ES1325497U - Closure system for the reuse of packaging (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) - Google Patents

Abstract

Closure system for the reuse of packaging, applicable to both envelope-type containers and cardboard boxes, characterized in that it is constituted from a laminar body in which a first end sector (1), adhesive, is defined, assisted by a first protective paper strip (1'), which can be removed at the time of use and determines a means of fixing to the packaging, parallel to which a second intermediate adhesive sector (2) is established, also assisted by a second protective paper strip (2'), which determines a means of closing the packaging for its return, including a third end adhesive sector (3), also assisted by a third protective paper strip (3'), which determines an initial closing element of the packaging once it is filled at origin, it being provided that between the second adhesive sector (2) and the third adhesive sector (3) a tearable perforated section (4) is established, which extends from side to side of the laminar body. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Closure system for the reuse of packaging

[0005] TECHNICAL SECTOR

[0007] The present invention falls within the field of packaging materials and methods, focusing specifically on a closure system for reusing packaging.

[0009] The object of the invention is to provide a closure system that allows certain packaging to withstand multiple cycles of use, maintaining its integrity and functionality during transport and distribution, especially in the context of e-commerce.

[0011] The closure system proposed by the present invention provides a solution that combines safety, ease of use and sustainability, in order to reduce the environmental impact associated with the use of single-use packaging.

[0013] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The rise of online commerce has increased the demand for packaging, leading to a significant increase in waste generated by single-use packaging. While effective at protecting products during shipping, this packaging is not designed for reuse. As a result, tons of waste are generated each year, contributing to environmental problems such as pollution and resource depletion.

[0017] To address this problem, the industry has begun to consider alternatives with reusable packaging that can be used for several cycles before being discarded or recycled. While this reusable packaging solves many of the problems associated with single-use packaging, it also presents certain limitations and challenges in becoming a truly comparable alternative to single-use packaging.

[0019] One of the challenges in distributing goods to consumers is ensuring their integrity and security, so that both retailers and consumers can be certain that the product arrives in optimal condition and has not been tampered with during transport. This applies to both single-use and reusable packaging, although the former has long offered suitable solutions to this challenge. On the other hand, current solutions for reusing packaging include various closure mechanisms, such as adhesive tapes, tamper-evident seals, zippers, or Velcro. However, these methods have several limitations, including the following:

[0021] - Single use and destruction of the closure: Most closure systems on single-use packaging are designed to be opened once. Doing so destroys or renders the closure mechanism unusable, preventing reuse of the packaging.

[0023] - Lack of secure packaging reuse options: Reusable packaging, meaning packaging that can be used not only for shipping but also for returns, and which is common in the market, often uses closures such as zippers or Velcro. While these closures allow for reuse, they do not offer an adequate level of security. These systems do not provide a clear indication of tampering, which poses risks to the integrity of the contents during transport. Velcro can accumulate dirt and lose its ability to close over time. Zippers, although more secure, are expensive to produce and do not indicate whether the packaging has been tampered with during transport.

[0025] - Cleaning and Reconditioning Challenges: Reusable packaging that uses adhesive tapes or other sticky materials presents difficulties for cleaning and reconditioning. The accumulation of adhesive residue can compromise the hygiene of the packaging and its ability to be used in future cycles.

[0027] - Recycling problems: Many single-use packagings and their closure systems are made of composite materials, making them difficult to recycle. Separating these materials is costly and complicated, often resulting in these packagings ending up in landfills.

[0029] These limitations show the need for an optimized solution for reusable packaging that combines safety, ease of use and sustainability.

[0031] EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] The closure system for the reuse of packaging proposed by the invention fully and satisfactorily solves the problem described above, offering an innovative closure system that integrates into the packaging, enabling its reuse, providing a safe, easy-to-use and sustainable solution.

[0035] Firstly, it should be noted that, in this report, the use cycle of a package is understood as the use of the packaging for the shipment from origin to destination of a product purchased by a user, as well as its return from destination to origin (either by return of the product or simply by return of the empty packaging) and conditioning of the packaging for its use again when a new closure system is incorporated.

