EP3204305B1 - Mail packaging for food - Google Patents
Mail packaging for food Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3204305B1 EP3204305B1 EP15782049.9A EP15782049A EP3204305B1 EP 3204305 B1 EP3204305 B1 EP 3204305B1 EP 15782049 A EP15782049 A EP 15782049A EP 3204305 B1 EP3204305 B1 EP 3204305B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- box
- packaging box
- lid
- packaging
- closed
- 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.)
- Not-in-force
Links
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 title claims description 144
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 title description 8
- 238000000638 solvent extraction Methods 0.000 claims description 30
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 21
- 235000012055 fruits and vegetables Nutrition 0.000 claims description 14
- 235000013311 vegetables Nutrition 0.000 claims description 9
- 235000013399 edible fruits Nutrition 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 241000196324 Embryophyta Species 0.000 description 29
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 27
- 238000005728 strengthening Methods 0.000 description 14
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 12
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000123 paper Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920006395 saturated elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 235000007688 Lycopersicon esculentum Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 240000003768 Solanum lycopersicum Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000002390 adhesive tape Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004049 embossing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 210000002105 tongue Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 241000167854 Bourreria succulenta Species 0.000 description 1
- 240000004160 Capsicum annuum Species 0.000 description 1
- 244000163122 Curcuma domestica Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000003392 Curcuma domestica Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 1
- 240000007926 Ocimum gratissimum Species 0.000 description 1
- 244000046052 Phaseolus vulgaris Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000010627 Phaseolus vulgaris Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000021028 berry Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000011127 biaxially oriented polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013351 cheese Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000019693 cherries Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000000356 contaminant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000003373 curcuma longa Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000021022 fresh fruits Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000021384 green leafy vegetables Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000008216 herbs Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000000976 ink Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 201000002266 mite infestation Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 244000144977 poultry Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000011888 snacks Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000013976 turmeric Nutrition 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- 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
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/30—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure
- B65D85/34—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure for fruit, e.g. apples, oranges or tomatoes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
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- 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
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/64—Lids
- B65D5/66—Hinged lids
- B65D5/6626—Hinged lids formed by folding extensions of a side panel of a container body formed by erecting a "cross-like" blank
- B65D5/665—Hinged lids formed by folding extensions of a side panel of a container body formed by erecting a "cross-like" blank the lid being held in closed position by self-locking integral flaps or tabs
- B65D5/6655—Local flaps or tabs provided at the lid edge opposite to the hinge
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
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- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/48—Partitions
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B11/00—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material
- B65B11/004—Wrapping, e.g. partially or wholly enclosing, articles or quantities of material, in strips, sheets or blanks, of flexible material in blanks, e.g. sheets precut and creased for folding
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
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- B65B25/00—Packaging other articles presenting special problems
- B65B25/02—Packaging agricultural or horticultural products
- B65B25/04—Packaging fruit or vegetables
- B65B25/041—Packaging fruit or vegetables combined with their conservation
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- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/001—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper stackable
- B65D5/0015—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper stackable the container being formed by folding up portions connected to a central panel
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- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/02—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body
- B65D5/0254—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper by folding or erecting a single blank to form a tubular body with or without subsequent folding operations, or the addition of separate elements, to close the ends of the body with end closures formed by inward folding of flaps and securing them by means of a tongue integral with one of the flaps
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- 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
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/4204—Inspection openings or windows
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- 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
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/4212—Information or decoration elements, e.g. content indicators, or for mailing
- B65D5/4216—Cards, coupons or the like formed integrally with, or printed directly on, the container or lid
- B65D5/422—Cards, coupons or the like formed integrally with, or printed directly on, the container or lid as an extra panel or panels folded against or inside the container
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- 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
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/4212—Information or decoration elements, e.g. content indicators, or for mailing
- B65D5/4233—Cards, coupons, labels or the like formed separately from the container or lid
- B65D5/4237—Cards, coupons, labels or the like formed separately from the container or lid located in a compartment formed by a container wall and additional panel or panels formed integrally with the container
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
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- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/441—Reinforcements
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- 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
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
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- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
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- B65D5/48002—Partitions integral
- B65D5/48018—Partitions integral formed by folding extensions of side panels of a "cross-like" body blank
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
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- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/48—Partitions
- B65D5/48024—Partitions inserted
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- 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
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/44—Integral, inserted or attached portions forming internal or external fittings
- B65D5/50—Internal supporting or protecting elements for contents
- B65D5/5002—Integral elements for containers having tubular body walls
- B65D5/5016—Integral elements for containers having tubular body walls formed by folding inwardly of extensions hinged to the side edges of the body
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- 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
- B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
- B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
- B65D5/64—Lids
- B65D5/66—Hinged lids
- B65D5/6626—Hinged lids formed by folding extensions of a side panel of a container body formed by erecting a "cross-like" blank
- B65D5/665—Hinged lids formed by folding extensions of a side panel of a container body formed by erecting a "cross-like" blank the lid being held in closed position by self-locking integral flaps or tabs
- B65D5/6655—Local flaps or tabs provided at the lid edge opposite to the hinge
- B65D5/6658—Local flaps or tabs provided at the lid edge opposite to the hinge combined with flaps or tabs provided at the side edges of the lid
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- 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
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/18—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient
- B65D81/22—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient in moist conditions or immersed in liquids
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- 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
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/50—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for living organisms, articles or materials sensitive to changes of environment or atmospheric conditions, e.g. land animals, birds, fish, water plants, non-aquatic plants, flower bulbs, cut flowers or foliage
- B65D85/52—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for living organisms, articles or materials sensitive to changes of environment or atmospheric conditions, e.g. land animals, birds, fish, water plants, non-aquatic plants, flower bulbs, cut flowers or foliage for living plants; for growing bulbs
Definitions
- This invention relates to packaging for fragile goods, in particular food, such as fruit and vegetables.
- One potential solution is to include within the packaging large amounts of cushioning material to protect the fruit and vegetables.
- this adds to the volume and cost of the packaging and increases the cost of mailing.
- FR2502120A1 relates to packaging box for cheese and formed from a cardboard blank.
- the box, when assembled comprises two partition members to separate compartments in the box.
- US2955733A relates to a box for use in transporting live poultry, such as chicks.
- FR1376502A relates to a partitioning box for shipping of fragile and perishable items such as cut flowers, or small animals.
- the present invention seeks to provide packaging for a selection of fruit and vegetables that enables the selection to be delivered by mail and received without significant damage to the contents of the packaging.
- the partitioning member not only divides the box body into compartments but also provided structural stability to the box by connecting the lid to the box body in the closed box. In embodiments of the invention this provides enhanced resistance of the box to crushing or bowing.
- the partitioning member may form a connection between the lid of the closed box and the base panel of the closed box.
- the partitioning member may be provided to partition the box body lengthways or widthways.
- the box body may be partitioned both lengthways and widthways through the use of at least two mutually transverse partitioning members.
- the partitioning member may attach to the lid adhesively.
- the partitioning member comprises at least one upper projecting member, and the lid has defined therein at least one upper hole for receiving the upper projecting member, whereby to connect the lid to the partitioning member when the box is closed.
- the upper projecting member may be a tab.
- the tab may extend from the partitioning member.
- the hole may be provided centrally on the lid.
- the upper projecting member is a projecting tab configured to be secured adhesively to an outer surface of the lid.
- the tab can be secured to the lid when the box has been closed.
- the tab may be self-adhesive.
- the tab is secured to the lid with adhesive tape.
- the tab may extend from the partitioning member.
- the lower hole may be provided centrally on the base panel.
- the tab may be self-adhesive. In one embodiment, the tab is secured to the lid with adhesive tape.
- At least one of the lower projecting member and the upper projecting member may be flattened, and at least one of a complementary region of the lid or a complementary region of the base panel may also be flattened.
- the folded over lower projecting member or the folded over upper projecting member do not extend substantially above the profile of the remainder of the outer surface of the lid or the outer surface of the base panel respectively.
- the partitioning member may form a partition with a substantially triangular cross section. This has the advantage of additional structural stability.
- the partitioning member may comprise a base member and two wall members which meet at an apex.
- the wall members may be provided with interengaging projections at the apex.
- the interengaging projections may comprise the upper projection.
- the partitioning member may form a partition with a substantially rectangular section. This has the advantage of allowing an additional compartment to be provided within the partition itself.
- the partitioning member may comprise a base member, two wall members and a roof member, such that a wall member joins a side of the base member to a side of the roof member.
- the roof member may be provided with a cut-out section to allow access to the interior of the partitioning member from a top of the box body.
- the partitions themselves can hold small/narrow items like, for example, berries, tomatoes, cherries, mange tout, chillis, or turmeric. This makes for more efficient use of the space taken up by the partition itself.
- the partitioning member is optionally foldable to lay flat in the box body. In this way, the user can choose to use one or more partitioning members depending on the selection of fruit and vegetables to be packaged.
- the lid has defined therein a window and the box further comprises a support shelf arranged between the box body and the lid, the support shelf providing a barrier between the window and the interior of the box body.
- the support shelf may be configured to engage the upper projecting member whereby to guide the upper projecting member through the upper holes when the lid is closed.
- the support shelf may be configured to engage the upper projecting member by means of a slot defined in an edge of the support shelf.
- the support shelf comprises at least one retaining member for retaining a document in position on the support shelf relative to the window.
- the retaining member may be cut from the material of the support shelf, for example in the form of a tongue.
- the box is formed from corrugated cardboard.
- the box may be formed from a single piece of cardboard.
- the packaging box may be sized to minimise the postage payable for delivery.
- the packaging box may be dimensioned to fit through most domestic letterboxes. Consequently, the packaging box may have a length of less than 50cm, desirably of at most 45cm.
- the packaging box may have a width of less than 40cm, desirably of at most 35cm.
- the packaging box may have a depth of less than 10cm, desirably of at most 8cm, or even less than 4cm.
- the packaging box may comprise a second box within the packaging box.
- the second box may be removable from the packaging box.
- the second box may be insertable into the packaging box.
- the second box may be a tray.
- the second box may comprise a closing lid, which closes the box.
- the closing lid may be configured to provide a support shelf within the packaging box.
