ES2965270A1 - CONTAINER OF LAMINAR MATERIAL WITH A CLOSING LID AND MACHINE FOR CLOSING SAID CONTAINER (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention concerns a container (40) of sheet material with a locked closing lid (48), and a machine for closing such containers. In the container (40), a blocking device (10) that forms an integral part of the semi-rigid sheet material of the container (40) is arranged in an overlapping area, defined by a first and second layer of said sheet material superimposed, and said area overlapping is located on the outer periphery of an upper mouth closed with the cover (48). The first layer comprises a rim (46) that defines a first flat surface, which extends folded outwards with respect to a top part of one of the side walls (43). The second defining layer comprises a lid extension (49) of the lid (48) that defines a second flat surface overlapping the first flat surface. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

DESCRIPTION

CONTAINER OF LAMINAR MATERIAL WITH A CLOSING LID AND MACHINE FOR THE

CLOSURE OF SAID CONTAINER

TECHNIQUE SECTOR

In a first aspect, the present invention concerns a container made of sheet material with a closing lid that closes a top-open mouth of the container, the lid being closed after filling the container with a plurality of easily damaged products, for example, fruit. and/or vegetables.

In a second aspect, the present invention concerns a machine for closing containers made of laminar material with a closing lid that closes a top-open mouth of the container, after filling the container with a plurality of easily damaged products, for example, fruit and/or vegetables.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND TECHNICAL PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

Document FR2929596B1 describes a container, shown unfolded in Fig. 12 and folded in Fig. 14, with a lid 18 that can be easily opened and closed as many times as desired with upper parts of flaps 6 derived from the walls. sides of the container that are guided in openings in the lid. Thus, the lid is not blocked, but guided, to the body or tray of the container.

Document US1352833A describes a cardboard container for containing small fruits, with a body having ears 1 perforated in the upper part of the side walls and with closure elements 19, 23 forced through the ears 1 to block a cover B to body A, preventing the lifting of the cover once the cover is closed. In the embodiment of Figs. 3 to 6, the closing elements are pins 19 that are additional elements to the laminar materials of the body and lid. In the embodiment of Figs. 7 to 9, the closing elements 23 are tongues formed by the folding of pointed cuts 22 made in the laminar material of the lid. In both embodiments, to obtain the closure of the container full of these fruits, a series of complex and tedious manual operations are needed, which are difficult to obtain with a machine.

Document US2937486A describes an apparatus for closing cardboard containers for beer cans. The nature of this product allows the use of a container with two partially open side walls. For closure of the container at the two partially open side walls, the carton is provided with tongues and holes 54, 55 arranged in each of the four corners of each partially open side wall. The tongues have extensions 58 that allow locking of the tongue in the associated hole upon insertion through it. If the tongue is punched into the hole, the holes or slots are bent to accommodate the tongues and the arrow-shaped extensions 58 of the tongues, which are locked in the holes preventing movement of the outer flaps 50, 51 with respect to each other. the inner ones 52, 53. The apparatus locks these partially open side walls during continuous movement of the containers and comprises a set of four punches 24, 25 on each of the two sides of a path of the containers. Each set of four punches is arranged in upper and lower pairs of punches. The punches protrude towards the path and the containers are moved in the path by pushers 36 located on both sides of it and moved by respective chains (Figs. 1 and 4).

Document US3058277A describes a machine for packaging a plurality of fragile or easily damaged items, such as eggs or fruit. The package comprises a cardboard container (Fig. 1 or 12), and retaining members (Fig. 2) with which the articles are maintained in a spaced relationship, in fixed positions. Both the container and the retaining members allow inspection of the articles through the side openings of the container without removing them from the container. In the four corners of the lid 1 and the bottom 2, the container has appendages 7 of retention flaps 6 that are inserted into respective preformed holes 8 to lock the retention flaps 6 in the position folded inwards thereof ( Fig. 22), and these operations are carried out by a machine, shown in Figs. 18 to 21, with four upper flap insertion elements 130 vertically movable with respect to the lid 1 of the container and four lower flap insertion elements 131 vertically movable with respect to the bottom 2 of the container. The containers are aligned with the insert elements 130, 131 with a chain 14 with an intermittent horizontal movement.

Document US5467916A describes a container with a locking device in an overlapping area located on the upper mouth closed with a lid, where a lip 50 is folded towards the interior of the container and has a locking member locked in an opening 42 of the closing cover 34.

Document US2011180537A1 describes a container 1 for medicines and cosmetics with a lid 2 that closes an upper mouth 3 of the container and two upper side flaps 5 connected to the top of the side walls 4 of the container. The two side flaps 5 are folded towards the inside of the upper mouth of the container and arranged under the lid 2. Two securing tongues 6 of the lid 2 are retained in retaining openings 7 so that when the lid 2 is opened from the closing position a tear line 8 of the guarantee tongue 6 is torn with little effort and, subsequently, the container can be closed and opened again as many times as desired.

Document US2012317932A1 describes a method and a machine for closing by punching the lid of a container full of milk bottles, which are arranged on the initially flat cardboard development of the container, and once the side walls of the container are partially formed, the container is temporarily stopped to activate punches 45, 47 on the side walls and on ears 29, 31, 33, 35 of the lid located on the sides of the container, forming punched openings and forcing the formation of punched tongues (Figs. 5 and 6).

Document EP3915772A1 tries to solve the penetration of the punches into the interior of the box so as not to damage the product contained, as can happen with the document US2012317932A1.

Document EP3915772A1 proposes a device and a process for punching closed a container 5 made of cardboard, paper or laminated plastic that comprises a lid with an upper layer 5s and a lower layer 5i superimposed, without the use of glue or fixing elements. additional. Thus, document EP3915772A1 proposes punching the upper layer 5s against the lower layer 5i, with a wheel provided with dediform punches corresponding to the teeth 1a of such wheel, against a punching die 4 that prevents the punching of the teeth of the wheel 1a. damage the product. Each punch or tooth 1a, when penetrating the layers 5s, 5i, makes a cut on the front side with an edge of the tooth 1b, and shears on the layers 5s, 5i in cooperation with longitudinal edges 4b of the punching die 4. Without However, disadvantageously, this closure of the container can still damage the fruit since the fruit eventually collides and/or slides against the longitudinal punching die 4 as the container is transported on the conveyor 5a. Also disadvantageously, with this device and closing process, the effective interior volume of the container is significantly reduced since the punching die 4 must necessarily pass through a part of the interior of the container 5 through free spaces 5b of the side walls of the container, which additionally also reduces the structural rigidity of the container 5.

Document EP3915772A1 is considered a relevant document of the state of the art since it attempts to solve the technical problem posed in the present invention, regarding the penetration of the punches into the interior of the container to close the locking device of the lid of the container. packaging that causes waste of easily damaged product, for example, fruit and/or vegetables.

Furthermore, document EP3915772A1 is considered the closest document to the state of the art and the preambles of the independent claims of packaging and machine of the present invention have been drafted accordingly.

The technical problem of the present invention is to obtain a container made of laminar material that is easily obtainable by machine, avoiding the possibility of frequent losses in the product contained in the event of closure by locking a lid of the container with a penetration of some punches of a machine. inside the container to form the container's locking device, while facilitating the filling and emptying of the packaged product.

EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, to solve the drawbacks set out in the previous section, the present invention presents a container made of a semi-rigid laminar material, where the container comprises a closing lid locked in a closed position.

Semi-rigid laminate material means a sheet of corrugated cardboard, a sheet of compact cardboard (also called laminated cardboard and which also includes the case of cardboard cardboard), a sheet of corrugated plastic, a sheet of compact plastic, a sheet of paper and a reinforcing sheet of the sheet of paper (for example, plastic) joined together, a combination of any of the above, and the like, these being sheets that have a certain rigidity when folded.

Optionally, such sheets have been die-cut prior to their formation in the container, having weakened folding lines made to facilitate their formation in a box by folding parts of the plate around said weakened lines.

The packaging comprises a tray and a lid.

The tray is obtained by folding said laminar material. The tray comprises a flat bottom and flat side walls that laterally surround the bottom. The bottom and side walls delimit a cavity to contain a plurality of easily damaged product units, preferably fruit and/or vegetables, and/or other food products.

Each side wall has a respective top. These upper parts delimit an upper mouth of the container closed in a closing position of the container with the lid after filling the container with the plurality of product units.

The bottom, the plurality of side walls and the lid determine an interior volume of the container for said filling.

The container further comprises a blocking device that forms an integral part of the semi-rigid laminar material of the container.

The blocking device is arranged in an overlapping area defined by a first and second layer of said sheet material superimposed.

The locking device is configured to lock the lid in the closed position.

Likewise, the locking device comprises a locking member folded, with respect to the first and second flat surfaces of the overlapping area, by a folding area of the locking device adjacent to the locking member.

