PACKAGING FOR ARTICLE

Abstract

Packaging for an article comprising: a body portion to at least partially house the article, and; a positioning system to position the article on the body portion, the body portion having an adaptive portion including a fluidically sealable cavity with particle material arranged therein, the particle material displaceable in the cavity to a corresponding position to correspond to the article, with fluid removable from the cavity to hold the particle material in the corresponding position, the body portion including a back portion and a front portion, which is movably connected to the back portion, the body portion having a closed configuration, in which the back portion and front portion are arranged over opposed faces of the article, the body portion having an open configuration for receiving the article, wherein the positioning system is arranged to position the article on the body portion in a positioned configuration in the open configuration, and to maintain the article in the positioned configuration as the packaging is transitioned between the open configuration to the closed configuration.

Claims

1. Packaging for an article comprising: a body portion to at least partially house the article, and; a positioning system to position the article on the body portion, the body portion having an adaptive portion including a fluidically sealable cavity with particle material arranged therein, the particle material displaceable in the cavity to a corresponding position to correspond to the article, with fluid removable from the cavity to hold the particle material in the corresponding position, the body portion including a back portion and a front portion, the front portion is movably connected to the back portion between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the cavity extending over the front and back portions, in the closed configuration the back portion and front portion arranged over opposed faces of the article, in the open configuration the body portion for receiving the article, wherein the positioning system is arranged on an interior wall of the adaptive portion that faces the article and to directly engage the article to position the article over the interior wall of the adaptive portion of the body portion in a positioned configuration in the open configuration, and to maintain the article in the positioned configuration as the packaging is transitioned between the open configuration to the closed configuration.

2. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the cavity is arranged between an exterior wall and an interior wall, the interior wall to face the packaged article.

3. The packaging of claim 2, wherein the packing is configured that with the packaging in the open position, and not in the closed position, the positioning system is movable between an open position to receive the article and a closed position in which the article is arranged in the positioned configuration.

4. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the positioning system is arranged to position the article distal an exterior seam of the adaptive portion and/or the packaging includes a second front portion, which overlaps the front portion in the closed configuration and is separate from the positioning system.

5. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the positioning system is arranged to engage articles of varying dimensions.

6. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the positioning system comprises extensions that extend from the interior wall and a connection system to retain the extensions in a closed position, in which the extensions engage and extend around an edge of the article.

7. The packaging of claim 1, comprising a valve carrying portion carrying a valve, the valve fluidically connected to the cavity of the body portion, the body portion and valve carrying portion integrally formed from a common portion of material, the valve carrying portion arranged on the front portion or the back portion of the body, wherein the positioning system and valve carrying portion are arranged such that with the packaging in the closed configuration and the positioning system positioning an article in the positioned configuration, the valve carrying portion does not overlap the positioned article.

8. The packaging of claim 7, wherein the valve carrying portion is at least partially arranged in an extension portion of an exterior seam of the cavity to at least reduce proximity of the valve to an article in the positioned configuration.

9. The packaging of claim 1, comprising a valve fluidically connected to the cavity of the body portion, wherein the valve is arranged as a planar member formed of a plurality of layers, with a displaceable layer carrying a displaceable member, the displaceable layer connected to an exterior wall of the packaging, the displaceable member displaceable between open and closed positions to open and close said valve.

10. The packaging of claim 9, wherein the valve is biased to a closed position by the displaceable member biased to the closed position due to an elasticity of the displaceable layer.

11. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the cavity is arranged between an exterior wall and an interior wall, the interior wall to face the packaged article, a weight difference between the exterior wall and interior wall is at 200 g/m2 to 500 g/m2.

12. The packaging of claim 11, wherein the exterior wall has a weight of 500 g/m2 to 1200 g/m2 and the interior wall has a weight of 100 g/m2 to 250 g/m2.

13. The packaging material of claim 1, wherein the particle material has a major length of 0.25-3 mm and comprises expanded polystyrene.

14. The packaging of claim 1 comprising a removable interior protective layer, which is arranged to be interposed between an interior wall and the article in a packaged position, wherein the interior protective layer is located on the interior wall by the positioning system.

15. The packaging of claim 14, wherein the protective layer is based on a fabric of high-density polyethylene fibres, which has a potential of hydrogen, pH, of 6 to 7 and a weight of 30 to 50 g/m2.

