addition, the sales and display container must be easy and inexpensive to manufacture and use, i.e., both for the customer when removing goods and for the sales staff when restocking. »NI

[0016] REVELATION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] This problem is solved by a reusable display container for the transport, storage and in particular the display of items according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the invention, a reusable display container for the transport, storage, and display of items is provided, comprising a foldable display box consisting of a base and four wall sections arranged at the base. The reusable display container is suitable for packaging machines, does not have a complicated, non-durable hook-and-loop fastener, and is characterized by simple folding into the unfolded final position (goods transport and / or goods storage position). The reusable display container is preferably manufactured in one piece.

[0019] Two wall sections, hereinafter referred to as longitudinal sections or longitudinal wall sections, partially form longitudinal side walls. When the container is unfolded, these sections are arranged upright and parallel to each other, creating a storage area for the goods on the intermediate base while simultaneously securing them laterally against slippage. At their bottom end, the longitudinal wall sections are folded to the base, preferably along the entire length of the base, and each fold provides at least two locking lug receptacles for locking lugs. These locking lug receptacles are preferably elongated, groove-like openings in the material.

[0020] Each of the two longitudinal wall sections forms a locking tab at its end furthest from the bottom; in other words, the locking tab is attached to the end of the longitudinal side wall furthest from the bottom. Each longitudinal section thus forms one of two opposing longitudinal side walls, each with a locking tab and, expediently, a fold line that separates the longitudinal side wall from the locking tab. When the reusable display container is unfolded, the locking tabs extend freely upwards, projecting beyond the upper edge of the container, and can be folded inwards.

[0021] KBRÜNTJEN PartG mbB are folded so that the free end of the securing tabs points vertically downwards, towards the bottom of the container, when folded.

[0022] The locking tabs each have at least two locking lugs on their outer edge or free end, whereby in the unfolded final position of the display container the locking lugs engage in the locking lug receptacles.

[0023] In its fully unfolded final position (goods transport state, display state or goods storage state) of the display container, the side walls form a wall that runs around the bottom and is preferably closed.

[0024] Between at least two locking lugs, the locking tab has at least one access opening in the form of a recess along the edge. This recess provides a better grip for flattening the display container, thus transferring it to a flat, ideally stackable position, which can also be described as the return or empty transport position of the reusable container.

[0025] The locking tab preferably has a height approximately equal to the height of the longitudinal side wall.

[0026] The two remaining wall sections, hereinafter referred to as end sections or end wall sections, form two opposing end walls, on which first and second folding flaps are provided. At their bottom end, the end wall sections are foldably connected to the adjacent end wall of the base via a fold, preferably across the entire width of the base. Each end wall is also preferably foldably connected to the first folding flap via a fold at each of its side edges.

[0027] Preferably, the first and second folding flaps together form a non-regular pentagonal shape consisting of a first, second, and third preferably right-angled corner and a fourth and fifth corner, each preferably with an angle of 135°. A diagonal fold to the second corner preferably runs centrally between the fourth and fifth corners, preferably forming a symmetry axis between the first and second folding flaps. Each end face of a wall section is expediently connected to the first folding flap via a first fold at each of its side edges (i.e., not the top and bottom edges).

[0028] Each long side wall of a wall section is also expediently connected to the second folding flap via a second fold at each of its side edges (i.e., not the top and bottom edges).

[0029] Advantageously, the second folding flap is designed to be mirror-symmetrical in its base to the first folding flap and is connected to the first folding flap via a diagonal fold.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the second folding flaps of the wall sections are fixedly connected to the respective adjacent longitudinal side wall via preferably 4 connection points, preferably hot-stamped weld points.

[0031] In an alternative embodiment, no connection points are provided, in particular no hot-stamped or permanently welded ones. In this alternative embodiment, the end sections of the pre-folded finished product can be unfolded outwards, and the inner surface of the end sections as well as the inner surface of the long sides can be cleaned after use. Following a cleaning step, the display container can be pre-folded back into its finished product position, which corresponds to the folded position with the connection points activated, and then unfolded into a final position for transporting goods.

[0032] Particularly in the corner areas, the reusable display container according to the invention is significantly reinforced in its final position compared to other display containers due to the first and second folding flaps and the resulting multiple layers of material in this area, also known as double folding flaps. Containers are typically very susceptible to compression, creases, cracks, breakage, or similar damage, especially in the corners, making this a significant advantage. The additional securing flap on the longitudinal side walls also stabilizes the upper edge of the display container in its fully folded final position (goods transport condition, display condition, or goods storage condition), particularly in the area of ​​the double folding flaps formed by a first and second folding flap, the latter adjacent to the first.In particular, the locking tab, which corresponds in height and width to a longitudinal side wall, provides a double wall on the longitudinal walls of the container in its unfolded final position. This double wall on the longitudinal walls ensures significantly greater stability of the container's longitudinal sides compared to containers known from the prior art. Furthermore, this double wall prevents wrinkling at the end faces because it increases the rigidity of the entire wall running around the container base. The locking tabs rest against the inner walls of the end faces with their entire lateral edge height, supporting them from the inside.Especially in its open, ready-to-pack state, the display container is ideally equipped for filling with or removing goods. This is because, firstly, the upper corner areas of the container are significantly reinforced by the double layer of material from the double folding flaps, and secondly, the vulnerable upper area, particularly the area around the opening for access or filling, as well as the unstable longitudinal side area, are considerably strengthened by the double wall consisting of a securing flap and a longitudinal side wall. This results in significantly greater stability compared to known display containers. This extends the lifespan and increases the number of cycles the container according to the invention can be used in a reusable system.

[0033] The interaction of the first and second folding flaps, which together form a double layer of material in the fully folded state of the reusable display container, and the locking flap that overlaps this double layer, results in a multi-walled container in the main stress areas (primarily the corners and the upper edge around the access opening). This makes it more durable than conventional display containers due to its superior stability. The first and second folding flaps, folded together with the container's long side wall, form a three-layer wall in the corner area, which significantly contributes to stability. Furthermore, the locking flap is advantageously positioned over the folded first and second folding flaps and overlaps them in its final position.

[0034] The double wall formed by the locking tab and the longitudinal side wall in the container's longitudinal section not only contributes to greater stability in the longitudinal side wall area and greater rigidity in the end wall area, but also forms a stacking surface for stacking multiple reusable display containers on top of each other. This is achieved through the fold line between the longitudinal side wall and the locking tab, which creates a sufficiently wide contact area on its outer surface. This is because the wide fold between the locking tab and the longitudinal side wall, which has a width equivalent to at least two layers of material, provides sufficient support. The width of the stacking surface is also necessary to ensure that the locking tab can engage over the first and second folding tabs when the container is fully folded.

[0035] In a further optional embodiment, additional recesses are provided in the folds connecting the second folding flaps to the long sides in order to hang the finished display container in a first device described below and / or a second device.

[0036] According to a further aspect of the invention, a locking tongue is formed on each of the first or second, or alternatively on both, folding flaps, which can engage in a correspondingly complementary locking tongue receptacle of a container base located above in the stack. For this purpose, at least two locking tongue receptacles are provided at least on the longitudinal edge of the container base, into which the complementary locking tongues of the first and / or second folding flap(s) of a container arranged precisely below for the formation of a stack engage, in order to provide a stack of several stacked containers and stack securing by a positive-locking connection between the locking tongues and the locking tongue receptacles. Alternatively, the locking tongue receptacles are formed on the end face of the base, preferably on both of these edges.Particularly preferred are the locking tongue receptacles in the respective fold line between the longitudinal edge of the container and the longitudinal side wall adjacent to the longitudinal edge of the container, alternatively in the respective fold line between the end edge of the container and the end wall adjacent to the end edge of the container, alternatively in all four of the described fold lines of the BOCKHORNI.

[0037] FBiÜNTJEN PorfG mbB

[0038] The base is designed with a locking tongue receptacle. Advantageously, the locking tongue receptacles on the base are spaced apart from the locking lug receptacles of the locking tabs, preferably such that an intervening material surface along the length of the base is at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm. Both the preferably two locking tongue receptacles and the preferably two locking lug receptacles on each longitudinal side of the base lie on a common longitudinal line. Alternatively, however, a laterally offset arrangement is also possible, so that, for example, the two locking tongue receptacles on each opposite longitudinal side are offset inwards by approximately at least one to two cm, whereas the locking lug receptacles for the locking lugs lie in the groove between the longitudinal side wall and the base.