Furthermore, the locking member is inserted and locked by a locking opening of the locking device formed at least partially upon bending of the locking member.

As a result the locking member is locked through the locking opening, that is, the locking member is retained through the locking or retaining opening and the locking member cannot be easily removed from the locking opening.

Optionally, in one possibility, for the lid to move from the closed position to an open position, the locking member and/or the locking opening may suffer a tear, breakage, and/or permanent deformation.

In a manner not known in itself in the state of the art, the present invention also proposes, in combination, a series of packaging characteristics listed below.

The overlapping area is located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed by the cover.

The first layer of the overlap zone comprises a rim defining a first flat surface, which extends folded outwards with respect to a top part of one of the side walls.

The second layer of the overlap zone comprises a lid extension of the lid that defines a second flat surface overlapping the first flat surface.

The lid extension and the flange are located on the outer periphery of the upper mouthpiece closed with the lid.

That is, the lid extension and the rim project in a cantilever direction towards the outside of said mouthpiece, being located on the periphery of the mouthpiece closed with the lid.

The cap extension is provided on an end side of the cap associated with the top of the side walls from which the flange extends folded outwards.

In the container, the locking device locks the lid on the rim and lid extension with the locking member and locking opening disposed outside the interior volume of the container.

Thus the technical problem of the present invention is solved, obtaining a container of laminar material that is easily obtainable by machine, and can at the same time be a container that is easily filled and emptied, and avoiding in any case the possibility of frequent losses in the product contained before the closure by locking the lid of the container with a penetration of some punches of a machine into the interior of the container to form the locking device of the container.

Advantageously, to lock the lid, the present invention uses the semi-rigid sheet material of which the container itself is formed, without the necessary use of glue or adhesives and without the necessary use of additional elements, for example, fixing elements such as pins. , blocks, bands, ropes, threads, and/or strips, thus reducing the investment in consumables and machinery associated with closing the lid of the container, to ultimately significantly reduce the integral cost of manufacturing such containers filled with product and closed. .

In the present invention, the rim and extension of the lid that the container has allow the creation of an overlapping area located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth, outer periphery closed with the lid extension of the lid, allowing the device The blocker is arranged in this safe overlapping area to safely close the lid by locking it.

Thus, advantageously, there is no danger of damaging the product units during the closing operation by locking the lid. Specifically, there is no danger of damaging the product units during the operation of folding and inserting the blocking member for forming the container, nor during locking of the blocking member in the blocking opening, thanks to the blocking member of the container being arranged in in any case outside the interior volume of the container, also thanks to the creation of an overlapping area intentionally positioned in the container and thanks to the also intentional positioning of the blocking device in that overlapping area.

To reach such a solution, the present invention has previously identified a technical problem not generally exposed in the state of the art and explained below.

In the documents cited in the background section of the present invention US2937486A, US3058277A, US2011180537A1 and US2012317932A1 the position of the articles, beer cans, eggs with separators, medicines and cosmetics, milk bottles, is preset and allows obtaining an interior volume predetermined free of product to be able to make a puncture to block the lid of the container with a machine. However, if the containers of these state-of-the-art documents are filled with a plurality of easily damaged product units, for example, fruits and/or vegetables, whose positions are not necessarily prefixed inside the container, these product units They can frequently be damaged during the automatic closing operation of the container, causing unacceptable losses.

Unacceptable losses of the product contained in the event of a puncture by punches of a machine to bend and insert the tongue (blocking member) into the slot (blocking opening) if damaging products are contained in the containers of documents US2937486A, US3058277A, US5467916A, US2011180537A1 , US2012317932A1 and EP3915772A1 cited in the background section of the present invention, is because the locking devices of the container, formed by the tongues and grooves, are always formed by pointing and penetrating punches towards the interior volume of the container, either on the side walls of the container or on the lid of the container, therefore this is a general practice.

Optionally, the locking container of the present invention solves an additional challenge related to the generally arbitrary and changing position of damageable product units within the container. Thus, as an optional advantage, the container of the present invention allows the blocking device or a plurality of blocking devices to be arranged along the overlapping area located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid, at any point or points thereof, regardless of the position of the plurality of product units in the interior volume of the container.

Advantageously, the container with a locked closure lid of the present invention can be obtained with different sheet materials, conferring advantageous versatility, with a view to:

• the cost of the container, including raw material and production costs;

• the biodegradation time of the semi-rigid sheet material from which the container is made; and

• facilitate the transition period towards more environmentally sustainable laminate materials.

In one option, the container can be made of cardboard which is a material with a low biodegradation time, for example, cardboard, and therefore more sustainable in environmental terms, making it possible to replace plastic containers with a much longer biodegradation time.

In another option, the container comprises a single folded sheet of cardboard and/or plastic sheet material for the tray and a single sheet of plastic and/or cardboard sheet material for the lid.

Preferably, the container comprises a plurality of blocking devices, distributed at respective peripheral points along the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid. These peripheral points form a discontinuous blocking line of blocking points arranged in the overlapping area, comprising one blocking point for each of the blocking devices of the plurality of blocking devices.

Advantageously, it makes it possible to control the dimensions of the extension of the rim and the lid of the overlapping area, so that these are not necessarily excessive, thus increasing the interior volume filled with product of a set of containers being transported and/or stored and/or displayed on the sales line.

Preferably, the blocking line may comprise between two and eight blocking devices.

In another preferred option, the blocking line comprises between nine and fifty blocking devices.

Advantageously, this number of blocking devices contributes to an adequate structural resistance of the blocking line without compromising the structural resistance of the overlapping area with the blocking devices, which in principle can be thought to be weakened by an inadequately high and increasing number of blocking devices per their blocking openings.

Advantageously, the locking members may be bent, and inserted and locked into respective locking openings at the same time on the machine.

Preferably, the overlap zone is essentially parallel to the bottom.

Thus, the container is easily obtainable with a machine, facilitating the folding and insertion of the blocking member with a machine, since the punches responsible for such operations can be easily aligned thanks to having a container with an overlapping area parallel to the flat bottom.

Also advantageously, potential losses of easily damaged product units may be minimized, even leading to the mitigation of total losses of the packaged product, related to excessive travel of the punches responsible for such folding and insertion.

According to a second aspect, to solve the drawbacks set out in the previous section, the present invention presents a machine for closing the containers described in the first aspect of the invention.

In a manner known in the state of the art, said machine has the characteristics detailed below.

The machine comprises at least one punch and a punching die corresponding to said at least one punch.

The punch is configured to bend the blocking member of the blocking device of the container, with respect to the first and second flat surfaces of the overlapping zone, through the bending zone of the blocking device adjacent to the blocking member, the blocking member being, once folded , inserted and locked in a blocking opening formed at least partially upon bending of the blocking member.

The punching die comprises a die member. The die member comprises a flat punching surface and a punching cavity. The punch is insertable and removable in the punching cavity to allow said bending, insertion and locking of the locking member. The flat punching surface is configured to support at least a portion of the overlap zone upon insertion of the punch into the punching cavity.

In a manner not known in the state of the art, in combination, said machine also includes the features detailed below.

The punch is movable by a punch drive of the machine according to a linear punching direction Z perpendicular to the flat punching surface, between a rest position and a working position.

Preferably, the flat punching surface is horizontal.

Preferably, the linear direction of punching Z corresponds to a direction vertical to the plane of the ground where the machine sits.

In the rest position, the punch allows feeding containers that are already closed or to be closed.

In the working position, the punch is inserted into the punching cavity to bend and insert the locking member, and to lock the locking member in the locking opening in cooperation with the punching die.

In the working position, the punch and the punching die are located superiorly and inferiorly adjacent, respectively, or vice versa, to respective layers of the overlapping area of the container located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid, in where the first lower layer of the overlap zone corresponds to a rim that defines a first flat surface, which extends folded outwards with respect to an upper part of one of the side walls, and where the second upper layer of the The overlapping region comprises a lid extension of the lid that defines a second flat surface overlapping the first flat surface.

The punch and punching die are located outside the interior volume of the container to close the container with the locking device. The interior volume of the container is determined by the bottom, the side walls and the lid in the closed position. Thus, the at least one punch and the punching die occupy, in all their positions, a peripheral region or space adjacent to a central operational region or space occupied by the interior volume of the container.

Advantageously, the movement of the punch produced by the punch drive according to the linear direction of punching perpendicular to the flat punching surface provides precision and reliability to the closed operation of the container by blocking, minimizing waste of containers to be closed by the machine and downtime. productive due to stoppage of such machine.

Advantageously, the at least one punch and the punching die are strategically positioned adjacent to respective layers of the overlapping area of the container so that in the working positions of the punch no losses occur in the product contained in the container, leaving, in the machine, the punch and the punching die located outside the interior volume of the container.

