WO2012118391A1

WO2012118391A1 - Collapsible recipient, production process and uses of said collapsible recipient

Info

Publication number: WO2012118391A1
Application number: PCT/PT2012/000005
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rui Miguel Nabeiro
Original assignee: Novadelta-Comercio E Industria De Cafes S.A.
Priority date: 2011-02-28
Filing date: 2012-02-28
Publication date: 2012-09-07
Also published as: WO2012118391A9

Abstract

The present invention relates to a recipient, in particular for collecting edible products, such as for example hot beverages, that is produced from a structural element that presents several bending zones, in such way that the recipient, when in a closed position, is collapsed in a substantially planar format, and by means of a simple squeezing gesture may be brought into an open position, in which it provides a collecting cavity and maintains a configuration such that it may be placed standing upon a horizontal surface in a stable way. The recipient may be collapsed back to its substantially flat initial format by means of a simple gesture of pulling both sides. The recipient of the present invention is used as a cup, as a glass, and can in each case present different dimensions.

Description

DESCRIPTION

COLLAPSIBLE CONTAINER, METHOD OF PRODUCTION AND USES

OF THESE COLLAPSIBLE CONTAINER

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of packaging and containers for edible products in general, and the field of single or multiple use collapsible containers for hot drinks, such as espresso in particular.

Background of the Invention

There are a number of solutions known in the art relating to collapsible food or beverage packaging or containers. Most solutions (eg, RO120254 BI, JP 54142227 (U), KR 20020036035 A, KR 20020036035 A, WO 01/62609 A1) often point to at least one fold which allows an initially flat structural element, made from a flexible material, can be made available in a minimal volume by way of structural collapse thereof, ideally in the form of a substantially flat-shaped body, and, where desired, can be driven to take the form of a container.

In this context, and in some way as it happens also in the case of mechanical gripping devices of paper, commonly called clips, also in the case of this type of collapsible containers, the fact that it is a system of forces of relatively low intensity. This results in small variations in its layout leading to comparatively very different results in terms of their application efficiency and ease of use. Indeed, the number, the relative arrangement and even configuration of the reference fold zones both individually and together have a significant impact on the overall stability and ease of handling and operation of such a collapsible container. Particularly with regard to the intended use of the present invention as a beverage container, the folds provided to the base zone act as "structural reinforcement beams" of the container and determine the ease of opening, retention of the open position and ease of use. resume the collapsed position.

Accordingly, registers JP 54142227 (U) and KR 20020036035 A disclose in each case collapsible containers of the type of the present invention, which have a "W" shaped fold in the base zone, and a joining zone of each of the two. sides of the container extending to a uniform width along both side zones. In such cases, only a pair of folds in the base zone are provided to be deflected upon opening of the container, which substantially reduces its structural stability when standing upright on said base zone, and to be compensated for by a largest area and width of the resulting base zone. Thus, none of these registers reveal a solution with structural stability suitable for containing hot liquids, which can be manually actuated from a collapsed position to an opening position, and retaining it until an opposite force is applied in order to recover the position. initial collapse.

WO 2009/054675 discloses a collapsible container with a plurality of base zone folds ensuring high structural stability. However, opening this container requires relatively greater force and is applied over a larger area, which makes it difficult to manually operate. This is for two reasons: high number of folds in the base zone and low transmission capacity of lateral forces for actuating these ■ folds. In fact, the small area of transmission of force moments through the side and base zone of the known containers does not allow opening by a simple compression gesture by two opposing fingers. This is particularly important because the ease of use of these containers, namely opening and closing handling, is a determining factor of their value and usefulness as a means of dispensing beverages.

None of the prior art records thus reveal a collapsible container having the characteristics of use intrinsic to drinking containers and having a number of reference folds (not less than or greater than necessary for good stability) and relative arrangement (maximizing momentum transmission from the base zone to the side zones) that maximizes their ease of handling, preferably only by simply moving two opposing fingers of one hand from a closed or collapsed position to a open and, conversely, from an open position to a closed position.

General Description of the Invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a container suitable for use as a drinking container, in particular for drinking hot drinks, which may be provided in a collapsed form and which ensures high structural stability when in the open position.