[0039] Advantageously, or preferably, at least one of the side walls, and particularly preferably one of the end walls, is provided with at least one display opening. However, such an opening is not strictly necessary, as the open top of the container, i.e., the access opening, also allows for the display of the goods once any optional lid has been removed.

[0040] The reusable display container according to the invention is formed from a hollow chamber panel or hollow chamber plate with at least one wave-shaped intermediate layer between two outer layers or a studded structure plate.

[0041] According to a first embodiment of the invention, the reusable display container is formed from a studded sheet, preferably made of plastic. The sheet is a flat structure, convex or bendable across its surface, like a rigid cardboard sheet. The studded sheet is characterized by at least two so-called cover layers, which are preferably made of polypropylene. The two cover layers form outer layers, a first outer layer and a second outer layer, between which a kind of bubble-like core is embedded. Advantageously, the studded sheets are extruded from two polypropylene cover layers and a core of bubble-like polypropylene. The polypropylene bubbles can be circular, oval, diamond-shaped, or elongated structures that connect the two cover layers. Other shapes are possible. Advantageously, the structures are arranged at uniform intervals from one another.The outer layers are bonded together by an internal dimpled structure that forms the core of the panel. The first outer layer can form the outside of a blank and thus essentially the container's exterior. The second outer layer can form the inside of a blank and thus essentially the container's interior. The outer layers are advantageously designed as a film or foil, preferably as an injection-molded polypropylene carrier film.

[0042] The studded panel is advantageously stable regardless of direction and easy to process. After prior processing (grooving, punching, milling), it can be easily folded or bent. It is equally stable in every direction and can therefore be cut into any shape. It dampens impacts and vibrations particularly well compared to hollow chamber panels with a corrugated core or multi-wall polycarbonate sheets. Compared to other hollow chamber panels, the studded panel exhibits higher bending resistance and greater compressive strength. This almost completely prevents white fracture, which occurs when plastics are subjected to high or excessive stress during processing or as a result of deformation, leading to cracking.

[0043] The surface of the outer layers can be designed in various ways. This could involve different colors or variations in the surface finish, such as glossy, matte, smooth, or rough. For example, the first outer layer could be blue and the second green. This creates particularly striking aesthetic effects. Customers can use this design to display their company logo and / or colors. It is also possible to design the surface of one or both outer layers to facilitate label removal. For instance, the outer layer, or the first outer layer, can be silicone-coated to improve label adhesion. In this case, the first outer layer forms the outside, not the inside, of the container. Furthermore, the surface of one or both outer layers can be designed to improve label adhesion.AI- BOCKHORNI TBRÜNTJEN PartG Alternatively, a rough surface can be chosen, which makes it easier to remove a label.

[0044] The second embodiment, according to the invention, consists of a hollow-chamber sheet or hollow-chamber panel with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers. Here too, the panel is a planar structure, convex or bendable over a planar surface, like a rigid cardboard sheet.

[0045] The hollow-core sheet is characterized by the fact that it forms connecting webs between two smooth outer layers of material, in such a way as to replicate common single-wall disposable cardboard display containers, except that the material is not cardboard or paperboard but a preferably synthetically or semi-synthetically produced polymer, particularly preferably a plastic, especially polypropylene. The hollow-core sheet has two smooth outer layers with webs arranged vertically between them at a uniform distance from each other, forming hollow chambers between them as elongated hollow channels.

[0046] The so-called alternative hollow chamber plate of the second embodiment is formed from two smooth outer layers and at least one single-waved intermediate layer and can also be made from the aforementioned material.

[0047] The at least one single-corrugated inner layer is sandwiched between the two outer layers, its opposing corrugation tips abutting each outer layer and advantageously bonded or welded there. Together with the outer layers, the single-corrugated inner layer forms elongated hollow channels. In addition to the corrugated inner layer, another corrugated inner layer, optionally with a smooth intermediate layer between the two corrugated inner layers, may be provided, so that a smooth outer layer is followed by a single-corrugated inner layer, then the smooth intermediate layer, then another single-corrugated inner layer, and finally a smooth outer layer. This results in a double-corrugated hollow chamber sheet.

[0048] Alternatively, the studded structure panel, hollow chamber panel, or hollow chamber BOCJCHORNI panel with a corrugated interlayer can be made of bio-based or biodegradable polymers. Combinations are, of course, possible. The bio-based polymers can consist entirely or partially of renewable raw materials.

[0049] Due to the special material of the reusable display container according to the second embodiment, its external appearance is almost identical to the conventional corrugated cardboard display containers in the single-use system that are widely accepted by consumers and mail-order companies. At the same time, the handling during packing, unpacking, or repacking is very similar.

[0050] Advantageously, the thickness of the plates in all described embodiments is approximately between 0.5 and 8 mm, preferably 0.5 to 6 mm, and particularly preferably 0.5 to 3 mm.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the reusable display container has a grammage in the range of between 150 and 1,100 g / m². 2 , preferably between 350 g / m² 2 and 550 g / m² 2 Although the basis weight (grammage) according to DIN EN ISO 536 usually expresses the weight of a paper or corrugated board grade, it is given in g / m². 2 The specified weight plays an important role in determining the quality and cost of corrugated board. In the present case, however, the basis weight of the reusable display container according to the invention also corresponds to that of conventional corrugated board. The basis weight of the reusable display container according to the invention thus corresponds to that of conventional disposable display containers made of corrugated cardboard and is just as light. Therefore, there are no disadvantages during transport, neither a higher weight load for the parcel delivery service nor for the transport vehicle (fuel consumption).

[0052] In terms of weight, the studded panel according to the first embodiment and the hollow chamber panel according to the second embodiment of the invention, or the alternative hollow chamber panel with at least one corrugated interlayer, are lighter than a comparably rigid cardboard layer. Due to the material properties, a corrugated or hollow chamber panel or studded panel made of plastic allows for faster and easier folding of the container into an upright state.

[0053] KBRÜNTJEN PartG mbB or a folded state. This is because the outer layers of the hollow chamber panel or the top layers of the studded panel, especially when made of polypropylene, have such a smooth surface structure that the folded container surfaces slide along each other with much less friction than comparable display containers made of corrugated cardboard or corrugated board. Thus, the reusable display container according to the invention is very easy to erect and fold, and can simultaneously be transported back in a reduced volume, in such a way that it can be transported back to the producer or manufacturer lying flat with completely horizontal wall and base elements as well as any hinged lid elements, without damage or destruction and without unnecessary air gaps (except for those in the hollow chamber areas).

[0054] The economic aspect is not self-evident. The world of display containers for retail displays of goods and many other areas is currently dominated by disposable display materials. However, recycling is cheaper than manufacturing new display containers, yet this seemingly obvious principle is completely ignored in practice.

[0055] The advantage of this special material, preferably polypropylene, is that an empty reusable display container can be folded in seconds. Furthermore, this very flat folded reusable display container, with its parallel and horizontally oriented surfaces, results in a suitable transport size, allowing a larger number of empty reusable display containers to be returned (for example, to collection points with wire mesh boxes or other collection containers for the empty container). This is not possible with disposable cardboard packaging or conventional display containers made of non-corrugated polymer or plastic sheets, or sheets without hollow chambers, which are significantly heavier.Such a highly compact return of the reusable display container according to the invention is only possible because the special material possesses such good folding properties, as described above. At the same time, due to the lightness of the material of the reusable display container according to the invention, return transport is so advantageous that it is more cost-effective than manufacturing the product from scratch. It is also easy for the packer to pull the flattened reusable display container according to the invention from the shelf and, with just one hand movement, bring it into the unfolded final position in order to then fill the goods into the interior of the display box.

[0056] Hollow chamber sheets with ribs or a corrugated core (made of corrugated plastic) between two smooth outer layers, or alternatively, studded sheets as described above, especially those made of polypropylene, represent a new type of environmentally friendly and robust packaging material. Corrugated plastic, or corriboard, consists of extruded single-wall or multi-wall plastic sheets, typically made of high-impact polypropylene resin and similar in structure to corrugated cardboard. They are environmentally friendly, waterproof, non-toxic, durable, and recyclable. Hollow chamber sheets with ribs or a corrugated core (made of corrugated plastic) between two smooth outer layers, or alternatively, studded sheets made of polypropylene, also offer high strength and corrosion resistance. They can have long life cycles and be recycled many times.Both the price and lifespan are significantly better than corrugated cardboard, making this material a high-quality alternative. Furthermore, it is lightweight, has good toughness, and can save costs by using less material per unit volume, and is also a high-quality alternative to injection-molded boxes.

