US20210188528A1 - Egg packaging - Google Patents

Egg packaging Download PDF

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Publication number
US20210188528A1
US20210188528A1 US16/604,705 US201816604705A US2021188528A1 US 20210188528 A1 US20210188528 A1 US 20210188528A1 US 201816604705 A US201816604705 A US 201816604705A US 2021188528 A1 US2021188528 A1 US 2021188528A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
egg
cavity
longitudinal axis
resilient portion
laterally
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.)
Abandoned
Application number
US16/604,705
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English (en)
Inventor
Peter Farrar
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Dubois Ltd
Original Assignee
Dubois Ltd
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Publication date
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Assigned to DUBOIS LIMITED reassignment DUBOIS LIMITED ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FARRAR, PETER
Publication of US20210188528A1 publication Critical patent/US20210188528A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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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
    • B65D85/32—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure for eggs
    • 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
    • B65D85/32—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure for eggs
    • B65D85/321—Trays made of pressed carton and provided with recesses
    • 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
    • B65D85/32—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for articles particularly sensitive to damage by shock or pressure for eggs
    • B65D85/324—Containers with compartments made of pressed material

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a packaging, in particular but not exclusively to a packaging for eggs.
  • Egg packaging for example an egg box, can be used to support or carry eggs.
  • egg boxes are typically used to carry eggs to and from a retail outlet.
  • Known egg boxes are often of a paper construction and comprise a plurality of wells, in each of which an egg can be carried.
  • eggs are particularly susceptible to breakages if impacted by a force. This is a particular concern when in transit.
  • Known plastic egg boxes provide little protection against breakages.
  • Known paper egg boxes provide limited protection against breakages. Further, if an egg does break, the contents of the egg can seep into the paper packaging of the egg box, damaging the egg box such that it can no longer be used. Where paper egg boxes are stacked, such a breakage can also result in the contents of a broken egg seeping into the paper packaging of adjacent egg boxes, thereby resulting in multiple egg boxes being damaged by a single egg breakage.
  • an egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity for receiving an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises one or more laterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • Egg packaging for example an egg box, can be used to support or carry eggs.
  • egg packaging containing eggs When egg packaging containing eggs is moved or transported, for example to or from a retail outlet, such movement can result in an egg contained in the packaging rattling in the packaging.
  • Such rattling can result in the eggs being subjected to side-on forces as the egg rattles and hits against the packaging.
  • the eggs inside the packaging may be impacted by side-on forces.
  • forces side-on to the egg that is forces lateral to a longitudinal axis of the egg.
  • egg packaging disclosed herein comprises a cavity for receiving an egg and one or more laterally resilient portions which are arranged to provide support against lateral movement of the egg in the cavity, relative to the longitudinal axis of the cavity.
  • the kinetic energy of the egg can be absorbed, at least partially, by the or each laterally resilient portion, thereby reducing the likelihood of damage or breakage of the egg. Consequently, the cost and clean-up associated with egg breakages is reduced.
  • the or each resilient portion is configured to abut a surface of an egg occupying said cavity. In such embodiments, rattling of the egg in said cavity is minimised as the or each resilient portion supports the egg against movement and also absorbs lateral forces which would otherwise impact the egg.
  • the shape of an egg is such that it is relatively strong when subjected to end-on impacts, that is substantially longitudinal impacts relative to the longitudinal axis of the egg, and relatively weak when subjected to side-in impacts. Accordingly, providing an egg packaging having laterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis of the cavity has the advantage of protecting eggs from side-on impacts, hence reducing the risk of damage or breakage of the egg.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion is arranged to flex, thereby providing support against lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • Providing one or more laterally resilient portions that are configured to flex also has the advantage that a greater range of egg sizes can be securely carried by the packaging.
  • the laterally resilient portions act to absorb side-on forces experienced by the egg and also to support the egg in the cavity, thereby preventing or substantially reducing rattling of the egg in the cavity.
  • the laterally resilient portions flex or move to accommodate the egg in the cavity, whilst also absorbing side-on forces impacting the egg and supporting the egg. Accordingly, a smaller range of egg box sizes is required to carry a large range of egg sizes.
  • the packaging comprises a plurality of laterally resilient portions.
  • laterally resilient portions may be provided.
  • any suitable number of laterally resilient portions can be used.
  • the plurality of laterally resilient portions are substantially equally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis.
  • the side-on forces can be absorbed, at least partially, from a plurality of directions, thereby providing additional protection to an egg carried in the cavity.
  • the plurality of laterally resilient portions are substantially equally spaced angularly with respect to the longitudinal axis.
  • side-on forces can be absorbed, at least partially, from a plurality of angular directions.
  • the packaging comprises four laterally resilient portions equally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis.
  • the plurality of laterally resilient portions are arranged in one or more pairs of diametrically opposed laterally resilient portions.
  • the body defines a boundary in relation to said cavity, coaxial with the longitudinal axis, and wherein the or each laterally resilient portion projects towards said longitudinal axis relative to the boundary.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion extends towards said longitudinal axis to abut an egg occupying in said cavity.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a curved profile in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a curved profile in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis arranged such that an apex of the curved profile is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis of said cavity.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a “bowed” profile to provide a spring-like functionality.
  • a rounded shape is particularly beneficial in terms of optimising the resilient action of the laterally resilient portion, thereby facilitating the supporting function of the laterally resilient portions.
  • the laterally resilient portion may comprise a flat profile.
