EP0368888A1

EP0368888A1 - A packaging system

Info

Publication number: EP0368888A1
Application number: EP19880905976
Authority: EP
Inventors: David Brian Johnson; Toby Hugh Maddison
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1987-07-13
Filing date: 1988-07-13
Publication date: 1990-05-23
Also published as: WO1989000532A1; GB2229995A; GB9000490D0

Abstract

Système de conditionnement à partir duquel on peut réaliser un ouplusieurs conditionnements, comprenant un certain nombre de bandes (2) allongées en carton ou en matière rigide similaire, comportant chacune une pluralité de marques ou de lignes (6) de pliage s'étendant transversalement dans celles-ci. En outre est prévu un certain nombre d'éléments terminaux (4). Chaque élément terminal (4) est tiré d'une feuille de matière plastique et comporte une base rectangulaire (16) dotée d'un rebord (10) périphérique droit continu, s'étendant autour du périmètre de la base, ainsi qu'un canal (12) périphérique continu adjacent audit rebord (10) et situé à l'intérieur de celui-ci. Ce canal (12) est dimensionné pour recevoir une région de bordure longitudinale réalisée à partir d'une bande allongée sélectionnée, afin de former une paroi périphérique droite. Des protubérances (15) font saillie dans ledit canal (12) afin de localiser ladite bande (2) allongée et d'entrer en contact avec celle-ci.Packaging system from which one or more packages can be produced, comprising a number of elongated strips (2) of cardboard or similar rigid material, each comprising a plurality of marks or fold lines (6) extending transversely in these. In addition, a number of terminal elements (4) are provided. Each end element (4) is drawn from a plastic sheet and comprises a rectangular base (16) provided with a continuous straight peripheral rim (10), extending around the perimeter of the base, as well as a channel (12) continuous device adjacent to and situated inside said flange (10). This channel (12) is dimensioned to receive a longitudinal border region produced from a selected elongated strip, in order to form a straight peripheral wall. Protrusions (15) protrude into said channel (12) in order to locate said elongated strip (2) and to come into contact therewith.

Description

A PACKAGING SYSTEM

The present invention relates to a packaging system from which one or more packages can be formed, and to a package formed from said system. The invention also relates to an end or partition member for the package and for the packaging system.

Goods to be distributed by whatever means need to be protected by packaging, but storage problems can arise if more and more different size boxes have to be kept. Even if a large range of different size containers are available, there will still not be an ideally sized container for all of the goods to be packed. Traditional packaging techniques are also wasteful of both time and packaging materials when a variety of different goods are to be sent to a single destination. In this situation the goods may be individually wrapped and placed with others in a large container with consequent risk of damage.

Alternatively, the goods may be individually packed and despatched, but this increases postal or other despatch charges and there is a greater risk of individual items becoming mislaid. The present invention seeks to provide a packaging system to reduce the disadvantages described above.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a packaging system from which one or more packages can be formed, the system comprising in combination, at least one end member, and at least one elongate strip provided at intervals along its length with score lines about which the strip can be folded, the elongate strip being positionable on the end member to selectively form upstanding internal partitions and/or upstanding peripheral walls of a formed package, wherein the end member has locating means for locating the elongate strip in position.

Throughout the specification, the term "score line" is used to refer to a line about which the strip is arranged to fold. For example, the score line may be a linear fold, or an incised, slitted or otherwise eased line.

Preferably, a plurality of said end members and a substantial length of said elongate strip are provided. This enables a number of packages to be formed. These packages can be very different in construction according to packaging requirements. For example, a short length of the strip can be cut and/or folded and positioned on the end member to form one or more walls extending over only a part of the perimeter of the end member. A tray with a lateral opening is thereby formed. If a length of the strip long enough to extend around the full perimeter of the end member is positioned, an open-topped box is constructed. It is also possible to use the strip to form internal partitions within the box or tray. This partitioning can be positioned as required. For example, a container could be divided to have one or two small areas adjacent, but partitioned from, one much larger area such that articles-of very different shape and size could be safely packaged together in the same container. From the above, it will be appreciated that the provision only of a plurality of end members and a substantial length of the elongate strip enables a wide variety of different packages to be formed. The end members can be utilized not only to form the bases but also to close the tops of the containers being formed. In addition, the end members can be used as partition members.

The height of any tray or container formed from the packaging system is determined by the transverse dimension of the elongate strip. It is therefore preferred that the packaging system further comprises a number of elongate strips, each having a different transverse dimension. This increases still further the variety of different packages that can be formed by a packaging system of the invention.

