EP2558375B1 - Load support device made of cardboard material that can withstand pressure forces exerted thereon - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL SECTOR

The present invention relates to the technical sector of load-bearing type devices, that is to say a device capable of withstanding the pressure forces exerted notably laterally, in particular vertically, or in other directions, as will be explained hereinafter, etc., for example the weight of a load posed or fixed on said support device (in the preferred case of a stress or load exerted vertically).

PRIOR ART

Pallet type devices are known to be produced by assembling pieces of wood (mainly) fastened in particular by nails, glues, staples, screws, etc., and the like.

These devices make it possible to manipulate the load that will be placed therein for example to move it.

These devices consist of a wooden tray under which rows of wooden support elements will be fixed. These support elements are spaced apart to allow their handling and allow the arms of machines such as lift trucks or pallet trucks to pass between the elements to allow the gripping and handling of the pallet / load device assembly. . All this is well known to those skilled in the art and will not be detailed here further.

One of the disadvantages of wooden pallet type devices is that they are not recyclable. Indeed, a used pallet (deterioration over time and uses), will have to be burned or stored by the user.

Moreover, in some parts of the world, wood is very scarce, and it is absurd that countries import wood for the purpose of creating wooden pallets, which is, on the one hand, expensive and on the other hand expensive. ecologically prevents the use of wood for more useful purposes. They are also polluting because, to travel between countries and regions, they are increasingly treated with chemicals to rid them of their parasites and germs. Pollutants are sometimes powerful and contaminate vegetation. Brittle, wooden pallets emit particles and debris that can be dangerous for health, like splinters treated in the hands.

Another disadvantage is that the wooden pallets are relatively heavy, the weight may be between 10 and 30 kg and a handling agent without a trolley can lift more than 200 kg pallet (empty) per day with possible adverse consequences on his health.

On the other hand, these pallets are capable of receiving very high loads in vertical stress.

By "vertical" we refer to the direction of the Earth's gravitational force. Numerous documents are also known for the purpose of precisely replacing wood (with the aim of overcoming the drawbacks mentioned above) with cardboard type materials. Indeed, the skilled person has thought of creating cardboard elements on which come to rest a tray-type element, all forming the pallet. These elements are manufactured and assembled by adhesives or other adhesive elements to ensure the fixing of the walls between them. By "carton type" is meant here well known products made from low quality cellulosic pulps on paper machines or the like. The term "cardboard" is also very well known. Unfortunately, even if they have some resistance to loads, they do not provide satisfaction compared to traditional wooden pallets, especially in terms of strength, resistance to high loads, handling.

Indeed, accidental contacts or large loads literally "explode" or tear the support (s) cardboard. In addition, these pallets "in cartons" are assembled by hot gluing type thermo-fuse, with solvents, the various elements together. From an ecological point of view, this is not interesting either and represents a cost.

Today wooden pallets are still very widely and very mainly used all over the world, which is a proof that the proposed alternatives have not been judged by the person skilled in the art as being satisfactory, despite the disadvantages known since decades.

The industry considered has therefore turned away from the "cardboard" sector for the pallets of load, after unsuccessful or unsuccessful trials.

The applicant nevertheless decided to resume studies in the "cardboard" sector, despite the negative bias indicated, and filed a request for patent FR 1002482 A subject of the present invention is a folding system for locking or self locking surfaces between them.

This patent application is limited to the field of box type shoebox, trays, etc., therefore without special strength. This had not been envisaged in the prior art at all. In this general field, we know GB patent 1 433 722 which has a folding system, this to replace the glue by said folding system.

This prior system certainly represents a laudable attempt, but it is very limited in the sense that it is necessary to use cartons of very thin type, preferably of compact type or simple groove or simple micro groove because, in the use of large grooves or large thicknesses, the folding system takes more and more space and the box becomes unusable because the folding system, the rigidity can not be folded against a wall because of their rigidity accentuated. The higher the height of the box, the higher the folding system becomes important. The useful volume is encumbered by folding systems.

Then the patent GB 1 433 722 does not explore any track other than making boxes and does not indicate any load-lowering capability on double-reinforced edges.

This document, limited to the manufacture of "boxes" with deep bottoms and low wall heights, therefore contributes to reinforcing the prejudice of the prior art.

Other load-bearing devices of cardboard type material are for example described in US 2003/0000432 , GB 779014 , FR 2725179 , FR 2703327 and US 2005/0126449 .

The Applicant has looked for other possible uses, as part of its research on studs, spars or pallets, and was able to show that in a completely surprising way, if we now use such a type of "folding of locking ", adapted correctly, to form pads this allowed to strongly strengthen the characteristics of strength, strength and flexibility conferred on the pad, and that it could therefore bear very large loads. One of the merits of the Applicant is to have nevertheless sought an effective and elegant solution in the "cardboard" sector.

TECHNICAL PROBLEM POSE:

There is therefore a real need to create a high load support device (or a fortiori low or medium, but above all very high), which is inexpensive, at least as strong as existing devices (if possible more solid), which is recyclable, limiting to the maximum or in a completely preferred manner completely avoiding the use of the glue. Said device must be as light as possible in order to be handled as simply as possible.

