EP1743844A1 - Caisse piable - Google Patents

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Publication number
EP1743844A1
EP1743844A1 EP06013227A EP06013227A EP1743844A1 EP 1743844 A1 EP1743844 A1 EP 1743844A1 EP 06013227 A EP06013227 A EP 06013227A EP 06013227 A EP06013227 A EP 06013227A EP 1743844 A1 EP1743844 A1 EP 1743844A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
stacking
crate
stacking bar
container
identification device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP06013227A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
John Dyer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
LA 2012 Ltd
Original Assignee
Linpac Allibert Ltd
Linpac Materials Handling Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Linpac Allibert Ltd, Linpac Materials Handling Ltd filed Critical Linpac Allibert Ltd
Publication of EP1743844A1 publication Critical patent/EP1743844A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
    • B65D21/02—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together
    • B65D21/06—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together with movable parts adapted to be placed in alternative positions for nesting the containers when empty and for stacking them when full
    • B65D21/062—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together with movable parts adapted to be placed in alternative positions for nesting the containers when empty and for stacking them when full the movable parts being attached or integral and displaceable into a position overlying the top of the container, e.g. bails, corner plates
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2203/00—Decoration means, markings, information elements, contents indicators
    • B65D2203/10—Transponders

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a stackable crate for the storage and transportation of goods, which has a radio frequency (RF) identification device.
  • the invention also relates to a stacking bar for use with a stackable crate.
  • Stacking crates normally include an open-topped container with a base and walls, and one or more stacking bars (or “bale arms"), that are adjustable to allow stacking of the crate with other crates in a plurality of stacking configurations.
  • the walls may be inclined or stepped to allow nesting of similar containers, or they may be upright. In the latter case, nesting is only possible with containers that have a smaller "footprint", allowing them to fit within the open top of the first container.
  • the walls may be attached to the base with hinges allowing them to be folded flat for convenient transportation or storage, for example as described in EP 1237791 .
  • EP 126193 7 relates to returnable items, for example containers, for use in the transportation and storage of commercial goods.
  • the returnable item includes a radio frequency (RF) identification device that is capable of transmitting a data signal to a nearby RF detector.
  • the data signal can be used to track the returnable item or its contents.
  • RF radio frequency
  • RF tags RF identification devices
  • the crate is normally made of a plastics material, by moulding.
  • a RF identification device When a RF identification device is provided, it is normally embedded within the walls or base of the crate during the moulding process.
  • tagged crates of the type described above have proved to be highly successful, there is a problem in that there are in existence many millions of crates that do not include a RF tag. Efforts have been made to retrofit RF tags to existing crates, for example by attaching the tags to the crates using a suitable adhesive. However, these efforts have not been entirely successful, since the attached tags can easily become detached or damaged in use. There is therefore a need for an improved method of tagging existing stacking crates.
  • a stackable crate for the storage and transportation of goods, the crate including a container with a base and walls, and one or more stacking bars that are adjustable to allow stacking of the crate with other similar crates in a plurality of stacking configurations, wherein at least one said stacking bar includes a RF identification device.
  • the stacking bars of stackable crates are designed to be removable, so that they can be replaced if they become damaged. Therefore, by replacing at least one of the stacking bars with a stacking bar that includes a RF identification device, RF tags can be attached very easily to existing crates. A user's entire stock of crates can therefore be tagged very easily and at low cost, thus avoiding the need for replacement. Furthermore, because the tags can be permanently attached to the stacking bars during the manufacturing process, the risk of them becoming damaged or detached can be very significantly reduced.
  • the RF identification device is embedded in the stacking bar.
  • the RF identification device may be embedded therein during moulding.
  • the risk of damage or detachment can be virtually eliminated.
  • the RF identification device can be securely attached to the stacking bar.
  • the stacking bar is pivotally connected to the container.
  • the stacking bar is preferably removably connected to the container.
  • the RF identification device includes an antenna and a drive circuit connected to the antenna for transmitting identification data.
  • a stacking bar for a stackable crate that is suitable for the storage and transportation of goods, the crate including a container with a base and walls, wherein the stacking bar includes a RF identification device and connection means for connecting the stacking bar to the container, such that the stacking bar can be adjusted to allow stacking of the crate with other similar crates in a plurality of stacking configurations.
  • the stacking bar includes a back portion and two leg portions at the ends thereof.
  • each leg portion includes a pivot element.
  • the RF identification device is embedded in the stacking bar.
  • the stacking bar is preferably made of a plastics material.
  • the stackable crate 2 shown in Figure 1 is of a known type and is similar for example to the container described in GB 1444356 , the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.
  • the crate includes an open-topped container 4 having a substantially rectangular base 6 and four upstanding walls comprising two long side walls 8 and two shorter end walls 10.