16. The packaging of claim 1, wherein a first layer and a second layer form the cavity and are connected at one or more interior seam that is arranged: distal the edges of the cavity, and; to restrict movement of the particle material in the cavity, wherein the or each interior seam is elongate and is arranged with a major portion to extend along an axis parallel to a longitudinal direction of the packaging and wherein the interior seams are arranged to define longitudinally extending rows, that are bounded by laterally extending columns, the columns arranged at laterally extending edges of the cavity.

17. (canceled)

18. (canceled)

19. (canceled)

20. (canceled)

21. The packaging of claim 1, wherein a connection system to connect the packaging in the closed configuration extends in a lateral direction proximal to both an opposed left side and right side of the back portion and font portion, and an exterior seam of the cavity extends in the lateral direction proximal to the left side and right side of the front and back portions, the connection system is arranged between said left said an right side and the exterior seam, wherein the connection system defines left side and right side extensions configured for grasping the packaging such that the user does not have to grasp the packaging proximal the packaged article, wherein the extensions have a length in a longitudinal direction from the exterior seam of at least 3 or 5 cm.

22. (canceled)

23. The packaging of claim 1 comprising an indication system to indicate when a threshold amount of fluid has been removed from the cavity, wherein the indication system comprises one or more of: a mechanical formation that increases in visibility as said fluid is removed; electrical circuitry with a sensor to determine fluid removal crossing a threshold and provide a notification to a user, and; a mechanical noise creation system, that is actuated to create an audible noise as fluid removal crosses a threshold.

24. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the cavity includes a flow regulation system, which is arranged to maintain a network of flow channels within the cavity independent of an arrangement of the particle material, wherein the flow regulation system comprises a member implementing an arrangement of conduits and/or undulations or a meshed structure in the cavity to provide said flow channels.

25. A method of packaging an article which is planar in shape, the method comprising: arranging the article over an interior wall of a body portion of the packaging with said body portion in an open configuration and with a positioning system, which is arranged on said interior wall that faces the article, arranged in an open position; positioning the article on said body portion by moving the positioning system from the open position to a closed position; closing the packaging by moving the packaging from the open configuration to the closed configuration, and; removing fluid from a cavity of the packaging to set a position of the cavity to correspond to the article.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0111] Aspects, features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments in reference to the appended drawings in which like numerals denote like elements.

[0112] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing embodiment packaging in an open configuration.

[0113] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the packaging of FIG. 1 in a closed configuration.

[0114] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of an adaptive portion of the packaging of FIG. 1.

[0115] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the packaging of FIG. 1 in a partially closed configuration.

[0116] FIGS. 5 and 6 are a perspective view showing the packaging of FIG. 1 including a protective layer.

[0117] FIGS. 7 and 8 are perspective views showing the packaging of FIG. 1 including a positioning system in a closed and open position respectively.

[0118] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an alternative implementation of the positioning system of FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0119] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a valve carrying portion of the packaging of FIG. 1.

[0120] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the packaging of FIG. 1, which includes an insert.

[0121] FIGS. 12 and 13 are plan views showing the insert of FIG. 11.

[0122] FIGS. 14 to 16 are perspective and cross-sectional views showing a valve of the packaging of FIG. 1.

[0123] FIGS. 17 and 18 are plan views showing embodiment flow regulation systems of the packaging of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0124] Before describing several embodiments of the packaging, it is to be understood that the packaging is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

[0125] The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations: As used herein, the term “packaging” may refer to implementations capable of housing, fully or at least partially an article to protect said article for shipping and/or storage.

[0126] As used herein, the term “article” may refer to a range of items that are suitable for housing by the packaging. The article may be planar in shape. As used herein, the term “planar” in respect of an article may refer to an item which generally has a 2-dimensional characteristic, e.g. substantial lateral and longitudinal dimension compared to a depth dimension. An article can include: a poster; painting; print; other like item. The article may have other configurations than planar.

[0127] As used herein, the term “fluid” may refer to a liquid or gas, typically air, that is contained within a fluidical sealed cavity of the packaging.

[0128] As used herein, the term “valve” may refer to a device operable to control flow of fluid. It may be implemented with an open position, in which flow can pass through the valve, and a closed position in which flow is prevented from passing though the valve. The valve may be actuated between the open and closed positions by a rotary action, e.g. via a screw connection. It may be implemented as a vacuum valve, which is capable of maintaining a vacuum in a fluidically connected cavity. The valve may have additional functions, including an inflation valve, in which the cavity can be inflated, and including a pressure relieve valve, in which the vacuum of the cavity can be relieved. An example of a suitable valve is the Modular Vacuum Valve supplied by Carmo, Hoejvangen 19, 3060 Espergaerde, Denmark.