[0057] The chosen material makes a significant contribution to the circular economy and decarbonization. At the same time, the cost per use is not increased compared to conventional cardboard display containers. Cycles of up to ten or more, even up to 20 or 30, can be achieved with the reusable display container according to the invention between seller and customer, while simultaneously offering the simplest possible return transport. In contrast to conventional single-use cardboard display containers, this is a major advantage, as it not only saves money but also protects the environment. Because return transport is cheaper than manufacturing a new product, this reusable cycle is truly economical. BOCKHORNI FBRÜNTJEN Port© mbB

[0058] Furthermore, the invention comprises a system consisting of a reusable display container and a lid according to the preamble of claim 16, as well as a lid for a reusable display container according to the preamble of claim 17.

[0059] FOLD

[0060] For the production of the reusable display container, one of the aforementioned sheets is used, which is die-cut (alternatively, cut out with a cutting plotter) and pre-folded into a semi-finished product. Preferably, the pre-folded semi-finished product is hot-punched or glued at at least three, preferably four, connection points (referred to as "activated connection points"), so that the end wall sections are firmly, yet still foldable, connected to the longitudinal wall sections. The container with activated connection points is referred to as the finished product. In an alternative embodiment, the finished product does not have any connection points or activated connection points, in particular no hot-punched or permanently welded ones as described above.

[0061] As already explained, the bottom end of each of the long side walls is firmly connected to the adjacent long side of the base, and the bottom end of each of the end walls is connected to the adjacent end face of the base, respectively, via a fold or crease line along the entire length of the end face or long side of the base. However, these folds are foldable in the direction of the fold. The fold direction refers to the direction in which the foldable wall sections are unfolded to transfer the display container into its finished storage, display, and / or transport position. Consequently, the respective wall sections are also connected to the base via these fold lines, allowing the container to be folded flat and thus unfolded into an upright position. The flattened container, as a finished product, is then ready for use.As a ready-made reusable display container (preferably with activated connection points), it is erected during the unfolding process via these fold lines by moving (folding up) the end walls, which lie flat on the ground in the flattened position of the container, upwards and outwards from the inside of the container into their erected position (perpendicular to the ground), and simultaneously the longitudinal sections, which are initially arranged in a horizontal plane with the ground (next to the ground, extending from it - not lying on the ground) when the container is flattened, rise vertically towards the inside of the container via their bottom-side fold line.The first and second folding flaps, which lie in the same plane as the end walls when the container is laid flat (the end walls parallel to and on the base, and the first and second folding flaps parallel to and on the longitudinal sections, preferably the longitudinal side walls), are folded towards each other when the flattened display container is unfolded into its upright final position. A diagonal fold line separates the first folding flap from the second folding flap, such that the first and second folding flaps are mirror images of each other. Since the foldable end product is preferably permanently connected to the respective second folding flap via a connection point A, the outer side of the first folding flap comes into contact with the inner side of the second folding flap when the container is in its final position.The outer side of the first folding flap is the side that, in an upright display container according to the invention, faces away from the inside of the container in its upright end position. The inner side of the second folding flap is the side that, in the upright end position of the display container according to the invention, faces the inside of the container. In the alternative embodiment, in which no connection point A is provided between the respective second folding flap and the respective adjacent longitudinal side wall, in particular no hot-stamped or permanently welded connection point A, the blank is unfolded manually or with other aids so that the outer side of the first folding flap comes into contact with the inner side of the second folding flap.

[0062] The invention enables extremely rapid locking of the fastening elements, preferably locking lugs, provided on the locking tabs, into corresponding complementary receptacles (locking lug receptacles) in the container wall, the container bottom, or the wall and bottom sections of the container. The locking lugs of the locking tabs engage in the complementary locking lug receptacles in the folds between the container side walls and the BOCKHORNI KBRÜNTJEN PartG mbB

[0063] The ground is included, whereby the locking lugs can alternatively only be formed in the ground and intervention only takes place there.

[0064] The reusable display container is ideally suited and equipped for automated packing in a packaging line. For this purpose, it is fed into a packaging machine as a finished product, preferably with the connection points already activated, in a folded, flat position. Advantageously, the container is fed to or inserted into the collating packer via a first device, preferably a feeding device.Advantageously, the container is then drawn into the ground from the center of the bottom by means of a second device in the collecting packer, which is located below the container base and which can optionally also be the first device. This second device is preferably a suction device, a gripping arm, or a slide, and particularly preferably a gripping element with a suction device or a slide with a suction device. The container is then pushed downwards by at least two opposing tool jaws or flanks, such that two opposing side wall sections, preferably side walls, are folded up into an upright position. The container base resting on the second device is thereby in a first upper position (the upper position being at the height of the upper end of the tool jaws).The wall sections are folded up by means of at least two opposing tool jaws, which expediently form a funnel and are aligned at a distance from each other. Between the tool jaws or flanks, the second device slides from the first upper position downwards to a final position located at the lower end of the tool flanks, so that at least two opposing side walls of the wall sections slide along the tool flanks and, due to the funnel shape of the tool flanks, come into an upright position.Advantageously, the wall sections, preferably the two opposing longitudinal wall sections and longitudinal side walls, are folded up by means of the two tool jaws described above, which are particularly preferably aligned parallel to the wall sections, preferably parallel to the longitudinal wall sections, and arranged at a distance from each other of an advantageously minimum width of the container base. The goods can be placed on the base of the unfolded reusable display container by means of a third device, preferably a gripper arm, particularly preferably together with a separate lid, and the container can then be closed simultaneously with the lid – if provided. Alternatively, it is possible for the lid to be moved over the top opening of the container by means of a slider, thus closing it.The advantage over prior art reusable display containers is that the reusable display container according to the invention can be equipped for automated packaging machines, packed in automated and very few process steps, and simultaneously closed with a separately designed lid. At the same time, the production and packing of the reusable display container is more cost-effective than previous methods.

[0065] Furthermore, for optimal advertising purposes, the reusable display container, and optionally the lid described below, can and should also be labeled and printed with markings. This is possible on all surfaces of the container and lid. However, conventional labels and stickers regularly suffer from the significant disadvantage that they are not easily removable. Instead, adhesive residue often remains on the packaging or display container, requiring the order picker to rub the label for a minute or more to remove it, resulting in a time and consequently higher costs. It is therefore crucial that the removal of single-use or reusable labels or markings can be done manually and, if possible, automatically (by machine) in the shortest possible time. At the same time, these labels must be easily washable.This is primarily to avoid unnecessarily increasing return shipping costs due to time wasted scraping off labels.

[0066] Advantageously, the reusable display container according to the invention, and optionally also the lid, comprises a carrier label, preferably designed as a silicone-coated carrier label. The silicone-coated carrier label has the advantage that disposable or reusable labels or other stickers affixed to it are very easy to remove. The carrier label is particularly preferably a silicone strip or a lacquered label made of applied silicone-containing lacquer. Quick and easy de-labeling is thus guaranteed. Optionally, it is possible for a lacquer to be applied directly to the container material; in particular, a lacquered surface is provided on the container material onto which a label can be applied, preferably affixed. This lacquer is designed such that the label can be peeled off very easily without leaving any residue on the lacquer or container material.The painted area is the same size as standard labels (approximately 10 cm x 15 cm or 15 cm x 7 cm or 10 cm x 10 cm).

[0067] As an alternative to the silicone-coated label, it is of course possible to add a silicone-based additive or a similar additive to the corrugated plastic, bio-based polymer or biodegradable polymer, so that the plate produced from this polymer according to the invention has the same effect as the silicone-coated label itself.

[0068] The reusable display container is preferably trackable and ideally has an RFID device.

[0069] The display box is preferably open at the top. In their upright position for transporting goods, the side walls of the wall sections define a base area of ​​the reusable display container, which can vary in size but corresponds to conventional display containers. The base area is essentially cuboid or rectangular.