- the partitioning members of the packaging box may be arranged to support the second box when the second box is positioned in the packaging box.
- At least one of the partitioning members of the packaging box may be arranged to support a side wall of the second box when the second box is positioned in the packaging box.
- At least one of the side walls of the second box may be configured to support at least one of the partitioning members of the packaging box.
- the at least one projecting member of the partitioning members of the packaging box may be configured to pass out of the packaging box through a first hole in the packaging box and subsequently pass back into the packaging box through a second hole in the packaging box.
- at least one of the projecting members may be referred to as belt-buckle tabs.
- the invention extends to a blank for forming a packaging box according to the invention.
- the invention provides a method of packaging cut plant matter.
- the method comprises providing a moisture retaining member adjacent a cut end of cut plant matter, surrounding the cut plant matter and the moisture retaining member by a porous plastics sheet member, wherein the moisture retaining member is formed from a strip of corrugated cardboard.
- the method further comprises the steps of separating the moisture retaining member from a blank for a packaging box as described above, separating the moisture retaining member from the blank formed from corrugated cardboard, assembling the packaging box and packing the cut plant matter.
- the moisture retaining member may be formed from a rolled strip of corrugated cardboard.
- the method may include the step of moistening the corrugated cardboard with water.
- the present disclosure relates to a food packaging box for protecting fruits and vegetables during delivery by mail.
- the food packaging box is typically formed from a corrugated cardboard blank.
- Figure 1 shows an illustration of a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention.
- the packaging box 100 comprises a box body 114 formed integrally with a closing lid 102.
- the closing lid 102 is configured to close the packaging box 100 by securing to the box body 114.
- Side tabs 104 provided on the closing lid 102 are configured to engage with slots at the corners of the box body 114 to locate the closing lid 102 on the box body 114.
- Additional securing is provided by lid tabs 108 which project from an end edge of the closing lid 102 and are arranged to secure the closing lid 102 to the box body 114 by engagement in slots 110 defined in a front face of the box body 114.
- dividers 106 are provided to compartmentalise the box body 114 and allow multiple portions of fruit and vegetables to be separated in the packaging box 100 during mailing.
- a tab 118 is provided for engagement in a corresponding hole 116 defined in the closing lid 102.
- the tabs 118 are then folded to lie against the upper surface of the closing lid 102 and secured in position with packaging tape (as shown in Figure 4 ).
- the connection between the dividers 106 and the closing lid 102 via the tabs 118 provides the closed box 100 with additional stability to prevent crushing or bowing of the box 100. Moreover, this connection ensures that the compartments defined by the dividers 106 are each closed securely by the closing lid 102, so that the contents of each compartment do not migrate into adjacent compartments during transit.
- a support shelf 112 is provided within the box body 114 and is positioned to rest on the dividers 106 between the dividers 106 and the closing lid 102 in the closed box 100.
- a corresponding viewing window 120 is defined within the closing lid 102 and allows printed material provided on the support shelf 112 to be viewed even when the packaging box 100 is closed. In some embodiments, an additional piece of paper, printed with an address and other postage information can be provided on the support shelf 112.
- the viewing window 120 may comprise a clear plastic window to prevent moisture or other contaminants entering the box during mailing.
- the support shelf 112 is provided with opposed cut-out tongues 126 (see Figure 2 ) which retain the printed material in position on the support shelf 112.
- the support shelf 112 locates the printed material in position relative to the viewing window 120 so that pre-printed postage information is viewable through the viewing window 120. This allows the postage information, such as an address and franking mark, to be printed onto the printed material, which may simply be a piece of paper of standard size using a standard printer without the need for adhesive labels.
- the support shelf 112 locates the printed material in position in the box body 114 on opening of the box 100 so that the recipient is immediately presented with the information printed thereon. This is important in providing a positive experience for the recipient on opening the box 100.
- the support shelf 112 also provides a barrier between the fruit or vegetables in the compartments defined by the dividers 106 and the printed material so that the printed material is not stained or moistened by the fruit or vegetables. Again, this is important for the positive experience of the recipient. This has the advantage that standard, rather than waterproof, inks can be used for printing.
- Figure 2 shows an illustration of the packaging box 100 of Figure 1 in the form of a flat blank.
- the blank 100 is formed from a single piece of fibreboard, also known a corrugated cardboard or "eFlute".
- solid black lines indicate lines to be cut and solid grey lines indicate crease lines where the flat fibreboard is scored in preparation for later folding during assembly of the packaging box 100.
- Corresponding reference numerals are used in Figure 2 for the features described previously in relation to Figure 1 .
- the blank 100 comprises the closing lid 102, having defined therein fixing holes 116 and viewing windows 120.
- the closing lid 102 comprises an end flap 128 on which are provided the side tabs 104 and lid tabs 108, which secure the closing lid 102 to the box body 114 when the closing lid 102 is closes the assembled packaging box 100.
- the end flap 128 overlies a side wall of the box body 114 and provides additional structural support thereto.
- the closing lid 102 is connected by a fold line to the box body 114.
- the box body 114 comprises a base section 121, having defined therein bottom locating holes 122. Between the base section 121 and the closing lid 102 the box body 114 comprises a first end wall 124 connected to the base section 121 by a fold line. A second end wall 125 is provided on the opposite side of the base section 121 to the first end wall 124 and is connected to the base section 121 by a fold line.
- the box body 114 further comprises side walls 130 at each side of the base section 121 which are connected thereto by respective fold lines.
- spaced retaining slots 132 are provided for receiving corresponding projections 134 provided at the extremities of the side walls 130 and the second end wall 125.
- Each of the side walls 130 and the second end wall 125 is provided with a fold line along its centre which allows the wall to be folded in half so that the projections 134 can engage the retaining slots 132 and hold the wall in position. In this way, the walls are of double thickness.
- the first end wall 124 and the second end wall 125 are provided at their sides proximate the side walls 130 with side tabs 136 connected to the walls 124, 125 by fold lines. In the assembled box 100, the side walls 130 fold over the side tabs 136 to maintain the walls in an upright position.
- the dividers 106 extend from the second end wall 125 and connect the second end wall 125 to a reinforcing wall 124a which provides the second thickness for the double thickness of the first end wall 124.
- the support shelf 112 extends from the reinforcing wall 124a and is connected thereto by a fold line.
- the dividers 106 are each provided with bottom tabs 138 which are received by the retaining holes 122 in the base section 121 in the assembled box 100.
- the bottom tabs 138 having passed through the retaining holes 122 can be folded over and secured in position with packaging tape on the underside of the assembled box 100. In this way, in the assembled box 100, the dividers 106 and the associated tabs 118, 138 connect the base section 121 to the closing lid 102 providing rigidity to the box structure and preventing crushing or bowing of the box 100.
- the dividers 106 are first folded up as will be described with reference to Figure 3 .
- the divider section is then folded down against the base section 121 and the end walls 130 are folded over to form a divided box ready to receive portions of fruit and vegetables.
- the box is closed by folding the closing lid 102 over the compartmentalised packaging box.
- FIG. 3 shows an illustration of a folding divider for use in a packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- a triangular-section divider 106 is formed from a first divider wall 106a and a second divider wall 106b.
- a divider base section 106c is connects the first divider wall 106a to the second divider wall 106b via fold lines.
- a securing tab 118 engages with retaining projections 140 provided respectively on the first divider wall 106a and the second divider wall 106b or vice versa.
- lower securing tabs 138 are provided for engagement with the holes 122 defined in the base section 121.
- the configuration of the tabs 118 is slightly different.
- a tab 118 is provided on each of the first and second divider walls 106a, 106b and the two tabs interengage with a slight overlap to retain the divider walls 106a, 106b in position.
- One or both of the interengaged tabs 118 pass through the hole 106 in the closing lid 102.
- the retaining projections 140 receive the tab 118 which then passes through the hole in the closing lid 102.
- each divider 106 is provided with only one lower securing tab 138, whereas in Figure 3 , two lower securing tabs are provided on each divider 106.
- Figure 4 shows an illustration of an assembled packaging box 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- the closing lid 102 of the packaging box 100 is additionally secured to the packaging box 100 by folding the securing tab 118 over against the closing lid 102.
- the securing tabs 118 are held in place against the closing lid 102 by tape 144, as previously described.
- the securing tabs 118 may be flattened by for example, an embossing, stamping or rolling process.
- the securing tabs 118 can be folded down and accommodated in the recess of the closing lid 102, such that the folded down securing tabs 118 are flush with the top surface of the non-recessed parts of the closing lid 102. It will be appreciated that this principle may also be applied in substantially the same way to the lower securing tabs 138 and the underside of the base section 121.
- Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the invention which differs from the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 in that in this embodiment the support shelf 112 is extended and provided with slots at its outer edges for receiving the tabs 118. This not only retains the supporting shelf 112 in position but also assists in positioning the tabs 118 prior to the closing lid 102 being closed so that the tabs 118 are easily located in the holes 116.
- FIG 6 is an illustration of a blank for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention.
- the blank is substantially as described with reference to the embodiment of Figure 2 , with the hereinafter described differences.
- the box body 114 of the assembled box contains four compartments, formed from two dividers 152 and a lateral divider 154.
- the dividers 152 run in the same direction as the dividers 106 as described in previous embodiments, but differ in their design, as will be described hereinafter.
- the lateral divider 154 runs substantially perpendicular to the dividers 152, and is arranged to subdivide a compartment formed between the two dividers 152.
- each of the dividers 152 and lateral divider 154 is configured to have a substantially rectangular cross-section.
- the dividers 152 extend from the second end wall 125 and connect the second end wall 125 to the reinforcing wall 124a which provides the second thickness for the double thickness of the first end wall 124.
- the dividers 152 are each connected to the second end wall 125 and the reinforcing wall 124a by the divider base section 152d.
- the divider base section 152d is connected to the outer side wall 152c, which is connected to the divider top section 152b, itself connected to the inner side wall 152a.
- the inner side wall 152a, the divider top section 152b and the outer side wall 152c are configured to be foldable around the divider base section 152d such that a free end of the inner side wall 152a meets the divider base section 152d to form a divider 152 having a substantially rectangular cross section.