The object of the present invention is therefore to create an ecological device load support ensuring the best ratio strength / lightness and all at a lower cost.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For this purpose, the present invention relates to a device of the "support" type. charging apparatus as described in claim 1.

Advantageously, the lateral vertical contact sections are materialized by at least two triangles per angle, preferably four triangles, created in the extension of the vertical walls and said locking fold is created, in the case of four triangles, by incision on the line. formed between triangles then by folding the triangles towards the inside of the plate with the triangles forming only one double-thickness triangle then by folding the triangle on the double triangle to form a triple triangle and finally to fold the triangle on the triple triangle, thus forming at least a triple thickness at the edges of the pad.

Advantageously, the stud comprising at least one locking fold is made starting from a pre-cut flat plate having the particularity of having tongue-like elements placed in the extension of the flap-type elements of the walls, the first tongues being placed respectively at center of the flaps, while second tongues are placed on either side of a first tongue and in that third tongues are placed on either side of the other first tongue.

Advantageously, the first tongues are of the same length as the length of the walls so that once folded these first tongues come into contact with the base of the stud.

Advantageously, the second and third tongues are smaller in size than the first tongues but are all four of the same length and the same width, and they are adapted to the width of orifices created on the flaps of the walls, and the folding of the plot is adapted so that the first tabs are positioned between added elements of dimensions identical to those of the walls which will be separated from each other just to let these first tabs. Advantageously, internal reinforcing elements are shaped to be placed inside the stud at its center and are selected from the elements of the type cross, oval, zigzag or elements of types of rods, tubes, etc..

Advantageously, there is provided an external reinforcing member being placed for example around the vertical walls in order to solidify and strengthen the stud, and this external reinforcing element is a "belt" type element completely surrounding the stud.

Advantageously, the locking folds come into contact with the upper portion of the stud, or with the upper surface of the stud, in order to adsorb a portion of the weight of the load placed on the stud. Advantageously, a plurality of pad-type elements is fixed to an upper plate-type element, preferably nine pads for a plate of dimensions preferably of 1,200x800 mm or 1,200x1,000, or of 1,150x1,150, the pads having preferential dimensions. of 130x100x90, 100x100x90 or 200x100x90 mm.

Advantageously, the pad may be composed of a sheet of corrugated cardboard, preferably of the double-spline or single-groove type, triple-fluted, or of the compact, with a thickness of the sheet of 2 to 7 mm, the reinforcing element may be preferably composed of a sheet of cardboard preferably of single corrugation, double flutes, triple flutes or compact, according to the desired load-lowering resistance and economic stresses with a progressive thickness, between 2 and 20 mm, the wedge has a scalable thickness, according to the cardboard sheet which can be single groove, double flutes, triple flutes or even thick compact sheet with a thickness of the locking wedge being between 4 and 10 mm, the element of external reinforcement is a sheet of cardboard preferably in single groove, or in double flutes, also in triple flutes, or even in compact, with a thickness between 4 and 10 mm. Advantageously, depending on the quality of the cardboard used, the studs are sealed at their base, thanks to the characteristics of the locking folds, having no cut in the angle by the approximation of the first two triangles, and the studs have a configuration does not allow moisture to enter.

The present invention therefore relates to a load-bearing type device consisting of at least one element of "support" type. By "plot", we denote here any element substantially square, rectangular, or of similar shapes, for example of triangular horizontal section, trapezoidal, longitudinal members, etc., including (in the non-limiting case of a cube form or analog who are the preferred forms) four vertical walls and a horizontal base connecting the 4 walls.

By "load support" type element, we denote here any element intended to have to withstand a load placed "above", that is to say exerting a constraint in the "vertical" direction on its face or upper surface and in particular we designate here pallet-type elements, etc.

The stress may in some cases be exerted in the vertical direction but on the lower face, or on both the lower and upper faces, for example if the load is placed under the pad or the paddle, or if the pad or paddle is placed in the vertical direction between two loads for example to create a vertical gap between two or more loads.

• La figure 1 représente un « plot » tout à fait préféré créé selon un mode de réalisation préféré avec un pliage de verrouillage tel que décrit dans la figure 2.
• La figure 2 représente un plot fixé sur un plateau supérieur. La figure 2 ne fait pas l'objet de la présente invention mais est utile à la compréhension de l'invention.
• La figure 3 qui se compose des figures 3a à 3d, décrit le mode de réalisation préféré non limitatif du « pliage de verrouillage ».
• La figure 4 qui se compose des figures 4a à 4d, décrit un mode de réalisation d'un plot alternatif. Les figures 4a à 4d ne font pas l'objet de la présente invention mais sont utiles à la compréhension de l'invention.
• La figure 5 décrit un autre mode de réalisation d'un plot avec un pliage de verrouillage composé de deux sections verticales latérales de contact.
• La figure 6 décrit un mode de réalisation d'un plot selon un mode de réalisation moins préféré. La figure 6 ne fait pas l'objet de la présente invention mais est utile à la compréhension de l'invention.
• La figure 7 représente un plot avec un dispositif de renfort interne placé au centre du plot.
• La figure 8 qui se compose des figures 8a et 8b, représente des exemples non limitatifs d'éléments de renforts internes.
• La figure 9 représente un exemple non limitatif d'élément de renfort externe.
• La figure 10 représente un exemple non limitatif d'une « cale de verrouillage ».
• La figure 11 représente le plot, l'élément de renfort externe, et l'élément de type cale de verrouillage, selon le mode de réalisation préféré.
• La figure 12 représente une vue de dessous d'un dispositif de support de charge contenant 9 plots réalisés selon la présente invention.
• La figure 13 représente une vue de dessous d'un autre dispositif de support de charge contenant 9 plots réalisés selon la présente invention équipée de patins ou de « skis ».
• La figure 14 qui se compose des figures 14a à 14d représente le plot de la figure 4 présentant différents types de pliages de verrouillage (à 4 triangles, 3 triangles, 2 triangles, deux sections de contact). Les figures 14a à 14d ne font pas l'objet de la présente invention mais sont utiles à la compréhension de l'invention.