[0070] It should be noted that the wall sections or side walls do not necessarily have to be completely closed or form full walls that would make the box entirely enclosed (unseeable) on all sides and in the area of ​​the wall sections or side walls. The wall sections or side walls can optionally be provided with partial openings. Circular, rectangular, or other shaped cutouts are conceivable for better visibility of the interior. It is essential that the wall sections or side walls—despite such an opening—still serve, at a minimum, to support the goods stored in the box, as well as to allow the folding and securing described above, and also to permit the reliable stacking of several containers on top of each other.

[0071] The display opening, which is expediently located on the wall side, preferably on the end wall side, is preferably open at the top and can be of any shape. Besides a V- or U-shaped display opening, it can alternatively also be rectangular or circular. Optionally or additionally, a connecting strip can be provided at the upper edge of the display wall section adjacent to the display opening, thus limiting the display opening at the top. This connecting strip also provides stabilization for the display opening, particularly if it is very wide in the upper wall area.

[0072] LID

[0073] A lid for the reusable display container, or a system consisting of a reusable display container and a lid, is expediently designed as a single piece and loosely attached to the display container.

[0074] The lid, either as such or for the system, expediently has at least one downwardly foldable side wing on at least two of its broad and / or longitudinal sides of its base, preferably on at least two opposite sides, particularly preferably on the opposite end faces (broad sides) of the base, the latter corresponding to the dimensions of the base, but preferably with at least one plate thickness or material thickness greater in width than the base to provide a stacking surface. This side wing serves as a support and positioning means. The length or height of the side wings in the deployed state expediently corresponds to the height of the container in the unfolded state (goods transport position, goods display position, or goods storage position). The outer sides of the side wings lie in the closed position of the lid.The system, consisting of the lid and container, is pressed against the inner surfaces of the adjacent side walls. A material-related pre-tension exists along the fold line between the lid base and the side wings. This is because the side wings are pre-folded in only one direction, namely the folding direction (downwards towards the container when the lid is positioned over the opening). This material-related and pre-folding pre-tension presses the outer surfaces of the side wings against the inner surfaces of the adjacent side walls. This contributes to a very reliable locking of the lid in the container and reinforces the fit. BOCKHORNI.

[0075] KBRÜNTJEN PartG mbB

[0076] Particularly when the lid is closed, the notches in the lid are aligned complementarily with the upwardly projecting locking tabs of the first and / or second folding flaps. The side flaps, which are hinged to the opposite end edges of the lid, are folded downwards in the closed container's final position—for positioning and, if necessary, stacking the lid within the reusable display container—and are arranged inside the container. It goes without saying that the area of ​​the lid edge without notches rests on the upper edge, preferably the base, of the container.

[0077] Alternatively, at least one side wing can be provided on three, preferably all four, of the side edges of the lid and folded to the lid base. In this case, instead of notches, which, for example, can optionally be provided on two opposite side edges of the lid base as described above, groove-like recesses can be provided in the fold between the corresponding side edge of the lid base and the respective side wing to still allow the engagement of locking tabs of the first and / or second folding flaps.

[0078] By using four side wings, i.e., one side wing per side edge of the lid base, the pressure stability can be increased and a higher weight of an upper container in the stack can be loaded onto a lower container than if only two side edges of the lid base have side wings.

[0079] Cut

[0080] A blank for manufacturing a reusable display container is also claimed. The blank forms at least four wall sections, in particular two longitudinal and two end wall sections, as well as a base, according to the features described above in relation to the display container.

[0081] Folding process BOCJKHORNI TBRUNTJEN

[0082] The following describes the unfolding of the reusable display container, preferably for packaging goods. A packaging machine, also known as a case packer, is used for this purpose. Advantageously, the case packer is a wrap-around case packer from Syntegon (e.g., Elematic® 3001 Wrap-Around Case Packer) equipped with the appropriate electronics, tools, and robotics. This allows the case packer to be specifically configured for the reusable display container according to the invention, particularly for its unfolding.Erection from a flat, folded position of a ready-to-use reusable display container (finished product) to an erect final position, in which the side walls are raised, i.e., folded up around the base, and, advantageously, the locking tab is folded downwards when the container is filled with goods and the lid is simultaneously placed on top, and the locking lugs of the locking tab engage in the corresponding complementary locking lug receptacles, which are provided either in the fold between the adjacent side wall and the base or in the base itself. The term "ready-to-use display container," or alternatively "ready-to-use reusable display container," refers to the container whose connection points on the second folding flaps to the adjacent longitudinal side walls have been firmly connected.The alternative ready-made display container without connection points is also described as such if its respective second folding flap rests against the adjacent longitudinal side wall without the outer side of the first folding flap being in contact with the inner side of the second folding flap. In this alternative embodiment, the ready-made display container can be completely unfolded flat after use and thoroughly cleaned in all surface and fold areas.

[0083] The procedure is described below based on the process steps:

[0084] In a non-essential step preceding the first process step, a finished display container is picked from a stack in the collating packer by means of a first device, which preferably has a gripper arm. The first device preferably grips the bottom of the container. Alternatively, instead of a gripper arm, the first device is connected to a magazine in which several finished display containers are loaded upright in a flat, folded position. BOCKHORNI TBRÜNTJEN Port© mbB

[0085] In this alternative embodiment, the first device has a guide rail in which one of the loaded finished containers is suspended vertically by the magazine and held in place. In a subsequent first process step, the finished display container, which is in a flat state, is fed to the collection packer by the first device, the so-called feeding device, or inserted into the collection packer. The finished display container is stored horizontally, and its inner bottom surface and the outer surfaces of the end wall sections are oriented upwards. Consequently, the underside of the bottom and the outer surfaces of the longitudinal sections face downwards and are positioned on the first device or, after transfer in this process step, already on a second device.

[0086] In a second, subsequent process step, the still-flattened finished display container is positioned horizontally above a tool using the first device or, after transfer from the first device to a second device, on the second device. The tool has two jaws or flanks arranged parallel to each other, forming a gap between them. Due to their downwardly tapered jaw walls, they form a funnel-shaped tool.The flattened, finished display container is drawn over this tool using the first or second device, so that the respective longitudinal sections of the container, preferably the longitudinal side walls, and in particular the outer sides of the longitudinal side walls of the longitudinal section, are positioned with a slight gap above the tool jaws or placed on the longitudinal edges at the upper edge of the tool jaws. The container base is thus positioned above the gap formed by the jaws. Advantageously, this provides a way to keep the underside of the base accessible.

[0087] In the second process step, the first or second device can further comprise positioning elements, preferably in the form of locking lugs, preferably four locking lugs, which project upwards from the first or second device in such a way that they are aligned complementarily and precisely with the locking lug receptacles provided either in the folds between the container bottom and side wall or the bottom, as described later in the description of the figures (1NI), and are designed for precise engagement with them. While the flat-folded containers are stored horizontally on the first or second device, the positioning elements engage in the locking lug receptacles on the bottom or fold side, stabilize the container bottom in its position, and advantageously pre-tension it so that the unfolding of the container is extremely reliable, i.e.,This can be achieved without individual tabs or locking lugs snagging and without kinking or bending of the wall sections. In particular, the positioning elements ensure precise alignment of the container over the tool flanks, and the pre-tensioning of the container base enables a much better unfolding than would be possible without positioning elements.

[0088] In the next, third process step, the underside of the base is suctioned, gripped, or pushed by the first or second device in the collecting packer, which preferably comprises a suction device, a gripping arm, or a slide, and particularly preferably a gripping element with a suction device or a slide with a suction device, and pulled downwards by the second device. As the finished display container is pulled downwards, the longitudinal sections slide down along the opposing tool jaws into the gap and are erected. Thus, the container, with its walls arranged around the base, is brought into an unfolded filling position.

[0089] In a convenient fourth process step, a third device in the collecting packer moves over the container and simultaneously holds, pushes, or clamps a lid. The third device guides the lid over the upper container opening and closes it.

[0090] In an alternative fourth process step, an alternative third device of the collating packer is used to grasp and pull in a lid. The lid, which has wing flaps or side wings on at least two opposite sides that can be folded downwards, is preferably gripped on the outer sides of the wing flaps by a holding or gripping element of the third device, whereby the wing flaps are aligned vertically downwards and, at the same time, goods are picked up and clamped between the inner sides of the wing flaps, so that the lid is brought into its final folded position.