- the inner side wall 152a is provided with a bottom tab 156 and an upper tab 158.
- each bottom tab 156 is arranged to pass through one of the bottom locating holes 122.
- each upper tab 158 is arranged to pass through one of the corresponding holes 116.
- Each divider base section 152d is mutually connected by a lateral divider base section 154b.
- the lateral divider base section 154b is connected at a first edge to a lateral divider front wall 154a and connected at an opposing second edge to a lateral divider rear wall 154c.
- the first edge and second edge are both perforated connections, allowing either or both of the lateral divider front wall 154a and the lateral divider rear wall 154c to be removed from the lateral divider base section 154b.
- the lateral divider front wall 154a is provided with a divider retaining tab 162, arranged to engage in a divider retaining slot 160 defined in the inner side wall 152a.
- the lateral divider rear wall 154c is also provided with a bottom tab 156 and an upper tab 158, configured to engage with the bottom locating holes 122 and the corresponding holes 116 respectively, substantially as described in relation to the same tabs on the inner side wall 152a.
- perforated lines may be provided on the dividers 152 or the lateral divider 154 to allow all or part of the divider to be removed to accommodate different numbers and layouts of compartments.
- the packaging box 100 is also provided with a support shelf 112 for use substantially as described in relation to previously described embodiments.
- the support shelf 112 has defined therein tab locating slots 148, configured to be engaged by the upper tabs 158 during assembly of the packaging box 100.
- the tab locating slots 148 ensure that the upper tabs 158 remain substantially vertical when the closing lid 102 is closed over the box body 114 so that the upper tabs 158 can easily pass through the corresponding holes 116.
- the support shelf 112 is also provided with three dovetail slots 146, arranged to engage with protrusions provided at an end of the lateral divider front wall 154a during assembly of the packaging box 100.
- the dovetail slots 146 are configured to retain the lateral divider front wall 154a in an upright position, even when a part of the divider 152 containing the divider retaining slot 160 has been removed.
- FIG 7 is an illustration of an inside of the packaging box formed from the blank shown in Figure 6 .
- the packaging box 100 is shown in a part assembled configuration, with four compartments defined by the configuration of two vertical partitions 152 joined centrally by a lateral partition 154.
- Each of the partitions 152, 154 also has an open central region to allow the storage of further portions of fruit or vegetables.
- Figure 8 is a further illustration of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blank shown in Figure 6 .
- the support shelf 112 is closed over one of the partitions through engagement by the upper tabs 158.
- a letter (not shown) provided on a top surface of the support shelf 112 can be located against the upper tabs 158.
- FIG 9 is an illustration of two blanks for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention.
- the design and assembly of the packaging box 100 as shown in Figure 9 is substantially as described in relation to the embodiment of Figure 6 apart from the hereinafter described features.
- the closing lid 102 has defined therein a pair of top belt-buckle holes 164.
- the base section 121 has defined therein a pair of bottom belt-buckle holes 166.
- the base section 121 is connected to a strengthening support section 168.
- the second end wall 125 is provided between the base section 121 and the strengthening support section 168.
- the connection between the strengthening support section 168 and the second end wall 125 is a perforated connection, allowing the strengthening support section 168 to be folded in the reverse direction compared with the direction of fold required in, for example, the fold between the base section 121 and the second end wall 125.
- the strengthening support section 168 is provided with a pair of fold-up partitions 170 extending from opposite sides of the strengthening support section 168.
- the strengthening support section 168 is further connected to an outer box horizontal portion 172.
- the connection between the strengthening support section 168 and the outer box horizontal portion 172 is again a perforated connection allowing the outer box horizontal portion 172 to be folded in the reverse direction, as described above.
- the outer box horizontal portion 172 extends in a direction transverse to the connection with the strengthening support section 168.
- Each transverse end of the outer box horizontal portion 172 is connected to an outer box vertical partition 174, each of which is further connected to a first end wall strengthening piece 176.
- Each first end wall strengthening piece 176 is itself further
- the strengthening support section 168 is provided with a top belt-buckle tab 180 and a bottom belt-buckle tab 182, each extending from opposite ends of the strengthening support section 168.
- a bottom locating tab 184 and a top locating tab 186 extend from opposite sides of each outer box vertical partition 174.
- the packaging box 100 is also designed to make use of a box insert 190 formed from a second blank.
- the box insert 190 comprises a box insert floor section 192.
- the box insert floor section 192 is connected to four box insert side walls 196.
- a box insert lid 194 is connected to one of the box insert side walls 196 and is arranged to close the assembled box insert 190.
- the box insert floor section 192 is provided with a box insert lower locating hole 198.
- the box insert lid 194 is provided with a box insert upper locating hole 200.
- Figure 10 is an illustration of an inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown in Figure 9 .
- the box insert 190 is designed to be assembled into a box as shown in Figure 10 .
- the box is sized to fit within a series of partitions provided by this particular embodiment of the packaging box 100.
- the outer box horizontal partition 172 is configured to provide a retaining function to prevent the box insert 192 sliding down the packaging box 100 when in position.
- the outer box horizontal partition 172 is held in place in the semi-assembled configuration illustrated in Figure 10 by the interaction of the bottom belt-buckle tab 182 threading through the bottom belt-buckle holes 166.
- the top belt-buckle tab 180 is arranged to thread out and back inside the closing lid 102 through the pair of top belt-buckle holes 164.
- the box insert 190 is further held in place by the outer box vertical partitions 174.
- the outer box vertical partitions 174 are located in the correct position through the engagement of the bottom locating tabs 184 and top locating tabs 186 with the bottom locating holes 122 and the holes 116 respectively.
- the locking tabs 178 are arranged to be held in place within the folded end walls 130 during assembly of the packaging box 100.
- the fold-up partitions 170 on the strengthening support section 168 are arranged to fold up if required to further partition the packaging box 100.
- the fold-up partitions 170 can be used to stop any fruits or vegetables rolling or sliding in the otherwise relatively large cavity.
- Figure 11 is a further illustration of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown in Figure 9 .
- the tip of the bottom belt-buckle tab 182 is configured to engage with the box insert lower locating hole 198 when the box insert 190 is positioned in the remainder of the packaging box 100.
- the top belt-buckle tab 180 is configured to engage in substantially the same way with the box insert upper locating hole 200 when the box insert lid 194 and the closing lid 102 are both closed.
- the box insert 190 can be easily removed from the opened packaging box 100 by lifting out of place. This can be useful where the box insert 190 contains perishable items, for example tomatoes, which need to be stored in the fridge.
- the box insert 190 is also small enough to fit in a handbag, rucksack, or case for taking fruit and vegetables as snacks, or for example, for lunch away from home.
- the box insert floor section 192 acts in combination with the base section 121 to provide an extra layer of cardboard between the contents of the box insert 190 and the outside of the packaging box 100.
- the box insert lid 194 and the closing lid 102 provide a total of two layers of cardboard between the contents of the box insert 190 and the outside of the packaging box 100. Therefore, extra cushioning may be provided to provide extra protection to any delicate fruits or vegetables packed in the box insert 190.
- the extra layer of cardboard provides for extra absorption of any liquid coming from damaged fruit or vegetables, for example, if the parcel is undelivered and has to wait at the post office.
- FIG 12 is an illustration of an assembled packaging box formed from the blanks shown in Figure 9 .
- a tape roll 202 can be used to dispense tape for use in flattening the top locating tabs 186 against the closing lid 102 and holding the tabs in place.
- the tape can also be used to secure the top belt-buckle tab 180 in place.
- One of the reasons for using a top belt-buckle tab 180 instead of a folding tab of the form seen in the top locating tabs 186 is that a tab which folds in a direction transverse to the direction in which the tape is applied is not naturally flattened by the process of applying the tape, as is the case with the top locating tabs 186. Therefore, the top belt-buckle tab 180 is particularly advantageous because the tab is held in place against the closing lid 102 ready for taping.
- the box insert lid 194 also acts in a similar way to the support shelf 112 used in other embodiments in that the box insert lid 194 can prevent a piece of paper provided between the box insert lid 194 and the closing lid 102, and viewable through the viewing window 120, from becoming wet due to liquids from fruits and vegetables packaged in the packaging box 100 or the box insert 190.
- each of the top belt-buckle tab 180 and bottom belt-buckle tab 182 are illustrated going out of the assembled packaging box 100 through one locating hole 184, 186 and coming back into the assembled packaging box 100 through the other locating hole 184, 186, it will be appreciated that this direction may be swapped by changing the position of the holes 184, 186 on the packaging box, or changing the shape of the partition sections.
- FIG 13 is an illustration of two blanks for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention.
- the packaging box 100 is substantially as described in relation to Figure 9 apart from the hereinafter described differences.
- the lid 102 has defined therein three pairs of lid slots 202.
- the three pairs of lid slots 202 are arranged in line along a length of the lid 102.
- the base section 121 has defined therein three pairs of base slots 204.
- the three pairs of base slots 204 are arranged in line along a length of the base section 121 and arranged to line up with the lid slots 202 when the packaging box 100 is assembled.
- a connecting portion 212 connects the outer box horizontal portion 172 to a front compartment rear portion 222, connected to a front compartment top 220 and the second end wall 125.
- a zip strip in the form of a tear strip 210 is provided between the connecting portion 212 and the front compartment rear portion 222.
- a finger hole 214 is defined within the front compartment rear portion 222 at a boundary with the tear strip 210.
- Two viewing holes 216 are defined within the front compartment top portion 220 and the front compartment rear portion 222 to enable viewing of the contents of the front compartment when the box 100 is fully assembled. The two viewing holes 216 are located away from the centre of the front compartment top portion 220 and the front compartment rear portion 222 to retain the structural strength of the centre of the front compartment rear portion 222 and the front compartment top portion 220 in the assembled packaging box 100.
- Three upper tabs 206 and three lower tabs 208 are provided on the outer box horizontal portion 172.
- the three upper tabs 206 are arranged to engage with the lid slots 202 when the box 100 is fully assembled to hold a centre portion of the lid 102 closed on the outer box horizontal portion 172.