Furthermore, the score lines in the or each elongate strip preferably extend substantially transversely thereof and are regularly spaced along its length. Where a plurality of elongate strips are provided it is preferred that the longitudinal spacing between adjacent score lines in all of the strips is substantially identical.

The shape of the perimeter of each end member can be chosen as required. However, it is preferred that each perimeter have a regular shape, for example, be circular, square or rectangular.

In a preferred embodiment, each end member has a square or rectangular perimeter and is divided by intersecting linear channels formed therein into one or more areas bounded by straight sides. For example. these areas may be triangular, rectangular or square. Preferably, these areas are equally sized square areas. The linear channel? are arranged to receive and locate a longitudinally extending edge of the elongate strip to thereby form and locate partitions with respect to. the end member.

For maximum versatility, the length of the sides of the square areas of the end member is equal to, or a multiple of, the longitudinal spacing between adjacent score lines of the elongate strips.

Preferably, each end member has an upstanding peripheral rim which extends substantially all the. way around the perimeter of the end member. A continuous peripheral channel extends in the base member adjacent to and within said peripheral rim for receipt of a longitudinal edge region of an elongate strip. Engagement of the elongate strip in said peripheral channel forms and locates an upstanding peripheral wall. Additionally or alternatively to the embodiments of this invention described above, in a preferred embodiment, each end member has a square or rectangular perimeter, and an upstanding peripheral rim which extends substantially all the way around the perimeter of the end member. A continuous peripheral channel extends in the base member adjacent to and within said peripheral rim for receipt of a longitudinal edge region of an elongate strip. Engagement of the elongate strip in said peripheral channels forms and locates an upstanding peripheral wall. Preferably, one or more protrusions project in said peripheral channel for engaging and retaining an elongate strip therein. For example, each said protrusion extends substantially transversely of the peripheral channel.

In an embodiment, one or more openings are formed in said elongate strip, for example, to form support members, handle means or the like.

In a preferred embodiment the packaging system further comprises at least one rail, and securing means for said rail engageable with an end member and/or with an elongate strip.

Preferably a hook member is provided at each end of the rail. Generally, the hook member is arranged to engage a longitudinal edge region of an elongate strip. By this means, the rail can be supported to extend within the peripheral wall of a formed package for supporting goods, for example, garments on hangers. Preferably, said rail is tubular and said hook members each carry a projection engageable within a respective end of said tubular rail member.

In an embodiment the packaging system further comprises at least one elongate flange and means for supporting the flange on an interior surface of the upstanding internal partitions and/or the upstanding peripheral walls of a formed package to project inwardly. For example, one or more such flanges can be arranged to engage contents of the formed package to locate or retain said contents. Additionally and/or alternatively, two or more of said flanges can be arranged to support elongate panels, trays or the like to partition the formed package along planes at an angle to said upstanding partitions and peripheral walls. In an embodiment a pair of said flanges are provided and said supporting means are arranged such that said flanges extend substantially horizontally at a similar level. Preferably, each said flange is formed by folding an elongate piece of material longitudinally to form two arms at an angle to one another, one of said arms defining the flange and the other of said arms forming supporting means arranged to be secured on an interior surface of the upstanding internal partitions and/or the upstanding peripheral walls of a formed package. Preferably, the supporting arm is stitched or adhered to said interior surface of the upstanding partitions and/or walls.

The packaging system further comprises an end member having a first continuous channel extending substantially all the way around said end member, and a second continuous channel extending substantially all the way around said end member within said first channel, each of said first and second channels being arranged to receive therein a longitudinally extending edge of an elongate strip, said first and second channels facing in opposite directions such that an elongate strip engaged in one of said first and second channels forms an upstanding wall whereas an elongate strip engaged in the other of said first and second channels forms a depending wall. Such an end member with first and second enclosing channels can be arranged to form an intermediate partition in a package._.

Preferably, the packaging system includes means for holding the package formed together. Such holding means may comprise, for example, shrink wrapping applied around the package and/or adhesive applied between the or each end member and the respective strip. In an embodiment said holding means comprise one or more holding bands to be applied around the formed package. The use of holding bands is particularly appropriate where each package formed comprises two opposed and spaced end members forming the bottom and top of a container, and a length of elongate strip folded to form at least the peripheral wall of the container and spanning said two end members.

The present invention also extends to a package formed from a packaging system as defined above. According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a package comprising a top, a bottom and a peripheral wall spanning said top and said bottom, wherein said top and bottom are formed by two opposed and spaced end members which are substantially identical in size, and said peripheral wall is formed by an elongate strip extending around the perimeter of said spaced end members, and further comprising means holding the spaced end members and said elongate strip in position.