  • the boundary is a circular boundary. In some embodiments, the boundary comprises a circular cross section. In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion is bound by an arc of the circular boundary or cross section. For example, the or each resilient profile comprises a curved profile which is bound by an arc of the circular boundary or cross section.
  • the curved profile projects from or intersects the arc of the circular boundary or cross section.
  • the curved profile of the laterally resilient portion extends from and is bound by an arc of the circular boundary or cross section.
  • the angle subtended by the arc is less than 90°, for example in the range of 20° to 85°, for example in the range of 30° to 70°, for example in the range of 45° to 50°, e.g. approximately 50°.
  • the curved profile of the or each laterally resilient portion is shaped as an inversion of the arc about its chord.
  • the laterally resilient portion is shaped as a mirror image of the arc reflected about its chord.
  • the curved profile of the or each laterally resilient portion may comprise any suitable radius of curvature such that it provides support against lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion may comprise a radius of curvature which is larger or smaller than a radius of curvature of the boundary.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion extends substantially along the chord of the arc along which the laterally resilient portion is provided.
  • the laterally resilient portion comprises a flat profile.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion is arranged to define an arcuate profile extending in a direction away from the base of the cavity, wherein an apex of the arcuate profile is located furthermost from the longitudinal axis.
  • Said arcuate profile can be thought of as a concave profile as viewed from the interior of the cavity.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion is shaped to compliment the profile of an egg supported by the cavity.
  • At least one of said laterally resilient portions extends no further than the apex of the arcuate profile. This facilitates stacking of the boxes.
  • At least one of said laterally resilient portion extends beyond the apex of the arcuate profile to project towards the longitudinal axis.
  • At least one laterally resilient portion extends in a direction away from the base, initially extending away from the longitudinal axis, following its arcuate profile. Said at least one laterally resilient portion extends following its arcuate profile beyond the apex of the arcuate profile, such that the at least one laterally resilient portion projects or extends back towards the longitudinal axis. In this way, when an egg is positioned in the cavity, additional support is provided to the egg. This supporting function provided by the arcuate laterally resilient portion, facilitates retention of the egg in the cavity and reduces the extent to which the egg is free to rattle in the packaging.
  • the at least one laterally resilient portion extends to project into the cavity, e.g. over the base.
  • packaging comprising one or more laterally resilient portions comprising such an arcuate profile can be produced without requiring any special tooling.
  • the laterally resilient portions comprises an arcuate profile and is configured to project beyond the apex of the arcuate profile towards the longitudinal axis of the cavity, production of this undercut can be produced without the need for special tooling.
  • the laterally resilient portion can simply flex out of the way when the tool is extracted.
  • two or more laterally resilient portions extend beyond the apex of the arcuate profile, thereby enhancing this supporting function.
  • the two or more laterally resilient portions which extend beyond their apex are diametrically opposed.
  • the packaging comprises a plurality of cavities configured in a square or rectangular arrangement.
  • a laterally resilient portion may be provided at a position adjacent each corner of the square or rectangular arrangement.
  • each of said laterally resilient portions positioned adjacent each corner extends beyond its apex. This provides additional protection against knocks received by the corners of the container.
  • the packaging also comprises a lid for closing over the base.
  • the body comprises at least one stanchion extending from the body at a position between adjacent cavities and projecting towards the lid when the lid is in a closed position. Such a stanchion may be configured to abut the lid when the lid is in a closed position, thereby providing additional protection to eggs carried in the container.
  • a laterally resilient portion adjacent said stanchion extends beyond its apex.
  • said laterally resilient portion extends along a height, or length, of the stanchion.
  • the body comprises a side wall extending between the base and the open end of the cavity.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion is provided by a respective portion of the side wall.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion is integral with the side wall.
  • the side wall is coaxial with the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion projects towards said longitudinal axis relative to said side wall.
  • the side wall comprises an annular cross section.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a portion of the cavity side wall which is deformed away from the annular cross section in a direction towards the longitudinal axis.
  • the side wall comprises a circular profile, e.g. a circular cross section, coaxial with the longitudinal axis.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion is bound by an arc of the circular side wall.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a curved profile which is bound by an arc of the circular side wall.
  • the curved profile of the laterally resilient portion extends from and is bound by an arc of the circular side wall.
  • the angle subtended by the arc is less than 90°, for example in the range of 20° to 85°, for example in the range of 30° to 70°, for example in the range of 45° to 50°, e.g. approximately 50°.
  • the angle subtended by the arc varies along a height of the side wall, wherein the height of the side wall extends between the base and the open end of the cavity.
  • the arc length of the side wall between adjacent laterally resilient portions at the open end of the cavity is 30 mm or less, for example in the range of 10 mm-20 mm, for example less than 10 mm, for example less than 5 mm, e.g. 2-3 mm.
  • the arc length between adjacent laterally resilient portions varies along the height of the side wall.
  • the arc length between adjacent laterally resilient portions proximal the base of the cavity may be less than at the open end of the cavity, for example in the range of 0-20 mm, for example 0-10 mm.
  • the cavity is substantially ovoid in shape.
  • the arc length of the side wall between adjacent laterally resilient portions proximal the base of the cavity can be much less, for example in the range of 0-20 mm, for example 0-10 mm.
  • the curved profile of the or each laterally resilient portion is shaped as an inversion of the arc about its chord.
  • the curved profile of the or each laterally resilient portion is shaped as a mirror image of the arc reflected about its chord.