[0091] FBiÜNTJEN PorfG mbB and at the same time securely holds the goods between the holding elements of the gripper arm.

[0092] For this purpose, the goods are advantageously held near the third device in a packaging size appropriate to the container, so that the third device can easily clamp the goods between the lid wing flaps by means of a rotary movement.

[0093] In the alternative fourth step of the inventive process, the goods are placed on the bottom of the container into the interior of the container by means of the third device. This is done by inserting the vertically folded wing tabs into the container. The securing tabs, which still protrude slightly upwards but are positioned at an angle above the interior of the container, are folded downwards when the wing tabs on the adjacent side walls slide downwards into the interior of the container towards the bottom. The securing tabs at the upper edge of the container are thereby automatically folded into the interior of the container, and their locking lugs, which are each located furthest from the bottom at the edge of the securing tab, engage.The flaps engage in corresponding complementary receptacles, which are provided either in the fold separating the base and side wall or in the base itself. This is because the width of the wing flaps corresponds to the width of the container on the inside, thus pressing the locking tab against the respective wall. Simultaneously, the locking lug of the locking tab snaps into the complementary locking lug receptacle formed between the end wall and the base, or in the base. At the same time, the product is positioned in the container, and the optional lid is brought into its closed position by means of the notches preferably provided on the base of the lid, into which the locking tongues of the second folding flaps engage.

[0094] The goods are then positioned in the container.

[0095] RETURN SYSTEM

[0096] The following describes a system for the production of reusable

[0097] Display containers made of hollow chamber sheets, preferably made of polypropylene- BOCJKHORNI

[0098] Hollow-chamber sheets or polypropylene hollow-chamber sheets with at least one corrugated interlayer, or studded structure sheets, as described above, as well as for the recycling of returned defective reusable display containers, such as those used in particular for product displays in retail. The system expediently includes a processing device for the returned reusable display containers at the manufacturer's premises, which is equipped with a sorting device and a shredding device for the reusable display containers.

[0099] The sorting system expediently includes means for the automated detection of defective containers, preferably imaging methods. As soon as a defect is detected, the container is removed from the recycling process.

[0100] The shredding unit expediently includes means for mechanical shredding and is equipped to shred the reusable display containers into various particle sizes. The rejected containers are then expediently fed to the shredding unit after passing through the sorting station, preferably via a conveyor belt. The sorting unit also detects undamaged containers and directs them to a washing and cleaning unit, a relabeling station, and / or a secondary sorting station for, e.g., sorting the containers by size.

[0101] The processing device expediently includes means for the mechanical sorting and / or separation of components present on the reusable display container, such as labels, stickers, and the like. New labels can then be applied to undamaged containers (re-labeling). The processing device may further include a washing and cleaning unit and / or quality control equipment and / or a granulation unit for producing granules from the ground material or flakes of the hollow chamber or studded panel.

[0102] CONTAINER MANUFACTURING

[0103] The following describes the production of the reusable display containers according to the invention by BOCKHORNI TBRÜNTJEN PartG rnbß

[0104] - for product displays in wholesale and / or retail trade - made of hollow chamber panels, preferably made of polypropylene hollow chamber panels or studded structure panels according to the invention, as well as a method for recycling returned damaged reusable display containers according to the invention.

[0105] The manufacturing process advantageously comprises the following process steps:

[0106] 1. Manufacturing a hollow chamber panel or hollow chamber sheet with at least one corrugated interlayer between two outer layers or a studded structure panel, preferably made of polypropylene, biodegradable or bio-based polymer and

[0107] 2. Punching out a predetermined blank from the sheet and pre-folding all defined fold lines for easy folding by the customer into a reusable display container, preferably designed according to the above described material features.

[0108] Furthermore, the use of the folded or unfolded reusable display container is described, with the use taking place at the manufacturer's site as described below.

[0109] Example cycle of a reusable display container

[0110] The display container blank is delivered flat-folded as a finished product, preferably packaged in large quantities, by the manufacturer of the reusable display container to a producer who manufactures goods for retail. These goods are packaged in the display container and later displayed in appropriate shelving systems by retailers for presentation and sale. At the producer's facility, the finished display container is unfolded either mechanically or manually. Mechanical unfolding is conveniently carried out by the collating packer described above. The container's securing flaps are folded into the interior of the container, either mechanically in the collating packer or manually, and their locking tabs engage in the complementary BOCJCHORNI

[0111] Locking lugs are inserted. Preferably, the locking lugs are inserted during filling and / or when attaching the lid, as described above. After capping and / or filling, the display containers are stacked or stored for shipment from the manufacturer to the retailer. For this purpose, the filled display containers are expediently stacked on pallets and delivered from the manufacturer to the retailer or initially to a central warehouse.

[0112] In retail settings, employees can remove the optional lid and place the display container on the shelf to offer and sell the merchandise.

[0113] The display containers can be conveniently marked with an individual barcode and / or RFID tag during their manufacture for unique identification. The manufacturer and / or retailer can scan all barcodes and / or RFID tags and thus determine and document the quantity of goods, the corresponding container serial number, etc.

[0114] Empty containers and lids can be collected in a return container at the retailer's warehouse and, when full, returned to the product manufacturer or the central warehouse. There, the container can be cleaned, if necessary, refilled with goods, and shipped back to the retailer. Alternatively, the empty containers can first be taken to a separate intermediate station for cleaning and inspection before being returned to the manufacturer.

[0115] Defective reusable display containers are taken back by the manufacturer. These containers are then sent to the manufacturer's processing facility, which includes a shredding unit. This unit shreds the reusable display containers into various sizes of regrind. The processing facility should ideally include means for mechanical shredding and / or for separating and / or removing components from the reusable display container, such as labels, stickers, or similar items, or for producing flakes from the hollow-chamber or studded panel. The processing facility may also be equipped with a washing and cleaning unit and / or quality control equipment and / or a granulation unit for producing granules from the regrind or flakes of the hollow-chamber or studded panel described above.

[0116] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0117] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings. These show

[0118] Fig. 1A shows a top view of a reusable display container in its unfolded, ready-to-fill state, here display state, according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0119] Fig. 1B shows a top view of a reusable display container in its unfolded, ready-to-fill state, here in the display state, according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0120] Fig. 2 shows a top view of the reusable display container folded flat for empty transport as a finished product from Fig. 1A.

[0121] Fig. 3 shows a top view of a section of the reusable display container according to a further embodiment of the invention and

[0122] Fig. 4 shows a partial view of the reusable display container from Fig. 1A, with partially unfolded folding flaps in an intermediate folding position.

[0123] Fig. 5A Top view of a lid for the reusable display container according to the first embodiment of the invention,

[0124] Fig. 5B Top view of a lid for the reusable display container according to the second embodiment of the invention, BOCJKHORNI

[0125] FORMS OF EXECUTION OF THE INVENTION

[0126] The terms “fold” and “fold line” are used interchangeably in the following, whereby “fold” generally refers to the unfolded container in display position (Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B) and “fold line” refers to the possibly pre-processed, e.g. embossed, material-reduced, perforated area on the semi-finished product (Fig. 3), which results in the fold after unfolding.

[0127] Figure 1A shows a top view of the reusable display container 1 (hereinafter also referred to as “display box” or simply “container”) according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0128] The display container 1 is formed from a hollow chamber panel or hollow chamber plate with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers or a studded structure panel.

[0129] The display container 1 comprises a base 2 and four circumferentially arranged wall sections 3, 4, 5, 6, wherein two wall sections 3, 4 are each formed by two opposing longitudinal side walls 7, 8 (see Fig. 3) each with a locking tab 11, 12, and two wall sections 5, 6 are each formed by two opposing end walls 9, 10. Three of the side walls 7, 8, 9 are shown here, purely as examples, as being formed over their entire surface. The side wall 10 is provided with a display opening 22.

[0130] In the latched end position shown in Fig. 1A for product display, storage, or transport, the locking tabs 11, 12 are folded into the interior of the container via a fold line 1T, 12', here designed as a double fold. In this end position, the locking tabs 11, 12 are arranged parallel to an upper portion of the inner surface of the side walls 7, 8 at a distance of two material thicknesses, forming a so-called rib.