- the three lower tabs 208 are arranged to engage with the base slots 204 when the box 100 is assembled to connect the centre portion of the lid 102 to a centre portion of the base section 121 via the outer box horizontal portion 172 which partitions the box 100.
- a tear tab 218 is provided within one of the side walls 130. The tear tab 218 is frangibly connected to the box 100.
- the packaging box 100 also comprises a box insert 190, which is substantially as described previously, although it will be appreciated that the orientation and size of the lower locating holes 198 and the upper locating holes 200 are modified to ensure the holes 198, 200 line up with the returning portion of the lower tabs 208 and the upper tabs 206.
- each of the three lower tabs 208 and the three upper tabs 206 are configured to pass outside the box 100 through a one of the pair of base slots 204 and a one of the pair of lid slots 202 respectively.
- a portion of each of the three lower tabs 208 and the three upper tabs 206 is also configured to pass back into the packaging box 100 through the other of the pair of base slots 204 and a one of the pair of lid slots 202 respectively, thereby securing the outer box horizontal portion 172 in place within the assembled packaging box 100.
- FIG 14 is a series of illustrations of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown in Figure 13 , showing a method of packing cut plant matter in the packaging box.
- the cut plant matter may be, for example, herbs or beans.
- Step A shows a packaging box 100 assembled, with the lid 102 open, and without any produce in the box 100.
- a front compartment of the packaging box 100 is provided in a first, closed stable configuration.
- the front compartment top portion 220 and the front compartment rear portion 222 can each be seen in a closed configuration. In this position, the front compartment provides a structural function in the packaging box 100 and prevents the box 100 from bending.
- Step B shows a finger being inserted through the finger hole 214 provided in the front compartment rear portion 222.
- Steps C, D and E show the front compartment being opened up to a fully open configuration shown in Step E. It will be appreciated that both the closed and open configurations are two stable positions in an over-centre mechanism. Tabs visible in steps D and E, folded at each end of the front compartment rear portion 222 provide a further structural support to prevent buckling when the front compartment is in the closed configuration.
- Step F shows a bundle of cut plant matter prepared for insertion into the front compartment. The packing of the cut plant matter bundle will be explained in more detail below in relation to Figure 17 .
- Step G shows the cut plant matter bundle inserted through a side of the front compartment, so that the bundle of cut plant matter sits behind the front compartment rear portion 222. As can be seen in Step H, the front compartment is then closed again by applying pressure onto the front compartment rear portion 222.
- Step I shows the front compartment fully closed, with the cut plant matter bundle visible through the viewing hole 216.
- the front compartment provides a protective compartment which can be used to prevent damage to delicate foods.
- the front compartment may be used to hold fragile leaf vegetables.
- FIG 15 is a series of illustrations of a top of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown in Figure 13 , showing steps in a method of opening the packaging box.
- the box 100 has been taped substantially as described with reference to Figure 12 above, with the tape covering the exposed portions of each of the upper tabs 206.
- the tape finishes on the tear tab 218.
- a customer can pull the tear tab 218 which is frangibly provided within the side wall 130 of the box 100.
- the tear tab 218 is configured to be detachable from the packaging box 100, but remains attached to the tape.
- the tear tab 218 is usable as a handle for removing the tape from the top of the packed packaging box, releasing the upper tabs 206 and allowing a customer quick and easy access to the contents of the box.
- the upper tabs 206 may also be frangibly connected to the outer box horizontal portion 172, such that the upper tabs 206 also come away when the tape is removed.
- FIG 16 is an illustration of a step in a method of unpacking the contents of an assembled packaging box formed from the blanks shown in Figure 13 .
- the tear strip 210 is configured to be removable from the packaging box 100 to provide a convenient way to release the front compartment and allow access to any food items stored in the front compartment. As well as making access to the front compartment easier, this also means that any food items still packaged in the box 100 on the connecting portion 212 need not be removed to get access to the front compartment.
- a tear strip 210 has been described, it will be appreciated that other techniques and features can also be used to allow for quick and easy opening of the front compartment.
- the tear strip 210 may comprise a string member to aid in easy opening of the front compartment.
- FIG 17 is a series of illustrations of a packaging member for packing cut plant matter for use in the packaging boxes according to embodiments of the present invention. It also illustrates a method of packing a delicate cut plant matter 304, for example a basil plant, for sending by mail.
- Step A shows a moisture retaining member in the form of a rolled-up strip of corrugated cardboard 302.
- the rolled-up strip of cardboard 302 is formed from the same blank as that used to form the packaging box 100.
- the roll of cardboard 302 is saturated with water to provide moisture for the cut plant matter 304 when packaged.
- the water is typically held within the corrugations in the roll of cardboard 302.
- a cut end of the cut plant matter 304 is placed adjacent to the saturated roll of cardboard 302.
- the saturated roll of cardboard 302 is rolled around the cut end of the cut plant matter 304.
- a breathable member in the form of a plastics film 306 formed from Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) is placed around the combination of the cut plant matter 304 and the roll of cardboard 302 and wrapped up as shown in steps C and D. In this way, the plastics film 306 surrounds the cut plant matter 304 in order to retain moisture around the plant matter 304. Perforations in the plastics film 306 allow for the level of moisture to be controlled.
- BOPP Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene
- Step F the package of cut plant matter 304 is fastened with a piece of tape at the end of the package where the roll of cardboard 302 is located. An opposite end of the package is left open to allow moisture to escape from an end of the cut plant matter 304 opposite the cut end.
- the end of the cut plant matter 304 opposite the cut end is provided with leaves.
- box insert 190 is formed from the same material as the rest of the packaging box 100, it will be appreciated that the box insert 190 may instead be formed from a different material, or from the same material having different properties, for example finish, thickness or colour.
- the packaging box may be sized to minimise the postage payable for delivery.
- the packaging box may have a length less than 45cm, a width less than 35cm and a depth less than 8cm in order to meet the requirements of a "small parcel" under UK postage rules.
- the packaging box may be dimensioned to fit through a standard letter box.
- the presently preferred configuration has a width of 18.4cm, a length of 45cm and a depth of 3.8cm. This size has been found to fit through most letterboxes.
- a smaller version with a width of 18cm, a length of 35cm and a depth of 2.5cm is also feasible and has the advantage that it meets the requirements of a "large letter" under UK postage rules.
- a packaging box 100 for mailing fruit and vegetables for delivery to the home comprises a box body 114 configured to receive the fruit or vegetables, a lid 102 configured to close the box body to provide a closed box, and at least one partitioning member 106 configured to divide the box body into at least two compartments.
- the partitioning member 106 is configured for attachment to the lid 102, whereby to connect the lid 102 to the box body 114 when the box is closed.
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Description
- This invention relates to packaging for fragile goods, in particular food, such as fruit and vegetables.
- It is well known for a wide range of goods to be purchased online and delivered by mail. Appropriate packaging is required for such goods to ensure that they are not damaged in transit. In the case of fresh fruit and vegetables it is important that the items are minimally bruised during transit in the mail. Moreover where a selection of fruit and vegetables are ordered online and delivered by mail it is desirable that the different fruits and vegetables are kept separate during transit in order that they maintain an attractive appearance when received by the user and heavier items do not damage more fragile items by movement in the packaging.
- One potential solution is to include within the packaging large amounts of cushioning material to protect the fruit and vegetables. However, this adds to the volume and cost of the packaging and increases the cost of mailing. Moreover, it is desirable for the delivery to be receivable at home by the recipient, which makes low volume packaging that will fit through most letterboxes an attractive opportunity.
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FR2502120A1 -
US2955733A relates to a box for use in transporting live poultry, such as chicks.FR1376502A - The present invention, at least in the particular embodiments described herein, seeks to provide packaging for a selection of fruit and vegetables that enables the selection to be delivered by mail and received without significant damage to the contents of the packaging.
- In accordance with the present invention when viewed from a first aspect there is provided a packaging box for mailing fruit and vegetables for delivery to the home as claimed in claim 1.
- Thus in accordance with the present invention, the partitioning member not only divides the box body into compartments but also provided structural stability to the box by connecting the lid to the box body in the closed box. In embodiments of the invention this provides enhanced resistance of the box to crushing or bowing. Thus, the partitioning member may form a connection between the lid of the closed box and the base panel of the closed box.
- The partitioning member may be provided to partition the box body lengthways or widthways. In some embodiments, the box body may be partitioned both lengthways and widthways through the use of at least two mutually transverse partitioning members.
- The partitioning member may attach to the lid adhesively. In one embodiment, the partitioning member comprises at least one upper projecting member, and the lid has defined therein at least one upper hole for receiving the upper projecting member, whereby to connect the lid to the partitioning member when the box is closed. Thus, the upper projecting member may be a tab. The tab may extend from the partitioning member. The hole may be provided centrally on the lid.
- In one embodiment, the upper projecting member is a projecting tab configured to be secured adhesively to an outer surface of the lid. In this arrangement, the tab can be secured to the lid when the box has been closed. The tab may be self-adhesive. In one embodiment, the tab is secured to the lid with adhesive tape.
- The tab may extend from the partitioning member. The lower hole may be provided centrally on the base panel.
- The tab may be self-adhesive. In one embodiment, the tab is secured to the lid with adhesive tape.
- In one embodiment, at least one of the lower projecting member and the upper projecting member may be flattened, and at least one of a complementary region of the lid or a complementary region of the base panel may also be flattened. In this way, when the lower projecting member or the upper projecting member are laid flat against an outer surface of the lid or an outer surface of the base panel respectively, the folded over lower projecting member or the folded over upper projecting member do not extend substantially above the profile of the remainder of the outer surface of the lid or the outer surface of the base panel respectively. This provides a packaging box design which is more easily processed by the postal system.
- The partitioning member may form a partition with a substantially triangular cross section. This has the advantage of additional structural stability. For example, the partitioning member may comprise a base member and two wall members which meet at an apex. The wall members may be provided with interengaging projections at the apex. The interengaging projections may comprise the upper projection.