  • the curved profile of the or each laterally resilient portion may comprise any suitable radius of curvature such that it provides support against lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion may comprise a radius of curvature which is larger or smaller than a radius of curvature of the side wall.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion may comprise a flat profile.
  • the body comprises a slit or opening arranged to facilitate flexing of the or each laterally resilient portion.
  • the slit or opening By providing a slit or opening in the body, flexing of the or each laterally resilient portion provided by said side wall is facilitated. This is particularly advantageous where the or each laterally resilient portion is integrally formed with the side wall of the cavity. In some embodiments the slit or opening defines at least a part of the or each laterally resilient portion.
  • the slit or opening is provided adjacent the open end of the cavity and/or along at least a portion of a length of the side wall extending between the base and the open end of the cavity.
  • Such slits or openings facilitate flexing of the or each laterally resilient portion when subjected to a force from an egg hitting against the laterally resilient portion.
  • a slit or opening is provided proximal the cavity base.
  • said slit or opening is provided proximal the cavity opening.
  • said slit or opening is provided closer to the cavity opening than the cavity base. In this way, should an egg occupying said cavity break, the contents of the egg is less likely to spill through the slit or opening.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a finger extending from proximal the base of the cavity.
  • the finger is defined by a continuous slit provided in the side wall of the cavity.
  • the slit is arranged to extend along a first length in a direction towards the open end of the cavity, across a portion of the side wall adjacent the cavity opening, and along a second length of the side wall in a direction towards the base of the cavity.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a convex portion projecting towards the longitudinal axis.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a convex portion or dome-shaped portion arranged such that an apex of the dome or convex portion is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis of the cavity.
  • the convex or dome shaped portion may be provided proximal the open mouth of the cavity.
  • the convex or dome shaped portion enables this portion to deflect away from the longitudinal axis. Accordingly, when an egg is introduced into the cavity, this portion deflects away from the longitudinal axis to accommodate the egg.
  • the convex or domed portion is resilient such that, when the egg is removed from the cavity, the convex portion springs back to its original shape. In this way, absorption of lateral forces impacting on the egg is facilitated.
  • the convex or dome shaped portion is configured to deflect without requiring a slit or opening in the body of the egg packaging.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a resilient finger projecting in a direction away from the base of the cavity.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a resilient finger extending from the base of the cavity.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a series of resilient sub-portions.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion is configured to abut a surface of an egg occupying said cavity. In this way, rattling of the egg in said cavity is minimised as the or each resilient portion supports the egg against movement and also absorbs lateral forces which would otherwise impact the egg.
  • the body comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to said longitudinal axis.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion acts to dampen end-on forces impacted on an egg occupying the cavity.
  • an egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity for receiving an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion is configured to flex to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • the longitudinally resilient portions act to absorb end-on forces experienced by the egg and also to support the egg in the cavity, thereby preventing or substantially reducing rattling of the egg in the cavity.
  • the longitudinally resilient portions flex or move to accommodate the egg in the cavity, whilst also absorbing end-on forces impacting the egg and supporting the egg. Accordingly, a smaller range of egg box sizes is required to carry a large range of egg sizes.
  • At least one of the or each longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the base of said cavity and projects towards said cavity.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion is integral with said base.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion is substantially dome-shaped, such that an apex of the dome is nearmost the cavity.
  • the longitudinally resilient portion projects towards an egg occupying said cavity, for example, said longitudinally resilient portion abuts said egg.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises a central depression at the apex of the dome-shape, configured to receive a portion of an egg.
  • an egg can be properly located in position in the cavity of the packaging.
  • the egg can be positioned such that the side surface of the egg is optimally aligned with the laterally resilient portions.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex of the dome.
  • This arrangement facilitates flexing of the base and therefore facilitates absorption of end-on forces impacting an egg occupying said cavity, for example due to the egg rattling in the packaging and impacting the base. In this way, the likelihood of damage to or breakage of the egg is reduced.
  • the arrangement of one of more concentric channels facilitates the resilient spring action of the longitudinally resilient portion.
  • a plurality of channels are provided, each of which being concentric to the apex of the dome.
  • the or each substantially dome-shaped longitudinally resilient portion comprises a circular perimeter defining a ring arranged to form a foot on which the egg packaging can rest.
  • a circular edge is defined where the base meets the side wall of the cavity. In this way, a rigid ring is provided on which the packaging can rest.
  • This circular base is inherently strong and so further protects an egg in the cavity against impacts.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises a plurality of resilient fingers projecting towards the cavity relative to said base and configured to abut a portion of an egg located in said cavity to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • the plurality of resilient fingers extend from the base and are configured to abut a portion of an egg located in said cavity.
  • the egg packaging comprises the body having said cavity, and a lid coupled to the body, wherein at least one of the or each longitudinally resilient portions is provided by the lid.
  • the lid acts to dampen end-on forces impacting on an egg in the cavity.
  • the lid and base of the container are coupled via a hinge, for example a live hinge which acts to bias the lid towards an open position.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion is integral with said lid.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises one or more resilient fingers extending from the lid towards the cavity, when the lid is closed.
  • 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more resilient fingers may be provided.
  • an exterior surface of the lid is unaltered by the resilient fingers extending from an interior surface of the lid. Accordingly a flat uninterrupted exterior lid surface is provided. This is advantageous for the application of labelling to the container, for example, by in-mould labelling.