Similarly, the stress can also be exerted on a side face of the stud, by means of either a 90 ° rotation of the stud, or a manufacturing arrangement that will be easily understood by the skilled person. In what follows, we will limit ourselves to the case of a "vertical" constraint which will include all the others, by obvious technical equivalence, as for example lateral pressures.

• The figure 1 represents a most preferred "pad" created according to a preferred embodiment with a locking bend as described in FIG. figure 2 .
• The figure 2 represents a stud fixed on an upper plate. The figure 2 is not the subject of the present invention but is useful for understanding the invention.
• The figure 3 which consists of Figures 3a to 3d , describes the preferred non-limiting embodiment of the "locking fold".
• The figure 4 which consists of Figures 4a to 4d , describes an embodiment of an alternating stud. The Figures 4a to 4d are not the subject of the present invention but are useful for understanding the invention.
• The figure 5 discloses another embodiment of a pad with a locking fold composed of two lateral vertical contact sections.
• The figure 6 discloses an embodiment of a pad according to a less preferred embodiment. The figure 6 is not the subject of the present invention but is useful for understanding the invention.
• The figure 7 represents a stud with an internal reinforcing device placed in the center of the stud.
• The figure 8 which consists of Figures 8a and 8b , represents non-limiting examples of internal reinforcing elements.
• The figure 9 represents a non-limiting example of external reinforcing element.
• The figure 10 represents a non-limiting example of a "locking wedge".
• The figure 11 represents the stud, the external reinforcing element, and the locking wedge-like element, according to the preferred embodiment.
• The figure 12 is a bottom view of a load bearing device containing 9 pads made according to the present invention.
• The figure 13 is a bottom view of another load bearing device containing 9 pads made according to the present invention equipped with pads or "skis".
• The figure 14 which consists of Figures 14a to 14d represents the plot of the figure 4 presenting different types of locking folds (with 4 triangles, 3 triangles, 2 triangles, 2 contact sections). The Figures 14a to 14d are not the subject of the present invention but are useful for understanding the invention.

As we observe in the figure 1 , the stud 1 is, without limitation, a cube composed of four vertical walls 2, 3, 4, 5, masked reference under the flap 10, a base portion 6, and four flap type elements 7, 8, 9 , 10 created in the extensions of the vertical walls. It is also observed that at the right angles formed by said walls, it has been formed by folding "locking folds" 11, cf. procedure below.

By "locking fold" it is meant that at the angles, at least two vertical lateral contact sections are formed at the edges of the stud, allowing at least to double the thickness to solidify the stud where the weight of the load will be distributed.

By "lateral contact section" is meant in the present application, any vertical section created in the lateral extension of the vertical walls 2, 3, 4, 5, and may be of any form adapted to ensure contact sufficient to achieve the desired qualities strength, strength, elasticity.

At least two elements 7, 9, preferably four, type flap 7, 8, 9, 10, will be created and may be intended to be fixed by any known means to an upper tray element 12, including glues: wood glues , thermo-fusible ...; staples, clips, strapping straps, welding, if the material allows it, adhesives etc. Said flaps 7, 8, 9, 10 serve as a contact surface between the plate and the pad. Preferably, use will be made of ecological fixation by solvent-free bonding. The figure 2 therefore represents this stud 1 attached to said upper plate 12 on which the load will be placed.

According to a preferred embodiment, said pad element 1, as well as the locking bends are created from a flat rectangular plate as indicated in FIG. patent FR 1002482 . The invention consists of a three-dimensional structure derived from a flat product, the flat product consisting of a plate, the plate comprising at least two substantially perpendicular edges, a first lateral fold forming a boundary between a first side and a bottom on the one hand and a second lateral fold forming a border between a second side and the bottom on the other hand, the width of the sides being equivalent, the first and second folds forming a square in the corner of the plate, the square having two folds along its diagonals, these folds forming two inner triangles and two outer triangles, a cutout being formed on the fold common to one of the inner triangles and its adjacent outer triangle, the inner triangles being folded one on the other. other to form the three-dimensional structure, the outer triangle not adjacent to the cut being folded over the inner triangle adjacent to the cut to lock the struct three-dimensional and to form a triangular assembly preliminary consisting of three thicknesses of flat product and the outer triangle adjacent to the cut.