- The partitioning member may form a partition with a substantially rectangular section. This has the advantage of allowing an additional compartment to be provided within the partition itself. For example, the partitioning member may comprise a base member, two wall members and a roof member, such that a wall member joins a side of the base member to a side of the roof member. The roof member may be provided with a cut-out section to allow access to the interior of the partitioning member from a top of the box body. In some embodiments, the partitions themselves can hold small/narrow items like, for example, berries, tomatoes, cherries, mange tout, chillis, or turmeric. This makes for more efficient use of the space taken up by the partition itself.
- In one embodiment, the partitioning member is optionally foldable to lay flat in the box body. In this way, the user can choose to use one or more partitioning members depending on the selection of fruit and vegetables to be packaged.
- In one embodiment, the lid has defined therein a window and the box further comprises a support shelf arranged between the box body and the lid, the support shelf providing a barrier between the window and the interior of the box body. The support shelf may be configured to engage the upper projecting member whereby to guide the upper projecting member through the upper holes when the lid is closed. The support shelf may be configured to engage the upper projecting member by means of a slot defined in an edge of the support shelf.
- In one embodiment, the support shelf comprises at least one retaining member for retaining a document in position on the support shelf relative to the window. The retaining member may be cut from the material of the support shelf, for example in the form of a tongue.
- In embodiments of the invention, the box is formed from corrugated cardboard. In particular, the box may be formed from a single piece of cardboard.
- The packaging box may be sized to minimise the postage payable for delivery. In addition or alternatively, the packaging box may be dimensioned to fit through most domestic letterboxes. Consequently, the packaging box may have a length of less than 50cm, desirably of at most 45cm. The packaging box may have a width of less than 40cm, desirably of at most 35cm. The packaging box may have a depth of less than 10cm, desirably of at most 8cm, or even less than 4cm.
- In embodiments of the invention, the packaging box may comprise a second box within the packaging box. The second box may be removable from the packaging box. The second box may be insertable into the packaging box. The second box may be a tray. The second box may comprise a closing lid, which closes the box. The closing lid may be configured to provide a support shelf within the packaging box. The partitioning members of the packaging box may be arranged to support the second box when the second box is positioned in the packaging box. At least one of the partitioning members of the packaging box may be arranged to support a side wall of the second box when the second box is positioned in the packaging box. At least one of the side walls of the second box may be configured to support at least one of the partitioning members of the packaging box.
- In some embodiments of the invention, the at least one projecting member of the partitioning members of the packaging box may be configured to pass out of the packaging box through a first hole in the packaging box and subsequently pass back into the packaging box through a second hole in the packaging box. Thus, at least one of the projecting members may be referred to as belt-buckle tabs.
- The invention extends to a blank for forming a packaging box according to the invention.
- Viewed from a further aspect, the invention provides a method of packaging cut plant matter. The method comprises providing a moisture retaining member adjacent a cut end of cut plant matter, surrounding the cut plant matter and the moisture retaining member by a porous plastics sheet member, wherein the moisture retaining member is formed from a strip of corrugated cardboard. The method further comprises the steps of separating the moisture retaining member from a blank for a packaging box as described above, separating the moisture retaining member from the blank formed from corrugated cardboard, assembling the packaging box and packing the cut plant matter.
- The moisture retaining member may be formed from a rolled strip of corrugated cardboard. The method may include the step of moistening the corrugated cardboard with water.
- Embodiments of the invention are further described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
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Figure 1 is an illustration of a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention; -
Figure 2 is an illustration of a blank for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention; -
Figure 3 is an illustration of a folding divider for use in a packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
Figure 4 is an illustration of an assembled packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
Figure 5 is an illustration of a constructional features of an assembled packaging box according to a further embodiment of the present invention; -
Figure 6 is an illustration of a blank for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention; -
Figure 7 is an illustration of an inside of the packaging box formed from the blank shown inFigure 6 ; -
Figure 8 is a further illustration of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blank shown inFigure 6 ; -
Figure 9 is an illustration of two blanks for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention; -
Figure 10 is an illustration of an inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 9 ; -
Figure 11 is a further illustration of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 9 ; -
Figure 12 is an illustration of an assembled packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 9 ; -
Figure 13 is an illustration of two blanks for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention; -
Figure 14 is a series of illustrations of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 13 , showing a method of packing cut plant matter in the packaging box; -
Figure 15 is a series of illustrations of a top of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 13 , showing steps in a method of opening the packaging box; -
Figure 16 is an illustration of a step in a method of unpacking the contents of an assembled packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 13 ; and -
Figure 17 is a series of illustrations of a packaging member for packing cut plant matter for use in the packaging boxes according to embodiments of the present invention. - The present disclosure relates to a food packaging box for protecting fruits and vegetables during delivery by mail. The food packaging box is typically formed from a corrugated cardboard blank.
Figure 1 shows an illustration of a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. Thepackaging box 100 comprises abox body 114 formed integrally with a closinglid 102. The closinglid 102 is configured to close thepackaging box 100 by securing to thebox body 114.Side tabs 104 provided on the closinglid 102 are configured to engage with slots at the corners of thebox body 114 to locate the closinglid 102 on thebox body 114. Additional securing is provided bylid tabs 108 which project from an end edge of the closinglid 102 and are arranged to secure theclosing lid 102 to thebox body 114 by engagement inslots 110 defined in a front face of thebox body 114. - Within the
box body 114,dividers 106 are provided to compartmentalise thebox body 114 and allow multiple portions of fruit and vegetables to be separated in thepackaging box 100 during mailing. At an upper edge of eachdivider 106 atab 118 is provided for engagement in acorresponding hole 116 defined in the closinglid 102. When the closinglid 102 is in position to close thebox 100, thetabs 118 andholes 116 engage to hold thedividers 106 upright. Thetabs 118 are then folded to lie against the upper surface of the closinglid 102 and secured in position with packaging tape (as shown inFigure 4 ). The connection between thedividers 106 and the closinglid 102 via thetabs 118 provides theclosed box 100 with additional stability to prevent crushing or bowing of thebox 100. Moreover, this connection ensures that the compartments defined by thedividers 106 are each closed securely by the closinglid 102, so that the contents of each compartment do not migrate into adjacent compartments during transit. - A
support shelf 112 is provided within thebox body 114 and is positioned to rest on thedividers 106 between thedividers 106 and the closinglid 102 in theclosed box 100. Acorresponding viewing window 120 is defined within the closinglid 102 and allows printed material provided on thesupport shelf 112 to be viewed even when thepackaging box 100 is closed. In some embodiments, an additional piece of paper, printed with an address and other postage information can be provided on thesupport shelf 112. Theviewing window 120 may comprise a clear plastic window to prevent moisture or other contaminants entering the box during mailing. Thesupport shelf 112 is provided with opposed cut-out tongues 126 (seeFigure 2 ) which retain the printed material in position on thesupport shelf 112. Thesupport shelf 112 locates the printed material in position relative to theviewing window 120 so that pre-printed postage information is viewable through theviewing window 120. This allows the postage information, such as an address and franking mark, to be printed onto the printed material, which may simply be a piece of paper of standard size using a standard printer without the need for adhesive labels. In addition, thesupport shelf 112 locates the printed material in position in thebox body 114 on opening of thebox 100 so that the recipient is immediately presented with the information printed thereon. This is important in providing a positive experience for the recipient on opening thebox 100. Thesupport shelf 112 also provides a barrier between the fruit or vegetables in the compartments defined by thedividers 106 and the printed material so that the printed material is not stained or moistened by the fruit or vegetables. Again, this is important for the positive experience of the recipient. This has the advantage that standard, rather than waterproof, inks can be used for printing. -
Figure 2 shows an illustration of thepackaging box 100 ofFigure 1 in the form of a flat blank. The blank 100 is formed from a single piece of fibreboard, also known a corrugated cardboard or "eFlute". In the diagram ofFigure 2 , solid black lines indicate lines to be cut and solid grey lines indicate crease lines where the flat fibreboard is scored in preparation for later folding during assembly of thepackaging box 100. Corresponding reference numerals are used inFigure 2 for the features described previously in relation toFigure 1 . - The blank 100 comprises the closing
lid 102, having defined therein fixingholes 116 andviewing windows 120. The closinglid 102 comprises anend flap 128 on which are provided theside tabs 104 andlid tabs 108, which secure theclosing lid 102 to thebox body 114 when the closinglid 102 is closes the assembledpackaging box 100. In the closed position theend flap 128 overlies a side wall of thebox body 114 and provides additional structural support thereto. - At its edge opposite the
end flap 128, the closinglid 102 is connected by a fold line to thebox body 114. Thebox body 114 comprises abase section 121, having defined therein bottom locating holes 122. Between thebase section 121 and the closinglid 102 thebox body 114 comprises afirst end wall 124 connected to thebase section 121 by a fold line. Asecond end wall 125 is provided on the opposite side of thebase section 121 to thefirst end wall 124 and is connected to thebase section 121 by a fold line. Thebox body 114 further comprisesside walls 130 at each side of thebase section 121 which are connected thereto by respective fold lines. Along the fold lines which join theend walls end walls 130 to thebase section 121, spaced retainingslots 132 are provided for receiving correspondingprojections 134 provided at the extremities of theside walls 130 and thesecond end wall 125. Each of theside walls 130 and thesecond end wall 125 is provided with a fold line along its centre which allows the wall to be folded in half so that theprojections 134 can engage the retainingslots 132 and hold the wall in position. In this way, the walls are of double thickness. Thefirst end wall 124 and thesecond end wall 125 are provided at their sides proximate theside walls 130 withside tabs 136 connected to thewalls box 100, theside walls 130 fold over theside tabs 136 to maintain the walls in an upright position. - The
dividers 106 extend from thesecond end wall 125 and connect thesecond end wall 125 to a reinforcingwall 124a which provides the second thickness for the double thickness of thefirst end wall 124. Thesupport shelf 112 extends from the reinforcingwall 124a and is connected thereto by a fold line. - The