  • each longitudinally resilient portion comprises four resilient fingers arranged as two pairs of diametrically opposed fingers.
  • the four resilient fingers are equally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis, when the lid is in the closed position. In other words, each resilient finger in the set of four is equidistant from the longitudinal axis.
  • each resilient finger comprises a curved profile such that the resilient finger extends away from the longitudinal axis when the lid is closed.
  • the fingers are curved such that diametrically opposed pairs of resilient fingers extend away from each other.
  • the resilient fingers are arranged to abut an egg in a corresponding cavity when the lid is closed.
  • the resilient fingers may not abut the surface of the egg.
  • each resilient finger facilitates flexing of the resilient finger when a longitudinal force relative to the longitudinal axis of the respective cavity is applied.
  • the resilient fingers are configured to flex away from the longitudinal axis. In other words, the resilient fingers are configured to flex such that each resilient finger of a diametrically opposed pair is configured to flex away from the other resilient finger of the pair.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion is substantially dome-shaped, such that an apex of the dome is nearmost the cavity.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises a central depression at the apex of the dome-shape, configured to receive a portion of an egg in said cavity.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex of the dome.
  • a plurality of channels are provided, each of which being concentric to the apex of the dome.
  • a first longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the base and a second longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the lid.
  • a single longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the base and/or the lid.
  • a single longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the base and/or the lid per cavity of the packaging.
  • the egg packaging comprises the body having a cavity, and a lid coupled to the body.
  • the body comprises a plurality of cavities for receiving an egg, each cavity comprising a base and an open end, and each cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axes are intended to be vertical when in use.
  • the base comprises a ring projecting from the body, arranged to form a foot upon which the egg packaging can rest.
  • the base comprises a circular perimeter and the ring projects from the circular perimeter of the base.
  • the egg packaging is formed of a plastics material.
  • plastics material for example instead of a paper based material, is particularly advantageous in enabling the thickness of the material used to be reduced.
  • the container is formed of polypropylene.
  • the egg packaging can be formed from foamed plastics, paper, card, papier-mâché, or any other suitable material.
  • At least a portion of the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.
  • the or each longitudinally resilient portion has a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the packaging, e.g. the side wall of the cavity.
  • the thickness of the of the narrowest portion of the or each longitudinally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0. mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.
  • the thickness of the longitudinally resilient portion gradually reduces, such that the region of most reduced thickness is proximal the longitudinal axis.
  • At least a portion of the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.
  • the or each laterally resilient portion has a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the packaging, e.g. the side wall of the cavity.
  • the thickness of the or each laterally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 mm to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 mm to 0.3 mm.
  • an egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity supporting an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises one or more laterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateral movement of the egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • an egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity supporting an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of the egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a packaging for eggs, as disclosed herein;
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the body of the egg packaging shown in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative perspective view of the body of the egg packaging of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the body of the egg packaging of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a plan view of a series of cavities of the egg packaging of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the series of cavities illustrated in FIG. 5 ;
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the egg packaging of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a second embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, comprising an alternative longitudinally resilient portion provided in a base of each of the cavities of the packaging;
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a third embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, comprising an alternative longitudinally resilient portion provided in a base of each of the cavities of the packaging;
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a lid of a fourth embodiment of an egg packaging disclosed herein, the lid comprising additional longitudinally resilient portions;
  • FIG. 11 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the egg packaging, comprising the lid of FIG. 10 and the body portion of FIG. 9 ;
  • FIG. 12 illustrates a fifth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, comprising a lid having alternative additional longitudinally resilient portions and the body portion illustrated in FIG. 9 ;
  • FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein;
  • FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions
  • FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a eighth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions
  • FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions
  • FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions
  • FIG. 18 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 .
  • an egg packaging for example an egg box
  • the egg packaging 2 comprises a lid 3 coupled to a body 4 by a hinge 5 .
  • the hinge 5 may be a live hinge.
  • the hinge 5 is configured such that the lid 3 and body 4 can lie substantially flat when the lid is open, thereby facilitating stacking of the egg boxes 2 .
  • the body 4 defines a plurality of cavities 6 , each of which being arranged to receive an egg.
  • the body 4 defines six cavities 6 provided in a rectangular arrangement. It will be understood that any number of cavities 6 can be provided in the body 4 , for example 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24 or more cavities may be provided.
  • the lid 3 is configured to be moved between an open position (as shown in FIG. 1 ) in which eggs occupying the cavities 6 can be accessed, and a closed position, in which the lid 3 extends across the body 4 of the packaging 2 to cover the eggs, thereby protecting the eggs.
  • each cavity 6 comprises a base 8 , an open end 10 and a longitudinal axis A extending in a direction between the base 8 and the open end 10 .
  • the longitudinal axis A is intended to be substantially vertical.
  • the egg packaging 2 comprises a plurality of laterally resilient portions 12 which are configured to provide support against lateral movement of an egg occupying a cavity 6 , said lateral movement being lateral relative to the longitudinal axis A.
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 provide support against substantially sideways movement of an egg in said cavity 6 .
  • each cavity 6 is provided with four laterally resilient portions 12 .
  • each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex in order to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in the cavity 6 , relative to the longitudinal axis A.
  • Each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex such that, when a lateral force is applied to the portion 12 , for example by an egg in the cavity 6 , the laterally resilient portion 12 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6 , i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the lateral force is absorbed by the laterally resilient portion 12 .