An associated objective is that the container may be operated a multiplicity of times between a closed position and at least one open position, and vice versa. Another associated objective is that the operation of the container collapsible, between. A closing position and an opening position can be performed intuitively manually with a simple arrangement of reduced forces simply by a single movement of two opposing fingers of one hand.

The above objectives are achieved according to the invention by taking as a starting point a structural element made from a flexible material having several pre-made reference bending zones of which at least three are arranged in the respective bending zone. base are folded in respective folding directions when the container is in a closed position. In particular, this fold is made in a "W" shape when the collapsible container is viewed in lateral elevation to enable effective transmission of forces applied on the side edges to the fold zones disposed in the base zone.

The above objects are in particular realized in accordance with the present invention by means of a structural element having the above characteristics, namely having a plurality of reference fold zones, preferably symmetrically realized in a base zone of said collapsible container. , and two reference fold zones extending substantially in the vicinity of the side edges, between respective base zone delimiting fold zones and a collapsible container top zone, characterized in that two pairs of reference fold zones are provided in connection with the other reference fold zones in said base zone. This inventive solution is based on the fact that these two additional bending zone pairs act as additional stability elements in interaction with the momentum of force transmitted from the sides of the collapsible container. According. It is a particular aspect of the invention that at least two of these reference bend zones are preferably provided in the shape of an arcuate segment, for example a circumferential arc segment. This configuration makes the movement of these bending zones more elastic and continuous, reducing the possibility of interlocking as a result of interleaving creases and thereby improving manual ease of use.

According to another inventive aspect, the collapsible container has reference fold lines which develop in each case obliquely along the lateral zones, preferably symmetrically reflective with respect to the longitudinal axis of symmetry of the structural element. mutually from the base zone towards the opening zone, and the resulting side zones disposed on the inner face of the structural member are preferably joined together, preferably continuously over the entire surface thereof, It is a particularly preferred non-removable and substantially watertight manner. This arrangement maximizes the joining surface in the base zone and thus the leverage across the corners of the base zone, i.e. the transmission efficiency of the compressive forces applied in the side zones to the reference bend zones. arranged in the base zone.

According to another inventive aspect of the collapsible container according to the present invention, by applying opposite forces on the side edges, in each case pushing inwards, preferably in the vicinity of the base zone, the folding zones. in the base zone deflect to such an extent, corresponding to a certain elastic retention strain, from which they retain such a deformed position even after suspension of the application of such forces, such that collapsible container passes from a closing position to an opening position corresponding to that elastic deformation.

In addition, the deflection of the reference bending zones arranged in the base zone when in the retaining elastic deformation position corresponding to the opening position configures a substantially stable bearing area in the base zone and a collecting cavity that extends into the base zone. extends, delimited by the lateral edges, between this base zone and the opening zone.

According to another inventive aspect, by applying two opposing forces on the side edges, in this case pulling in each case from the inside out, preferably in the vicinity of the base zone, so that the various folding zones of each in the base zone, deflect beyond the retaining elastic deformation so that the collapsible container passes from the open to the closed position.

According to a preferred embodiment, the reference fold zones disposed along the side zones in each case have a divergent arrangement, preferably symmetrically reflective with respect to the axis of symmetry of the structural element, extending from the base zone towards the opening zone.

According to another preferred embodiment of the collapsible container, the reference fold zones provided in the base zone are made in the form of straight segment-shaped lines, with at least the reference fold zones corresponding to the two. in each case more interior pairs are preferably made in the shape of arcuate segments. According to another preferred embodiment of the collapsible container, the respective structural element has a pair of notches arranged in each case substantially opposite each other, at the side edges, preferably in the vicinity of the base zone, preferably of the same. circular shape and dimensions at least close to human fingertips. This solution is indicative of the preferred application location of the manual actuating force of the container, thereby improving its ease of handling.

According to another preferred embodiment of the collapsible container, the opening area thereof comprises at least one retention cut which allows for retention for example of a tea bag string.

According to another preferred embodiment of the collapsible container, the opening zone comprises a closing zone in which at least one closing means is arranged which performs a substantially watertight closing of the opening zone, preferably provided as Removable lock manually. The closure means is advantageously realized as a manually removable closure.