dividers 106 are each provided withbottom tabs 138 which are received by the retainingholes 122 in thebase section 121 in the assembledbox 100. Like thetabs 118 which engage theholes 116 in the closinglid 102, thebottom tabs 138 having passed through the retainingholes 122 can be folded over and secured in position with packaging tape on the underside of the assembledbox 100. In this way, in the assembledbox 100, thedividers 106 and the associatedtabs base section 121 to the closinglid 102 providing rigidity to the box structure and preventing crushing or bowing of thebox 100. - To assemble the
packaging box 100 from the blank, thedividers 106 are first folded up as will be described with reference toFigure 3 . The divider section is then folded down against thebase section 121 and theend walls 130 are folded over to form a divided box ready to receive portions of fruit and vegetables. The box is closed by folding the closinglid 102 over the compartmentalised packaging box. -
Figure 3 shows an illustration of a folding divider for use in a packaging box according to one embodiment of the present invention. A triangular-section divider 106 is formed from afirst divider wall 106a and asecond divider wall 106b. Adivider base section 106c is connects thefirst divider wall 106a to thesecond divider wall 106b via fold lines. To connect a top end of thefirst divider wall 106a to a top end of thesecond divider wall 106b, a securingtab 118 engages with retainingprojections 140 provided respectively on thefirst divider wall 106a and thesecond divider wall 106b or vice versa. For connection to thebase section 121, lower securingtabs 138 are provided for engagement with theholes 122 defined in thebase section 121. - It should be noted that in the embodiments of
Figures 2 and5 and 1 and 3 the configuration of thetabs 118 is slightly different. InFigure 2 , atab 118 is provided on each of the first andsecond divider walls divider walls interengaged tabs 118 pass through thehole 106 in the closinglid 102. InFigure 3 , the retainingprojections 140 receive thetab 118 which then passes through the hole in the closinglid 102. - Similarly, in
Figure 2 , eachdivider 106 is provided with only onelower securing tab 138, whereas inFigure 3 , two lower securing tabs are provided on eachdivider 106. -
Figure 4 shows an illustration of an assembledpackaging box 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The closinglid 102 of thepackaging box 100 is additionally secured to thepackaging box 100 by folding thesecuring tab 118 over against the closinglid 102. The securingtabs 118 are held in place against the closinglid 102 bytape 144, as previously described. - In some embodiments, the securing
tabs 118 may be flattened by for example, an embossing, stamping or rolling process. By additionally providing a recessed region in the top surface of the closinglid 102, by, for example, a further embossing process, the securingtabs 118 can be folded down and accommodated in the recess of the closinglid 102, such that the folded down securingtabs 118 are flush with the top surface of the non-recessed parts of the closinglid 102. It will be appreciated that this principle may also be applied in substantially the same way to thelower securing tabs 138 and the underside of thebase section 121. -
Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the invention which differs from the embodiment ofFigures 1 and2 in that in this embodiment thesupport shelf 112 is extended and provided with slots at its outer edges for receiving thetabs 118. This not only retains the supportingshelf 112 in position but also assists in positioning thetabs 118 prior to the closinglid 102 being closed so that thetabs 118 are easily located in theholes 116. -
Figure 6 is an illustration of a blank for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. The blank is substantially as described with reference to the embodiment ofFigure 2 , with the hereinafter described differences. Thebox body 114 of the assembled box contains four compartments, formed from twodividers 152 and alateral divider 154. Thedividers 152 run in the same direction as thedividers 106 as described in previous embodiments, but differ in their design, as will be described hereinafter. Thelateral divider 154 runs substantially perpendicular to thedividers 152, and is arranged to subdivide a compartment formed between the twodividers 152. In contrast to thedividers 106, each of thedividers 152 andlateral divider 154 is configured to have a substantially rectangular cross-section. Thedividers 152 extend from thesecond end wall 125 and connect thesecond end wall 125 to the reinforcingwall 124a which provides the second thickness for the double thickness of thefirst end wall 124. Thedividers 152 are each connected to thesecond end wall 125 and the reinforcingwall 124a by thedivider base section 152d. Thedivider base section 152d is connected to theouter side wall 152c, which is connected to thedivider top section 152b, itself connected to theinner side wall 152a. Theinner side wall 152a, thedivider top section 152b and theouter side wall 152c are configured to be foldable around thedivider base section 152d such that a free end of theinner side wall 152a meets thedivider base section 152d to form adivider 152 having a substantially rectangular cross section. Theinner side wall 152a is provided with abottom tab 156 and anupper tab 158. During assembly of thepackaging box 100, eachbottom tab 156 is arranged to pass through one of the bottom locating holes 122. Similarly, eachupper tab 158 is arranged to pass through one of the corresponding holes 116. - Each
divider base section 152d is mutually connected by a lateraldivider base section 154b. The lateraldivider base section 154b is connected at a first edge to a lateraldivider front wall 154a and connected at an opposing second edge to a lateral dividerrear wall 154c. The first edge and second edge are both perforated connections, allowing either or both of the lateraldivider front wall 154a and the lateral dividerrear wall 154c to be removed from the lateraldivider base section 154b. The lateraldivider front wall 154a is provided with adivider retaining tab 162, arranged to engage in adivider retaining slot 160 defined in theinner side wall 152a. When assembled, this ensures that the lateraldivider front wall 154a remains substantially perpendicular to the lateraldivider base section 154b. Similar provisions are provided in the lateral dividerrear wall 154c. The lateral dividerrear wall 154c is also provided with abottom tab 156 and anupper tab 158, configured to engage with thebottom locating holes 122 and the correspondingholes 116 respectively, substantially as described in relation to the same tabs on theinner side wall 152a. - As will be appreciated, perforated lines may be provided on the
dividers 152 or thelateral divider 154 to allow all or part of the divider to be removed to accommodate different numbers and layouts of compartments. - The
packaging box 100 is also provided with asupport shelf 112 for use substantially as described in relation to previously described embodiments. Thesupport shelf 112 has defined thereintab locating slots 148, configured to be engaged by theupper tabs 158 during assembly of thepackaging box 100. Thetab locating slots 148 ensure that theupper tabs 158 remain substantially vertical when the closinglid 102 is closed over thebox body 114 so that theupper tabs 158 can easily pass through the corresponding holes 116. Thesupport shelf 112 is also provided with threedovetail slots 146, arranged to engage with protrusions provided at an end of the lateraldivider front wall 154a during assembly of thepackaging box 100. Thedovetail slots 146 are configured to retain the lateraldivider front wall 154a in an upright position, even when a part of thedivider 152 containing thedivider retaining slot 160 has been removed. - Compared with previously described embodiments, it will be appreciated that all of the
dividers -
Figure 7 is an illustration of an inside of the packaging box formed from the blank shown inFigure 6 . Thepackaging box 100 is shown in a part assembled configuration, with four compartments defined by the configuration of twovertical partitions 152 joined centrally by alateral partition 154. Each of thepartitions -
Figure 8 is a further illustration of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blank shown inFigure 6 . Thesupport shelf 112 is closed over one of the partitions through engagement by theupper tabs 158. A letter (not shown) provided on a top surface of thesupport shelf 112 can be located against theupper tabs 158. -
Figure 9 is an illustration of two blanks for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. The design and assembly of thepackaging box 100 as shown inFigure 9 is substantially as described in relation to the embodiment ofFigure 6 apart from the hereinafter described features. The closinglid 102 has defined therein a pair of top belt-buckle holes 164. Thebase section 121 has defined therein a pair of bottom belt-buckle holes 166. Thebase section 121 is connected to a strengtheningsupport section 168. Thesecond end wall 125 is provided between thebase section 121 and the strengtheningsupport section 168. The connection between the strengtheningsupport section 168 and thesecond end wall 125 is a perforated connection, allowing the strengtheningsupport section 168 to be folded in the reverse direction compared with the direction of fold required in, for example, the fold between thebase section 121 and thesecond end wall 125. The strengtheningsupport section 168 is provided with a pair of fold-uppartitions 170 extending from opposite sides of the strengtheningsupport section 168. The strengtheningsupport section 168 is further connected to an outer boxhorizontal portion 172. The connection between the strengtheningsupport section 168 and the outer boxhorizontal portion 172 is again a perforated connection allowing the outer boxhorizontal portion 172 to be folded in the reverse direction, as described above. The outer boxhorizontal portion 172 extends in a direction transverse to the connection with the strengtheningsupport section 168. Each transverse end of the outer boxhorizontal portion 172 is connected to an outer boxvertical partition 174, each of which is further connected to a first endwall strengthening piece 176. Each first endwall strengthening piece 176 is itself further connected to alocking tab 178. - The strengthening
support section 168 is provided with a top belt-buckle tab 180 and a bottom belt-buckle tab 182, each extending from opposite ends of the strengtheningsupport section 168. Abottom locating tab 184 and atop locating tab 186 extend from opposite sides of each outer boxvertical partition 174. - The
packaging box 100 is also designed to make use of abox insert 190 formed from a second blank. Thebox insert 190 comprises a boxinsert floor section 192. The boxinsert floor section 192 is connected to four boxinsert side walls 196. Abox insert lid 194 is connected to one of the boxinsert side walls 196 and is arranged to close the assembledbox insert 190. The boxinsert floor section 192 is provided with a box insertlower locating hole 198. Thebox insert lid 194 is provided with a box insertupper locating hole 200. -
Figure 10 is an illustration of an inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 9 . During assembly or use of thepackaging box 100, thebox insert 190 is designed to be assembled into a box as shown inFigure 10 . The box is sized to fit within a series of partitions provided by this particular embodiment of thepackaging box 100. In particular, the outer boxhorizontal partition 172 is configured to provide a retaining function to prevent thebox insert 192 sliding down thepackaging box 100 when in position. The outer boxhorizontal partition 172 is held in place in the semi-assembled configuration illustrated inFigure 10 by the interaction of the bottom belt-buckle tab 182 threading through the bottom belt-buckle holes 166. When the closinglid 102 is closed over thepackaging box 100, the top belt-buckle tab 180 is arranged to thread out and back inside the closinglid 102 through the pair of top belt-buckle holes 164. Thebox insert 190 is further held in place by the outer boxvertical partitions 174. The outer boxvertical partitions 174 are located in the correct position through the engagement of thebottom locating tabs 184 and top locatingtabs 186 with thebottom locating holes 122 and theholes 116 respectively. The lockingtabs 178 are arranged to be held in place within the foldedend walls 130 during assembly of thepackaging box 100. The fold-uppartitions 170 on the strengtheningsupport section 168 are arranged to fold up if required to further partition thepackaging box 100. The fold-uppartitions 170 can be used to stop any fruits or vegetables rolling or sliding in the otherwise relatively large cavity. -
Figure 11 is a further illustration of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 9 . As shown here, the tip of the bottom belt-buckle tab 182 is configured to engage with the box insertlower locating hole 198 when thebox insert 190 is positioned in the remainder of thepackaging box 100. As will be appreciated, the top belt-buckle tab 180 is configured to engage in substantially the same way with the box insertupper locating hole 200 when thebox insert lid 194 and the closinglid 102 are both closed. - When the