The invention is also characterized in that the inner triangles are folded towards the inside of the plate.

The sides 3, 4 are folded inwards and towards the bottom 6. Also, by pinching the two inner triangles c, d, in each corner of the tray during assembly. Beaks are formed in the four corners. The plot is immediately put in shape. Then, just lock it with the outer triangles a, b. By folding the outer triangle b on the inner triangle d, the locking is achieved. The final hold blocking will be done by folding the outer triangle a on the inner triangle c. Between the inner triangle d and the outer triangle a, there is a cut of material on the line of the common side. All the triangles, the sides and the bottom are solidary in the same plate. Finally, in each corner, all the triangles forming the final assembly 11 are joined by at least one face. The outer triangle has blocked the assembly, wedged by the edge 60 on one side 3, 4 side juxtaposed triangles of the angle in short bending.

From a rectangular or square plate format, to form a pad having a bottom and four sides. Draw on the plate, the straight lines defining the common height for the four sides, also intended to delimit the bottom. The height is characterized by the distance between a border, that is to say perimetry of the plate and the line drawn parallel, being the closest to it. Once these four straight lines are drawn, each is therefore parallel with respect to at least one edge of the plate to obtain the height of the four sides of the box to be built. Also allowing to obtain the perimetry of the bottom of the box, being able to be a rectangle or any other similar forms. These straight lines must be traced to the ends of the edges, that is to say the perimetry of the plate, which will be perpendicular to their points of intersection. Each line drawn is therefore perpendicular to two other lines to form four equivalent squares in the corners of the plate, itself having right angles. The squares will be named "lock squares".

In the four squares, draw the two perpendicular diagonals in their center, to form four triangles per square. In each square, the diagonal starting from the bottom of the box, more precisely starting from the right angle of the perimetry of the bottom, will be named the diagonal number one. The second diagonal is that cutting the diagonal number one by the middle. On the second diagonal, make a cut between the point of intersection with the diagonal number one and between one of the opposite end points of it. The second diagonal will have a cut on half of its length. Its symmetry with respect to the point of intersection of the two diagonals will be represented by an uncut line and a cut line having an equivalent length. Then raise the sides of the stud, folding the lines of the perimetry of the bottom so that they are vertical. At the same time, assist the lifting in each corner, pinching inward the two triangles, forming the edges of the pad. Fold the lines of the sides of the triangles forming precisely the edges of the stud and fold the common side of the two triangles evoked. More precisely, they are the triangles of which one of their side forms the edges of the stud or the height of one side of the stud. Once the two triangles are folded and pinched, one of their faces is placed side by side. The edges of the four corners of the tray are high. The plot gets in shape.

Then, locate in each lock square, the third triangle above these two first contiguous triangles, because there are still two unfolded triangles. This third triangle is distinguished by the fact that it has not undergone the cutting of the second diagonal on one of its sides. Fold the line of the common side of the third triangle with the first two triangles. Precisely, it is necessary to fold the third triangle on one of the first two triangles not having in common a side of triangle. Subsequently, these three triangles visually form a single triangle having three thicknesses of material. The stud is formed and locked. Folding and formatting being part of the claim. The fourth triangle, not yet folded, being bound only by a single common side to the third triangle. Fold the line of this common side so as to fold down the surface of this fourth triangle on all three triangles, which made it possible to form the plot. It must be folded down on one of the visible faces of the first two triangles and not directly on one side of the third triangle. In fact, fold this fourth triangle at the line of the side attached to the third triangle. Bring it back and fold it on the free face of the two first contiguous triangles, precisely on the one having no face hidden by the third triangle, this first or second triangle having no common side with this fourth triangle. The fourth triangle will be folded away from the third to form visually and to them four, a single triangle making four layers of material. Make the manipulation in each corner of the plate to mount the stud. The plot thus created according to patent FR 1002482 therefore comprises 4 vertical side walls, a base member joining the 4 side walls. The stud comprises at least one "locking fold" disposed in at least one corner of the stud. Preferably each angle comprises a locking fold.

The preferred "locking fold" embodiment, as indicated in FIG. patent FR 1002482 it is understood that the folding makes it possible to create at least 2 vertical lateral contact sections materialized by at least 2 triangles per angle, preferably three or even four triangles, and which, when the mounting of the block by folding is started, makes it possible to bring the four sides to form so said open stud.

According to this embodiment of "folding lock", there is not necessarily the need for glue to build the stud. The figure 3 illustrates the embodiment of the locking fold using a flat rectangular plate. This plate comprises at least two vertical walls 4, 3 substantially perpendicular to each other, which are folded laterally with respect to the remainder of the plate which will be the base element 6 of the stud. The two vertical walls 4, 3 are of the same width in order to create in their extension, a square zone, at the angle of the plate, composed of at least two triangles, preferably four triangles a, b, c, themselves trained by the diagonals of said square area. According to the non-limiting example of the figure 3 , we will incise on the line formed between the triangles a and d, then we will fold the triangles c and d towards the inside of the plate 6. The triangles c and d will form only one double-thickness triangle. We will fold the triangle b on the double triangle c, d to form a triple triangle, and finally we can fold the triangle a on the triple triangle. The folding thus created is the "locking fold" 11. This embodiment makes it possible to create at least three thicknesses, in this case four thicknesses, at the edge 60.