According to another preferred embodiment of the collapsible container, when in the closed position it has a substantially flat rectangular or trapezoidal shape.

According to another preferred embodiment of the collapsible container according to the present invention, when in the closed position it has a ratio of width (1) to height (h) which is at least 1/5, preferably at least 1/3, particularly preferably at least In particular, according to another preferred embodiment, when in the closed position, the collapsible container has dimensions from 35 x 45 mm to 85 x 145 mm, preferably from 45 x 65 mm. mm to 75 x 105 mm, particularly preferably 55 x 85 mm. Furthermore, it is preferred when the collapsible container, when in the closed position, has a total thickness of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm, particularly preferably 1, 5 mm.

According to another preferred embodiment of the collapsible container, the structural member is made from a flexible, preferably substantially impermeable material. Moreover, it is preferred when the inner face of the structural member is coated with a substantially impermeable material, at least in the area that may be in direct contact with the edible product. It is further preferred when the structural element is made from recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, or composite materials thereof, polymeric material, aluminum, preferably in sheet or film format.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a collapsible container that enables data recording and / or transmission functions.

This object is solved according to the invention by means of a collapsible container having data recording and / or transmitting means, preferably remotely, preferably disposed on the outer surface faces of the structural element.

Another object is to provide a collapsible container production process according to the present invention that is technically and economically advantageous. In this sense, according to another inventive aspect, the collapsible container is produced by a process which includes the cutting and pressing steps of individual structural elements, preferably from a band of material, and joining of certain parts of the structural element. In particular, the present invention discloses a production process comprising the following procedures:

realization of the forward and reverse fold zones,

cutting the outer contour of each structural element, preferably from a band of structural element construction material,

folding of the main folds disposed in the base zone, joining together the faces of the side zones.

According to a preferred embodiment, the folding zones are realized by pressing, preferably simultaneously at both sides of the structural element, respectively according to the desired folding direction in each case.

According to another preferred embodiment, the joining of the side zones is preferably carried out in each case over the entire surface by gluing or welding.

According to another inventive aspect, the process according to the invention further comprises the procedures of:

filling a predefined amount of an edible product, preferably an aromatic substance for the production of an infusion beverage,

application of removable closing means of the opening zone. According. In another inventive aspect, the process further includes a procedure for applying graphics and / or data recording and / or transfer means onto at least one outer face of the collapsible container.

Another object of the present invention is to provide favorable uses for a collapsible container according to the invention.

This object is realized, according to another inventive aspect of the present invention, by means of a collapsible container which is preferably dispensed via dispensing machines, preferably automatic, edible products and / or services, whereby The distribution is supported by means of recording and reading or remote data transmission arranged on at least one side of the collapsible container according to the invention.

According to a preferred use, the collapsible container is distributed in each case manually, preferably by automatic machines, including individually from respective arrangements in horizontal rows or in vertical stacks, including a plurality of collapsible containers. In particular, the collapsible container is distributed in packages of one and / or a plurality of collapsible containers.

According to a preferred embodiment, the collapsible container is used as a small cup, as a medium cup, or as a cup.

According to another preferred form of use, the collapsible container includes an edible, preferably aromatic, substance within it, and after removal of a closure means it can be mixed with a fluid to obtain of a respective drink. According to another preferred embodiment, the collapsible container is delivered via edible product and / or service dispensing machines. In particular, it is preferred when the collapsible container is dispensed by means of dispensing machines for use of a service for later use in dispensing machines for edible products, in particular hot drinks.

According to another preferred use, the data recording and / or transmission means includes data relating to the type and / or quantity and / or number of portions of a beverage to be obtained from a respective product dispensing machine. This data is accessed and, where appropriate, changed by approaching the collapsible container to a respective reading area on the edible dispensing machine.

In particular, it is preferred when data recorded in the data recording and / or transmission means is accessed and / or altered by approaching the collapsible container of an electronic device with internet connectivity and data transfer facilities. It is a preferred wireless, short distance mode.

Description of the Figures

The invention will now be explained in more detail based on preferred embodiments and the accompanying Figures.