Preferably, said holding means comprises one or more bands extending around the package. In an embodiment, each said band is formed of polypropylene.

In an embodiment, each said end member is provided with channels or grooves in which the longitudinal edges of said elongate strip engage.

The package may be provided with one or more internal partitions. Preferably, the or each internal partition is defined by a length of said elongate strip. The lengths of strip forming the internal partition or partitions may be attached to the strip forming the peripheral wall. Preferably, further channels or grooves are provided in said end members in which the longitudinal edges of elongate strip forming the partition or partitions engage. In a preferred embodiment a further end member substantially identical in size to said top and bottom members is provided intermediate said top and bottom members, and said peripheral wall is formed by a first elongate strip extending around the perimeter of said spaced bottom and intermediate members and a second elongate strip extending around the perimeter of said spaced intermediate and top members.

The present invention also extends to an end member for use in a packaging system as defined above, and to an end member for forming the top, the bottom or an internal partition of a package as defined above.

According to a still further aspect of the present invention, there is provided an end member for a package, said end member having an upstanding peripheral rim extending around its perimeter, a peripheral channel extending adjacent to and within said peripheral rim, and one or more linear channels extending in said end member within said peripheral channel. The present invention also extends to a partition member for a package, said partition member having a first continuous channel extending substantially all the way around the perimeter of said partition member, and a second continuous channel extending adjacent to and within said first channel, said first and second channels facing in opposite directions.

In an embodiment at least one of said channels includes one or more protrusions extending transversely thereof. Preferably, the protrusions are located at corners of said channel.

In an embodiment, an end or partition member has a number of linear channels which intersect to divide the end member into a number of areas, preferably equally sized square areas. The end or partition member is preferably formed of a plastics material, for example, polypropylene. In an embodiment, each end member is drawn from a sheet of the plastics material. Alternatively, the end member can be injection moulded. In an embodiment, each square area in the end member defined by said channels is moulded to comprise four upstanding corner projections which project in the same direction as the peripheral rim. Preferably, the upstanding peripheral rim is continuous and projects further than said upstanding projections. Each group of four upstanding corner projections is arranged to define a circular area within the respective square area. Each said upstanding projection has an outline substantially in the form of a right-angled triangle with an arcuate hypotenuse. The present invention also extends to a support rail comprising an elongate member, and a respective hook member engageable at each end of the elongate member. Preferably, the elongate member is tubular. In an embodiment each hook member has a projection engageable within a respective end of said tubular member, each said projection being hollow.

Embodiments of the present invention will hereinafter be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-

Figs la and lb show the basic elements of a packaging system of the invention;

Figs 2a and 2b show a plan view from above and a view from below of an end member of the packaging system;

Fig. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a package formed from a packaging system of the invention; Fig. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of an internally partitioned package; Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of an internally partitioned package;

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a package formed from a packaging system of the invention; Fig. 7 shows a plan view from below of an end member used in trhe formation of the package of Fig.

6;

Fig. 8a shows a plan view from below of an end member of an alternative embodiment of a packaging system;

Fig. 8b shows a section along line A-A of the end member of Fig. 8a;

Fig. 9a shows a perimeter wall formed from an elongate strip for use with the end member of Figs 8a and 8b;

Fig. 9b shows an exploded perspective view of a package formed from the elements of Figs 8a and 9a;

Fig. 10a shows an end elevation of a hook member for use in the package of Fig 9b;

Fig. 10b shows a section of the hook member taken along the line B-B of Fig 10a;

Fig. 11 shows a section through a package of the invention with internal retention means; Fig. 12 shows a section through an alternative, multi-layered package;

Fig. 13a shows a plan view from above of an intermediate member for use in a multi-layered package, and Figs 13b and 13c show respectively a section along the lines A-A and B-B of the intermediate member of Fig. 13a.

Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals have been used to refer to the same or similar features.

Fig. 1 illustrates the basic elements of a packaging system of the invention, the system having been designed for maximum versatility such that a wide variety of packages meeting- a wide variety of criteria can be easily produced from a small number of basic, simple components. The basic elements of the packaging system are a number of elongate strips 2, each having a different transverse dimension, as illustrated in Fig. la, and a plurality of end members 4, as shown in Fig. lb.

Each elongate strip 2 is made of cardboard or similar stiff material and has a plurality of score or fold lines 6 formed therein which extend transversely thereof. These score lines β are regularly spaced along the length of the respective strip 2 , and indeed, for maximum versatility, the longitudinal spacing of the score lines 6 in all of the strips 2 should be substantially identical. For example, five elongate strips 2 , respectively 80 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm and 400 mm in width in the transverse direction could be provided, the longitudinal spacing of adjacent score lines 6 in each elongate strip 2 being 100 mm.