The same procedure can be created between the walls 2 and 3 4 and 5 and 5 and 2 to achieve 4 locking folds 11 in each of the corners of the pad 1.

According to other embodiments, it is possible to cut the triangle a and remove it, in order to create only 3 triangles, which after folding, will form according to the same operating mode the triple thickness.

We can also in addition to the triangle a, remove the triangle b, which will double the thickness.

We can naturally only create two triangles c, d with a single diagonal in the square zone.

As we have just seen, one of the interesting points is that the "locking fold" 11 used actually creates at least two vertical contact surfaces, in the non-limiting case of a cube of square cross-section, or of a rectangular cross-section, which double the thickness of the material used in places where the weight of the load will be distributed. In addition, the fact of not using glue or little glue, or staples or other conventional means of attachment, allow to gain elasticity, a shock absorption that also improve the desired strength characteristics.

According to another embodiment, it will be possible to use the creation of two triangles formed solely by a single diagonal in the square zone. Certainly, naturally resulting in loss of qualities in the characteristics of strength, flexibility, sought.

According to another preferred embodiment, an alternative plot can be created as observed in the figures 4 . The figure 4a represents the pre-cut flat plate having the particularity of having tongue-like elements 13, 14, 15a, 15b, 16a, 16b preferably placed in the extension of the flap elements 9, 7 of the walls 2, 4. The tongues 13 and 14 are respectively placed in the center of the flaps 9 and 7, while the tabs 15a, 15b are placed on either side of the tongue 13; the tongues 16a, 16b being placed on either side of the tongue 14.

The tongues 13 and 14 are of the same length as the length of the walls 4 and 7 so that, once folded, these tongues 13 and 14 come into contact with the base 6 of the stud. This is to bring increased strength to the assembly with a "reinforcement" function.

The tabs 1 5a, 15b, 16a, 16b are smaller in size than the tabs 13, 14 but are all four of the same length and the same width. They are adapted to the width of the orifices 17a, 17b, 18a, 18b created on the flaps 8, 10 of the walls 3, 5. The tongues can thus pass through the orifices placed, preferably, 15a, 15b, 16a, 16b and come block once folded together to avoid any kind of movement. The tongue 15a will pass through the orifice 18a, the tongue 1 5b will pass through the orifice 17a, the tongue 16a will pass through the orifice 17b and finally the tongue 16b will pass through the orifice 18b.

The plot thus created will not be able to dissociate itself, as it is shown in figure 4d . The bending of the stud is adapted so that the tongues 13 and 14 are positioned between added elements 19, 35, of identical dimensions to those of the walls 8, 10 which will be separated from each other just to allow these tongues 13 to pass. and 14.

Elements 36, 37 of dimensions equal to the elements 8, 10 come to bring even more stability and reinforcement to the stud. The set thus created will absolutely be able to move since all the elements are adapted to self-lock with each other. The figure 6 has the locking fold 11 with two lateral contact sections 20, 21 as shown in FIG. figure 5 . This alternative stud may naturally comprise the locking bending system 11 as described in FIG. figure 3 or any other locking folding system forming 11 at least two thicknesses of the edge level, see figure 14 .

This alternative stud has the advantage of having all the elements from the outset to ensure maximum strength, without having to create different reinforcing elements. However, said stud may receive an external reinforcing element, if desired by those skilled in the art. The alternative block may be glued against a floor with glue or with a double-sided adhesive device and recyclable type, permanently locking the system and making it completely integral. The figure 5 represents a stud being folded with the creation of a locking fold to two lateral contact sections 20, 21, which are glued, or fixed by any other means known to one another. The figure 6 represents yet another plot according to a still less preferred embodiment.

The figure 7 therefore represents in a nonlimiting manner a reinforcing element 30 in the center of a stud 1 which blocks and prevents the locking folds from moving. The locks folds are fully maintained in position, thanks to this reinforcing element. In addition, it leaves no play between all the elements to make the stud or the spar completely rigid to absorb lateral shocks. The figure 8 represents non-limiting examples of internal reinforcing elements 30 or 31 studied to be placed inside the pad 1.

This internal reinforcing element 30 or 31 is also designed to provide more resistance to the pressures that will be applied, and therefore more strength to the load support assembly. This internal reinforcing element will be placed in the empty space of the element of type 1, at its center.

This element of the internal reinforcement type may be a cross-type element, oval, zig-zag or elements of the type of rods, tubes, etc. etc. It will be constituted by any element capable of guaranteeing a contribution in horizontal and vertical solidity, in particular, cardboard type material, the same as that used for the elements of type plot, or any other material accessible to the skilled person. The spider, consisting of square of cardboard arranged in the vertical of the grooves and nested in braces generated a capacity of resistance to the descent of heavy load, coming to reinforce the doubling of the walls.