The Figures show:

Figures la - lb: perspective views of a first

collapsible container according to the invention, in closed position (A) and (B) open respectively; plan views of the interior face of a structural member for making a collapsible container according to Figure 1, with folding zones made in the form of substantially straight lines and circumferential arcs, respectively; front, side, and plan elevational views of the structural element according to Figure 2a once folded along the transverse symmetry axis (XX);

Figures 4a - 4b: sectional views along the axis B-B of the

Figures 3 of the collapsible container when in the closed position (A) and in the open position (B); elevational and perspective views of the first embodiment, as well as a second and a third embodiment, of the collapsible container according to the invention in the closed position (A) and the open position (B); schematic representation of preferred ranges of proportions for different embodiments of the collapsible container according to the invention; Figures 7a - plan views of the inner face of a structural member according to the invention, showing the arrangement of an impermeable material in a collapsible container according to the invention;

Figure 8 is an elevational view of a fourth embodiment of the collapsible container according to the invention with removable closure zone (IV) disposed in the opening zone;

Figures 9a - 9c: schematic representations of a use of the collapsible container according to the invention for beverage consumption, in particular hot beverages, with possibility of opening (Figure 9a) and closure (Figure 9b), as well as an arrangement preferred (Figure 9b) for its distribution;

Figures 10a - 10d: perspective views of arrangements of magnetic tape (data 10a and 10b) and RFID (Figures 10c and 10d) data recording or transmission means in a collapsible container according to the invention;

Figures 11a - 11b are schematic representations of a use of the collapsible container by means of automatic distribution of edible products or services. Detailed Description of the Invention

Figures 1 - 1b are perspective views of a first embodiment of the collapsible container (1) according to the invention when in the closed position (A) and in an open position (B), respectively. As shown in Figure 1b, when opened the collapsible container (1) has a cavity for collecting an edible product, preferably a hot drink, such as an espresso coffee, and is standing on a respective support base. basically corresponding to the shape of a cup.

The collapsible container (1) according to the present invention is made from a structural element (2) having a substantially thin rectangular or trapezoidal shape with a transverse symmetry axis (XX). At the production plant, a plurality of reference fold zones are made in the structural member (2) arranged in certain positions to provide a certain folding direction (see Figures 2a - 2b).

In particular, a reverse bending zone (3) disposed substantially along the transverse symmetry axis (XX) and two closely folded, preferably substantially symmetrical, forward bending zones (4a, 4b) are arranged substantially in relation to that zone (3). ) folding, defining a base zone (I) of the collapsible container (2) within which are two reverse folding zones (9a, 9b; 10a, 10b) connecting the outer ends of zones (7a, 7b); 8a, 8b) direct bending to the inner ends of direct bending zones (5a, 5b; 6a, 6b) defining a central holding zone, and two reverse bending zones (11a, 11b; 12a, 11b) extending substantially in the vicinity of the side edges (II, III) between the respective fold zones (4a, 4b) and the top zone (IV) of the collapsible container (2). The provision of the bend pairs (7a, 7b; 9a, 9b) and (8a, 8b; 10a, 10b), preferably with a relative arrangement at least substantially corresponding to that shown, is a first inventive aspect according to the invention. present invention. Indeed, they ensure reliable structural stability of the container when arranged open standing without requiring substantial force for its operation.

Once the folds are made, the folding zones (3; 4a, 4b) are deflected in the respective folding directions, i.e. the central (3) in the opening direction and the parallel (4a, 4b) in the closing direction. structural member with respect to the axis (XX) of transverse symmetry such that they form a "W" when viewed in side elevation. The thus performed folding of the folding zones (3; 4a, 4b) provides a base zone (I) which, when in the closing position (B), is substantially flat. Moreover, the fold thus made allows effective transmission of forces applied from the lateral edges (II, III) to the other folds disposed in the base zone (I).

Furthermore, even in the production plant, the side zones (c, d), in each case comprised between the fold zones (5a, 5b; 11a; 11b; 6a, 6b; 12a, 12b) and their edges ( II, III) of the sides (a) and (b), corresponding to the inner face - facing in Figure 2a - of the structural member (2), are joined together by the aforementioned "W" fold of the zones (3,4,4a, 4b) of fold. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, this joint is made to the entire surface thereof, for example by welding or gluing, so that each bend zone (11a; 12a) substantially coincides with the respective zone (11); 11b; 12b) folding. This arrangement and its coupling is another inventive aspect in that it ensures a greater ability to transmit forces applied from side to side. the folds arranged in the base zone, thereby improving the ease of use of the container.