[0037] According to the invention, the proposed closure system is intended to be attached to a reusable packaging or container, such as an envelope or a cardboard box, and is composed of a sheet body made of paper, cardboard, plastic or biodegradable materials, which can be adapted in thickness and strength according to the specific needs of the packaging and its use cycle.

[0039] The laminar body of the packaging will have a preferably rectangular configuration, defining several selectively usable transverse sectors.

[0041] More specifically, in the laminar body, a first end sector will be defined, adhesive, protected by a strip of paper, preferably paraffin-coated or silicone-coated, which can be removed at the time of use.

[0043] Following this first extreme sector, a second sector will be defined, equally adhesive, and also assisted by a second strip of protective paper, which can be removed if it is necessary to return the packaging.

[0044] The sheet body is finished at its other end in a third adhesive sector also assisted by a third strip of protective paper, a sector that is used as a closing element of the packaging once it is filled at the source.

[0046] Finally, between the second and third adhesive sections, a perforated tear-off section is located, extending from one side of the sheet to the other, facilitating the opening of the packaging by the user. This allows easy access to the contents of the packaging without damaging it, maintaining its integrity for future use.

[0048] Optionally, the aforementioned adhesive sectors may have narrow (less wide than the adhesive sectors) regions between them devoid of adhesive, acting as separators, which facilitate access to the different protective strips when removing these elements.

[0050] According to another feature of the invention, it has also been provided that, optionally, the closure system is provided on the front (face visible during use) with pre-cuts arranged around the perimeter edge, so that they are arranged on the front and coincide with the first and third sectors.

[0052] These perforations create an anti-tampering mechanism that provides a clear visual indication if an attempt has been made to open or tamper with the packaging, alerting the recipient of the package to a potential breach. In other words, these perforations allow the locking system to break easily if tampering is attempted, providing an additional layer of security. This ensures that any unauthorized opening attempt is visible and detected, guaranteeing the integrity of the contents.

[0054] In this way, the closure system is designed to allow the secure sealing of the packaging, provide a clear indication of tampering and facilitate its opening and closing for the return of the packaging.

[0056] Based on this structure, the system operates as follows:

[0057] In a first stage, the closure system of the invention is linked to the unclosed packaging, for which the protective paper strip is removed from the first sector and attached to said packaging.

[0059] Once the packaging is filled at the source, the protective paper strip is removed from the third section, the packaging is closed, and this third section is affixed to the packaging, preventing it from being opened. It should be noted that, obviously, for the closure system to be effective, the first and third sections of the closure system must be affixed to different edges of the packaging; that is, these edges are the ones that allow the product to be shipped inside the packaging.

[0061] The user receives the packaging, so that to access its contents he must break the perforated section, which once removed is unusable, so that, in the case of making a safe return of the packaging, it will be enough to remove the protective paper strip of the second sector to fix said adhesive sector on the packaging leaving it perfectly closed.

[0063] Obviously, the packaging will include the previously independent third region upon its return, although at this stage it no longer serves any function.

[0065] As previously stated, the device of the invention can be manufactured from a variety of materials, such as paper, cardboard, plastic, or biodegradable materials, and its thickness and strength can be adapted to the specific needs of the packaging and its usage cycle. The choice of material allows the closure system to be customized for different types of reusable packaging.

[0067] It should be clarified that, although the packaging is reusable, the closure system is designed to be replaced after a complete use cycle (i.e., after shipment to the destination and return to the origin of the packaging). This ensures that each new cycle or use of the packaging has a secure and intact closure, maintaining the safety and integrity of the packaging. In other words, the closure system of the invention is replaced after one use cycle of the packaging.

[0069] One of the key aspects of the invention is its focus on sustainability. The closure system and packaging are designed to be manufactured from a single material, or monomaterial, which facilitates their recycling at the end of their life cycle. The use of a single material eliminates the need to separate components for recycling, simplifying the process and reducing the environmental impact.