  • the portion 12 springs back towards the cavity 6 , i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 of a given cavity 6 are substantially equally spaced around the cavity 6 with respect to the longitudinal axis A. Furthermore, the laterally resilient portions 12 are arranged in pairs such that the laterally resilient portions 12 of each pair are diametrically opposed.
  • each cavity 6 of the body 4 includes a side wall 16 extending between the base 8 and the open end 10 of the cavity 6 .
  • each cavity 6 is partially defined by a side wall 16 extending between the base 8 and the open end 10 of the cavity 6 .
  • each cavity 6 defines a boundary 14 in relation to the cavity 6 .
  • Said boundary 14 is co-axial with the longitudinal axis A.
  • Each of the laterally resilient portions 12 of a given cavity 6 is arranged to project towards the longitudinal axis A relative to the boundary 14 .
  • the boundary 14 may be defined by means other than the cavity side wall 16 .
  • each laterally resilient portion 12 includes a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6 , for example in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A.
  • Said curved profile 18 of each laterally resilient portion 12 is positioned such that an apex 18 a of the curved profile 18 is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6 .
  • the curved profile of the laterally resilient portion 12 is curved towards the respective cavity 6 such that the apex 18 a is provided closer to the longitudinal axis A than the remainder of the curved profile 18 .
  • this arrangement provides a “bowed” profile, such that the laterally resilient portions 12 have a spring-like functionality.
  • the boundary 14 defined by the sidewall 16 is a substantially circular boundary 14 , coaxial with the longitudinal axis A.
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 of the cavity 6 are formed from a portion of the cavity sidewall 16 , which is deformed away from the circular boundary 14 in a direction towards the longitudinal axis A.
  • the sidewall 16 comprises a substantially circular cross section, wherein the laterally resilient portions 12 are deformed away from this circular cross section towards the longitudinal axis A.
  • each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is bound by an arc 20 of the circular boundary 14 . Further, the curved profile 18 of the laterally resilient portions 12 is shaped as an inversion or mirror image of the arc 20 about its chord 22 . In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the angle subtended by the arc 20 proximal the open end 10 of the cavity is approximately 50°. However, it will be understood that other suitable angles may be used. Due to the shape of the cavity 6 , it will be appreciated that the angle subtended by the arc proximal the base 8 of the cavity 6 may be different.
  • the arc length of the side wall 16 between adjacent laterally resilient portions 12 at the open end 10 of the cavity 6 is in the range of 10 mm-20 mm. However, it will be understood that other suitable arc lengths may be used. Due to the shape of the cavity 6 , it will be appreciated that the arc length of the side wall 16 between adjacent laterally resilient portions 12 proximal the base 8 of the cavity 6 can be much less, for example in the range of 0-20 mm, for example 0-10 mm.
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 of a given cavity 6 are arranged to define an arcuate profile 24 which extends in a direction away from the base 8 of the cavity 6 .
  • the arcuate profile 24 of each laterally resilient portion 12 is arranged such that an apex 24 a of the arcuate profile 24 is located furthermost from the longitudinal axis A.
  • the arcuate profile 24 extends such that its apex 24 a is located further away from the longitudinal axis A than the remainder of the arcuate profile 24 .
  • a cavity 6 which is substantially ovoid is provided.
  • the cavity 6 is shaped to approximately correspond to the shape of an egg.
  • the lid 3 comprises a cover portion 48 and a side wall 50 .
  • the side wall 50 is arranged to extend from the cover portion 48 towards the body 4 of the egg packaging 2 , when the lid 3 is in the closed configuration.
  • a portion of the side wall 50 of the lid 3 is coupled to the body 4 by a hinge 5 .
  • the cover portion 48 has an inner cover surface 52 , which faces towards the body 4 when the lid 3 is closed, and an outer cover surface 54 , which faces away from the body 4 when the lid 3 is closed.
  • the packaging 2 of the illustrated embodiments comprises six cavities 6 configured in a rectangular arrangement, such that the packaging body 4 has four corners 28 .
  • the body 4 includes a pair of stanchions 26 extending from the body 4 at a position between adjacent cavities 6 , for example extending from a central position between groups of four cavities 6 .
  • the stanchions 26 are configured to abut the inner cover surface 52 of the lid 3 when the lid 3 is closed. In this way additional strength and support against impacts to the lid 3 of the packaging 2 is provided, reducing the likelihood of damage to eggs contained in the packaging 2 .
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 which are provided adjacent the corners 28 of the body 4 are each arranged to extend to a height beyond the apex 24 a of its arcuate profile 24 . In this way, the laterally resilient portions 12 provided at the body corners 28 project towards the longitudinal axis A, in other words towards the cavity 6 .
  • laterally resilient portions 12 provided adjacent a stanchion 26 are arranged to extend to a height along the stanchion 26 , such that the laterally resilient portion 12 extends beyond the apex 24 a of its arcuate profile 24 . In this way, the laterally resilient portions 12 provided adjacent the stanchions 26 project towards the longitudinal axis A, in other words towards the cavity 6 .
  • the laterally resilient portions provided adjacent the corners 28 and stanchions 26 of the body 4 act to retain eggs contained in the respective cavities 6 by providing a “gripping” action e.g. by projecting over the widest part of the egg.
  • the remaining laterally resilient portions 12 i.e. those not adjacent a corner 28 or stanchion 26 of the body 4 , are provided such that the portions 12 extend from the base no further than the apex 24 a of its arcuate profile 24 .