The internal reinforcing element 30 or 31 consolidates both the lowering of the load from top to bottom preferably but also at the lateral level because, in case of shock on one side of the stud or the spar. The energy of the shock will pass through the wall to dissipate in the reinforcement and then dissipate the energy in the whole pad, preventing deformation and destruction of the pad itself.

It is naturally possible to provide other examples of internal reinforcing elements that will be easily accessible to the skilled person. In a particular embodiment, it is possible to provide an external reinforcing element 40 that can be placed for example around the vertical walls 2, 3, 4, 5 in order to bring even more strength and reinforcement to the pad 1. This may be particularly useful in case of handling errors that may occur and could damage the plot-type element. It is also an additional element to block the positioning of the locking bends to at least double thickness.

In a preferred embodiment, this external reinforcing element 40 will be a "belt" type element completely surrounding the "stud" type element, see figure 9 .

This "belt" type element doubles the thickness of the walls 2, 3, 4, 5 of the stud and strongly accentuates the load-lowering capacities and then strengthens the resistance against perforation by a cutting tool such as forklift forks. handling.

In a preferred embodiment, an additional reinforcing element of the locking wedge type 50 is also added, see figure 10 . This element 50 is made of the same material as that used for the other elements constituting the load-supporting device. This element comprises a base 51 and four portions 52, 53, 54, 55 adapted to consolidate and lock the position of the locking fold 11. Indeed, the 4 portions are respectively spaced apart from one another to allow the passage between them bending locks.

The portions 52, 53, 54, 55 of this locking wedge 50 come to slide against the four vertical walls 2, 3, 4, 5 of the stud, inside, and against the folds of locks 11, preventing them discard and preventing the inclination or buckling of the vertical walls of the stud 1. Once this locking wedge is in place. The base of the shim 51 may come into contact with the internal reinforcing element 30 or 31 if the latter is used.

The portions 52, 53, 54, 55 double the load-lowering capabilities with respect to single walls. But also, the portions increase the capacity of the outer walls of the stud side impact, preventing premature breakage or perforations by the forks of a forklift for example.

In the case where an internal reinforcing element 30 or 31 is used, the latter is adapted to leave the space just sufficient to slide the locking wedge 50.

The top of the base of the locking wedge 50 comes into direct contact with the underside of the plate 12, considerably increasing the bonding and holding contacts of the stud. The four flaps 7, 8, 9, 10 and the contact surface of the locking wedge make the stud 1 is fixed and can not be torn off.

In fact, the walls of the stud are doubled thanks to the locking wedge greatly increasing the strength of the walls and their buckling. The use of solvent-free, environmentally friendly and recyclable glue in the packages is limited to fixing the upper surface of the locking wedge and the flaps against the underside of the upper plate 12. Thereafter, the entire system with or without lock block 50 is permanently imprisoned creating a compact and rigid assembly. The present invention creates a stud which makes it possible to achieve a phenomenon of buckling towards the outside of the stud. This buckling to the outside is the elasticity, like a horizontal bar of metal, receiving a load, is deformed during a charge posing violently. The deformation will store the energy of the shock and then return to the initial shape, once the impact is complete. This is the same situation for double thicknesses. In the opposite case, the rigidity of a single thickness, in the angle would have exploded the volume, the energy can not be absorbed by any significant deformation on a single thickness. In the case of two triangles glued in an angle, forming two contact surfaces, the thicknesses also serve as damper and peel themselves to deform. Then they will return to their place, helped by the possible reinforcing element and the possible locking wedge.

As we see perfectly in the figure 15 , and in a nonlimiting manner, the bending locks can come into contact with the upper portion of the stud, or with the upper plate, to absorb a portion of the weight of the load that will be placed on it.

According to a preferred embodiment, and for the purpose of creating a high-performance load-bearing device, a plurality of stud-type elements 1 will be fixed to an upper tray-type element 1, cf. Figures 12 and 13 . The gaps between said elements of the type "pads" will be studied to provide an optimal distribution of the weight of the load that can be fixed on it. These differences will also be adapted to allow the easy handling of load-bearing type devices by handling equipment, etc.

• de 130x100x90 mm,
• de 100x100x90 mm,
• de 200x100x90 mm.

According to a preferred embodiment, a pad will have the following nonlimiting dimensions:

• 130x100x90 mm,
• 100x100x90 mm,
• 200x100x90 mm.

The volumes may be preferably narrow in shape to form longitudinal members over a pallet length or width and preferably to 50x100x90 mm. On a pallet 1200x800 or 1200 x 1000 mm for example, there are preferably three beams.

The height can also varied and take the preference 100 mm. In fact, the present invention is naturally not limited as the boxes since the locks folds can be cut and locked by the collapsing means, internal reinforcing elements, locking wedges as well as external reinforcing elements. On these formats, a multitude of conclusive industrial tests have been made and the pallets work perfectly. They have been reused several times. As such, tests were carried out with double micro-spline cartons, triple splines equipped with reinforcing wedges and locking wedges, without even using the external reinforcing element. It was possible to install a load, weighing 1980 kg, on only four studs. The pads are not deformed or destroyed. They have fulfilled their support role.