The optional features of said machine and their respective advantages will be described in the following section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other advantages and characteristics will be more fully understood from the following detailed lists of embodiment examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are to be taken by way of illustration and not limitation, in which:

Fig. 1 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of the container of the present invention, where a detail IV is indicated;

Fig.2 is an enlarged view of detail IV of Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a bottom perspective view of Fig. 2;

Fig. 4 is a side view of Fig. 1, where a detail V is indicated and where a plurality of product units with which the interior volume of the container has been filled have been represented with dashed lines;

Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of detail IV of Fig. 4;

Fig. 6 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the first embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 7 is a view of another flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the first embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Figs. 8 and 9 are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of a second embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 10 is a top perspective view of the container of the second embodiment with the lid in an open position before the lid is closed and the container locking devices are formed;

Fig. 11 is an enlarged plan view of the overlapping area of the container showing the embodiment of the container locking device of Figs. 1 to 5, 8 and 9;

Fig. 11A is an enlarged view of detail IV of Fig. 6 where the blocking member defined by die-cut lines is arranged before folding and inserting it and which corresponds to an enlargement of one end of the lid panel of the plate of Fig. 6, which will define the lid end of the lid on the container;

Fig. 11B is an enlarged view of detail VII of Fig. 6 where a die-cut opening is provided and corresponds to an enlargement of the rim panel of Fig. 6, which will define a rim of the container;

Fig. 11C is a view that corresponds to the longitudinal section A-A of Fig. 11 showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 12 is an alternative embodiment of the locking device shown in Fig. 11;

Fig. 12A and 12B are enlarged views of Fig. 7, corresponding to detail VIII of the iron lid panel and detail IX of the rim panel, respectively, which will form the blocking device shown in Fig. 12 ;

Fig. 12C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 12, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 13 is an enlarged plan view of the overlapping area of the container according to a third embodiment of the container locking device obtained from the first and second layers of semi-rigid sheet material shown in Figs. 13A and 13B, respectively;

Fig. 13C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 13, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 14 is an enlarged plan view of the overlapping area of the container according to a fourth embodiment of the container locking device obtained from the first and second layers of semi-rigid sheet material shown in Figs. 14A and 14B, respectively;

Fig. 14C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 14, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 15 is an enlarged plan view of the overlapping area of the container according to a fifth embodiment of the container locking device obtained from the first and second layers of semi-rigid sheet material shown in Figs. 15A and 15B, respectively;

Fig. 15C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 15, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 16 is an enlarged plan view of the overlapping area of the container according to a sixth embodiment of the container locking device obtained from the first and second layers of semi-rigid sheet material shown in Figs. 16A and 16B, respectively;

Fig. 16C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 16, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 17 is an enlarged plan view of the overlapping area of the container according to a seventh embodiment of the container locking device obtained from the first and second layers of semi-rigid sheet material shown in Figs. 17A and 17B, respectively;

Fig. 17C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 17, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 18 is an enlarged plan view of the container overlap area according to an eighth embodiment of the container locking device obtained from the first and second layers of semi-rigid sheet material shown in Figs. 18A and 18B, respectively;

Fig. 18C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 18, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 19 is an enlarged plan view of the overlapping area of the container according to a ninth embodiment of the container locking device obtained from the first and second layers of semi-rigid sheet material shown in Figs. 19A and 19B, respectively;

Fig. 19C is a view corresponding to a longitudinal section of Fig. 19, showing the blocking device arranged in the overlapping area;

Fig. 20 is a plan view of a second embodiment of the container of the present invention, where a detail X is indicated that corresponds to the enlarged view of Fig. 14;

Fig. 21 is a side view of Fig. 20, where detail XI is indicated and where a plurality of product units with which the interior volume of the container has been filled have been represented with dashed lines;

Fig. 22 is an enlarged view of detail XI of Fig. 21;

Fig. 23 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the second embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 24 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the second embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 25 is a plan view of a third embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 26 is a side view of Fig. 25, where detail XII is indicated and where a plurality of product units with which the interior volume of the container has been filled have been represented with dashed lines;

Fig. 27 is an enlarged view of detail XII of Fig. 26;

Fig. 28 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the third embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 29 is a plan view of a fourth embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 30 is a side view of Fig. 29, where detail XIII is indicated and where a plurality of product units with which the interior volume of the container has been filled have been represented with dashed lines;

Fig. 31 is an enlarged view of detail XIII of Fig. 30;

Fig. 32 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the fourth embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 33 is a plan view of a fifth embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 34 is a side view of Fig. 33, where detail XIV is indicated and where a plurality of product units with which the interior volume of the container has been filled have been represented with dashed lines;

Fig. 35 is an enlarged view of detail XIV of Fig. 34;

Fig. 36 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the fifth embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 37 is a plan view of a sixth embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 38 is a bottom view of a sixth embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 39 is a side view of Fig. 37, where a detail

Fig. 40 is an enlarged view of detail XV of Fig. 39;

Fig. 41 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the sixth embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 42 is a plan view of a seventh embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 43 is a side view of Fig. 42;

Fig. 44 is a top perspective view of the container of Fig. 42 with the lid in an open position before the lid is closed and the container locking devices are formed;

Fig. 45 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the seventh embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 46 is a plan view of an eighth embodiment of the container of the present invention;

Fig. 47 is a side view of Fig. 46 and where a detail XVI is indicated;

Fig. 48 is an enlarged view of detail XVI of Fig. 47;

Fig. 49 is a view of a flat die-cut sheet of semi-rigid sheet material with which the eighth embodiment of the container can be obtained;

Fig. 50 is a schematic elevation view of a machine for closing semi-rigid sheet material containers according to a first embodiment, with the punches in the rest position and with the two die members of the punching die in the retracted position;

Fig. 51 is the schematic view of Fig. 50, now with the punches in working position and with two die members of the punching die in extended position;

Fig. 52 is an enlarged view of detail XVII of Fig. 51;

Fig. 53 is a top perspective view of one of the two symmetrical punch and die halves of the punching die of the machine of Fig. 50;

Fig. 54 is a schematic elevation view of a machine for closing semi-rigid sheet material containers according to a second embodiment, with the punches in the rest position and with the two die members of the punching die in the retracted position;

Fig. 55 is the schematic view of Fig. 54, now with the punches in working position and with two die members of the punching die in extended position;

Fig. 56, 58 and 60 show respective schematic elevation views of the operation of a machine for closing semi-rigid sheet material containers according to a third embodiment, where the punching die is not shown for greater clarity;

Fig. 57, 59 and 61 show respective schematic plan views of the operation of the machine according to section A-A of Fig. 56, according to section B-B of Fig. 58 and according to section C-C, respectively, and where represents the punching die not shown in Fig. 56, 58 and 60, respectively, for clarity;

Fig. 62 is an enlarged view of detail XVIII of Fig. 56;

Fig. 63 is an enlarged view of detail XIX of Fig. 60 and detail XX of Fig. 64;

Fig. 64 is a schematic elevation view of a machine for closing semi-rigid sheet material containers according to a fourth embodiment, where the punching die is not shown for greater clarity; and

Fig. 65 shows a schematic view of the machine according to section D-D of Fig. 64.

DETAILED EXPOSITION OF IMPLEMENTATION MODES / EXAMPLES

The first aspect of the present invention is related to a container (40) obtained by folding a semi-rigid laminar material.

Characteristics common to all embodiment examples are described below, although explicit reference is made to the first embodiment of Figs. 1 to 7.

The Figs. 1 and 4 show that the container (40) comprises a tray and a lid (48).

The tray is obtained by folding said sheet material, specifically by folding the flat sheet (20) of sheet material of Fig. 6 or Fig. 7.

The tray comprises a flat bottom (41) and flat side walls (43) that laterally surround the bottom (41). The bottom (41) and the side walls (43) delimit a cavity to contain a plurality of easily damaged product units (39).

Each side wall (43) has a respective upper part, these upper parts delimiting an upper mouth of the container (40) closed in a closing position of the container (40) with a lid (48) of the container (40) after filling. of the container (40) with the plurality of product units (39), preferably fruit and/or vegetables.

The bottom (41), the plurality of side walls (43) and the lid (48) determine an interior volume of the container (40) for said filling.

The Figs. 1 to 5 show that the container (40) further comprises a blocking device (10) that forms an integral part of the semi-rigid sheet material of the container (40). The blocking device (10) is arranged in an overlapping area defined by a first and second layer of said semi-rigid sheet material superimposed. The locking device (10) locks the lid (48) in the closed position.

Following in Figs. 1 to 5, the overlapping area is located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the cover (48).

The first layer defining the overlapping zone comprises a rim (46) that defines a first flat surface. The first flat surface extends folded outwards with respect to an upper part of one of the side walls (43).