One or more lengths of a cardboard strip 2 of the required width is utilized with one or two end members 4 as illustrated in Fig. lb to form the package required.

The end member 4 shown in Fig. lb is preferably drawn from a sheet of plastics material, for example, polypropylene, so as to be light but substantially rigid. The member 4 has a rectangular base 16 and a continuous, upstanding, slightly outwardly inclined, peripheral rim 10 extending around the perimeter 16. The end member 4 is thus generally in the shape of a tray.

The end member 4 illustrated in Fig. lb has a rectangular perimeter. Although other perimeter shapes can be provided, it is generally preferred that the perimeter of the end member be circular, square or rectangular. Generally, a plurality of identical end members 4, for example, all as shown in Fig. lb would be provided. The end member 4 illustrated in Fig. lb has been formed by raising the base 16 to form a substantially continuous peripheral channel 12 adjacent to and within the peripheral rim 10. This channel 12 is dimensioned such that a longitudinal edge region of a selected elongate strip 2 can be received therein.

Insertion of an appropriate length of a strip 2 in the peripheral channel 12 enables the strip 2 to define an upstanding peripheral wall such that the end member 4 and the strip 2 form an open-ended box. A number of linear channels 20 extend transversely and longitudinally within the base 16 of the end member 4 and are arranged to intersect to thereby define a plurality of equally sized square areas 8 within the end member. In the example illustrated in Fig. lb there are six equally sized square areas 8 and the length of the sides of the square areas 8 is 100 mm, that is, equal to the longitudinal spacing between adjacent score lines 6 of the elongate strips 2.

The end member 4 is moulded such that each square area 8 comprises four upstanding corner projections 14 which project in the same direction as the peripheral rim 10. The upstanding corner projections 14 are each formed to have two protrusions 15 at the right angle. These protusions 15 project into respective ones of the channels 20 and the peripheral channel 12. The transverse dimensions of the channels 20 and 12 are generally sufficient to enable the longitudinal edge regions of two lengths of the elongate strip to be received therein. However, adjacent each protrusion 15 there is only space for a single length of the strip to be received. Thus, when single lengths of strip are located in any channel 12 or 20, the protrusions 15 projecting into that channel engage the strip and act to retain it in position.

The protrusions 15 may be formed to be collapsible, and those protrusions in any particular channel are collapsed where it is required to insert two lengths of the elongate strip within that channel. The upstanding projections 14 of the end member 4 are all substantially equal in height, size and shape and are arranged in a regular pattern. Within each square region a respective circular area 18 is defined by the group of four corner projections 14. As can be seen, each upstanding projection 14 has an outline which is substantially in the form of a right-angled triangle with an arcuate hypotenuse.

The end member 4 of Fig. lb has six square regions 16 arranged in two columns along the major dimension of its rectangular base 16. There is one linear channel 20 extending centrally of the base in the direction of its major dimension which is crossed by two transverse linear channels 20. Fig. 2a shows a partial plan view from above, as seen in Fig. lb of the moulded end member 4, whilst Fig, 2b shows a partial plan view from below.

A package formed from a selected strip 2 and two end members as 4, is illustrated in Fig. 3. The two end members 4,4' are identical and are arranged to be opposed and spaced relative to each other. A suitable length of elongate strip 2 is folded to define the four sides of the wall 22 of the package and is then located with respect to the bottom and top end members 4,4'. The height of the side wall 22 is chosen as required by the selection of a strip 2 having an appropriate width. A respective one of the longitudinal edges of the strip 2 is received in the peripheral channel 12 of the corresponding end member 4,4". The formed package, including any contents placed therein, can then be securely sealed by winding one or more bands 24 around the package and securing these bands. Preferably, the bands 24 are of a plastics material such as polypropylene and the free ends thereof are fastened by way of fasteners 26.

It has been found that a package as shown in Fig. 3 is quick and easy to fabricate, is light but sturdy, and sufficiently rigid and strong for use in most environments.

Because the end members 4 are identical trays with an outwardly inclined rim 10 they are stackable, and therefore until a package is made up, the packaging system requires a relatively small amount of space for its storage.

An example of an internally partitioned container is shown in Fig. 4. This container is very similar to that shown in Fig. 3 except that the holding bands 24 have been omitted and an internal partition 28 extends medially of the container in the direction of its major dimension. This internal partition 28 is formed by using a strip 2 of sufficient length that both its free ends can be bent at an appropriate score line 6 and received in the central internal channels 20 of the top and bottom end members 4,4' to extend centrally of the container. Instead of forming a double thickness internal partition 28 as shown, a single length of the strip 2 can be used to form the partition.