[0131] The locking tabs 11, 12 each have at least two locking lugs 23, 24 at their edges furthest from the ground, with reference to the folded blank shown in Fig. 3. These lugs project even further from the locking tab 11, 12 towards the ground, or outwards as shown in Fig. 3. BOCKHORNI FBRÜNTJEN Port© mbB

[0132] In a locked end position, the locking tabs 11, 12 engage with their locking lugs 23, 24 in complementary locking lug receptacles 25, 26, which are provided either in the fold lines or folds 3', 4' between the longitudinal side walls 7, 8 and the adjacent base 2 or in the base 2 itself (shown in the base 2 in Fig. 3). Advantageously, the locking lug 23 engages in its complementary locking lug receptacle 25 and the locking lug 24 in its complementary locking lug receptacle 26.

[0133] The upper rim of the container shown in Fig. 1A forms a stacking support or support surface 21, which is formed in the area of ​​the longitudinal side walls 7, 8 by the outer and visible surface of the double fold 11', 12', between the locking tab 11, 12 and the longitudinal side wall 7, 8. The support surface 21 formed on this surface of the double fold 11', 12' or the web formed by the double fold has a width at least twice the thickness of the material and serves to place another container on top of the container 1 shown for stacking.

[0134] The locking tabs 11, 12 each have an engagement opening 40 as an edge recess. The engagement opening 40 is located between the two locking lugs 23, 24, specifically at the free end of the locking tab 11, 12.

[0135] Because the height of the locking tabs 11, 12 corresponds to the height of the longitudinal side walls 7, 8, the locking lugs 23, 24 engage precisely in their complementary locking lug receptacles 25, 26 when the tabs 11, 12 are moved into their final position (see Fig. 1A). This results in a clamping fit of the locking lugs in the receptacles, i.e., a firm clamping of the locking lug in its respective receptacle. This leads to the exceptionally good stability and extremely high rigidity of the container mentioned at the outset.

[0136] Advantageously, the height of the locking tabs 11, 12 is reduced in the area of ​​the engagement opening 40, preferably by at least 0.5 cm, so that the tabs can be easily opened with the fingers or a hand. Preferably, the reduction is at least 0.5 cm up to a maximum of half the height of the locking tab.

[0137] In the container according to a second embodiment, which essentially corresponds to the container according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1A, additional locking tongues 41, 42 are provided and shown, which are formed on the first folding tabs 13, 14, 17, 18. In the lid-closed position, these lie in the complementary groove-like receptacles 43, 44 of the lid 45 shown in Fig. 5B and position the lid so that it reliably closes the container opening and rests securely on the container opening. The lid 45 is placed securely on the display container 1, with the side wings 46 resting inside the container and their outer surfaces bearing against the inner surfaces of the end walls 9, 10.

[0138] Fig. 2 shows a top view of the display container 1 from Fig. 1A, folded flat for empty transport. In this folded position, the ready-to-use reusable display container 1, also referred to as such, can be fed to or inserted into a packing machine or collection packer (e.g., Syntegon Elematik 3001 Wrap around collection packer).

[0139] Visible from the bottom of the image upwards are the locking tab 12, which, together with the adjoining longitudinal side wall 8 and, expediently, also the fold 12', forms wall section 4. The locking lugs 23, 24 are located at the edge furthest from the bottom, or free end, of the locking tab 12. The side wall 8 is foldably connected to the adjoining longitudinal edge of the base 2 via a fold line 4'. Continuing upwards in the image, the side wall 7 with the side tab 11 adjoins the opposite longitudinal edge of the base 2, expediently forming wall section 3 together with the fold line 11'. Wall section 3 is in turn foldably connected to the base 2 via a fold line 3', which runs along the bottom edge of the longitudinal side wall 7.

[0140] From a top view of Figure 2, moving from the left side of the image to the right, the wall section 6, folded onto the base 2, is shown to the side of the base, i.e., at its left end edge. This section consists of the end wall 10 with display opening 22, first folding flaps 17, 18, and the second folding flaps 19, 20 adjoining the first folding flaps 17, 18. The first folding flaps 17, 18 connect to the respective longitudinal section 3 via the fold lines 17', 18'.

[0141] TBRÜNTJEN PartG mbB

[0142] The first fold flaps 17, 18 are joined to the front edge 10. A diagonal fold 33 leads to the second fold flaps 19 and 20, which follow the first fold flaps 17, 18. Neither the first fold flaps 17, 18 nor the second fold flaps 19, 20 are connected to the base 2, as can be seen particularly in Fig. 3. The second fold flap is firmly connected to the edge of the adjacent long side wall at its edge facing the long side wall, specifically via fold lines 15', 16', 19' and 20'.

[0143] The wall section 5, folded onto the floor, connects to the opposite end face of the floor 2 via a fold line 5' (shown in Fig. 3), which, like the opposite wall section 6 with its fold line 6' (shown in Fig. 3), extends along the entire width B1 of the end face of the floor.

[0144] The opposite end wall section 6 is designed in a mirror-symmetrical manner to the end wall section 5, spaced apart by the base 2 and the longitudinal wall sections, but is provided with a display opening 22 which is U-shaped, with legs extending straight from the U-base.

[0145] First folding flaps 13, 14 are attached laterally to the end wall 9 via a fold line 13', 14'. Second folding flaps 15 and 16 follow the first folding flaps 13, 14 via a diagonal fold 33. Here too, neither the first folding flaps 13, 15 nor the second folding flaps 15, 16 are connected to the base 2, as can be seen particularly in Fig. 3.

[0146] The second folding flaps 15, 16, 19, 20 of the wall sections 5 and 6 are connected to the respective adjacent longitudinal side walls 7, 8 at point connections A, which in this first embodiment are preferably, and here preferably, designed as hot-stamped weld points. The flat-folded reusable display container shown is a finished display container, as it can be delivered empty to packaging companies or to the manufacturer of the goods to be packaged, shipping service providers, or other end customers. The optional connection points A are therefore, unlike the simple cutting process shown in Fig. 3, already activated, i.e., hot-stamped in Fig. 2, so that the second folding flaps 15, 16, 19, 20 are each firmly connected to the longitudinal side walls 7, 8 and permanently attached to each other.Advantageously, each connection point links a point on a second folding flap to an opposite point on the longitudinal side wall. For example, point 1 on the second folding flap 20 is firmly connected to point 2 on the longitudinal side wall 8, with both points positioned opposite each other when the finished product is in its flat position. In an alternative embodiment (not shown here), the connection points A are not present, but the finished display container is in the same folded position as shown in Fig. 2. In this alternative embodiment, the second folding flap can be folded away from the adjacent longitudinal side due to the lack of a fixed connection, thus creating access for cleaning on the previously adjacent surfaces.In the case of an alternative finished display container without connection points, the second folding flaps, in particular the end sections 5, 6, can therefore be folded upwards and then folded away to the side, as visualized in Fig. 3. This would not be possible with activated connection points.

[0147] A first and a second adjoining fold flap each together form a non-regular pentagonal shape consisting of a first 30, "second 31", and third 32 right-angled corner (30, 31, 32) and a fourth 34 and fifth 35 corner (34, 35), each with an angle of 135°. The diagonal fold 33 extends from the midpoint of the edge between the fourth corner 34 and the fifth corner 35 to the second bottom corner 31. The diagonal fold 33 forms an axis of symmetry for the first and second fold flaps. The "second corner 31" is enclosed in quotation marks because, for folding purposes, it is formed from a recess at the bottom end of the first and second fold flaps (see Fig. 3). In this application, "midpoint of edge" or "midpoint of edge" refers to the midpoint of the edge of the first and second fold flaps that lies between the fourth and fifth corners 34, 35.

[0148] The material thickness is typically between 0.5 and 6 mm, preferably 1.5 to 2.5 mm, so that the finished display container 1 has a height of 1 to 12 mm, preferably 3 to 5 mm, when empty during transport.

[0149] Fig. 3 shows a folded blank for the first embodiment described with reference to Figs. 1A and 2. The blank is semi-finished goods. The connection points are BOCKHORNI TBRÜNTJEN PartG rnbB

[0150] Points A are not activated, only displayed. This indicates a blank where the connection points A have not yet been hot-punched or glued. The fold lines show where the material is folded or has already been pre-folded. These are neither cutting lines nor separation lines. In the alternative embodiment without connection points, the container shown in Fig. 3 would also be a semi-finished product, because only the folding position of this alternative, where the second fold flap lies directly against the long side, would be the finished product.