The second layer defining the overlapping region comprises a lid extension (49) of the lid (48) that defines a second flat surface overlapping the first flat surface.

The lid extension (49) and the rim (46) are located, at least partially, on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid (48).

The lid extension (49) is provided on an end side of the lid (48) associated with the top of the side walls (43) from which the flange (46) extends folded outwards.

The locking device (10) is configured to lock the lid (48) with the lock between said lip (46) and lid extension (49).

Continuing in Figs. 1 to 5, the locking device (10) comprises a locking member (11) folded, with respect to the first and second flat surfaces of the overlapping area, by a folding area (13) of the locking device (10) adjacent to the member blocker (11).

The Figs. 2 and 3 show that the locking member (11) is inserted and locked by a locking opening (12) of the locking device (10) formed at least partially upon bending of the locking member (11).

The Figs. 1 to 5 show that the blocking member (11) is arranged, folded and inserted through the blocking opening (12) where it is blocked, outside the interior volume of the container (40) filled with the plurality of product units (39). .

Preferably, in all embodiments of the packaging, as best shown in Figs.

4, 21, 26, 30, 34, 39, 43 and 47, the overlapping area is essentially parallel to the flat bottom (41).

Preferably, as shown for example by the embodiments of Figs. 1, 20, 29, 37 and 42, the container (40) comprises a plurality of blocking devices (10). The blocking devices (10) are distributed at respective peripheral points along the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the cover (48). These peripheral points correspond to the blocking devices (10) and define a discontinuous blocking line (30) of blocking points arranged in the overlapping area. The dashed locking line comprises a locking point for each of the locking devices (10) of the plurality of locking devices (10).

In the examples in the figures, the dashed blocking line (30) is that virtual line resulting from joining pairs of blocking points together along the overlapping area located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid. (48).

Thus, in Fig. 1 it is observed that each pair of corresponding peripheral blocking points with two blocking devices (10) is linked by a respective virtual straight line corresponding to a part of the discontinuous blocking line (30). The three U-shaped straight lines taken together form the dashed blocking line (30).

Optionally, in the embodiments of Figs. 1, 29, 37 and 42, the dashed blocking line (30) of blocking points comprises an essentially U shape. In these figures the dashed blocking line (30) is shown in line and dot.

Specifically in the embodiments of Figs. 1, 37 and 42, the dashed blocking line (30) is shaped like a U shape.

Specifically in the embodiment of Fig. 29, the discontinuous blocking line (30) has a rectangular shape, and, therefore, this rectangular (or square) shape comprises a U shape considering at least three of its four sides.

Specifically in the embodiment of Fig. 29, the dashed blocking line (30) of blocking points has a closed perimeter contour.

Optionally, common to all embodiment examples, the first layer comprises a plurality of flanges (46) that define first flat surfaces extending bent outwards with respect to the respective upper parts of the plurality of side walls (43), and wherein the second layer comprises a plurality of lid extensions (49) that define second flat surfaces, each overlapping a respective first flat surface.

In the embodiments of Figs. 1, 33 and 37 the first flat surface comprises three edges (46). Each bead (46) is obtained by folding a bead panel (6) with respect to a side wall (43) along a bead fold line (5) of a flat sheet (20). The second flat layer comprises three lid extensions (49). Each lid extension (49) is arranged on an end side of the lid (48) associated with a respective top of the side walls (43). The cover (48) and the cover extension (49) are obtained by folding at least one cover panel (8) with respect to a side wall (43) around at least one fold line (7).

In the embodiment of Figs. 25 and 28, the first flat surface comprises two flanges (46) and the second flat layer comprises four lid extensions (49), the lid extensions (49) overlapping in pairs the flanges (46) on the outer periphery by two opposite side walls (43) of a container with four side walls (43).

In Fig. 29, the first flat surface comprises two flanges (46) and the second flat layer comprises two lid extensions (49) that overlap on the outer periphery two opposite side walls (43) of a container with four side walls. (43).

The Figs. 25 and 28 show that the container is made from two sheets (20) of semi-rigid sheet material, a single sheet for the lid (48) and the lid extension (48), and a single sheet for the body or tray of the container. container that includes the bottom (41), side walls and at least one rim (46).

In the eight side wall embodiment (43) of Fig. 42 the first flat surface comprises eight flanges (46) and the second flat layer comprises eight cap extensions (49).

In the three side wall embodiment (43) of Fig. 46 the first flat surface comprises two flanges (46) and the second flat layer comprises two lid extensions (49).

Preferably, in the embodiments of Figs. 1, 8, 29, 33, 37 and 42 the number of side walls (43) is at least four, they are arranged mutually facing each other in pairs, and the side walls (43) delimit four corners of the container (40). In the container (40), a plurality of flanges (46) and/or a plurality of lid extensions (48) define a first and/or second flat surface comprising an essentially U shape. The parts of this first and/or or second flat surface comprising an essentially U shape extend outward with respect to each of the upper parts of at least three side walls (43). The parts of this first and/or second flat surface that comprises an essentially U shape are located along the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid (48).

Preferably, specifically in the embodiments of Figs. 1, 8, 33, 37 and 42, the first flat surface defined by the flanges (46) comprises an essentially U shape and the second flat surface defined by the lid extensions (49) comprises an essentially U shape, so that the overlapping area comprises an essentially U shape along the outer periphery of the upper mouth.

Specifically, in the embodiments of Figs. 1, 33, 37 and 42, the first and second planar surfaces respectively have essentially U shapes, and the overlapping area is U-shaped.

Specifically, in the realization of Figs. 8 to 10, the first and second flat surfaces have a rectangular shape, and the overlapping area has a rectangular shape. These rectangular (or square) shapes comprise respective U shapes considering at least three of their four sides.

Optionally, as shown in the embodiments of Figs. 1, 8, 25, 29, 33, 37 and 46, the lid (48) comprises end sides of equal number to the side walls (43) of the container (40). Each end side is associated with a respective side wall (43) of the container and each end side is locked relative to the side walls (43) by a respective locking device (10) and/or a punched fold line (7) that directly or indirectly connects the cover (48) with a side wall (43).

In Fig. 1, three end sides of the lid (48) are locked by two locking devices (10) and another end side of the lid (48) are locked by fold line (7) that directly connects the lid ( 48) with a side wall (43).

In Fig. 29, each of the four end sides of the cover (48) are locked by two locking devices (10).

In Fig. 33, three end sides of the lid (48) are locked by locking devices (10) and another end side of the lid (48) are locked by fold line (7) that directly connects the lid (48 ) with a side wall (43).

In Fig. 37, three end sides of the lid (48) are locked by locking devices (10) and another end side of the lid (48) are locked by fold line (7) which indirectly connects the lid (48 ) with a side wall (43).

In Fig. 46, two end sides of the lid (48) are locked by locking devices (10) and another end side of the lid (48) are locked by fold line (7) that directly connects the lid (48 ) with a side wall (43).

In one option, Figs. 1 and 6 to 10 show that the plurality of flanges (46) are joined to each other with glue (19), optionally thermo-fusible glue, in flange overlapping portions (50) of the flanges (46) located in at least two of four corners of the container (40) so that the first flat surface is continuous and comprises an essentially continuous U shape.

Specifically, in the realization of Figs. 8 to 10, the first and second planar surfaces have an essentially continuous U shape.

Specifically, in the realization of Figs. 8 to 10, the first and second planar surfaces have a continuous rectangular shape. These rectangular (or square) shapes comprise respective continuous U shapes considering at least three of their four sides.

This union of some edges with others forming a first flat surface of rigid structure may facilitate and avoid productive stops in the machine punching operation to bend and insert the blocking member (11) of the blocking device (10) in the blocking opening ( 12), since improved alignment/centering of the locking member (11) with the locking aperture (12) is achieved.

Optionally, as shown in Figs. 8 to 10 and 42, the plurality of edges (46) form a first flat surface with a continuous and closed perimeter contour, extending longitudinally along the entire outer perimeter of the upper mouth closed with the cover (48).

With this continuous and closed contour, improved alignment/centering of the locking member (11) with the locking opening (12) is achieved, to facilitate the machine punching operation to bend and insert the locking member (11) of the locking device ( 10) in the blocking opening (12), avoiding productive stops.

Commonly to all embodiments, the side walls (43) are laterally joined to each other by at least one side flap (44) connected by fold lines to the side ends of the side walls (43).

Commonly to all embodiments, the bottom (41), the side walls (43) and at least one rim (46) are obtained, respectively, by relative bending of respective bottom (1), side (3) and rim panels. (6) of a flat plate (20) die-cut from semi-rigid sheet material, around respective folding lines (2, 5) of the flat plate (20).

Furthermore, in the container (40) first fold lines (2) connect the lower part of the side walls (43) and the bottom (41), and at least one lip fold line (5) connects the upper part of at least one side wall (43) with at least one rim (46).