Furthermore, this joint is, according to the invention, non-removably made so as to achieve a structural integrity of the edge zones (II, III) which ensures effective transmission of the laterally applied pressure or tensile forces, on the lateral edges (II, III), to the folding zones arranged in the base zone (I). This connection is preferably substantially sealed to ensure that the cavity provided by the collapsible container effectively retains any liquids poured into it.

Still in this sense, in a preferred embodiment according to the invention, the sides of the outer face of the structural member (2) corresponding to the zones delimited by the zones (4a, 4b; 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b) and those in each case. their edges, which are directly in contact by the "W" fold, are also joined together to reinforce the structural integrity of the edge areas.

According to a preferred embodiment of the production process of the collapsible container (1) according to the invention, all bending zones of the structural member (2) are preferably realized by pressing straight lines (see Figure 2a). According to another preferred embodiment, at least the fold zones (7a, 7b; 8a, 8b) are formed as arcuate lines (see Figure 2b). This preferred configuration avoids the formation of interleaving creases along the fold lines, and improves the motion transmission fluidity thereby improving its ease of use. Figures 3a - 3.c represent front and side elevational views as well as plan views, respectively, of a structural member (2) according to the invention once folded along transverse symmetry axis (XX) and made joining the side zones (c, d).

Figures 4a-4d are sectional views along axis B-B as indicated in Figures 3a-3c of the container (1) collapsible when in the closing position (A) and when in the open position (B).

The passage of the collapsible container (1) according to the invention from the closing position (A) to an open position (B) is accomplished by applying opposite forces on the lateral edges (II, III) by pressing each case from the outside inwards, preferably in the vicinity of the base zone (I). As these opposing forces continue to apply, the bending zones (3; 4a, 4b; 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b; 8a, 8b; 9a, 9b) jointly deflect to an extent corresponding to a predefined elastic retention strain from which they retain such a deformed position even after suspension of the application of such forces, so that the collapsible container (1) changes from a closing position (A) to a closed position. (B) opening corresponding to that elastic strain of strain.

When the collapsible container (1) is in the open position (B), a substantially stable bearing area in the base zone (I) as well as an extending collection cavity, delimited by the edges (II, III) results. between this base zone (I) and the opening zone (IV). As stated, by deflecting the bending zones (3; 4a, 4b; 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b; 8a, 8b; 9a, 9b) in the retention elastic deformation position, this position (B ) opening results substantially stable, thus allowing the use of collapsible container (1) as a drinking container.

The collapsible container (1) can then be driven from the opening position (B) to the closing position (A) by applying two opposing forces on the lateral edges (II, III), pulling in each case from the inside out. preferably in the vicinity of the base zone (I), several bending zones (3; 4a, 4b; 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b; 8a, 8b; 9a, 9b) deflect overcoming the elastic deformation retention

In order to facilitate its handling and operation, the collapsible container (1) preferably has two pairs of digital notches (13a, 13b; 14a; 14b), previously configured in the structural element (2), arranged in each case substantially. opposite each other at the lateral edges (II, III), preferably in the vicinity of the base zone (I), preferably of circular shape and at least close to the human fingertips (see groups of Figures 2 and 3 ). Alternatively, at least one pair, preferably two pairs, of at least one pair of graphics may be made on the structural element (2), preferably on both of their outer faces, in each case substantially opposite each other, at the edges ( II, III) laterally, preferably in the vicinity of the base zone (I).

In view of preferred forms of use, the collapsible container (1) according to the invention may be made as an espresso (1) cup of tea (1 ') _/ or cup, or mug (1'') - see Figures 5a - 5f. According to a preferred embodiment, the collapsible container (1 '') has at least one retention section (15, 16) disposed in the opening zone (IV) for holding a tea bag; or the like as commonly available with a suspension wire. In order to achieve comfortable manual use of the collapsible container (1, 1 ', 1''), and as shown schematically in Figures 6a-6b, it is important according to the invention that its outer shape is substantially rectangular or trapezoidal and the ratio of the total width (1) to the total height (h) of the collapsible container (1,1 ', 1'') is at least 1/5, preferably at least 1/3, particularly preferably at least 2/3.