  • the cavity opening 10 in the region of these laterally resilient portions is provided at a location which is positioned along the arcuate profile no further than the apex 24 a of the arcuate profile 24 .
  • the body 4 may comprise laterally resilient portions 12 arranged such that all of the laterally resilient portions 12 extend from the base no further than the apex 24 a of its arcuate profile 24 .
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 having a variety of heights can be used.
  • a slit 30 is provided in the body 4 , adjacent each laterally resilient portion 12 and proximal the open end 10 of the cavity 6 , in an upper surface 70 of the body 4 .
  • a slit 30 is also provided proximal the base of the cavity 6 , again to facilitate flexing of the laterally resilient portions 12 . This is illustrated in FIG. 13 .
  • the egg packaging 2 is formed from a plastics material, for example polypropylene.
  • the egg packaging can be formed from foamed plastics, paper, card, papier-mâché, or any other suitable material.
  • the thickness of the plastics material from which the egg packaging is formed is typically in the range of 0.4-1.0 mm, for example 0.4-0.7 mm, for example 0.4-0.5 mm. Accordingly, the side wall 16 of the respective cavities has a thickness in the range of 0.4-1.0 mm, for example 0.4-0.7 mm, for example 0.4-0.5 mm.
  • plastics material for example instead of a paper based material, is particularly advantageous in enabling the thickness of the material used to be reduced. This has the benefit of enabling closer stacking of the egg packaging, consequently, a greater number of egg boxes can be transported in a given volume of space, for example in a vehicle.
  • each laterally resilient portion 12 comprises a reduced thickness compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.
  • each laterally resilient portion 12 comprises a reduced thickness as compared to the side wall 16 of the respective cavity 6 .
  • the thickness of the or each laterally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16 have the same thickness.
  • the base 8 of each cavity 6 is provided with a longitudinally resilient portion 32 which is arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg occupying the cavity 6 , relative to said longitudinal axis A.
  • the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is configured to flex in order to support an egg against longitudinal movement in the cavity 6 .
  • the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is integrally formed with the base 8 and is arranged to project towards said cavity 6 .
  • the longitudinally resilient portion 32 of the illustrated embodiments is substantially dome-shaped such that an apex of the dome is nearmost the cavity 6 .
  • the apex of the dome-shaped portion 32 includes a central depression 36 which is shaped to receive an end portion of an egg 68 .
  • the longitudinally resilient portion 32 also includes a channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40 (as viewed from the interior of the cavity 6 ), wherein the channel 38 and ridge 40 are concentric with the apex of the dome-shaped portion 32 .
  • FIG. 7 shows a first embodiment of the longitudinal resilient portion 32 comprising a single channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40 .
  • FIG. 8 shows a second embodiment of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 , which also comprises a single channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40 .
  • FIG. 8 shows a third embodiment of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 including two channels 38 and two corresponding ridges 40 . Any number of channels 58 and/or ridges 60 may be used, e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4.
  • each cavity 6 is configured to flex such that, when a longitudinal force is applied to the portion 32 , for example by an egg 68 in the cavity 6 , the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6 . In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed by the longitudinally resilient portion 32 .
  • the arrangement of the concentric channel(s) 38 and corresponding ridge(s) 40 facilitates this flexing.
  • the portion 32 springs back towards the cavity 6 , i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.
  • the dome-shaped portion 32 includes a circular perimeter defining a ring 42 .
  • the circular perimeter of the dome-shaped portion 32 is provided where the base 8 meets the side wall 16 of the cavity 6 .
  • This provides a rigid ring 42 which is inherently strong and so provides further protection against impacts to an egg 68 in the cavity 6 .
  • the ring 42 is also arranged to form a foot on which the egg packaging 2 can rest.
  • At least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 comprises a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging 2 .
  • at least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 comprises a reduced thickness compared to the side wall 16 of the cavity 6 .
  • the thickness of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 gradually reduces between its circular perimeter 42 and its apex, such that the region of most reduced thickness is at the apex. This is shown in FIGS. 7 to 9 .
  • the thickness of the narrowest portion of the of the longitudinally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.
  • At least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16 have the same thickness.
  • an egg 68 is introduced into at least one of the cavities 6 .
  • the surface of the egg 68 comes into contact with the laterally resilient portions 12 of the cavity 6 .
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 flex away from the cavity 6 as the egg 68 is moved into the cavity 6 , thereby accommodating the egg 68 .
  • the egg 68 is located in the cavity 6 such that an end of the egg 68 rests in the central depression 36 of the dome-shaped longitudinally resilient portion 32 provided in the base of the cavity 6 .
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 abut the surface of the egg, as can be seen in FIGS. 7 to 9 .
  • the egg is relatively small, it may be that none of the laterally resilient portions 12 , or only some of the laterally resilient portions 12 , abut the surface of the egg. In this way, the egg packaging 2 is configured to accommodate eggs of a range of sizes.
  • the lid 3 is closed over the body 4 , hence over the egg.
  • the egg packaging 2 As the egg packaging 2 is carried or otherwise moved or transported, the egg 68 is supported against lateral movement in the cavity 6 by the laterally resilient portions 12 .
  • the egg packaging 2 When the egg packaging 2 is impacted by a lateral force, eggs carried by the egg packaging 2 are supported against lateral movement by the laterally resilient portions 12 .
  • each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex such that, when an egg 68 applies a lateral force to the laterally resilient portion 12 , the laterally resilient portion 12 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6 , i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the lateral force is absorbed, at least partially, by the laterally resilient portion 12 .