Optionally, in the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 32 and 37 to 49, the bottom (41) is formed by a single polygonal central bottom panel (1) delimited by the first fold lines (2), and the at least one edge (46) is formed by folding of the edge panel (6) along the edge fold line (5) with respect to the side walls (43).

Preferably, in the container (10), the blocking device (10) further comprises a first and second punched line (17, 18) that jointly define at least partially the blocking member (11) and the blocking opening (12). The first and second die-cut lines (17, 18) are die-cut prior to filling the container (40), optionally when the semi-rigid sheet material is in the form of one or more flat sheets (20). Examples of this option are the variant of the first embodiment of the container (40) of Figs. 1 to 5, 11 and 11C when the container (40) is obtained from the parts of the plate (20) of Figs. 6, 11A and 11B, the second embodiment of the container (40) of Figs. 8 to 11 and 11C when the container (40) is obtained from the parts of the plate (20) of Figs. 11A and 11B, the embodiments of the locking device (10) of Figs. 13, 14 and 16 to 19, the variant of the third embodiment of the container (40) of Figs. 20 to 23, and the container embodiments (40) of Figs. 29 to 49.

These at least first and at least second punched lines provide greater control for the bending of the blocking member (11) and improves control in the insertion of the blocking member (11) through the blocking opening (12).

Looking at Fig. 11C, the at least one first punched line (18) is disposed on the rim (46) and the at least one second punched line (17) is disposed on the lid extension (49).

In the variant of the first embodiment of Figs. 1 to 5, 11 and 11C when the container (40) is obtained from the parts of the flat plate (20) of Figs. 6, 11A and 11B, the first punched line (18) arranged on the rim (46) has been punched on the rim panel (6) when the semi-rigid sheet material is in the shape of a flat sheet (20). The rim panel (6) of the iron (20) once folded forms a rim (46) on the container (40) as shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 11 B shows that the first die-cut line (18) corresponds to a closed contour cut line in the shape of a truncated pyramid, providing a die-cut opening, which, in the container (40) of Figs. 11 and 11C defines at least partially the punched opening (12).

The Figs. 11 and 11 A show that the second punched line (17) arranged in the lid extension (49) comprises three cutting lines and a creasing or cutting and creasing line (15), these four lines being an integral part of the second die-cut line (17) complementary to the truncated pyramid shape of the first die-cut line (18). The second punched line (17) at least partially defines the blocking member (11) and the blocking opening (12) as shown in Figs. 11 and 11C.

Fig. 11C shows that the blocking device (10) comprises a folding line (14) once the bending member (11) is folded through the folding zone (13) and inserted through the blocking opening (12).

In Fig. 11, the locking member (11) in the locking device (10) defines two contact points or regions between ends of the locking member (11a) and the locking opening (12) to lock the lid (48) with the Locking the lid extension (49) and rim (46).

In the embodiment of Fig. 13, the locking device (10) comprises two first die-cut lines (18) corresponding to two straight cutting lines spaced apart, and essentially parallel to each other, providing a die-cut opening (12), the which, in the blocking device (10) of Figs. 13 and 13C defines at least partially the punched opening (12).

Fig. 13A shows that the second punched line (17) arranged in the lid extension (49) is essentially shaped like an arrow head, two end portions of the arrow corresponding to two blocking members (11) bent around respective areas folding lines (13), which define respective blocking folding lines (14). Fig. 13C shows that each of the locking members (11) are inserted through a respective locking opening (12) formed along a respective first punch line (18).

In the embodiment of Figs. 14 and 14C and in one embodiment of Figs. 19 and 19C, the blocking device (10) further comprises at least one other blocking member (11) punched with another folding area (13). The at least two locking members (11) define at least one contact point or region between these locking members (11) to lock the lid (48). Each locking member (11) is bent around a respective locking bend line (14). The locking fold lines (14) are spaced a distance apart.

Thus, the plurality of locking members (11) produce additional locking to the locking between the locking members (11) and the locking opening (12).

Thus, the force necessary to open the lid (48) is increased when the lid (48) is in the closed position.

In the embodiment of Fig. 14, the blocking device (10) comprises the first and second die-cut lines (18, 17) correspond to a respective circular cutting segment line, which in the blocking device (10) of the Figs. 14 and 14C at least partially define the punched opening (12) and two blocking members (11).

The Figs. 19 and 19B show that the first punched line (18) arranged on the rim (46) corresponds to a cutting line that forms a plurality of blocking members (11) pointing towards a central region.

The Figs. 19 and 19A show that the second punched line (17) arranged in the lid extension (49) corresponds to a cutting line in the shape of a circular segment.

In the embodiment of Fig. 19, the plurality of locking members (11) define a plurality of contact points or regions between these locking members (11) to lock the lid (48).

In Fig. 17, the first die-cut line (18) corresponds to a circular cutting line forming a circular hole while the second die-cut line (17) corresponds to a circular segment (17) and a straight line of cutting, slitting and /or split cut (15) that joins the ends of the circular segment (17).

In Fig. 17, the first punched line (18) corresponds to a circular cutting line forming a circular hole while the second punched line (17) is such that it provides two blocking members (11) in the shape of a double-leaf door. in the blocking device (10) that define four contact points or regions between ends of the blocking member (11a) and the blocking opening (12).

In an option not shown, the at least one first punched line (18) is made in the rim (46) and the at least one second punched line (17) is made in the lid extension (49), punched subsequent to the formation. by bending the bottom (41), the side walls (43) and the rim (46).

In another option, in the container (40), the opening (12), the blocking member (11) and the folding area (13) of the blocking device (10) have been formed by punching the overlapping area after filling the container. container (40). Examples of this other option are the other variant of the first embodiment of the container (40) of Figs. 1 to 5, 12 and 12C when the container (40) is obtained from the parts of the plate (20) of Figs. 7, 12A and 12B, the second embodiment of the container (40) of Figs. 8 to 11 and 11C when the container (40) is obtained from the parts of the plate (20) of Figs. 12A and 12B, and the embodiments of the locking device (10) of Figs. 12 and 15.

Thus, Figs. 12, 12A and 12B show that the blocking member (11) of Fig. 12 has been formed by punching the overlapping area, such punching causes bending of the blocking member (11) through the folding area (13) and inserts the forming member through a blocking opening (12) of the blocking device (10) formed upon punching that causes bending of the blocking member (11).

In Figs. 12A and 12B, with this punching the fibers and/or burrs (not shown in the figures) of the semi-rigid sheet material arranged in the contour of the blocking member (11) and the blocking opening (12) contribute to additionally lock the locking member (11) in the locking opening (12). Thus, the force necessary to open the lid (48) is increased when the lid (48) is in the closed position. Also, this punching makes it unnecessary to make the first and second die-cut lines (17, 18), helping to facilitate the assembly of the container (40) in a machine since it does not require alignment / centering of the ends of the lid (49) and edges (46) and the first and second die-cut lines (17, 18) but rather a less demanding alignment/centering of the ends of the lid (49) and edges (46) is enough.

Preferably, in the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 28 and 33 to 49, the container (40) is made up of a single sheet of sheet material (20) so that the lid (48) is connected by at least one fold line (7) to the tray of the container (40).

Preferably, the lid (48) is connected by at least one fold line (7) to at least one side wall (43) and/or a rim (46) of the top of a side wall (43). That is, the fold line (7) directly or indirectly connects the cover (48) and a side wall (48).

In the container embodiments (40) of Figs. 1 to 7, 33 to 41 and 46 to 49, the container (40) is made up of a single sheet of sheet material (20) so that the lid (48) is connected by a single fold line (7). to a side wall (43).

In the container embodiments (40) of Figs. 8 to 10 and 42 to 45, the container (40) is constituted from a single sheet of sheet material (20) so that the lid (48) is connected by a single fold line (7) to a rim ( 46) bent outwards with respect to the top of a side wall (43).

A single sheet of laminar material greatly simplifies the assembly of the container in the machine, in addition to reducing costs and times associated with obtaining the container from the semi-rigid laminar material, resulting in a reduction in the overall manufacturing cost of the filled and closed container. .

Specifically in the realization of Figs. 25 to 28, the container (40) is made up of a single sheet of sheet material (20) so that the lid (48) and the lid extensions (49) are connected by two respective fold lines (7). side walls (43).

Specifically, Figs. 25 and 28 show that the lid (48) may be formed by several folded lid panels (8), each lid panel (8) having at least one panel extension (9).

In Figs. 25 and 28, each lid panel (8) has two panel extensions (9) on two end sides of the lid panel (8), thus having the container four panel extensions (9).