  • the walls 8,10 are inclined and/or stepped outwards, allowing a plurality of similar crates to be stacked in various configurations.
  • the crates can be stacked in a nested condition, in which the base and lower parts of the walls of the upper container are located within the upper parts of the walls of the lower container, so that the spacing between the bases of the adjacent crates is less than the height of an individual crate.
  • the crates can be stacked in a column-stacked configuration, in which the spacing between the bases is substantially equal to the height of the crate, as will be described below.
  • the upper parts of the walls are bent over to form a double wall section 12 comprising inner and outer walls.
  • the upper connecting part is cut away providing a slot between the inner and outer walls, for receiving a stacking bar, as will be described below.
  • the container is made of a moulded plastics material, for example by injection moulding.
  • Each stacking bar 18 is pivotally attached to the side walls. Both stacking bars are similar, one of the bars being shown in detail in Figure 2.
  • Each stacking bar 18 includes a straight back portion 20 and two leg portions 22, attached to opposite ends of the back portion. Each end portion 22 carries at its distal end an outwardly extending pivot pin 24. This pin is located in a hole 26 in the outer side wall, allowing pivoting movement of the stacking bar 18.
  • the stacking bars 18 may be pivotally adjusted between different positions to enable stacking in various configurations. For example, when the bars are in a first position as shown in Figure 1, the back portions 20 are spaced from the end walls 10 and overlie the base 6 of the container. This position allows for column stacking, the base of an upper crate being supported by the stacking bars. Alternatively, the stacking bars 18 can be pivoted to a second position (not shown), in which the back portions are located above the upper edges of the end walls 10 and therefore do not overlie the base. In this position, a plurality of crates can be stacked in a nested condition, in which the spacing of the bases is less than the height of a crate.
  • the features of the crate described above are all conventional and apply to a stackable crate of the general type described in GB1444356 .
  • the present invention is also applicable to stackable crates of other types, for example as described in EP0553540 , EP0557002 or EP1237791 .
  • the present invention differs from the prior art is in the provision of a RF identification tag 28, which is incorporated into one or both of the stacking bars 18.
  • the RF identification device 28 may be embedded within one leg 22 of the stacking bar, as represented in broken lines in Figure 2.
  • the stacking bar is made of a plastics material
  • the RF identification device may be embedded within the stacking bar during moulding.
  • the RF identification device 28 may be securely attached to the stacking bar, for example with an external fixture (not shown).
  • the RF identification device 28 may for example be of the type described in WO 01/67384 , the content of which is incorporated by reference herein.
  • the RF identification device generally comprises an antenna 30 for radio frequency (RF) use, and a drive circuit 32 that is connected to the antenna.
  • the drive circuit is operable to communicate by means of the antenna with an external RF receiving device (not shown), allowing it to transmit data identifying the crate and/or its contents.
  • the drive circuit 32 may be passive and arranged to respond in a predetermined manner to a signal received via the antenna 30 from an external source.
  • the drive circuit may be active and arranged to initiate transmission using the antenna.
  • a power supply such as a battery will be required and may be incorporated within the circuit.
  • the circuit in use, will be able to report data relating to the container, either when interrogated (in the case of a passive circuit) or spontaneously.
  • the circuit may report its identity, from which the identity of the container in which it is installed may be obtained from appropriate records, and thus the contents of the container identified.
  • the circuit may identify the container or the contents of that container. In the latter case, some form of re-writable memory could be used, together with a facility to change stored data. It is envisaged that the drive circuit would be loaded with appropriate data at the time the container is loaded with produce, the circuit being loaded with corresponding data to identify the produce.
  • the stacking bars 18 of stackable crates are generally designed to be removable, so that they can be replaced in the event of damage. It is therefore a simple matter to retrofit an existing untagged crate with a RF identification tag, simply by replacing one of the stacking bars with a new stacking bar that includes a RF identification tag. The owner of a large number of untagged crates can therefore easily apply tags to those crates, allowing their movement to be tracked.
  • the RF identification device may include more than one antenna, and the antennas can be oriented in different directions, so that the ability of the device to communication with an external RF device does not depend on their relative orientation.
  • the antennas may for example be located within one or both legs of the stacking bar, and/or within the back portion of the bar.
  • the walls of the container may be inclined or stepped to allow nesting of similar containers, or they may be upright. In the latter case, nesting is only possible with containers that have a smaller "footprint", allowing them to fit within the open top of the container.
  • the walls may be attached to the base with hinges, for example as described in EP 1237791 , allowing them to be folded flat for convenient transportation or storage.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Stackable Containers (AREA)
  • Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)
EP06013227A 2005-07-16 2006-06-27 Caisse piable Withdrawn EP1743844A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0514640A GB2428424A (en) 2005-07-16 2005-07-16 Stackable crate having a RF identification device