[0129] As used herein, the term “particle material” or “particles” may refer to a plurality of material portions, each distinct from each other. The material of the particles can be one or more of: plastic based, including a polyurethane or expanded polystyrene; other like material. The material of the particles may have an R value for thermal resistance of 2.8-5 M.Math.K/w. The particles may be formed of a closed cell foam material. The shape of the particles may different between particles or be the same, including one or more of spherical; cuboid; pyramid; irregular; a tessellating shape; a non-tessellating shape; other shape. The size of the particles may be, defined by a major length, e.g. a diameter for a sphere or a side length for a cube. The major length can be 0.5 mm-5 mm, or about 3 mm. The particles may have a compressive strength of between 10 and 60 PSI.

[0130] As used herein, the term “seam” or “connection line” may refer to any interconnection point of material which can be formed by any one or more of welding; adhesively connecting; sewing.

[0131] [General Arrangement]

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 packaging 2 for an article (not illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2) comprises a body portion 6 to house the article.

[0133] The body portion 6 includes an adaptive portion 8. The adaptive portion 8 includes a fluidically sealed cavity 10 which is bounded by the exterior seam 12. The adaptive portion 8 includes particle material 14 (illustrated in FIG. 3) arranged in the cavity 10.

[0134] A shape of the adaptive portion 10 can adapt to correspond to the article when pressed against the article. In particular, the particle material 14 is free to move in the cavity 10 and can, upon the cavity being pressed against the article, redistribute itself around the article to displace from a non-corresponding position to a corresponding position, in which its arrangement corresponds to the shape article 4. The cavity 10 can be evacuated with fluid (not illustrated) so that the particle material 14 is held in the corresponding position.

[0135] The exterior seam 12 of the cavity 10 joins an exterior wall 16 and an interior wall 18. Referring to FIG. 3, the exterior wall 16 includes an exterior surface 20 to face away from the packaging 2, and an interior surface 22 to face into the cavity 10. The interior wall 18 includes an exterior surface 24 to face the article, and an interior surface 26 to face into the cavity 10.

[0136] The packaging 2 is aligned in an in-plane direction, which is defined by a longitudinal direction 100 and a lateral direction 102, which are both orthogonal to a depth direction 104. The packaging 2 is formed from a single sheet of joined interior wall 16 and exterior wall 18, which is arranged in to a back portion 28 and a front portion 30.

[0137] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the packaging is formed of separate sheets rather than a single sheet.

[0138] The back portion 28 and front portion 30 are movably connected at a bottom edge 32 of the packaging 2, which is formed by a fold in the sheet of interior wall 16 and exterior wall 18.

[0139] The back portion 28 and a front portion 30 both extend in the lateral direction 102 from the bottom edge 32 to a top edge 34 of the packaging 2 (the top edge 34 is formed at a fold interconnecting the back portion 28 and a second front portion as will be discussed). The back portion 28 and front portion 30 both extend in the longitudinal direction 100 between a first side edge 36 of the packaging 2 and a second side edge 38 of the packaging 2.

[0140] The back portion 28 and front portion 30 are movable from the open configuration in which an article can be received (shown in FIG. 1) to a closed configuration (shown in FIG. 2), in which the back portion 28 and front portion 30 are arranged about opposed sides of an article.

[0141] The cavity 10 is arranged on both the front portion 30 and the back portion 28, and extends around the bottom edge 32. The cavity extends in the entire lateral direction 102 from the bottom edge 32 to the top edge 34 (the top edge 34 is delineated by the exterior seam 12) on both front portion 30 and back portion 28. The cavity 10 extends in the longitudinal direction 100 from between the exterior seam 12 lines, which are arranged proximal (e.g. in close proximity to but not at) the first side edge 36 to proximal the second side edge 38 on both front portion 30 and back portion 28.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a second front portion 40 and the back portion 28 are connected at the top edge 34 of the packaging 2. The cavity 10 is not disposed on the second from portion 40. In particular, the exterior seem 12 bounds the cavity 10 at the top edge 34 where the second front portion 40 and the back portion 28 are connected. The interior wall 18 of the back portion 28 terminates at the top edge 34 such that only the exterior wall 16 extends beyond the top edge 34 to form the second front portion 40.