In another option, the embodiment of Figs. 29 to 32 show that the tray, which integrates the side walls, and at least one rim, is made from a single flat sheet (20) of laminate material, optionally cardboard. The lid (46) is made from a single flat sheet (20) of sheet material, for example, a sheet of cardboard and/or plastic. Thus, the container (40) is made up of two flat sheets (20) of laminar material and not a greater number of flat sheets (20).

Preferably, in the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 28 and 33 to 49, the semi-rigid sheet material comprises a sheet of cardboard or paper.

Preferably, in the embodiments of Figs. 1 to 28 and 33 to 49, the semi-rigid sheet material comprises a single sheet of cardboard.

Preferably, the semi-rigid material of the container (40) lacks plastic sheets.

More preferably, the container (40), devoid of plastic sheets, is made up of a single sheet of semi-rigid sheet material corresponding to cardboard.

It should be noted that the glue or adhesive optionally used to join parts of the sheet material and form the container (40) is easily recyclable, especially together with cardboard or paper.

Preferably, Figs. 1 to 10 and 37 to 42 show that in the container (40), the side walls (43) form respective convergent inclinations towards the bottom (41).

Thus, the width and length measurements of the upper mouth are greater than the width and length measurements of the bottom (41), facilitating the task of filling and emptying the container (40) and even avoiding potential damage to the plurality of filling units. product (39), both when they are filled and when they are stored and transported, since the inclinations create a space between adjacently arranged and/or stacked boxes that improve ventilation and uniformity in the temperature of the product units.

In the embodiment of Figs. 42 to 45, the number of side walls (43) is at least eight, four side walls (43) arranged mutually facing each other in pairs, and four side walls (43) arranged in corner areas of the container, a side wall (43 ) for each corner area arranged forming a chamfer.

In the embodiment of Figs. 46 to 49, the number of side walls (43) is equal to three.

The realization of Figs. 37 to 41 corresponds to a container (40) of the closed clam type, where the interior volume of the container (40) for said filling, defined by the bottom (41), the plurality of side walls (43) and the lid (48 ) is the sum of two volumes: a lower volume and a higher volume.

The lower volume is that volume defined by the bottom (41), the plurality of side walls (43) and the upper mouth defined by the upper parts of the side walls (43).

The upper volume is that volume defined by the upper mouth, and by a lid (48) provided with lid side walls (43') on its end sides.

Lid extensions (49) are connected to these side walls of the lid (43') by folding lines of lid extensions (5'). The lid extensions (49) are obtained by folding with respect to respective lid side panels (3') of a flat sheet (20) of sheet material around these folding lines of lid extensions (5').

The second aspect of the present invention concerns a machine (100) for closing containers (40) of semi-rigid laminar material, such as those described in the first aspect of the present invention.

Characteristics common to all machine embodiments (100) of Figs. are described below. 50 to 65.

Commonly to all embodiments, the machine (100) comprises at least one punch (101) insertable and removable in a punching cavity (104) of a punching die (102).

The Figs. 52, 53 and 62 and 63 show that each punch (101) bends a blocking member (11) of the blocking device (10) of the container (40), with respect to the first and second flat surfaces of the overlapping area, by an area of bending (13) of the blocking device (10) adjacent to the blocking member (11), the blocking member (11), once folded, being inserted and locked in a blocking opening (12) formed at least partially before the bending of the member blocker (11).

Commonly to all embodiments, the machine (100) comprises a punching die (102) comprising a die member (102a, 102b). The die member (102a, 102b) comprises a flat punching surface (103), which is preferably horizontal to the ground on which the machine sits, and a punching cavity (104). The punch (101) is insertable and removable in the punching cavity (104) to allow said bending, insertion and locking. As shown in Figs. 51, 55, 60 and 61, the flat punching surface (103) is configured to support at least a portion of the overlap zone upon insertion of the punch (101) into the punching cavity (104).

Said at least one punch and corresponding punching die (102) form a closing station of the machine (100), configured to close by locking the lid (48) of the container (40).

In the first and second embodiments of Figs. 50 to 55, the machine (100) comprises a closing station.

In the third and fourth embodiments of Figs. 56 to 65, the machine (100) comprises a plurality of closing stations, one closing station being next to the other, adjacently.

The at least one punch (101) is movable by a punch drive (105) of the machine (100) according to a linear punching direction (Z) perpendicular to the flat punching surface (103) between a rest position and a work position.

Preferably, the linear direction of punching (Z) corresponds to a direction vertical to the plane of the ground where the machine (100) sits.

Preferably, the punch(es) (101) are finger-shaped.

Said punch drive (105) comprises a fluid dynamic cylinder, as shown in the figures, for example, a pneumatic cylinder, an electric motor, a rotary electric motor, a servo-driven electric motor (servomotor), and in general any actuatable device, manually or through actuating organs, equipped with two parts with relative movement between them.

In one option, each punch (101) is movable by a respective punch drive (105), as shown in the embodiments of Figs. 50 and 65.

In another option not shown, a plurality of punches (101) is movable by a same punch drive (105).

In the rest position shown in Figs. 50, 53, 54, 56 and 62, the punch (101) allows the transport of containers (40) already closed or to be closed.

In the working position shown in Figs. 51, 52, 55, 60, 63 and 64 the punch (101) is inserted into the punching cavity (104) to bend and insert the locking member (11), and to lock the locking member (11) in the locking opening (12) in cooperation with the punching die (102).

In the working position of Figs. 51, 52, 55, 60, 63 and 64, the punch (101) and the punching die (102) are located superiorly and inferiorly adjacent, respectively, to respective layers of the overlapping area of the container (40) located in the outer periphery to the upper mouth closed with the cover (48). One of these layers is a first lower layer of the overlapping zone corresponding to a rim (46) that defines a first flat surface, which extends folded outwards with respect to an upper part of one of the side walls (43). . Another of these layers is a second upper layer of the overlap zone corresponding to a lid extension (49) of the lid (48) that defines a second flat surface overlapping the rim (46).

Preferably, Figs. 51, 52, 55, 60, 63 and 64 show that, in the working position, shown in detail in Fig. 52, the punch (101) is located superiorly adjacent to said lid extension (49) of the container (40 ), and the punching die (102), including the punching cavity (104) thereof, is located inferiorly adjacent to said rim (46) of the container (40).

Alternatively, in an option not shown, in the working position, the punch (101) is located inferiorly adjacent to said rim (46) of the container, and the punching die (102), including the punching cavity (104) of the same, is located superiorly adjacent to said lid extension (49) of the container (40).

In Figs. 50 to 65, the punch (101) and the punching die (102) are located outside the interior volume of the container (40) to close the container with the locking device (10). The interior volume of the container (40) is determined by the bottom (41), the side walls (43) and the lid (48).

Thus, the at least one punch (101) and the punching die occupy, in all their positions, a peripheral region adjacent to a central region occupied by the interior volume of the container (40) to be closed by the area of overlap located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the cover (48).

Optionally, in all embodiments, the machine (100) comprises a plurality of punches (101), and the punching die (102) comprises a plurality of punching cavities (104), for the formation of a plurality of locking devices (10). In the working position, each punch (100) faces a corresponding punching cavity (104), optionally in a vertical linear direction. Each punch (101) is insertable and removable in a corresponding punching cavity (104). The plurality of punches (101) and the plurality of punching cavities (104) are distributed at respective peripheral points along the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the cover (48).

In the embodiments of Figs. 50 to 53 and 56 to 65, the machine (100) comprises four punches and respective punching cavities (104) to close each container (40).

In the embodiment of Figs. 54 and 55, the machine (100) comprises two punches and respective punching cavities (104).

In embodiments not shown, the machine (100) may have a single punch (101) or may comprise between five and fifty punches (101).

In yet another embodiment not shown, the number of punching cavities (104) may be equal to or less than the number of punches (101) so that a single punching cavity (104) may be configured so that several punches (101) ) are inserted into it in the working position.

Advantageously, the configuration of the machine closes containers with as many locking devices as desired without affecting the productive speed of the machine.

Preferably, in all embodiments, the punching die (102) is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The retracted position of the punching die (102) of Figs. 50, 53, 54, 56 and 62 allow the transport of containers (40) already closed or to be closed. In the extended position of the punching die (102) Figs. 51, 52, 55, 60, 63 and 64, the plurality of punches (101) are facing, optionally according to the vertical direction (Z), a plurality of punching cavities (104) to allow the insertion of the plurality of punches ( 101) in the plurality of punching cavities (104).

Optionally, in the embodiments of Figs. 50 to 65, the machine (100) further comprises a conveyor device (120) comprising at least one conveyor member (121) movable by a conveyor drive (122) to transport containers (40) already closed and/or to be closed by the punch (101) and the punching die (102).

Optionally, commonly to all embodiments of Figs. 50 to 65, the conveyor device (120) is a chain or belt type conveyor, the conveyor member (121) is a pusher attached to the chain or belt configured to push the container (40) by a rear part thereof according to a transport direction of the container (40), and the conveyor drive (122) is a rotating electric motor configured to move said chain or belt.