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1743844A1 true EP1743844A1 (fr) 2007-01-17

Family

ID=34897342

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP06013227A Withdrawn EP1743844A1 (fr) 2005-07-16 2006-06-27 Caisse piable

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1743844A1 (fr)
GB (1) GB2428424A (fr)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2228313A1 (fr) * 2009-03-13 2010-09-15 Rehrig Pacific Company Stapelbarer Behälter mit Mehrfachdrehung
EP2426059A3 (fr) * 2010-09-01 2012-05-09 John Paul Kapla Récipient emboîtable et gerbable
EP2520507A1 (fr) 2011-05-05 2012-11-07 Linpac Allibert Bac pliable
DE202016006632U1 (de) 2016-10-27 2016-11-15 Filip Van Ceulebroeck Bausatz für Ausstellungszwecke
WO2017191137A1 (fr) 2016-05-02 2017-11-09 Easybuild Bvba Système de présentation modulaire pour la présentation et le support de marchandises et son procédé de construction
EP3838786A1 (fr) * 2019-12-18 2021-06-23 Schoeller Allibert GmbH Récipient doté d'un bras de balle ayant une section transversale localement réduite
US11820552B2 (en) 2019-08-26 2023-11-21 Rehrig Pacific Company Containers for oil bottles or the like

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP5844723B2 (ja) * 2012-12-10 2016-01-20 イフコ・ジャパン 株式会社 組立式合成樹脂製容器

Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1444356A (en) 1972-10-19 1976-07-28 Gpg Holdings Ltd Containers
EP0553540A1 (fr) 1992-01-30 1993-08-04 Lin Pac Mouldings Limited Récipient avec moyens d'empilage à trois niveaux différents
EP0557002A1 (fr) 1992-02-15 1993-08-25 McKechnie UK Limited Récipient empilable à plusieurs niveaux
DE4313049A1 (de) * 1993-04-21 1994-10-27 Michael L Hoeffgen Transportbehälter
DE19917114A1 (de) * 1999-04-15 2000-11-02 Schaefer Gmbh Fritz Kastenförmiger, einen Datenspeicher aufweisender Behälter aus Kunststoff
WO2001067384A1 (fr) 2000-03-03 2001-09-13 C. G. Paxton Limited Article consigne destine au stockage et au transport de marchandises commerciales
WO2001073675A2 (fr) * 2000-03-25 2001-10-04 Marconi Corporation Plc Dispositif d'identification de contenant
EP1237791A1 (fr) 1999-12-16 2002-09-11 C G Paxton Limited Recipients
GB2373240A (en) * 2001-03-02 2002-09-18 Mckechnie Invest Holdings A Stackable and Nestable Container