Additional and/or alternative internal partitions (not shown) can be formed either by suitably folding the free ends of the strip forming the peripheral wall or by cutting lengths of strip and locating the strip in appropriate ones of the channels 20. If the strip forming some or all of the partitions is detached from that making the peripheral wall, partitions of a height different from that of the walls could be provided if required.

Although it is sufficient to have a plurality of identical end members 4 with a set of elongate strips 2 of different widths, a greater variety of container sizes can be fabricated if a number of sizes of end member are provided. In this respect, each end member 4 will be either rectangular or square and will be made up of one or more of said square regions 8. An example of a container fabricated from a square end member 4" is illustrated in Fig. 5. It will be seen that the end member 4™ is divided into four square regions 8. This embodiment also illustrates the provision of internal partitioning to suitably divide the package formed.

In the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 1 to 5, the raised square areas 8 of the end members 4,4* and 4" have been moulded such that a respective circular area 18 is defined within each square area. Such circular areas 18 are particularly useful if the goods to be packaged have circular perimeters which fit into the areas 18.

In an embodiment (not illustrated) , particularly arranged for packaging bottles, an end member is provided which has rows of circular areas, as 18, defined by appropriate upstanding projections. Within each circular area, and concentric therewith, a smaller diameter, additional circular area is formed. The additional circular areas are sunk relative to the first circuluar areas, and in fact, the linear channels, as 20, extending along one dimension of the end member define the bottom surfaces of these additional circular areas. Linear channels, as 20, extending transversely to said one dimension may be omitted.

In use, a plurality of bottles are stood in the end member forming the base of the package.. The bottom of each bottle is received within a respective one of the first circular areas. A side wall is formed from an elongate strip, as 2, having an appropriate width and then a second end member to form the lid of the package is positioned such that the longitudinal edges of the strip engage in the peripheral channel of the lid. The top of each bottle engages in a respective additional circular area of the end member forming the lid. The bottles are therefore engaged at both their top and their bottom such that internal partitioning of the package is not generally required. The formed package is then secured by polypropylene bands, as previously. unless the package is specifically required for packaging objects, such as bottles and cans, having a circular perimeter, the circular areas, as 18, can be omitted from the end members. Figs 6 and 7 show a preferred embodiment of a general purpose package of the invention, and of the end member used in the formation of the package.

The package shown in Fig. 6 has been formed using two identical end members 104 which are rectangular in shape. As previously, these end members 104 are arranged opposed to, and spaced relative to each other. A suitable length of elongate strip is folded to define the four sides of the wall 22 of the package and is then located with respect to the bottom and top end members 104, with the longitudinal edges of the strip in the peripheral channels 12 extending around each end member.

It will be seen from Fig. 7, that, as in the embodiments described above, each end member 104 has its peripheral channel 12 defined by the raised base 16 to extend within the peripheral rim 10 of the end member. In addition, the transversely and longitudinally extending linear channels 20 define square areas 8. However, in this embodiment, the square areas 8 have not been further shaped.

The packaging system described and illustrated enables a variety of different size packages to be fabricated. If five widths of elongate strip are provided with four different sizes of end member, a total of twenty differently sized containers can be formed. In this way, a package whose size is suitable for its contents can usually be made. However, in addition to this variation in overall size, it is also possible to provide a variety of internal partitions to meet packaging requirements.

The packages so formed are preferably secured by bands 24 holding two base members to their peripheral wall 22 as illustrated in Figs. 3, and 5 and 6. This provides a particularly secure arrangement. However, it would be possible to secure the package by providing a shrink wrap either all around the package or just as a sleeve. Additionally and/or alternatively the strips forming the peripheral wall and/or the internal partitions could be adhered to one or both end members.

In some circumstances, for example, where the package is to be shrink wrapped, it may be sufficient to omit the end member forming the top and thereby form an open topped package or tray.

An alternative embodiment of a package formed by a packaging system of the invention is shown in Fig. 9b, in which an elongate strip 2 has been folded about score or other fold lines 6 to form an upstanding perimeter wall 22 having four sides and defining a substantially rectangular cross-section. The wall 22 includes two door panels 40 which are arranged to be overlapped to close one end of the package. The end member 4 shown in Figs 8a and 8b, has a substantially rectangular periphery and a continuous, upstanding, slightly outwardly inclined, peripheral rim 10, extending around its perimeter. The end member 4 has been formed by raising the base 16, to form a substantially continuous peripheral channel 12, adjacent to and within the peripheral rim 10.