[0151] Shown from the bottom of the image upwards are the locking tab 12, which, together with the adjoining longitudinal side wall 8 and, expediently, also the fold 12', forms wall section 4. The locking lugs 23 and 24 are located at the edge furthest from the bottom of the free end of the locking tab 12. The side wall 8 is foldably connected to the adjoining longitudinal edge of the base 2 via a fold line 4'. Continuing upwards in the image, the side wall 7 with the side tab 11 adjoins the opposite longitudinal edge of the base 2, expediently forming wall section 3 together with the fold 11'. Wall section 3 is again foldably connected to the base 2 via a fold line 3', which runs along the bottom edge of the longitudinal side wall 7.

[0152] From a top view of Figure 3, moving from the left side of the image to the right, the wall section 6 is shown to the side of the base, i.e., at its left end edge. This section consists of the end wall 10 with display opening 22, the first folding flaps 17, 18, and the second folding flaps 19, 20 adjoining the first folding flaps. The first folding flaps 17, 18 connect to the edges of the end wall 10 facing the respective longitudinal sections 3, 4 via the folds 17', 18'. Neither the first nor the second folding flaps 17, 18, 19, 20 are connected to the base 2.

[0153] The wall section 5 adjoins the opposite end edge of the base 2 via a fold line 5', which, like the fold line 6' of the opposite wall section 6, extends along the entire width of the end edge of the base Bi. The first fold flaps 13, 14 adjoin the end wall 9 laterally via a fold line 13', 14'. The second fold flaps 15 and 16, adjoining the first fold flaps 13, 14, follow again via the diagonal folds 33. The second fold flaps 15, 16 are firmly connected to the adjacent side edges of the longitudinal side wall of the respective wall section 3, 4 via folds 15' and 16'. Here too, neither the first nor the second fold flaps 13, 14, 15, 16 are connected to the base 2.

[0154] The second folding flaps 15, 16, 19, 20 of the wall sections 5 and 6 can be securely connected to the adjacent longitudinal side walls 7 and 8 via connection points A, which are preferably designed as punchable weld points (four in total). This allows the container blank to be assembled into the finished display container shown in Fig. 2, as it is delivered empty to packaging companies, manufacturers of the goods to be packaged, shipping service providers, or other end customers. In an alternative embodiment, this is possible without connection points if the second folding flap rests against the adjacent longitudinal side in its folded position.

[0155] The non-regular pentagonal shape formed by the first and second fold flaps, with right-angled corners 31, 32, 34 and non-right-angled corners 35, 36, connects the side walls 7, 8, 9, 10.

[0156] The diagonal fold 33 separates the first folding flap 13, 14 from the second folding flap 15, 16 as an axis of symmetry such that both folding flaps (first and second folding flap) are arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner. The only difference is that, in the cut shown, the second folding flap 15, 16, 19, 20 preferably each has a connection point A. The folding flaps have a substantially rectangular shape, excluding the cuboid-shaped recess between the second corner 31 (bottom side) and the bottom end of the folding flaps (the latter not touching the bottom 2). The recess in the second corner 31 serves as clearance to ensure the folding flaps can be unfolded.A bottom-touching, square end of the folding flaps would block the transition of the side walls into an upright position, since a bottom-touching square end of the second folding flap would abut the lateral edge of the end wall 9, 10, and a bottom-touching square end of the first folding flap would abut the lateral edge of the long side wall 7, 8, each blocking complete unfolding. BOCKHORNI.

[0157] KBRÜNTJEN PartG mbB

[0158] The U-shaped display opening 22, which is provided as a partial recess in the end wall 10, is shown. Both corner areas of the base of the display opening 22 are rounded, as is the transition from the two U-shaped legs of the display opening to the upper edge of the end wall 10. Alternatively, it is possible to design the U-shaped legs to taper towards the U-shaped base of the display opening 22 (not shown here).

[0159] Figure 3 also shows the locking lug receptacles 25, 26 in the base 2, which are rectangular in shape at the longitudinal edge of the base 2 or in the fold between the base and the longitudinal side wall and extend longitudinally. The locking lugs 23, 24 can engage in the locking lug receptacles 25, 26 after the display container 1 has been unfolded, as shown in Fig. 1A.

[0160] In the folds 15', 16', 19', 20' connecting the second folding flaps 15, 16, 19, 20 with the long sides 7, 8, further recesses 15", 16", 19", 20" can optionally be provided to suspend the finished display container in the first and / or the second device. This allows, firstly, the safe insertion of the display container into the collating packer. Secondly, the container can thus be positioned in the collating packer in the position required for folding.

[0161] The cutout in Figure 3 has dimensions of 400 x 150 x 150 mm (Li x Bi x Hi). It goes without saying that these dimensions are purely exemplary. In various embodiments, the width Bi of the end walls 9, 10, the length Li of the longitudinal side walls 7, 8, and the height Hi of the end and longitudinal side walls 7, 8, 9, 10 can be longer or shorter. Thus, the sizes of the reusable display containers 1 according to the invention can naturally vary, and it is also possible for the longitudinal side walls 7, 8 to be shorter than the end walls 9, 10 or to be the same length.

[0162] The following modular sizes (basic size, multi-module size, undersize) in L x W are preferred for the display boxes: BOCJKHORNI TBRUNTJEN

[0163] The height is variable. It is preferred that the display boxes can be stacked modularly on a standard pallet. The dimensions of a standard EURO pallet are 1200 x 800 mm (L x W).

[0164] In this example, the thickness of a hollow-core sheet is 3 mm. The basis weight is 450 g / m². 2 It is essentially the same as conventional corrugated cardboard used for display purposes. However, the thickness of the board can vary, preferably ranging from 0.5 to 6 mm. The basis weight is given as an example only.

[0165] It should be noted that the display container 1 is preferably formed in one piece, as is the lid, and that both are preferably made of the same material. The individual container sections are folded together via the foldable fold lines, whereby, in the unwelded or alternatively unglued state of the connection points A, the respective wall sections can be folded in both folding directions.

[0166] The folding of the blank is carried out, in order to transfer the blank from Fig. 3 into the flattened or laid-flat container position shown in Fig. 2, to form the finished reusable display container 1, such that the end wall section 5, as well as the opposite end wall section 6 with its display opening 22, is folded inwards over the respective fold line 5' or 6' in plan view 180° from the flat outer position, so that the inner surfaces of the end wall sections 5, 6 BOCKHORNI TBRÜNTJEN Port© mbB lie completely over and on the inner surfaces of the base 2 and the longitudinal side walls 7, 8, as shown in Fig. 2.

[0167] The respective connection point A at the second folding tabs 15, 16, 19, 20 of wall sections 5 and 6 is heated, hot-stamped, or glued to connect the end wall sections 5, 6 to the long sides 7, 8, thus joining the wall sections 5, 6 to the long side sections 3, 4. Gluing is an alternative to hot-stamping or welding, and other alternative fasteners can also be used to create a permanent connection at connection point A.

[0168] In the folded position shown in Fig. 2, the ready-to-use reusable display container, also referred to as such, can be fed to or inserted into a packing machine or collating machine (e.g., Syntegon Elematik 3001 Wrap around collating machine). The collating machine is specifically equipped for the reusable display container 1 according to the invention, in particular for unfolding or erecting it from the flat folded position of the ready-to-use reusable display container 1 into the erected end position shown in Fig. 1A, in which the side walls 7, 8, 9, 10 are erected, i.e., raised around the base 2, the locking tabs 11, 12 are folded downwards, and the locking lugs 23, 24 of the locking tabs 11, 12 engage in the corresponding complementary locking lug receptacles 25, 26.

[0169] Figure 4 shows a partial view of the rear container area with the raised end wall 9. In the embodiment shown here, the locking lugs 23, 24 are still shown in the released position. The second folding flap 15 is welded to the longitudinal side wall 7, but the weld point is obscured in the illustration by the first folding flap 13. The first and second folding flaps 13, 15 are still slightly unfolded in an intermediate folded position in Figure 4.

[0170] The complementary rectangular locking lug receptacle 26, provided for the locking lug 24 of the locking tab 11, is located in the fold 3' or in the base 2. The locking lug 24 can engage positively in the locking lug receptacle 26 as soon as the reusable display container 1 is moved into its goods transport position or display position )1NI (Fig. 1A).