packaging box 100 is received, thebox insert 190 can be easily removed from the openedpackaging box 100 by lifting out of place. This can be useful where thebox insert 190 contains perishable items, for example tomatoes, which need to be stored in the fridge. Thebox insert 190 is also small enough to fit in a handbag, rucksack, or case for taking fruit and vegetables as snacks, or for example, for lunch away from home. - The box
insert floor section 192 acts in combination with thebase section 121 to provide an extra layer of cardboard between the contents of thebox insert 190 and the outside of thepackaging box 100. Similarly, thebox insert lid 194 and the closinglid 102 provide a total of two layers of cardboard between the contents of thebox insert 190 and the outside of thepackaging box 100. Therefore, extra cushioning may be provided to provide extra protection to any delicate fruits or vegetables packed in thebox insert 190. Furthermore, the extra layer of cardboard provides for extra absorption of any liquid coming from damaged fruit or vegetables, for example, if the parcel is undelivered and has to wait at the post office. -
Figure 12 is an illustration of an assembled packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 9 . As described in relation to other embodiments, atape roll 202 can be used to dispense tape for use in flattening thetop locating tabs 186 against the closinglid 102 and holding the tabs in place. The tape can also be used to secure the top belt-buckle tab 180 in place. One of the reasons for using a top belt-buckle tab 180 instead of a folding tab of the form seen in thetop locating tabs 186 is that a tab which folds in a direction transverse to the direction in which the tape is applied is not naturally flattened by the process of applying the tape, as is the case with thetop locating tabs 186. Therefore, the top belt-buckle tab 180 is particularly advantageous because the tab is held in place against the closinglid 102 ready for taping. - As will be appreciated, the
box insert lid 194 also acts in a similar way to thesupport shelf 112 used in other embodiments in that thebox insert lid 194 can prevent a piece of paper provided between thebox insert lid 194 and the closinglid 102, and viewable through theviewing window 120, from becoming wet due to liquids from fruits and vegetables packaged in thepackaging box 100 or thebox insert 190. - Although each of the top belt-
buckle tab 180 and bottom belt-buckle tab 182 are illustrated going out of the assembledpackaging box 100 through one locatinghole packaging box 100 through the other locatinghole holes -
Figure 13 is an illustration of two blanks for forming a packaging box according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. Thepackaging box 100 is substantially as described in relation toFigure 9 apart from the hereinafter described differences. Thelid 102 has defined therein three pairs oflid slots 202. The three pairs oflid slots 202 are arranged in line along a length of thelid 102. Thebase section 121 has defined therein three pairs ofbase slots 204. The three pairs ofbase slots 204 are arranged in line along a length of thebase section 121 and arranged to line up with thelid slots 202 when thepackaging box 100 is assembled. A connectingportion 212 connects the outer boxhorizontal portion 172 to a front compartmentrear portion 222, connected to afront compartment top 220 and thesecond end wall 125. A zip strip in the form of atear strip 210 is provided between the connectingportion 212 and the front compartmentrear portion 222. Afinger hole 214 is defined within the front compartmentrear portion 222 at a boundary with thetear strip 210. Twoviewing holes 216 are defined within the front compartmenttop portion 220 and the front compartmentrear portion 222 to enable viewing of the contents of the front compartment when thebox 100 is fully assembled. The twoviewing holes 216 are located away from the centre of the front compartmenttop portion 220 and the front compartmentrear portion 222 to retain the structural strength of the centre of the front compartmentrear portion 222 and the front compartmenttop portion 220 in the assembledpackaging box 100. Threeupper tabs 206 and threelower tabs 208 are provided on the outer boxhorizontal portion 172. The threeupper tabs 206 are arranged to engage with thelid slots 202 when thebox 100 is fully assembled to hold a centre portion of thelid 102 closed on the outer boxhorizontal portion 172. The threelower tabs 208 are arranged to engage with thebase slots 204 when thebox 100 is assembled to connect the centre portion of thelid 102 to a centre portion of thebase section 121 via the outer boxhorizontal portion 172 which partitions thebox 100. Atear tab 218 is provided within one of theside walls 130. Thetear tab 218 is frangibly connected to thebox 100. In a similar way to the description associated withFigure 9 , thepackaging box 100 also comprises abox insert 190, which is substantially as described previously, although it will be appreciated that the orientation and size of the lower locating holes 198 and the upper locating holes 200 are modified to ensure theholes lower tabs 208 and theupper tabs 206. During assembly of thepackaging box 100, each of the threelower tabs 208 and the threeupper tabs 206 are configured to pass outside thebox 100 through a one of the pair ofbase slots 204 and a one of the pair oflid slots 202 respectively. A portion of each of the threelower tabs 208 and the threeupper tabs 206 is also configured to pass back into thepackaging box 100 through the other of the pair ofbase slots 204 and a one of the pair oflid slots 202 respectively, thereby securing the outer boxhorizontal portion 172 in place within the assembledpackaging box 100. -
Figure 14 is a series of illustrations of the inside of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 13 , showing a method of packing cut plant matter in the packaging box. The cut plant matter may be, for example, herbs or beans. Step A shows apackaging box 100 assembled, with thelid 102 open, and without any produce in thebox 100. A front compartment of thepackaging box 100 is provided in a first, closed stable configuration. The front compartmenttop portion 220 and the front compartmentrear portion 222 can each be seen in a closed configuration. In this position, the front compartment provides a structural function in thepackaging box 100 and prevents thebox 100 from bending. Step B shows a finger being inserted through thefinger hole 214 provided in the front compartmentrear portion 222. Steps C, D and E show the front compartment being opened up to a fully open configuration shown in Step E. It will be appreciated that both the closed and open configurations are two stable positions in an over-centre mechanism. Tabs visible in steps D and E, folded at each end of the front compartmentrear portion 222 provide a further structural support to prevent buckling when the front compartment is in the closed configuration. Step F shows a bundle of cut plant matter prepared for insertion into the front compartment. The packing of the cut plant matter bundle will be explained in more detail below in relation toFigure 17 . Step G shows the cut plant matter bundle inserted through a side of the front compartment, so that the bundle of cut plant matter sits behind the front compartmentrear portion 222. As can be seen in Step H, the front compartment is then closed again by applying pressure onto the front compartmentrear portion 222. Step I shows the front compartment fully closed, with the cut plant matter bundle visible through theviewing hole 216. - Although the present application refers to cut plant matter being inserted into the front compartment, it will be appreciated that any delicate food products may be inserted into the front compartment. The front compartment provides a protective compartment which can be used to prevent damage to delicate foods. For example, the front compartment may be used to hold fragile leaf vegetables.
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Figure 15 is a series of illustrations of a top of the packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 13 , showing steps in a method of opening the packaging box. Thebox 100 has been taped substantially as described with reference toFigure 12 above, with the tape covering the exposed portions of each of theupper tabs 206. The tape finishes on thetear tab 218. To open thebox 100, the tape must be removed. A customer can pull thetear tab 218 which is frangibly provided within theside wall 130 of thebox 100. Thetear tab 218 is configured to be detachable from thepackaging box 100, but remains attached to the tape. Therefore, thetear tab 218 is usable as a handle for removing the tape from the top of the packed packaging box, releasing theupper tabs 206 and allowing a customer quick and easy access to the contents of the box. In some embodiments, theupper tabs 206 may also be frangibly connected to the outer boxhorizontal portion 172, such that theupper tabs 206 also come away when the tape is removed. -
Figure 16 is an illustration of a step in a method of unpacking the contents of an assembled packaging box formed from the blanks shown inFigure 13 . Thetear strip 210 is configured to be removable from thepackaging box 100 to provide a convenient way to release the front compartment and allow access to any food items stored in the front compartment. As well as making access to the front compartment easier, this also means that any food items still packaged in thebox 100 on the connectingportion 212 need not be removed to get access to the front compartment. Although atear strip 210 has been described, it will be appreciated that other techniques and features can also be used to allow for quick and easy opening of the front compartment. In some embodiments, thetear strip 210 may comprise a string member to aid in easy opening of the front compartment. -
Figure 17 is a series of illustrations of a packaging member for packing cut plant matter for use in the packaging boxes according to embodiments of the present invention. It also illustrates a method of packing a delicatecut plant matter 304, for example a basil plant, for sending by mail. Step A shows a moisture retaining member in the form of a rolled-up strip ofcorrugated cardboard 302. In this particular embodiment, the rolled-up strip ofcardboard 302 is formed from the same blank as that used to form thepackaging box 100. The roll ofcardboard 302 is saturated with water to provide moisture for thecut plant matter 304 when packaged. The water is typically held within the corrugations in the roll ofcardboard 302. A cut end of thecut plant matter 304 is placed adjacent to the saturated roll ofcardboard 302. This ensures that the stalks or stems or other cut end of thecut plant matter 304 receives the moisture in preference to the leaves. In this particular embodiment, the saturated roll ofcardboard 302 is rolled around the cut end of thecut plant matter 304. A breathable member in the form of aplastics film 306 formed from Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) is placed around the combination of thecut plant matter 304 and the roll ofcardboard 302 and wrapped up as shown in steps C and D. In this way, theplastics film 306 surrounds thecut plant matter 304 in order to retain moisture around theplant matter 304. Perforations in theplastics film 306 allow for the level of moisture to be controlled. It has been found that a sheet of approximately 200 x 300 millimetres is sufficient to surround the cut plant matter. The perforations are in a triangular tessellation with each hole 25 millimetres from other holes. Without perforations, moisture would build up and make the plant matter soggy. In some cases, too much moisture will even result in the cut plant matter going mouldy. As shown in Step F, the package ofcut plant matter 304 is fastened with a piece of tape at the end of the package where the roll ofcardboard 302 is located. An opposite end of the package is left open to allow moisture to escape from an end of thecut plant matter 304 opposite the cut end. Typically, the end of thecut plant matter 304 opposite the cut end is provided with leaves. - Although the described embodiments show that the
box insert 190 is formed from the same material as the rest of thepackaging box 100, it will be appreciated that thebox insert 190 may instead be formed from a different material, or from the same material having different properties, for example finish, thickness or colour. - Although the presently described embodiments have featured only one shape of partition in each
packaging box 100, it will be appreciated that different partition cross-sectional shapes can be provided in asingle packaging box 100. - The packaging box may be sized to minimise the postage payable for delivery. For example, the packaging box may have a length less than 45cm, a width less than 35cm and a depth less than 8cm in order to meet the requirements of a "small parcel" under UK postage rules. In particular, the packaging box may be dimensioned to fit through a standard letter box. The presently preferred configuration has a width of 18.4cm, a length of 45cm and a depth of 3.8cm. This size has been found to fit through most letterboxes. A smaller version with a width of 18cm, a length of 35cm and a depth of 2.5cm is also feasible and has the advantage that it meets the requirements of a "large letter" under UK postage rules.