  • the laterally resilient portion 12 When the laterally resilient portion 12 is no longer subjected to a lateral force, the portion 12 springs back towards the cavity 6 , i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.
  • the egg 68 is supported against longitudinal movement in the cavity 6 relative to the longitudinal axis A by the longitudinally resilient portion 32 of the base 8 .
  • an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the base 8 of the cavity 6 .
  • the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the longitudinally resilient portion 32 of the cavity 6 .
  • the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is configured to flex such that, when the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the portion 32 , the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6 . In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by the longitudinally resilient portion 32 .
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 flex away from the cavity 6 to enable the egg 68 to be removed.
  • the egg 68 is relatively small, it may be that none of the laterally resilient portions 12 abut the surface of the egg and so the egg 68 can simply be removed.
  • the lid 28 is provided with a series of additional or second longitudinally resilient portions 44 , such that each cavity 6 is provided with a first longitudinally resilient portion 32 in the base 8 and a corresponding second longitudinally resilient portion 44 provided by the lid 3 .
  • Each second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is provided integrally with the cover 48 of the lid 3 .
  • each second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is in the form of a plurality of resilient fingers 46 .
  • each second longitudinally resilient portion 44 includes four resilient fingers 46 arranged as two pairs of diametrically opposed fingers 46 .
  • Each set of four resilient fingers 46 is equally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6 , when the lid is in the closed position. In other words, each resilient finger 46 in the set of four is equidistant from the longitudinal axis A.
  • the plurality of resilient fingers 46 extend from the inner cover surface 52 such that the outer cover surface 54 remains flat. In this way, application of labelling to the container, for example by in-mould labelling, is facilitated.
  • Each resilient finger 46 is curved such that diametrically opposed pairs of resilient fingers 46 extend away from each other. In other words, each resilient finger 46 is curved such that it extends away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the resilient fingers 46 are arranged to abut an egg 68 in a corresponding cavity 6 when the lid 3 is closed. This is shown in FIG. 11 . Alternatively, if a comparatively small egg is located in the cavity 6 , the resilient fingers 46 may not abut the surface of the egg.
  • each resilient finger 46 facilitates flexing of the resilient finger 46 when a longitudinal force relative to the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6 is applied.
  • the resilient fingers 46 are configured to flex away from the longitudinal axis A. In other words, the resilient fingers 46 are configured to flex such that each resilient finger 46 of a diametrically opposed pair is configured to flex away from the other resilient finger 46 of the pair.
  • an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the lid 3 of the cavity 6 .
  • the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3 corresponding to the cavity 6 in which the egg 68 is located, i.e. to the four resilient fingers 46 corresponding to the cavity 6 .
  • the resilient fingers 46 are configured to flex such that, when the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the resilient fingers 46 , the resilient fingers 46 flex away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by the resilient fingers 46 .
  • FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a longitudinally resilient portion 44 provided in the lid 3 .
  • the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is integrally provided with the lid 28 .
  • the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is substantially the same as the first longitudinally resilient portion 32 .
  • the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is substantially dome-shaped such that an apex of the dome is provided nearmost the corresponding cavity 6 .
  • Each of the second longitudinally resilient portions 44 includes a central depression 56 which is shaped to receive an end portion of an egg 68 positioned in a cavity 6 when the lid 3 is in the closed position.
  • the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 shown in FIG. 12 includes a pair of channels 58 and a pair of corresponding ridges 60 (as viewed from the interior of the cavity 6 ), wherein the channels 58 and ridges 60 are concentric with the apex of the dome-shape of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 .
  • a number of different profiles is possible.
  • a single channel 58 and ridge 60 may be provided.
  • profiles similar to those shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 can be used.
  • any suitable profile may be used to provide the second longitudinally resilient portions 44 , for example, any number of channels 58 and/or ridges 60 may be used, e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4.
  • At least a portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 comprises a reduced thickness compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.
  • second longitudinally resilient portion 44 comprises a reduced thickness as compared to the cover portion 48 of the lid 3 .
  • the thickness of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 gradually reduces between the perimeter of the dome-shape and its apex, such that the region of most reduced thickness is at the apex.
  • the thickness of the narrowest portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.
  • At least a portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the cover portion 48 of the lid 3 have the same thickness.
  • the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3 is configured to flex such that, when a longitudinal force is applied to the portion 44 , for example by an egg 68 in the corresponding cavity 6 , the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6 . In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed by the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 .
  • the arrangement of the concentric channel(s) 58 and corresponding ridge(s) 60 facilitates this flexing.
  • the portion 44 springs back towards the cavity 6 , into its original position.
  • an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the lid 3 of the cavity 6 .
  • the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3 .
  • the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is configured to flex such that, when the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the portion 44 , the longitudinally resilient portion 44 is moved in a direction away from the cavity. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 .
  • eggs occupying the cavities 6 of the egg packaging 2 are supported against longitudinal movement relative to the longitudinal axis A in the direction of the base 8 of the cavity 6 and in the direction of the lid 3 .
  • the laterally resilient portion 12 may comprise a flat profile 62 , as illustrated in FIG. 14 , and not a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis A. Flexing of the laterally resilient portion 12 is facilitated by the slit 30 provided adjacent the cavity opening 10 . It will be appreciated that the remaining features described in relation to the laterally resilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1 to 6 also apply to the laterally resilient portion 12 illustrated in FIG. 14 .