A number of linear channels 20 extend longitudinally within the base 16 of the end member 4. In addition three linear channels 42 extend within the base 16 to form transverse ribs 44 on the exterior surface of the end member 4. As can be seen most clearly in Figure 8b, each of the transverse channels 42 has a substantially w—shaped base whereby a depression 46 is defined in the exterior surface of each rib 44.

It will be seen that the end member 4 of "Figure 8a has a number of protrusions 15 extending transversely of the peripheral channel 12. These protrusions 15 are arranged to engage the longitudinal edge of an elongate strip 2 located in the channel. In this respect, the thickness of the elongate strip 2 is arranged to be smaller than the transverse extent of the peripheral channel 12 and is arranged to be locally deformed by the protrusions to thereby enable the end member 4 to be reliably engaged on the edge of an elongate strip 2 even where there are variations in the thickness of the elongate strip.

The package shown in Fig. 9b, which is formed by retaining the perimeter wall 22 defined by the elongate strip 2 between two end members 4 and 4¹, is specifically designed for use in transporting garments. In this respect, a garment rail 50 is provided. The garment rail 50 is formed by a cardboard tube, straight wound for rigidity. A respective hook member 52 is engaged within each end of the cardboard tube. Each hook member 52 is hooked over the top longitudinal edge of the perimeter wall 22 of the package to form the transversely extending garment rail 50 illustrated in Figs 9a and 9b.

It is envisaged that in use the elongate strip 2, will be erected to form the perimeter wall 22 of the package, but with the door panels 40 left open as is shown in Fig. 9a. The garment rail 50 is supported by the hook members 52 on the upper edges of the perimeter wall to extend transversely, as is also illustrated. This package can then be used, for example, in a warehouse, for the storage of garments. If the garments are then to be transported, the door panels 40 are overlapped to close the end of the perimeter wall 22. Preferably, openings 54 are provided in the door panels 40 and are arranged to be aligned on closing. The two door panels can be fastened together in their closed position by appropriate fastening means (not shown) engaging through the openings 54.

Preferably, openings (not shown) corresponding to the openings 54 are provided in the opposed end panel of the perimeter wall 22. These openings enable the closed perimeter wall, together with the garment rail 50 and any garments hanging therefrom, to be lifted onto a bottom end member 4 and to be positioned as illustrated in Fig. 9b. A_.top end member 4-*- is then - positioned to close the top of the package which is then secured by bands 24, preferably of a plastics material such as polypropylene.

In the embodiment illustrated, three securing bands 24 are used. Each band is arranged to extend along a respective depression 46 along the exterior surface of the end members 4, ^. The circumference 51 of the cardboard tube forming the garment rail 50 is indicated on Figure 8b and it will be seen that it is arranged to be received within the central transverse channel 42 of the top end member 41. In fact, this central channel 42 is dimensioned such that it serves to grip hanger hooks

(not shown) hanging from the garment rail 50. At each, end of the central transverse channel 42, the base 16 of the end member is depressed to form regions 56 in which the hook members 52 are received when the package of Fig. 9b is assembled.

An end elevation and an elongate section through one of the hook members 52 is illustrated in Figs 10a and 10b. These hook members 52 are preferably made of a plastics material. Each hook member 52 comprises a substantially flat plate 60, from one surface of which a double walled tube projects to form a projecting stub 62. This projecting stub 62 is arranged to engage within one end of the cardboard tube forming the garment rail 50. To enhance this engagement, the periphery of the projecting stub 62 is provided with a number of circumferential ribs 64. The projecting stub 62 of each hook member 52 is engaged in the respective end of the cardboard tube (not illustrated) such that the tube and the stubs 62 are coaxial. This enables a solid rod (not shown) to be pushed through the entire garment rail structure 50 consisting of the cardboard tube and the hook members 52 if required.

At its top edge, the flat plate 60 of each hook member 52 is bent over to define a hook portion 66 for engagement over the top longitudinal edge of the perimeter wall 22. As is also illustrated, one or more stiffening ribs 68 are formed to stand proud of the plate 60.

An example of a package with internal retention means is illustrated in Fig. 11. Fig. 11 shows a pa_#ckage formed from top and bottom end members 4, 4*--, spanned by an elongate strip 2 folded to define the four sides of the wall 22 of the package.

In the example of Fig. 11, a substantially rectangular plant pot 70 is supported on the base end member 4. Plants 72 extend upwardly from the pot 70 and it is important that the pot 70 be retained against the bottom end member 4 to avoid crushing or other damage to the plants 72.