[0071] Furthermore, the possibility of using biodegradable or recyclable materials in the manufacture of the closure system and packaging contributes to the sustainability of the solution. This feature is essential for promoting circular economy practices, where materials are recovered and reused, minimizing waste and dependence on non-renewable resources.

[0073] The locking system configuration simplifies the logistics process, allowing the end user to easily remove the locking system upon receiving the packaging or package without damaging or leaving residue on the reusable packaging. This feature facilitates reuse or recycling of the packaging, as removing the locking system leaves no sticky residue and does not affect the integrity of the packaging.

[0075] This integration not only improves the user experience, but also contributes to operational efficiency by reducing the time and effort required to prepare packaging for shipping and return.

[0077] In conclusion, based on the structure of the closure system described above, the following advantages are derived compared to other existing reusable packaging:

[0079] - Enhanced security: The tamper-evident mechanism provides a clear indication of whether the packaging has been opened or tampered with, improving the security of the contents during transport and reducing the risk of theft or improper handling.

[0081] - Ease of use: The closure system with adhesive areas allows for quick and easy opening and closing, improving the user experience. This reduces the time required to prepare and open packaging, which is especially valuable in high-volume e-commerce environments.

[0082] - Optimized Reuse: The ability to replace the closure system at the end of each cycle allows the packaging to be used multiple times, reducing waste generation and the costs associated with the production and disposal of single-use packaging. Although the label is single-use, its contribution in terms of material percentage compared to the rest of the packaging is almost negligible.

[0084] - Sustainability: Manufacturing with single materials and the possibility of using recyclable or biodegradable materials make this invention an environmentally friendly solution. This not only contributes to waste reduction but also promotes sustainable production and consumption practices.

[0086] - Compatibility with online commerce: Developed to meet the demands of online commerce, the invention provides a safe, convenient, and efficient solution for shipping and returning packaging. This is especially relevant in a market where logistics and customer experience are key factors.

[0088] - Adaptability: The invention can be adapted for different sizes and types of reusable packaging, making it versatile and applicable in a wide variety of contexts, from shipping small products to more bulky goods.

[0090] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0092] To complement the description that follows and to help in a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, according to a preferred embodiment thereof, a set of drawings is attached as an integral part of said description, in which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented:

[0094] Figure 1.- Shows a plan view of a closure system for the reuse of packaging made in accordance with the object of the present invention.

[0095] Figure 2.- Shows a view similar to that of Figure 1 but from the opposite side of the locking system.

[0097] Figure 3.- Shows a perspective view of an envelope packaging with the system of the invention, before the envelope is closed.

[0099] Figure 4.- Shows a view of the assembly in Figure 3, properly closed and ready for shipment.

[0101] Figure 5.- Shows a view similar to that of Figure 4, but in which the perforated tearable section appears partially torn, presumably when the envelope has reached its destination.

[0103] Figure 6.- Shows a view similar to that of Figure 5, but in which the envelope is prepared for its return to origin.

[0105] Figure 7.- Shows a perspective view of a box packaging with the system of the invention, before its closure.

[0107] Figure 8.- Shows a view similar to that of Figure 7, but in which the perforated section appears partially torn, presumably when the box has reached its destination.

[0109] Figure 9.- Finally shows the box packaging of figures 7 and 8 prepared for its return to origin.

[0111] PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0113] In view of the figures described, it can be observed how the closure system for the reuse of packaging is equally applicable to envelope-type packaging, as shown in figures 3 to 6, in order to link the closing flap (7) with the body or back face (8) of said envelope, as well as to box-type packaging, as shown in figures 7 to 9 in order to link the closing lid (9) with the main body (10) of the box.

[0115] In either case, and according to figures 1 and 2, the device of the invention is made up of a laminar body, preferably rectangular, as this is the most effective solution, although other configurations are not ruled out, a laminar body made of paper, cardboard, plastic or biodegradable materials, which can be adapted in thickness and resistance according to the specific needs of the packaging and its use cycle.