The structural member (2) is preferably made from a single flexible, preferably substantially impermeable material, preferably from recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard or composite materials thereof, polymeric material, aluminum. preferably in sheet or film format. Alternatively, the inner face of the structural member (2) may be coated with a substantially impermeable material, at least in the area that may be in direct contact with the edible product (see Figures 7a, 7b).

According to another preferred embodiment according to the invention (see Figure 8), the collapsible container (1 ''') comprises at least one closing zone (V) disposed in the opening zone (IV) in accordance with the invention. that at least one closure means (17) is arranged to effect a substantially watertight closure of the opening zone (IV). The removable closure means (17) is in this case preferably realized as a manually removable closure. This preferred embodiment of the collapsible container (1 ''') according to the invention makes it possible to introduce a predefined amount of an aromatic substance such as ground coffee beans into the cavity and then to close it. preferably tightly of the removable closing means (17) disposed in the opening zone (IV). According to a preferred use of this container embodiment (! ''') collapsible according to the invention, the user may subsequently preferably preferably manually remove said removable closure means (17) and pour hot water therein, thereby obtaining the desired beverage as for example instant coffee. According to another preferred embodiment, the removable closure means (17) has an arrangement such that it forms an enclosed interior space within which an elongate member (20) may be pre-arranged to stir the beverage.

Indeed, the present invention also relates to the use of the collapsible container (1, 1 ', 1' ', 1' '') according to the invention as a beverage container, in particular of hot beverages such as coffee espresso, tea, or the like. In particular, the container may be opened and, after use, closed again (see Figures 9a, 9b). For this purpose, the collapsible container may have graphics, preferably arranged on the outer faces.

Distribution of the collapsible container (1, 1 ', 1' ', 1' '') is preferably carried out manually, for example from a plurality of containers arranged in stacks, or rows (Figure 9c). Alternatively, the distribution may be carried out by automatic machines.

Particularly in the case of such use of the collapsible container (1, 1 ', 1'',1'''), it preferably has data recording and / or transmission means (18, 19) for this purpose. preferably arranged on the outer surface faces of the structural member (2). Such data recording and / or transmission means may preferably be performed by magnetic stripe technology (see Figures 10a, 10b), or short-range radio communication technology, commonly referred to as RFID (see Figures 10c, 10d), or the like. Thus, in the case of. dispensing the collapsible container according to the invention via edible product dispensing machines, in particular hot beverage dispensing machines, and / or service dispensing machines, such as coupons for obtaining certain services or products on other machines in other locations. As shown schematically in Figures 11a and 11b, the collapsible container (! ''') Can be dispensed through a particular automatic machine upon consumer choice of an option (e.g. A, B, C), for example depending on the type and / or size of beverage desired, include a certain number of uses previously recorded in the data recording means (18, 19), and be used for such uses in other edible dispensing machines (see Figures 11a). , 11b). The data recorded in the data recording and / or transmission means (18, 19) may in this case preferably be accessed and / or altered by approaching the collapsible container (1) of an electronic device with respective data transfer means. short-distance data, and possibly with internet connection.

Lisbon, February 27, 2012.

Claims

1. Collapsible container (1) made from a structural member (2) of a flexible material, having a plurality of preferably realized folding zones (3, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) symmetrically in a base zone (I) of the collapsible container (1), and two reverse fold zones (11a, 11b; 12a, 11b) extending substantially in the vicinity of the side edges (II, III) between them bending zones (4a, 4b) and a top zone (IV) of the collapsible container (1), characterized in that two pairs (7a, 7b; 9a, 9b and 8a, 8b; 10a, 10b) of bending zones are provided. of reverse folding in connection with the other folding zones (3, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) in said base zone (I), and in each case arranged in a diamond-like shape within the other folding zones (3, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

Collapsible container (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least two reverse-fold zones (7a, 7b; 8a, 8b) are provided with arcuate segment shape, preferably circumferential arc. .