Using stronger cartons such as double flats and larger paper weights, the Applicant achieved 600 kg load descent on the same pad volume. Many tests have also been done in the form of pallets and in industrial and logistics. Pallets resist the same way as in wooden pallets.

Depending on the quality of the boards used, each block can at least withstand a load drop of 600 kg or more. Standard pallets of 1200x800, 1200x1000 or 1150x1150 dimensions, preferably having 9 studs, can support uniformly distributed loads of 5400 kg. Among other things, the reinforcement wedge is triple-fluted cardboard whose layers of paper are high density and good quality "kraft". Other grades of cardboard can be used to achieve the same result.

The resistance of the upper plate is naturally adapted to the load which will have to be supported.

• L'enveloppe carton du plot en lui même :
  • Le plot peut-être composé d'une feuille de carton ondulé de type double cannelure ou simple cannelure. Mais aussi de la triple cannelure comme du compact. L'épaisseur de la feuille peut être de 2 à 7 mm. Mais il possible d'envisager des épaisseurs supérieures.

Depending on the quality of the cardboard used, the pads have a particularity of being waterproof at their base, due to the characteristics of the folds of locks. Having no cut in the angle by the approximation first two triangles and depending on the configuration, the pads do not let moisture in. A plot as per the figure 6 will be quickly subject to the aggressions of water, the material being cut. Cartons that can be treated against humidity makes it possible to arrange the pallets according to the invention on the outside. A cardboard pallet will be between 2 and 5 kg. As an indication and not limitation, and for a pad size of preferably 1 mm in length, 100 mm in width and 90 mm in height, we will have the following characteristics:

• The cardboard envelope of the plot itself:
  • The pad may be composed of a corrugated sheet of double corrugated type or single corrugation. But also the triple flute as the compact. The thickness of the sheet may be from 2 to 7 mm. But it is possible to consider higher thicknesses.

The reinforcing element 30, 31, preferably in the form of a cross-brace, may be composed of single corrugated cardboard sheets, double fluted sheets, triple fluted sheets or compact sheets. Depending on the desired load-lowering resistance and economic constraints. The thickness is progressive, ranging from 2 mm to 20 mm.

The locking wedge 50 with its four flaps has a scalable thickness according to the cardboard sheet which may be of the single groove, the double groove or the triple groove, or even the thick compact sheet. The thickness of the locking wedge may be preferably between 4 mm and 10 mm.

The outer reinforcing member 40 is a cardboard sheet preferably in single or double flute, also in compact. The thickness may be between 4 and 10 mm thick. The triple groove can be used. The materials used can be naturally of any type: similar to the cardboard, such as PP honeycomb sheet; plastic plates, possibly metal sheets.

Preferably, it will be possible to use double-corrugated cardboard, single corrugated cardboard, triple-corrugated cardboard, compact cardboard, single or double corrugated cardboard. Quality mixtures like, for example, building the plot with a simple cardboard groove, then slip in a cardboard reinforcement type triple flutes and lock the block with a locking wedge made of a cardboard double flute. Then we can reinforce the stud with an external reinforcement element in single or double groove. The triple groove, or any other material that will be easily accessible to the skilled person.

The studs can be glued to any place on the entire surface of the top plate. It is possible to produce pallets of any size and containers of any size with studs glued below, according to the invention.

The flutes will preferably be vertical to reinforce the phenomenon of descent charge that is to say the distribution of weight. In particular, cardboard from recycling can be used. A plot consumes little material, it is also possible to recover old packaging and cut with a punch the formats in sufficient areas.

To further significantly increase the strength of the stud or the spar, it is also possible to stick all the elements named together as, the internal reinforcing element is glued in the bottom. The locking wedge is glued with the internal walls of the stud. Or the triangles can be glued together. The elements are all bonded by means of gluing, preferably with a solvent-free glue type wood glue. The plot takes indestructible features. But it remains recyclable, with solvent-free glue, throwing it into a cardboard bin and grinding it. The white wood glue, solvent-free is just recyclable, certified recyclable with cartons. It is also nonflammable.

The upper plate may be made of the same material as that used for the manufacture of the stud but may naturally be made of any other material according to the general knowledge of the skilled person.

The invention also covers all the embodiments and all the applications which will be directly accessible to the person skilled in the art upon reading the present application, and of his own knowledge.

It is for example possible to manufacture studs but also long narrow studs as spars. In the case of longitudinal members, it will be easily possible to adapt the reinforcements, the locking wedges, the belts accordingly.

It is also possible to manufacture podiums, steps, stools, tables, bedsteads, cardboard furniture, etc. generally any element acting as "load support". We can of course think of accessory pads of lateral wedges between pallets, during transport in the trucks, the maritime containers or others. Logisticians use plastic bags, often filled with polystyrene particles ... The cardboard blocks being damping, they can be fixed on the side walls of the pallets or against the walls of the trailer.