  • the laterally resilient portion 12 may comprise a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis A, wherein the curved profile 18 has a pair of apexes 18 a. Each apex 18 a is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis A. It will be appreciated that the remaining features described in relation to the laterally resilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1 to 6 also apply to the laterally resilient portion 12 illustrated in FIG. 15 .
  • FIG. 16 illustrates a further alternative embodiment in which each laterally resilient portion 12 is formed as a resilient finger 64 extending from the side wall 16 of the cavity 6 in a direction away from the base 8 of the cavity 6 .
  • Each resilient finger 64 comprises the same features as the laterally resilient portion 12 described in relation to FIGS. 1-6 .
  • each resilient finger 64 is defined by a slit 66 extending along either side of the finger 64 and across the top at a location adjacent the cavity opening 10 .
  • the slit 66 is substantially u-shaped to define the finger 64 .
  • the slit 66 is formed of two parallel slits 66 a extending along the cavity side wall 16 , and a third slit 66 b extending between the two parallel slits 66 a at the cavity opening 10 .
  • the third slit 66 b being formed in the upper surface 70 of the body 4 .
  • each resilient finger 64 projects into the cavity 6 beyond the remainder of the cavity side wall 16 .
  • Each resilient finger 64 is configured to flex such that, when an egg applies a lateral force to the resilient finger 64 , the finger 64 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6 , i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the lateral force is absorbed by the resilient finger 64 . When the resilient finger 64 is no longer subjected to a lateral force, the finger 64 springs back towards the cavity 6 , i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.
  • each laterally resilient portion 12 is the same as those described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 6 .
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 include a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis.
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 also include an arcuate profile 24 which extends away from the base 8 of the cavity 6 such that a substantially ovoid cavity 6 is provided.
  • the laterally resilient portions 12 of the embodiment of FIGS. 17 and 18 differ from those of FIGS. 1 to 6 in that the arcuate profile 24 of each laterally resilient portion 12 does not extend the full height of the cavity 6 .
  • the arcuate profile 24 extends part way along the height of the cavity 6 .
  • the arcuate profile 24 which can be thought of as a concave profile, transitions into a convex curved profile 72 which extends away from the cavity 6 .
  • the convex curved profile 72 terminates at the open end 8 of the cavity 6 , at which point the laterally resilient portion 12 is coupled to an upper surface 70 of the egg packaging body 4 .
  • a convex portion 74 is formed which bulges or projects towards the longitudinal axis A.
  • the convex portion 74 can be thought of as a domed portion, having its apex nearmost the longitudinal axis A.
  • the curvature of the convex portion 74 enables this portion to deflect away from the longitudinal axis A. Accordingly, when an egg is introduced into the cavity 6 , the convex portion 74 deflects away from the longitudinal axis A to accommodate the egg.
  • the convex portion 74 is resilient such that, when the egg is removed from the cavity 6 , the convex portion 74 springs back to its original shape. In this way, absorption of lateral forces impacting on the egg is facilitated.
  • the convex portion 74 is arranged to abut a surface of an egg in the cavity 6 . In this way, retention of the egg in the cavity 6 is facilitated since the convex portions 74 provide a “gripping” action against the surface of the egg.
  • the convex portion 74 also comprises a reduced thickness in relation to the remainder of the packaging, as is the case with the laterally resilient portion 12 in general, which is described in detail above.
  • the thickness of the convex portion 74 is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.
  • the convex portion 74 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16 have the same thickness.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Packaging Frangible Articles (AREA)
US16/604,705 2017-04-11 2018-04-10 Egg packaging Abandoned US20210188528A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1705832.2A GB2562209B (en) 2017-04-11 2017-04-11 Packaging
GB1705832.2 2017-04-11
PCT/GB2018/050952 WO2018189526A1 (en) 2017-04-11 2018-04-10 Egg packaging

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US20210188528A1 true US20210188528A1 (en) 2021-06-24

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US16/604,705 Abandoned US20210188528A1 (en) 2017-04-11 2018-04-10 Egg packaging

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US (1) US20210188528A1 (ja)
EP (1) EP3609812A1 (ja)
JP (1) JP2020516554A (ja)
GB (1) GB2562209B (ja)
WO (1) WO2018189526A1 (ja)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2584092B (en) * 2019-05-20 2022-11-02 Jui Chien Kao Tool holding frame

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2600130A (en) * 1945-12-03 1952-06-10 Shellmar Products Corp Egg carton
GB833003A (en) * 1956-12-07 1960-04-21 Jesse Raymond Grant Cartons for eggs
US3131846A (en) * 1959-11-10 1964-05-05 Poly Pak Corp Of America Hermetically sealed, transparent, shock absorbing package for fragile articles
US3326443A (en) * 1965-07-19 1967-06-20 Dow Chemical Co Egg carton
AT269735B (de) * 1966-03-25 1969-03-25 Hinteregger Kg P Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur Herstellung einer Verpackung aus thermoplastischer Kunststoffolie
CA2588405C (en) * 2007-05-14 2015-02-10 Interplast Packaging, Inc. Container for frangible articles such as eggs
RU2500596C1 (ru) * 2012-06-22 2013-12-10 Михаил Вячеславович Сухов Упаковка для яиц

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EP3609812A1 (en) 2020-02-19
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GB2562209A (en) 2018-11-14
JP2020516554A (ja) 2020-06-11
WO2018189526A1 (en) 2018-10-18

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