Collapsible container (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the reverse-fold lines (11a, 11b; 12a, 12b) are provided extending obliquely to the edges of the element (2). preferably symmetrically reflective of its longitudinal symmetry axis (YY), reciprocally extending from the base zone (I) towards the opening zone (IV), and from the zones (c, d ) sideways disposed on the inner face of the structural member (2), are provided joined together in a manner

1 It is preferably substantially continuous over its entire surface, particularly preferably non-removably and substantially watertight.

Collapsible container (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that by applying forces in opposite directions on the lateral edges (II, III), in each case pressing inwards, preferably in a near the base zone (I), the bending zones (3; 4a, 4b; 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b; 8a, 8b; 9a, 9b) deflect to such an extent, from which they retain such a deformed position even after suspension of the application of these forces, such that the collapsible container (1) changes from a closing position (A) to an opening position (B) corresponding to that elastic deformation strain.

Collapsible container (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that by applying two forces on the lateral edges (II, III), in each case pulling inwards, preferably in the vicinity of the base zone (I), a plurality of bending zones (3; 4a, 4b; 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b; 8a, 8b; 9a, 9b) deflect beyond a certain retaining elastic deformation so that the collapsible container (1) changes from the opening position (B) to the closing position (A).

Collapsible container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when in the closing position (A) it has a ratio of width (1) to height (h) which is at least 1/5 preferably at least 1/3, particularly preferably at least 2/3.

2

Collapsible container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural element (2) has two pairs of digital notches (13a, 13b; 14a; 14b) arranged in each case substantially opposite each other, in the case. lateral edges (II, III), preferably in the vicinity of the base zone (I), preferably of circular shape and dimensions at least close to the human fingertips.

Collapsible container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening zone (IV) comprises a closing zone (V) in which at least one closing means (17) is provided which carries out an opening. substantially watertight closure of the opening zone (IV), preferably provided as a manually removable closure.

Collapsible container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inner face of the structural member (2) is covered with a substantially impermeable material, at least in the area which may be in direct contact with the edible product.

Collapsible container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has means (18, 19) for recording and / or transmitting data, preferably remotely, integrated and / or combined with the structural element (1). 2), preferably arranged on the outer surface faces of the structural member (2).

Process for producing a collapsible container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises the following steps:

3 embodiment of the fold zones (4a, 4b; 5a, 5b; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b; 8a, 8b) forward and (3; 9a; 9b; 10a, 10b; 11a, 11b; 12a, 12b) reverse,

- cutting the outer contour of each structural element (2), preferably from a web of construction material of the structural element (2),

performing the folding of the main folds (3; 4a, 4b) arranged in the base zone (I),

performing the joining of the faces of the side zones (c, d).

A process according to claim 11, further comprising the steps of:

applying removable closing means (17) from the opening zone (IV).

A method according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising a step of applying graphics and / or data recording and / or transfer means (18, 19) on at least one outer face of the container ( 1) collapsible.

A method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a step of applying graphics and / or data recording and / or transfer means (18, 19) on at least one outer face of the collapsible container (1).

Use of the collapsible container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the collapsible container (1) is distributed in each case manually, preferably by means of machines.

4 including by means of dispensing machines (22) of edible products including hot drinks, and / or services, including individually from their arrangement in horizontal rows and / or vertical stacks, in each case including a plurality of containers ( 1) collapsible.

Use according to Claim 15, characterized in that the collapsible container (1) includes an edible, preferably aromatic substance within it, and after removal of a closure means (17), such substance is removed. It can be mixed with a fluid to obtain a respective beverage.

Use according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the means for recording and / or transmitting data includes data relating to the type and / or quantity and / or number of portions of a beverage to be obtained. from a respective edible product dispensing machine, whereby these data are accessed and possibly altered by bringing the collapsible container (2) closer to a respective reading zone in the edible product dispensing machine (22).

Use according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the data recorded in the data recording and / or transmission means (18, 19) is accessed and / or altered by approaching the collapsible container (2). an electronic device capable of connecting to the Internet and with preferably short-term wireless data transfer means (23).

Lisbon, 27 February 2012.

5th