Claims (11)

1. A device of the "load support" type, made of a material of the cardboard type comprising at least one element (1) of the "block" type, with said block (1) having a polygonal horizontal cross-section with at least four vertical walls (2, 3, 4 5), a horizontal base (6) and an upper surface intended to receive said load, with said block (1) comprising one "locking fold" (11) in each one of the corners thereof between the vertical walls (2, 3, 4 5) comprising lateral vertical contact cross-sections (20, 21), with such lateral contact cross-sections (20, 21) being vertical walls (2, 3, 4 5) created so as to laterally extend the vertical walls (2, 3, 4 5) bonded or attached together by any other known means by doubling the thickness of the material used at the places where the weight of the load will be distributed to form said at least one locking fold (11), with the device being characterized in that it also comprises an additional reinforcing element of the heel block type (50) preferably made of the same material as the one used for the other elements composing the load support device, with such additional reinforcing element (50) comprising a base (51) and four portions (52, 53, 54, 55) to strengthen and lock the positions of the locking folds (11) in that the four portions are spaced so that the locking folds (11) of said at least one block (1) can pass therebetween, with the portions (52, 53, 54, 55) of the additional reinforcing element (50) being inserted against the four vertical walls (2, 3, 4 5) of the block (1), inside and against the locking folds (11), thus preventing these from unfolding and preventing the vertical walls (2, 3, 4 5) of the block (1) from sloping or buckling.
2. A device of the "load support" type, according to claim 1, characterized in that the lateral vertical contact cross-sections are materialized by at least two triangles per angle (b and d), preferably four triangles (a, b, c, d), created so as to laterally extend the vertical walls (2, 3, 4 5) and in that said locking fold (11) is created, in the case of four triangles, by incising the line formed between the triangles (a and d) and then by folding the triangles (c and d) towards the inside of the plate (6) with the triangles (c and d) thus forming only one triangle with a double thickness, and then by turning down triangle (b) onto the double triangle (c, d) so as to form a triple triangle, and eventually by turning down the triangle (a) onto the triple triangle, thus forming at least a triple thickness at the block edges.
3. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the block (1) comprising at least one "locking fold" (11) is formed starting from a precut flat plate having the particularity of having elements of the lugs type (13, 14, 15a, 15b, 16a, 16b) placed sc as to extend the elements of the flaps type (9, 7) of the walls (2 and 4), with first lugs (13, 14) being respectively placed at the center of the flaps (9, 7), whereas second lugs (15a, 15b) are placed on either side of a first lug (13) and in that third lugs (16a, 16b) are placed on either side of the other first lug (14).
4. A device of the "load support" type according to claim 3, characterized in that the first lugs (13, 14) have the same length as the walls (4 and 7) so that, when folded, such first lugs (13, 14) come into contact with the base (6) of the block.
5. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 3 or 4, characterized in that the second and third lugs (15a, 15b, 16a, 16b) are smaller than the first lugs (13, 14), but that all four have the same length and the same width, and in that they are adapted to the width of orifices (17a, 17b, 18a, 18b) created on the flaps (8, 10) of the walls (3, 5), and in that the block folding is so adapted that the first lugs (13, 14) are positioned between the added elements (19, 35) having the same dimensions as the walls (8, 10) which shall be separated from one another just to let the first lugs (13, 14) therethrough.
6. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that internal reinforcing elements (30 or 31) are so designed as to be placed inside the block (1), at the center thereof, and are selected from elements of the cross, oval, zigzag types, or elements of the stem, tube etc. types.
7. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that an external reinforcing element (40) is provided which is placed for example around the vertical walls (2, 3, 4, 5) in order to strengthen and reinforce the block (1), and in that such external reinforcing element (40) is an element of the "belt" type completely surrounding the block (1).
8. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the locking folds (11) come into contact with the upper part of the block (1), or with the upper surface of the block (1), so as to absorb a part of the weight of the load placed on the block (1).
9. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that several elements of the block (1) type, preferably nine blocks (1) for a plate (12) having dimensions of preferably 1,200x800mm, or 1,200x1,000mm or 1,150x1,150mm are attached to an element of the plate type (12), with the blocks (1) having preferred dimensions of 130x100x90mm, 100x100x90mm or 200x100x90mm.
10. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that:

    - the block (1) may be made of a sheet of corrugated cardboard, preferably of the single wall or double wall or triple wall or compact types, with a thickness ranging from 2 to 7mm,

    - the reinforcing element (30, 31) may be made of sheets of cardboard of the single wall or double wall or triple wall or compact types, depending on the desired load bearing capacity and the economic constraints with a progressive thickness ranging from 2 to 20mm,

    - the heel block (50) has a progressive thickness depending on the cardboard sheet which may be of the single wall or double wall or triple wall or thick compact sheet types, with a thickness of the heel block (50) ranging from 4 to 10mm,

    - the external reinforcing element (40) is a cardboard sheet preferably of the single wall or double wall or triple wall or even of the compact types, with a thickness ranging from 4 to 10mm.
11. A device of the "load support" type according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, depending on the quality of the cardboard used, the blocks (1) are sealed at their bases, thanks to the characteristics of the locking folds (11) having no cuts in the angle through the bringing together of the first two triangles, and the blocks (1) are so configured as not to let any moisture in.

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