[0117] According to the essence of the invention, in the laminar body, a first end sector (1), adhesive, will be defined, initially assisted by a first protective paper strip (1’), paraffin-coated or silicone-coated, susceptible of being removed at the time of use, being the first element that is fixed to the packaging, either to the closing flap (7) or to the closing lid (9).

[0119] Parallel to this sector, a second adhesive sector (2) is established, also assisted by a second protective paper strip (2’), this sector being designed to constitute a subsequent closing element in the event of having to make a return.

[0121] The laminar body is finished at its other end in a third adhesive sector (3) also assisted by a third protective paper strip (3’), sector which is used as the initial closure element of the packaging once it is filled at the source.

[0123] To facilitate the opening maneuvers of the packaging, a tearable perforated section (4) is established between the second sector and the third sector, which extends from side to side of the laminar body.

[0125] According to Figures 5 and 8, this perforated tear-away section (4) allows easy access to the contents of the packaging without damaging the packaging, maintaining its integrity for future use.

[0127] In this way, once the packaging is opened, it can be returned empty for reuse, or it can be returned with the discarded product inside, for which the packaging can be resealed using the second adhesive sector (2), after removing its protective paper strip (2’).

[0129] Optionally, between the adhesive sectors, as well as on both sides of the tearable perforated section (4) narrow regions (5) devoid of adhesive are established, as separators between the first protective paper strip (1’), the second protective paper strip (2’) and the third protective paper strip (3’), regions (5) that facilitate access to the different protective strips (1’), (2’) and (3’) when removing these elements.

[0131] As can be seen in Figure 1, it has also been planned that the sheet body includes pre-cuts (6) on the vertex area that will cause the sheet body to break in these areas in case of attempted manipulation, providing a clear visual indication if an attempt has been made to open or manipulate the packaging, alerting the recipient of the packaging about a possible breach.

[0133] In short, the present invention presents a comprehensive solution to the challenges of reusable packaging, offering a closure system that improves security, ease of use, and sustainability. By addressing the limitations of current solutions and introducing innovative features such as the tamper-evident mechanism and the integrated closure system, this invention represents a significant advancement in the field of reusable packaging.

[0135] The ability to manufacture the packaging and closure system using single-material, recyclable materials contributes to the circular economy, reducing environmental impact and promoting reuse. With its focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability, this invention is well-positioned to meet the current and future needs of online commerce and sustainable logistics.

Claims (1)

1. CLAIMS 1a.- Closure system for the reuse of packaging, which is applicable to both envelope-type containers and cardboard boxes, characterized in that it is constituted from a laminar body in which a first end sector (1), adhesive, is defined, assisted by a first protective paper strip (1’), which can be removed at the time of use and determines a means of fixing to the packaging, parallel to which a second intermediate adhesive sector (2) is established, also assisted by a second protective paper strip (2’), which determines a means of closing the packaging for its return, including a third end adhesive sector (3), also assisted by a third protective paper strip (3’), which determines an initial closing element of the packaging once it is filled at origin, it being provided that between the second adhesive sector (2) and the third adhesive sector (3) a tearable perforated section (4) is established, which extends from side to side of the laminar body. 2a.- Closure system for the reuse of packaging, according to claim 1a, wherein between the adhesive sectors [(1), (2), (3)] as well as on both sides of the tearable perforated section (4) there are regions (5) of lesser width than the adhesive sectors [(1), (2), (3)], regions (5) devoid of adhesive, and which act as separators between the first protective paper strip (1’), the second protective paper strip (2’) and the third protective paper strip (3’). 3a.- Closure system for the reuse of packaging, according to claim 1a, wherein the laminar body includes in correspondence with the area near its edges some pre-cuts (6) determining frangible anti-tampering elements. 4a.- Closure system for the reuse of packaging, according to claim 1a, wherein the laminar body is made from paper, cardboard, plastic or biodegradable materials. 5a.- Closure system for the reuse of packaging, according to claim 1a, wherein the laminar body is rectangular. 6a.- Closure system for the reuse of packaging, according to claim 1a, wherein The first strip of protective paper (1') is waxed or siliconed.