- In summary, a
packaging box 100 for mailing fruit and vegetables for delivery to the home comprises abox body 114 configured to receive the fruit or vegetables, alid 102 configured to close the box body to provide a closed box, and at least onepartitioning member 106 configured to divide the box body into at least two compartments. The partitioningmember 106 is configured for attachment to thelid 102, whereby to connect thelid 102 to thebox body 114 when the box is closed. - Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of them mean "including but not limited to", and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other components, integers or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.
- Features, integers or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.
Claims (10)
- A packaging box (100) for mailing fruit and vegetables for delivery to the home, the box comprising:a box body (114) configured to receive the fruit or vegetables;a lid (102) configured to close the box body, whereby to provide a closed box, andat least one partitioning member (106) configured to divide the box body into at least two compartments,wherein the partitioning member is configured for attachment to the lid, whereby to connect the lid to the box body when the box is closed,wherein the box body comprises a base panel (121) and characterised in that the at least one partitioning member is configured for attachment to the base panel, whereby to connect the base panel to the lid when the box is closed,wherein the partitioning member comprises at least one lower projecting member (138), and the base panel has defined therein at least one lower hole (122) for receiving the lower projecting member, whereby to connect the base panel to the partitioning member when the box is closed, andwherein the lower projecting member is a projecting tab (138) secured adhesively to an outer surface of the base panel.
- A packaging box as claimed in claim 1, wherein the partitioning member comprises at least one upper projecting member (118), and the lid has defined therein at least one upper hole (116) for receiving the upper projecting member, whereby to connect the lid to the partitioning member when the box is closed.
- A packaging box as claimed in claim 2, wherein the upper projecting member is a projecting tab (116) configured to be secured adhesively to an outer surface of the lid.
- A packaging box as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lid has defined therein a window (120) and wherein the box further comprises a support shelf (112) arranged between the box body and the lid, the support shelf providing a barrier between the window and the interior of the box body.
- A packaging box as claimed in claim 4 in combination with claim 2 or any preceding claim dependent thereon, wherein the support shelf is configured to engage the upper projecting member whereby to guide the upper projecting member through the upper holes when the lid is closed.
- A packaging box as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the support shelf comprises at least one retaining member (126) for retaining a document in position on the support shelf relative to the window.
- A packaging box as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the box is formed from corrugated cardboard.
- A blank for forming a packaging box as claimed in any preceding claim.
- A method of packaging cut plant matter (304), comprising:providing a moisture retaining member (302) adjacent a cut end of cut plant matter; surrounding the cut plant matter and the moisture retaining member by a porous plastics sheet member (306),wherein the moisture retaining member is formed from a strip of corrugated cardboard,wherein the method further comprises the steps of separating the moisture retaining member from the blank as claimed in claim 8 when dependent on claim 7,assembling the packaging box as claimed in claim 7 from the blank as claimed in claim 8,packing the cut plant matter in the packaging box.
- The method of packaging cut plant matter as claimed in claim 9, wherein the moisture retaining member is formed from a rolled strip of corrugated cardboard.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1417835.4A GB2531046B (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2014-10-08 | Transit packaging for food |
GBGB1419757.8A GB201419757D0 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2014-11-06 | Transit packaging for food |
GBGB1421612.1A GB201421612D0 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2014-12-04 | Transit packaging for food |
GBGB1511072.9A GB201511072D0 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2015-06-23 | Transit packaging for food |
PCT/GB2015/052951 WO2016055798A1 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2015-10-08 | Mail packaging for food |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3204305A1 EP3204305A1 (en) | 2017-08-16 |
EP3204305B1 true EP3204305B1 (en) | 2019-02-20 |
Family
ID=51947076
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP15782049.9A Not-in-force EP3204305B1 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2015-10-08 | Mail packaging for food |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20170305650A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3204305B1 (en) |
GB (4) | GB2531046B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2016055798A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9988175B2 (en) * | 2015-07-13 | 2018-06-05 | Lifoam Industries, Llc | Sectioned corrugated sleeve for thermal gel packs |
US20170267348A1 (en) * | 2015-10-14 | 2017-09-21 | Flirtey Holdings, Inc. | Packaging container for drone delivery |
WO2018223031A1 (en) | 2017-06-02 | 2018-12-06 | Flirtey Holdings Inc. | Package delivery mechanism |
US10745168B2 (en) * | 2017-10-12 | 2020-08-18 | Michael D. Dwork | Food container with adjustable compartments |
JP7286634B2 (en) | 2017-11-15 | 2023-06-05 | フィリップ・モーリス・プロダクツ・ソシエテ・アノニム | Containers containing tamper-evident closures |
US20200198878A1 (en) * | 2018-12-21 | 2020-06-25 | Boot Royalty Company, L.P. | Shoe Box |
CN110562606A (en) * | 2019-09-03 | 2019-12-13 | 邳州南泰食品有限公司 | Fresh-keeping frame that little fog large-size screen display of fruit vegetables shows moisture recovery |
Family Cites Families (18)
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US2083623A (en) * | 1935-07-03 | 1937-06-15 | Thorup Abraham Berg | Box for shipping chicks |
US2296556A (en) * | 1940-12-26 | 1942-09-22 | Louis Wolf | Mailing package |
GB625044A (en) * | 1946-07-31 | 1949-06-21 | William Henry Smith | Improvements in folding cardboard and like boxes |
GB690032A (en) * | 1949-09-26 | 1953-04-08 | John Donald Ogilvie | Improvements in folding or collapsible boxes |
US2875942A (en) * | 1956-09-05 | 1959-03-03 | Owens Illinois Glass Co | Corner construction for boxes |
US2955733A (en) * | 1957-07-29 | 1960-10-11 | Owens Illinois Glass Co | Poultry box construction |
US3102674A (en) * | 1962-01-18 | 1963-09-03 | American Box Corp Of Californi | Strawberry tray |
FR82345E (en) * | 1962-09-17 | 1964-01-24 | fruit case with cover | |
FR1376502A (en) * | 1963-04-03 | 1964-10-31 | Papeteries Cartonneries Robert | Box with partitions for shipping, and possibly the presentation of all products |
FR1588574A (en) * | 1968-09-16 | 1970-04-17 | ||
FR2502120A1 (en) * | 1981-03-17 | 1982-09-24 | Espaly Terle Freres Papeteries | Cardboard package for cheese - has octagonal prism shaped base formed from single sheet of cardboard with partitions |
JPS63107982A (en) * | 1986-10-27 | 1988-05-12 | Minofuaagen Seiyaku Honpo:Goushi | Production of 9-((2-hydroxyethoxy)methyl)-guanine |
US4989779A (en) * | 1989-08-23 | 1991-02-05 | Minnesota Automation, Inc. | Bottom lock arrangement for cartons |
US5516034A (en) * | 1995-03-09 | 1996-05-14 | Jefferson Smurfit Corporation | Produce tray |
US6471121B1 (en) * | 2000-11-10 | 2002-10-29 | Weyerhaeuser | Stackable tray with divider |
KR101280592B1 (en) * | 2008-07-09 | 2013-07-02 | 삼성전자주식회사 | High Performance Organic Semiconductors Based on Anthracene Backbone with Vinyl Group and the Organic Semiconductor Thin Film and Organic Thin Film Electronic Devices using thereof |
US20100314435A1 (en) * | 2009-06-16 | 2010-12-16 | Goodman Wilbert B | Universal two-cell storage box |
US8875984B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-11-04 | Minnesota Corrugated Box, Inc. | Knock-down packaging apparatus |
-
2014
- 2014-10-08 GB GB1417835.4A patent/GB2531046B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2014-11-06 GB GBGB1419757.8A patent/GB201419757D0/en not_active Ceased
- 2014-12-04 GB GBGB1421612.1A patent/GB201421612D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2015
- 2015-06-23 GB GBGB1511072.9A patent/GB201511072D0/en not_active Ceased
- 2015-10-08 US US15/517,098 patent/US20170305650A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2015-10-08 EP EP15782049.9A patent/EP3204305B1/en not_active Not-in-force
- 2015-10-08 WO PCT/GB2015/052951 patent/WO2016055798A1/en active Application Filing
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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None * |
Also Published As
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GB201421612D0 (en) | 2015-01-21 |
US20170305650A1 (en) | 2017-10-26 |
EP3204305A1 (en) | 2017-08-16 |
GB201417835D0 (en) | 2014-11-19 |
GB2531046A (en) | 2016-04-13 |
GB201511072D0 (en) | 2015-08-05 |
WO2016055798A1 (en) | 2016-04-14 |
GB201419757D0 (en) | 2014-12-24 |
GB2531046B (en) | 2017-06-07 |
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