Complementarily, in all embodiments, it further comprises at least one die drive (107) for moving the punching die (102) between the retracted and extended positions independently of the movement between the rest and working positions of the punch (101) or the plurality of punches (101) by at least one punch drive (105).

Said die drive (107) comprises a fluid dynamic cylinder, as shown in the figures, for example, a pneumatic cylinder, an electric motor, a rotating electric motor, a servo-driven electric motor (servomotor), and in general any actuatable device, manually or through actuating organs, equipped with two parts with relative movement between them.

Optionally, the movable part, the fluid dynamic cylinders of the punch and die drives (105, 107) are movable guided by a guide (108) to achieve adequate precision and centering between punches (101) and punching cavities (104). .

Preferably, one of these parts is attached to a structural point of the machine fixed or movable in adjustment or regulation and the other part is attached to a die member (101, 102).

In the first and second embodiments of Figs. 50 to 55, the machine (100) comprises a closing station. The closing station comprises two die drives (107), embodied in respective fluid dynamic cylinders, each for moving a respective die member (102a, 102b) of the punching die (102). This machine (100) also includes four punches (101), each one being movable between respective rest and work positions by a respective punch drive (101) embodied in a fluid-dynamic cylinder. The two die drives (107) move the punching die (102) between respective retracted positions of Figs. 50 and 54, and respective extended positions of Figs. 51 and 55, independently of the movement of the plurality of punches (101) carried out by the four punch drives (101).

In the embodiment of Figs. 50 to 53, a plurality of punches (101) are supported on each of die members (102a, 102b), so that the punches (101) are movable together with the die members ( 102a, 102b), which provides improved centering between the punches (101) and punching cavities (104).

Optionally, in Figs. 50 to 53, each punch (101) is supported on a punch support (108), which is attached to a respective die member (102a, 102b).

In the embodiment of Figs. 54 and 55, a plurality of punches (101) are supported on punch supports (109), which is not supported on the punching die (102), providing a simpler configuration for adjusting the machine (1009 to the changing measurements of the container (40).

In the third embodiment of Figs. 56 to 61, the machine (100) comprises a plurality of closing stations. Each closing station comprises a respective die drive (107), embodied in a respective fluid dynamic cylinder, to move a single U-shaped die member (102a) of the respective punching die (102). Each of the closing stations of this machine (100) further comprises four respective punches (101), each being individually movable between respective rest and work positions by a respective punch drive (101) embodied in a fluid-dynamic cylinder. At each closing station, the die drive (107) moves the die member (102a), between respective retracted positions shown in Fig. 57, and respective extended positions shown in Fig. 59 and 61, independently of the movement of the plurality of punches (101) carried out by the four punch drives (101).

In the fourth embodiment of Figs. 64 and 65 the machine (100) comprises a plurality of closing stations. Each closing station comprises two respective die drives (107), embodied in two respective fluid dynamic cylinders, each to move one of the two U-shaped, mutually facing die members (102a) of the punching die (102). Each of the closing stations of this machine (100) further comprises four respective punches (101), each being individually movable between respective rest and work positions by a respective punch drive (101) embodied in a fluid-dynamic cylinder. At each closing station, the two respective die drives (107) move each respective die member (102a) between respective retracted positions shown in Fig. 65, and respective extended positions (not shown), independently of the movement of the plurality. punches (101) carried out by the four punch drives (101).

Optionally, the punching die (102) comprises two mutually facing die members (102a, 102b), each die member with at least one punching cavity (104), each die member (102a, 102b) being movable by a respective die drive (107).

Optionally, the punching die (102) comprises at least one essentially U-shaped die member (102a, 102b).

Additionally, Figs. 53 to 55, 57 and 65 show that the machine (100) also comprises a centering device configured to laterally limit the position of the overlapping area of the container (40) at least prior to the insertion of one or more punches (101) in the punching cavities (104).

The centering device referenced in Figs. 53 to 55, 57 and 65 comprises at least two mutually opposed centering members (110), movable between respective retracted positions of Figs. 50, 53, 54, 57 and 65, and respective centering positions of Figs.

51, 55, 59 and 61 where they are configured to contact externally with at least two mutually opposite side parts of the container (40).

Said side parts may correspond to at least two mutually opposite side walls (43) and/or with at least the upper parts of two mutually opposite side walls (43), as shown in Fig. 51, and/or with at least two free edges of the rim (46) associated with two mutually opposite side walls (43), as in the relationship of Figs. 54 and 55.

Optionally, in the embodiments of Figs. 50 to 65, each centering member (110) of the centering device is movable together along a respective die member (102a, 102b) of the punching die (102).

In one option, each centering member (110) is supported or forms an integral part of a die member (102a, 102b), as shown in Figs. 53 to 55, 57 and 65.

Alternatively, in an option not shown, the centering members (110) of the centering device are movable independently of the movement of the punching die (102).

Additionally, Figs. 50, 51, 56 to 61, 64 and 65 of the first third and fourth embodiments, show that the machine (100) further comprises an upper stop device (150) located vertically above the flat punching surface (103). The Figs. 51, 60, 61 and 64 show that the upper stop device (150) is configured to keep the lid (48) of the container (40) essentially parallel to the bottom (41) of the container (40), for at least before and/or during the insertion of the punch (101) or punches (101) or the punching cavities (104).

In an option not shown, the punch (101) or punches (101) can help position the lid (48) of the container (40) essentially parallel to the bottom (41) of the container (40), taking advantage of its mobility from the position of rest towards the working position, prior to inserting the punch (101) or punches (101) or the punching cavities (104).

A possible operation of the machine (100) is summarized below, in particular in relation to the third embodiment of Figs. 56 to 61.

At each of the machine closing stations (100), a container (40) is transported to a respective lid closing position by the conveyor device (120). In this position, as shown in Figs. 56 and 57, the interior volume of each respective container (40) to be closed occupies a respective central work space in the closing station and the respective at least one punch (101) and punching die (102) respectively occupy a space peripheral, arranged around a corresponding central region.

The container (40) is transported in a guided manner, to this lid closing position, by transport guides (140), mutually facing each other.

Prior to said positioning in the lid closing position, during or after the same, the lid (48) of the container (40) has been positioned parallel to the bottom (41) of the container (40) by the upper stop device (150). ) and/or by an additional device arranged upstream of the upper stop (150) according to the transport direction of the conveyor (120), and/or by the punches (101).

The container (40) represented in Figs. 56 to 63 corresponds to a schematic version of the container (40) of Fig. 1, where the tray and the lid (48) are joined by a fold line (7) and, therefore, the upper stop device (150 ), the additional device and/or the punches, individually or in combination, bend the lid (48) along the fold line (7) until the lid (48) is positioned essentially parallel to the bottom of the container (40).

Next, at least one die member (102a, 102b) of the punching die (102) is moved by a die drive (107) from the retracted position of Fig. 57 to the extended position of Fig. 58, centering the edges (46) of the overlapping area laterally the box with the centering members (110) supported or forming an integral part of the punching die (102).

During the movement of the die members (102a, 102b) to said extended position, or once the die members (102a, 102b) of the punching die (102) are in the extended position as shown in Figs. 58 and 59, the punches (101) are moved by respective punch drives (105) of the machine (100) according to a linear punching direction perpendicular to the flat punching surface (103). This linear direction of punching is optionally parallel to a direction vertical to the plane of the ground where the machine sits.

This movement is between the rest position of Fig. 58 and 62, where the punch (101) allows the previously described transport of containers (40) to be closed by the conveyor (120) and the subsequent transport of the containers (40). ) already closed, and the working position of Figs. 58 and 63, wherein the punch (101) is inserted into the punching cavity (104) to bend and insert the locking member (11), and to lock the locking member (11) in the locking opening (12) in cooperation with the punching die (102), closing the container (40) with the blocking devices (10), shown in Fig. 61.

During the insertion of the punches (101) into the punching cavities (104), the U-shaped flat punching surfaces (103) support the overlapping area between the flange (46) and the cover extension (49). with a U shape, as shown in Figs. 59 and 61.

After closing the container (40) shown in Figs. 60 and 61, the punches (101) are moved from the working position to the rest position by the punch drives (105), and the punching dies (102) are moved from the extended position to the retracted position by the die drives (107), to allow the conveyor (120) to transport the already closed containers (40) and to allow the transport of the new containers to be closed in a subsequent cycle of the machine (100).

The scope of the present invention is defined by the following claims.