The particular pot 70 may be one of the type disclosed in international Patent Application No. PCT/GB87/00819.

To ensure the safe retention of the pot 70 against the bottom end member 4, retention means generally indicated at 74 are provided. Each retention means is formed from a single elongate piece of material, preferably of corrugated cardboard material. The material is bent about a. longitudinally extending score or other fold line to define two arms 76, 78 extending substantially at right angles. The first arm 76 is secured to one panel of the wall 22 to extend therealong such that the second arm 78 forms an elongate, substantially horizontal, inwardly extending flange for engagement with a top surface of the pot 70. In the embodiment of Fig. 11, two retention means 74 are arranged on the wall 22 opposite to each other. The first arms 76 of the retention means can be secured as required to the wall 22. In the illustrated embodiment, these arms 76 have been sewn to the wall 22.

The piece of material from which each retention means 74 is formed preferably has corrugations (not shown) which extend transversely to the longitudinal extent of the material. This means that the fold line cuts through all of the corrugations such that the second transversely extending arm 78 is biased to increase its angle relative to its first arm 76. This causes the flange formed by the second arm 78 to exert a clamping effect on the pot 70. Fig. 12 shows an example of a multi-layered package utilising an intermediate end member 400. The intermediate member 400, which is illustrated in Figs 13a, 13b, 13c, is similar to the end members 4, and 4*, except that at its- periphery it is formed to have a first, outer peripheral channel 412 and a second peripheral channel 414 adjacent to and within said first channel 412. As is clear from Figs 12 and 13, the first and second channels 412 and 414 open in opposite directions. Thus, whilst the inner peripheral channel 414 opens upwardly and can therefore engage an upstanding wall 22, the outer peripheral channel 412 opens downwardly and has depending peripheral wall 422 engaged therein. By this means the multi-layered construction illustrated is formed and the intermediate member 400 forms a substantially horizontal partition.

The intermediate member 400 is dimensioned such that the diameter of its outer channel 412 is slightly greater than that of the peripheral channel 12 of a corresponding end member 4. Similarly the diameter of the inner channel 414 is slightly smaller than that of the peripheral channel 12. These two channels 412, 414 are interconnected by a downwardly inwardly inclined wall 420 whereas the other walls of each channel extend substantially vertically.

As is evident from Fig. 12, the top longitudinal edge of the depending wall 422 is deflected outwardly for engagement in the outer channel 412, whereas the bottom longitudinal edge of the upstanding wall 22 is deflected inwardly for engagement in the inner channel 414. The deflection of the longitudinal edges of the upstanding and depending walls 22 and 422 to engage in the respective inner and outer channels 414 and 412 is aided by way of protrusions 415 which extend transversely of the inner channel 414 at each corner thereof. It will be appreciated that as the bottom longitudinal edge of the upstanding wall 22 is engaged in the inner channel 414 it is crushed and deformed at its corners by the protrusions 415. Not only does this deformation assist in the inward deflection of the longitudinal edge of the upstanding wall 22, it also reduces the effective perimeter of the wall 22 to ensure reliable engagement between the longitudinal edge of the wall 22 and the intermediate member 400. Similarly, the effective perimeter of the upper longitudinal edge of the depending wall 422 is enlarged by the protrusions 415 to ensure its reliable engagement within the outer channel 412.

The invention has been described above with reference to illustratd embodiments. Of course, it will be appreciated that modifications and variations may be made to the invention within the scope of the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:-

1. A packaging system from which one or more packages can be formed, the system comprising in combination, at least one end member, and at least one elongate strip provided at intervals along its length with score lines about which the strip can be folded, the elongate strip being positionable on the end - member to selectively form upstanding internal partitions and/or upstanding peripheral walls of a formed package, wherein the end member has locating means for locating the elongate strip in position.

2. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein a plurality of said end members and a substantial length of said elongate strip are provided.

3. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 1 or 2, further comprising a number of elongate strips, each having a different transverse dimension.

4. A packaging system as claimed in any preceding Claim, wherein the score lines in the or each elongate strip preferably extend substantially transversely thereof and are regularly spaced along its length.

5. A packaging system as claimed in any preceding Claim, wherein the or each end member has a square or rectangular perimeter and is divided by intersecting linear channels formed therein into one or more areas bounded by straight sides, said linear channels being arranged to receive and locate a longitudinally extending edge region of an elongate strip to thereby form and locate partitions with respect to the end member.-

6. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 5, wherein said areas are square, and the length of the sides of the square areas of the end member is equal to, or a multiple of, the longitudinal spacing between adjacent score lines of the elongate strips.