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1228482B1 (fr) * 1999-10-20 2003-04-09 IFCO Systems GmbH Systeme de reperage de conteneurs et conteneur reutilisable comprenant un transpondeur
WO2001044061A1 (fr) * 1999-12-06 2001-06-21 Schoeller Wavin Systems N.V. Recipient empilable pourvu d'un repondeur
GB2395708A (en) * 2002-11-26 2004-06-02 D W Plastics Nv Transponders in plastics carrier devices
NL1022546C1 (nl) * 2003-01-31 2004-08-03 Bekuplast Gmbh Kunststof reservoir met een transponder.

Patent Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1444356A (en) 1972-10-19 1976-07-28 Gpg Holdings Ltd Containers
EP0553540A1 (fr) 1992-01-30 1993-08-04 Lin Pac Mouldings Limited Récipient avec moyens d'empilage à trois niveaux différents
EP0557002A1 (fr) 1992-02-15 1993-08-25 McKechnie UK Limited Récipient empilable à plusieurs niveaux
US5772033A (en) * 1992-02-15 1998-06-30 Mckechnie Uk Limited Container
DE4313049A1 (de) * 1993-04-21 1994-10-27 Michael L Hoeffgen Transportbehälter
DE19917114A1 (de) * 1999-04-15 2000-11-02 Schaefer Gmbh Fritz Kastenförmiger, einen Datenspeicher aufweisender Behälter aus Kunststoff
EP1237791A1 (fr) 1999-12-16 2002-09-11 C G Paxton Limited Recipients
WO2001067384A1 (fr) 2000-03-03 2001-09-13 C. G. Paxton Limited Article consigne destine au stockage et au transport de marchandises commerciales
EP1261937A1 (fr) 2000-03-03 2002-12-04 C G Paxton Limited Article consigne destine au stockage et au transport de marchandises commerciales
WO2001073675A2 (fr) * 2000-03-25 2001-10-04 Marconi Corporation Plc Dispositif d'identification de contenant
GB2373240A (en) * 2001-03-02 2002-09-18 Mckechnie Invest Holdings A Stackable and Nestable Container

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2228313A1 (fr) * 2009-03-13 2010-09-15 Rehrig Pacific Company Stapelbarer Behälter mit Mehrfachdrehung
EP2471721A1 (fr) * 2009-03-13 2012-07-04 Rehrig Pacific Company Récipient empilable en positions multiples
US8292078B2 (en) 2009-03-13 2012-10-23 Rehrig Pacific Company Multi-position stackable container
US8561800B2 (en) 2009-03-13 2013-10-22 Rehrig Pacific Company Multi-position stackable container
EP2426059A3 (fr) * 2010-09-01 2012-05-09 John Paul Kapla Récipient emboîtable et gerbable
EP2520507A1 (fr) 2011-05-05 2012-11-07 Linpac Allibert Bac pliable
WO2017191137A1 (fr) 2016-05-02 2017-11-09 Easybuild Bvba Système de présentation modulaire pour la présentation et le support de marchandises et son procédé de construction
EP3725972A1 (fr) 2016-05-02 2020-10-21 Easybuild bvba Système de présentation modulaire pour l'affichage et support de marchandises et son procédé de montage
DE202016006632U1 (de) 2016-10-27 2016-11-15 Filip Van Ceulebroeck Bausatz für Ausstellungszwecke
US11820552B2 (en) 2019-08-26 2023-11-21 Rehrig Pacific Company Containers for oil bottles or the like
EP3838786A1 (fr) * 2019-12-18 2021-06-23 Schoeller Allibert GmbH Récipient doté d'un bras de balle ayant une section transversale localement réduite

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB0514640D0 (en) 2005-08-24
GB2428424A (en) 2007-01-31

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