Claims (20)

1. - Container (40) of a semi-rigid laminar material, the container (40) comprising a tray obtained by folding said laminar material, comprising a flat bottom (41) and flat side walls (43) that laterally surround the bottom ( 41) delimiting a cavity to contain a plurality of easily damaged product units (39), and each side wall (43) having a respective upper part; These upper parts delimit an upper mouth of the container (40) closed in a closing position with a lid (48) of the container (40) after filling it with the plurality of product units (39); where the bottom (41), the side walls (43) and the lid (48) determine an interior volume of the container (40) for said filling; and the container (40) also comprising a blocking device (10) that forms an integral part of the semi-rigid laminar material of the container (40), arranged in an overlapping area where a first and second layers of said semi-rigid laminar material are superimposed, being the locking device (10) configured to lock the lid (48) in the closed position; the blocking device (10) comprising a blocking member (11) folded, with respect to the first and second flat surfaces of the overlapping zone, by a folding zone (13) of the blocking device (10) adjacent to the blocking member (11) , the locking member (11) being inserted and locked in a locking opening (12) of the locking device (10) formed at least partially upon bending of the locking member (11); characterized because The overlapping area is located on the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid (48), where the first layer of the overlapping area comprises a rim (46) that defines a first flat surface, which extends folded. outwardly with respect to a top part of one of the side walls (43), and wherein the second layer of the overlapping area comprises a lid extension (49) of the lid (48) that defines a second overlapping flat surface to the first flat surface; and The locking device (10) locks the lid (48) on the rim (46) and the lid extension (49) with the locking member (11) and the locking opening (12) disposed outside the interior volume of the container (40). . 2. - Container (40) according to claim 1, wherein the overlapping area is essentially parallel to the flat bottom (41). 3. - Container (40) according to claim 2, comprising a plurality of blocking devices (10), distributed at respective peripheral points along the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the lid (48), peripheral points that They define a discontinuous blocking line (30) of blocking points arranged in the overlapping area, comprising one blocking point for each of the blocking devices (10) of the plurality of blocking devices (10). 4. - Container (40) according to claim 3, wherein, in the overlapping area, the first layer comprises a plurality of edges (46) that define first flat surfaces extending folded outwards with respect to the respective upper parts of the plurality of side walls (43), and wherein the second layer comprises a plurality of lid extensions (49) that define second flat surfaces, each overlapping a respective first flat surface. 5. - Container (40) according to claim 3, wherein the number of side walls (43) is at least four and they are arranged mutually facing each other in pairs, the side walls (43) delimiting four corners of the container (40), and wherein a plurality of flanges (46) and/or a plurality of lid extensions (48) define a first and/or second flat surface comprising an essentially U shape, the parts of this first and/or second flat surface extending comprising an essentially U shape towards the outside with respect to each of the upper parts of at least three side walls (43) and the parts of this first and/or second flat surface comprising an essentially U shape being located along along the outer periphery to the upper mouth. 6. - Container (40) according to claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein the first flat surface comprises an essentially U shape and the second flat surface comprises an essentially U shape, so that the overlapping area comprises a shape essentially U along the outer periphery of the upper mouth. 7. - Container (40) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the discontinuous blocking line of blocking points comprises an essentially U shape. 8. - Container (40) according to any of claims 3 to 7, wherein the plurality of edges (46) are joined to each other with glue (19) in overlapping portions of the edges (50) of the edges. (46) located in at least two of the four corners of the container (40) so that the first flat surface is continuous and comprises an essentially continuous U shape. 9. - Container (40) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the blocking device (10) further comprises a first and second die-cut line (17, 18) that jointly define at least partially the blocking member (11) and the blocking opening (12), with the first and second die-cut lines (17, 18) being die-cut prior to filling the container (40), preferably when the semi-rigid sheet material is in the form of one or more flat sheets (20). 10. - Container (40) according to any of the previous claims 1 to 8, wherein the opening (12), the blocking member (11) and the folding area (13) of the blocking device (10) have been formed by punching the overlapping area after filling the container (40). 11. - Machine (100) for closing containers (40) made of semi-rigid laminar material, the container (40) comprising a tray obtained by folding said laminar material, which includes a flat bottom (41) and side walls (43). flat surfaces that laterally surround the bottom (41) delimiting a cavity to contain a plurality of easily damaged product units (39), and each side wall (43) having a respective upper part, these upper parts delimiting an upper mouth of the container (40). ) closed in a closing position with a lid (48) of the container (40) after filling it with the plurality of product units (39); where the bottom (41), the side walls (43) and the lid (48) determine an interior volume of the container (40) for said filling; and the container (40) also comprising a blocking device (10) that forms an integral part of the semi-rigid laminar material of the container (40), arranged in an overlapping area where a first and second layers of said semi-rigid laminar material are superimposed, being the locking device (10) configured to lock the lid (48) in the closed position; understanding the machine (100): a punch (101) configured to bend a blocking member (11) of the blocking device (10) of the container (40), with respect to the first and second flat surfaces of the overlapping zone, through a bending zone (13) of the device blocker (10) adjacent to the blocker member (11), the blocker member (11), once folded, being inserted and locked in a blocker opening (12) formed at least partially upon bending of the blocker member (11); and a punching die (102) comprising a punching member (102a, 102b), the punching member (102a, 102b) comprising a flat punching surface (103) and a punching cavity (104), the punch being ( 101) insertable and removable in the punching cavity (104) to allow said bending, insertion and locking, and wherein the flat punching surface (103) is configured to support at least a portion of the overlap zone upon insertion of the punch (101) in the punching cavity (104); characterized because The punch (101) is movable by a punch drive (105) of the machine (100) according to a linear punching direction (Z) perpendicular to the flat punching surface (103), between a rest position, where the punch (101) allows the transport of containers (40) already closed or to be closed, and a working position where the punch (101) is inserted into the punching cavity (104) to bend and insert the blocking member (11) , and to lock the locking member (11) in the locking opening (12) in cooperation with the punching die (102); In the working position, the punch (101) and the punching die (102) are located superiorly and inferiorly adjacent, respectively, or vice versa, to respective layers of the overlapping zone of the container (40) located on the outer periphery a the upper mouth closed with the cover (48), where a first lower layer of the overlapping area corresponds to a rim (46) that defines a first flat surface, which extends folded outwards with respect to an upper part of one of the side walls (43), and where a second upper layer of the overlapping area corresponds to a lid extension (49) of the lid (48) that defines a second flat surface overlapping the rim (46); the punch (101) and the punching die (102) being located outside the interior volume of the container (40) to close the container with the blocking device (10). 12. - Machine (100) according to claim 11, which comprises a plurality of punches (101), and wherein the punching die (102) comprises a plurality of punching cavities (104), for the formation of a plurality of locking devices (10), each punch (100) being in the working position facing a corresponding punching cavity (104), and each punch (101) being insertable and removable in a corresponding punching cavity (104), and wherein the plurality of punches (101) and the plurality of punching cavities (104) are distributed at respective peripheral points along the outer periphery of the upper mouth closed with the cover (48). 13. - Machine (100) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the punching die (102) is movable between a retracted position, to allow the transport of containers (40) already closed or to be closed, and an extended position, wherein the punch (101) or the plurality of punches (101) facing the punching cavity (104) or the plurality of punching cavities (104) to allow the insertion of the punch (101) or the plurality of punches (101 ) in the punching cavity (104) or the plurality of punching cavities (104). 14. - Machine (100) according to claim 13, further comprising a conveyor device (120) comprising at least one conveyor member (121) movable by a conveyor drive (122) to transport already closed containers (40) and/or or to be closed by the punch (101) and the punching die (102). 15. - Machine (100) according to claim 13 or 14, further comprising at least one die drive (107) for moving the punching die (102) between the retracted and extended positions independently of the movement between the rest and rest positions. of the punch (101) or the plurality of punches (101) by at least one punch drive (105). 16. - Machine (100) according to the combination of claims 12 and 13, wherein the punching die comprises two die members (102a, 102b) mutually facing each other, each die member with at least one punching cavity (104) , each die member (102a, 102b) being movable by a respective die drive (107). 17. - Machine (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the punching die (102) comprises at least one die member (102a, 102b) essentially U-shaped. 18. - Machine (100) according to any of the preceding claims, which also comprises a centering device configured to laterally limit the position of the overlapping area of the container (40), at least prior to the insertion of one or more punches (101). ) in the punching cavity(s) (104), the centering device comprising two mutually opposite centering members (110), movable between respective retracted positions, and respective centering positions where they are configured to externally contact at least two mutually lateral parts opposite sides of the container (40). 19. - Machine (100) according to the combination of claims 16 and 18, wherein each centering member (110) of the centering device is movable together with a respective die member (102a, 102b) of the punching die (102). 20. - Machine (100) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising an upper stop device (150) located vertically above the flat punching surface (103), the upper stop device (150) being configured to maintain the lid (48) of the container (40) essentially parallel to the bottom (41) of the container (40), at least before and/or during the insertion of the punch (101) or punches (101) or the punching cavities ( 104).