7. A packaging system as claimed in any preceding Claim, wherein the or each end member has an upstanding peripheral rim which extends substantially all the way around the perimeter of the end member, and a continuous peripheral channel extends in the base member adjacent to and within said peripheral rim for receipt of a longitudinal edge region of an elongate strip such that engagement of the elongate strip in said peripheral channel forms and locates an upstanding peripheral wall.

8. A packaging system from which one or more packages can be formed, the system comprising in combination, at least one end member, and at least one elongate strip provided at intervals along its length with score lines about which the strip can be folded, the elongate strip being positionable on the end member to selectively form upstanding internal partitions and/or upstanding peripheral walls of a formed package, wherein the or each end member has a square or rectangular perimeter, and an upstanding peripheral rim which extends substantially all the way around the perimeter of the end member, and a continuous peripheral channel extends in the base member adjacent to and within said peripheral rim for receipt of a longitudinal edge region of an elongate strip such that engagement of the elongate strip in said peripheral channels forms and locates an upstanding peripheral wall.

9. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 7 or 8, wherein one or more protrusions project in said peripheral channel for engaging and retaining an elongate strip therein.

10. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 9, wherein each said protrusion extends substantially transversely of the peripheral channel.

11. A packaging system as claimed in any preceding Claim, wherein one or more openings are formed in said elongate strip, for example, to form support members, handle means or the like.

12. A packaging system as claimed in any preceding Claim, further comprising at least one rail, and securing means for said rail engageable with an end member and/or with an elongate strip.

13. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 12, wherein a hook member is provided. at each end of the rail and is arranged to engage a longitudinal edge region of an elongate strip.

all the way around said end member within said first channel, each of said first and second channels being arranged to receive therein a longitudinally extending edge of an elongate strip, said first and second channels facing in opposite directions such that an elongate strip engaged in one of said first and second channels forms an upstanding wall whereas an elongate strip engaged in the other of said first and second channels forms a depending wall.

18. A packaging system as claimed in any preceding Claim, further comprising means for holding the package formed together.

19. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 18, wherein said holding means comprise shrink wrapping applied around the package and/or adhesive applied between the or each end member and the respective strip.

20. A packaging system as claimed in Claim 18, wherein said holding means comprise one or more holding bands to be applied around the formed package.

21. A package formed from a packaging system as claimed in any preceding Claim.

22. A package comprising a top, a bottom and a peripheral wall spanning said top and said bottom, wherein said top and bottom are formed by two opposed and spaced end members which are substantially identical in size, and said peripheral wall is formed by an elongate strip extending around the perimeter of said spaced end members, and further comprising means holding the spaced end members and said elongate strip in position.

23. A package as claimed in Claim 22, wherein said holding means comprises one or more bands extending around the package.

24. A package as claimed in Claim 22 or 23, wherein each said end member is provided with channels or grooves in which the longitudinal edges of said elongate strip or strips engage.

25. A package as claimed in any of Claims 22 to

24, wherein the package is divided transversely by elongate strip or strips arranged to form upstanding internal partitions.

26. A package as claimed in any of Claims 22 to

25, wherein a further end member substantially identical in size to said top and bottom members is provided intermediate said top and bottom members, and said peripheral wall is formed by a first elongate strip extending around the perimeter of said spaced bottom and intermediate members and a second elongate strip extending around the perimeter of said spaced intermediate and top members.

27. An end member for use in a packaging system as claimed in any of the Claims 1 to 20. 28. An end member for forming the top, the bottom or an internal partition of a package as claimed in any of the Claims 21 to 26.

29. An end member for a package, said end member having an upstanding peripheral rim extending around its perimeter, a peripheral channel extending adjacent to and within said peripheral rim, and one or more linear channels extending in said end member within said peripheral channel.

30. A partition member for a package, said partition member having a first continuous channel extending substantially all the way around the perimeter of said partition member, and a second continuous channel extending adjacent to and within said first channel, said first and second channels facing in opposite directions.

31. An end or partition member as claimed in

Claim 29 or 30, wherein at least one of said channels includes one or more protrusions extending transversely thereof.

32. An end or partition member as claimed in Claim 31, wherein the protrusions are located at corners of said channel.

33. An end or partition member as claimed in any of Claims 29 to 32, having a plurality of linear channels which intersect to divide the end member into 34. An end or partition member as claimed in any of Claims 29 to 33, wherein said member is formed of a plastics material.

35. A packaging system substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

36. A package substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

37. An end or partition member substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.