[0171] Fig. 5A shows a top view of a flat-folded lid 45, preferably designed for the first embodiment of the display container 1. The lid is a single piece. The lid 45 has a base 47 whose dimensions correspond at least to the base of the container, but preferably are at least one material thickness wider and / or longer than the base of the container. A side wing 46 is provided at each end face of the lid base 47. The two side wings 46 are foldably connected to the lid base by a fold line. The two opposite side wings 46 can be folded downwards so that they rest against the inner surfaces of the end walls 9, 10 inside the container when the lid 45 closes the container opening, wherein in this first embodiment shown, the height Ho of both side wings 46 corresponds to the height of the display container or the side walls 7, 8, 9.In particular, the display opening 22 is completely covered from the inside and thus sealed for transport of goods. This prevents goods from falling out. To secure the lid 45, it is advantageous that the width Bo of the side wings 46, at least in their end-face area, corresponds to the width B2 of the end side walls 9, 10.

[0172] Fig. 5B shows a top view of a flat-folded lid 45, preferably designed for the second embodiment of the display container 1. The lid 45 is a single piece. The lid 45 has a base 47 whose dimensions correspond at least to the base of the container, but preferably are at least one material thickness wider and / or longer than the base of the container. The lid base 47 has rectangular recesses or notches 43, 44 on each of its longitudinal edges, into which the locking tongues 41, 42 can engage in a form-fitting manner, so that the lid 45 closes the container opening. A side wing 46 is provided on each end face of the lid base 47. The two side wings 46 are foldably connected to the lid base via a fold line.The two opposing side wings 46 can be folded downwards so that they rest against the inner surfaces of the end walls 9, 10 inside the container when the lid 45 closes the container opening. In this second embodiment shown by BOCKHORNI KBRÜNTJEN PorfG mbB, the height Ho of both side wings 46 corresponds to the height of the display container or the side walls 7, 8, 9. In particular, the display opening 22 is thereby completely covered from the inside and is thus sealed for transporting goods. This prevents goods from falling out. To secure the lid, it is advantageous that the width Bo of the side wings 46, at least in their end-face area, corresponds to the width B2 of the end walls 9, 10.

Claims

BOCJKHORNI Patent claims 1. Reusable display container (1) for the transport, storage and in particular the display of items, comprising a base (2) and four wall sections (3, 4, 5, 6) arranged on the base (2), wherein two opposing wall sections form longitudinal sections (3, 4) and two remaining opposing wall sections form end sections (5, 6), each of the longitudinal sections (3, 4) forming one of two opposing longitudinal side walls (7, 8) with a locking tab (11, 12) each, and each of the end sections (5, 6) forming one of two opposing end side walls (9, 10) with at least one first folding tab (13, 14, 17, 18) and one second folding tab (15, 16, 19, 20), wherein the respective base-side end of the longitudinal side walls (7, 8) abuts the respective adjacent longitudinal side of the base (2), preferably along the entire length (Li) of the base (2) is firmly connected via a fold (3', 4'), characterized in that in each fold (3',4') or in the base 2 at least two locking lug receptacles (25, 26) are provided, the locking tabs (11, 12) are hinged inwards into the container via a fold (1T, 12') at the upper edge of the longitudinal side walls (7, 18) and each have at least two locking lugs (23, 24) and at least one engagement opening (40) as an edge recess at the edge furthest from the base, wherein the engagement opening (40) is arranged between two locking lugs (23, 24), wherein in the unfolded end position of the display container (1) the side walls (7, 8, 9, 10) form a wall circumferential to the base (2) and the locking lugs (23, 24) engage in the locking lug receptacles (25, 26), and wherein the display container (1) is made of a hollow chamber sheet or hollow chamber sheet with at least one corrugated interlayer between two outer layers or is formed from a studded structure plate.

2. Reusable display container (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that - 42 - BOCKHORNI TBRÜNTJEN PartG rnbß the hollow chamber sheet or hollow chamber plate with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers, made of a synthetically or semi-synthetically produced polymer, preferably a corrugated plastic sheet made of polypropylene, alternatively made of a bio-based polymer, a biodegradable polymer or a combination of the aforementioned polymers.

3. Reusable display container (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the studded structure plate is formed in multiple layers from at least two cover layers which are connected to each other by a core of bubble-shaped plastic, wherein the studded structure plate is preferably made of a synthetically or semi-synthetically produced polymer, particularly preferably of polypropylene, alternatively of a bio-based polymer, a biodegradable polymer or a combination of the aforementioned polymers.

4. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the material of the display container (1) has a basis weight in the range between 150 g / m² 2 and 1100 g / m² 2 , preferably between 350 g / m² 2 and 550 g / m² 2 has and preferably the material thickness of the hollow chamber plate with wave structure, hollow chamber web plate, studded structure plate is between 0.5 and 6 mm, preferably between 0.5 and 3 mm.

5. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing tabs (11 , 12) have a height that corresponds to a height (Hi) of the longitudinal side wall (7, 8).

6. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective bottom end of the end walls (9, 10) is firmly connected to the respective adjacent end face of the base (2) preferably along the entire width Bi of the base (2) via a fold (5', 6'). - 43 - BOCJCHORNI 7. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the end wall (9, 10) of the wall section (5, 6) is foldably connected at each of its side edges to the first folding flap (13, 14, 17, 18) via a fold (13', 14', 17', 18').

8. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first folding flap (13, 14, 17, 18) and the second folding flap (15, 16, 19, 20) adjacent to the first jointly form a non-regular pentagonal shape consisting of a first, second and third preferably right-angled corner (30, 31, 32), as well as a fourth and fifth corner (34, 35) preferably with an angle of 135° each, wherein preferably a diagonal fold (33) to the second corner (31) runs midway between the fourth and fifth corner (34, 35), which preferably forms an axis of symmetry of the first folding flap (13, 14, 17, 18) and the second folding flap (15, 16, 19, 20).

9. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second folding flap (15, 16, 19, 20) is designed in its base area in a mirror-symmetrical manner to the first folding flap (13, 14, 17, 18) and is foldably connected to the first folding flap (13, 14, 17, 18) via a diagonal fold (33).

10. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second folding flaps (15, 16, 19, 20) are fixedly connected to the respective adjacent longitudinal side wall (7, 8) via preferably four connection points (A), which are preferably designed as hot-stamped weld points.

11. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the longitudinal side wall (7, 8) of the wall section (3, 4) is foldably connected at each of its side edges to the first folding flap (15, 16, 19, 20) via a fold (15', 16', 19', 20'). - 44 - BOCK HORN KBRÜNTJEN PartG mbB 12. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first folding flap (13, 14, 17, 18) and the second folding flap (15, 16, 19, 20) form a double layer of material in the final state of the reusable display container (1).

13. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that further recesses (15", 16, 19, 20) are provided in the folds (15', 16', 19', 20') connecting the second folding flaps (15, 16, 19, 20) with the longitudinal sides (7, 8).

14. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reusable display container (1) is formed in one piece and preferably at least one of the side walls (7, 8, 9, 10), particularly preferably one of the end side walls (9, 10) has a display opening (22).

15. Reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display container (1) comprises a carrier label, preferably a silicone-coated carrier label, more preferably a silicone strip or a painted label with applied silicone-containing paint or a paint that is to be applied directly to the container material; in particular a painted surface on the container material.

16. System comprising a reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims and a lid (45), characterized in that the lid (45) is formed in one piece and loosely from the display container (1) or is firmly connected to the display container (1) via detachable fastening means. BOCJKHORNI 17. Lid (45) for a reusable display container (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lid (45) has a base in a rectangular shape and at least two of its opposite side edges each have a side wing (46) which is foldable to the lid base.

18. Lid (45) for a reusable display container (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that at least two rectangular indentations (43, 44) for receiving locking tongues (41, 42) are formed on the two other opposite side edges of the lid base.

19. Lid (45) for a reusable display container (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that the lid (45) has a side wing (46) on three, preferably four of its side edges, which is foldably connected to the base surface via a fold.

20. First blank for the manufacture of a reusable display container (1) having features according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 15.

21. Second blank for manufacturing a lid (45) having features according to one of claims 16 or 17.

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