[0143] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the cavity extends onto the second front portion; the cavity extends the entire longitudinal length of the packaging, e.g. the exterior seam is arranged at the first side edge and the second side edge on both front portion and back portion, and; the interior wall extends beyond the top edge to form the second front portion.

[0144] In the closed configuration (shown in FIG. 2): the front portion 30 and back portion 28 both overlap (e.g. in respect of the in-plane direction, which is defined by the longitudinal 100 and lateral 102 directions) the article, and; the second front portion 40 overlaps the front portion 30. In the partially closed configuration (shown in FIG. 4): the front portion 30 and back portion 28 both overlap the article, and; the second front portion 40 does not overlap the front portion 30.

[0145] [Connection System]

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a connection system 42 is arranged to connect the front portion 30 and back portion 32 in the closed configuration (shown in FIG. 2).

[0147] The connection system 42 is arranged as: a first portion, which extends in the lateral direction 102 from the bottom edge 32 to the top edge 34 between the exterior seam 12 and the first side edge 36, and; as a second portion, which extends in the lateral direction 102 from the bottom edge 32 to the top edge 34 between the exterior seam 12 and the second side edge 38.

[0148] The connection system 42 is arranged distal the cavity 10. The exterior seam 12 delineates extension portions 44 arranged on the first and second side of the front portion 30 and back portion 28 for handling of the packaging distal the packaged article.

[0149] The extension portions 44 are 3 cm-5 cm or 2 cm to 10 cm in longitudinal length such that they are suitable for grasping. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, they may comprise cut-outs or a handle to assist grasping.

[0150] The connection system 42 is implemented as a as hook-and-loop fasteners, an example of which is commonly referred to as Velcro™. A hook portion of the connection system 42 is arranged the interior surface 22, 26 of one of the exterior wall 16 or interior wall 18, and a loop portion of the connection system 42 is arranged the interior surface 22, 26 of the other of the exterior wall 16 or interior wall 18.

[0151] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the connection system is alternatively implemented, including as: zips; an adhesive strip; other system; the connection system may extend over the cavity.

[0152] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the connection system 42 is also implemented on an interior surface of the second front portion 40 and on the exterior surface 20 of the exterior wall 16 of the front portion 30. This is to secure the second front portion 40 to the front portion 30.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 1, the connection system 42 extends over an interface between a valve carrying portion (as will be discussed) and the back portion 28 of the body portion 6.

[0154] [Interior Seam]

[0155] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, an interior seam 46 is arranged within the external seam 12 that bounds the cavity 10.

[0156] On the front portion 30, the interior seam 46 is arranged to directly connect the interior surface 26 of the interior wall 18 and the interior surface 22 of the exterior wall 16. On the back portion 28, the interior seam 46 is arranged the interior surface 26 of the interior wall 18 and the interior surface 22 of the exterior wall 16. Referring to FIG. 3 in particular, it can be seen that the interior seam 46 acts to restrict movement of the particle material 14 in the cavity 10.

[0157] Each interior seam 46 is arranged as a single, continuous, discrete line that has a major portion that extends along the longitudinal direction 100. Each interior seam 46 is separated from the external seam 12 and is arranged in the middle of the font portion 30 and back portion 28.

[0158] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: more than one interior seam is implemented on the front and/or back portions; the seams may have other shapes including; crosses; dots; other shape; the seam can be alternatively aligned, e.g. in the lateral direction or not arranged in the middle of the front and back portions.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 3, the material of the interior wall 18 is a single layer of thermoplastic polyurethane (referred to as TPU), which forms both the exterior surface 24 and the interior surface 26.

[0160] [Material Type]

[0161] The material of the exterior wall 16 includes an exterior TPU layer, a adjoining polyester fabric layer and an interior TPU layer. The interior TPU layer is arranged to form the interior surface 22. The exterior TPU layer is arranged to form the exterior surface 20. The polyester fabric layer is sandwiched between the exterior TPU layer and the interior TPU layer.

[0162] The TPU layers therefore from the interior of the cavity 10 as the opposed interior surfaces 26, 22. Both exterior seam 12 and interior seam 46 are formed by high frequency welding.

[0163] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated other plastic based materials may be used in the layers of the exterior wall and interior wall, including: polyvinyl chloride; polypropylene; polyurethane; Ethylene-vinyl acetate; Polyethylene; bio-degradable plastics, including Bio TPU, algae polymers, and; other material. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the seams are alternatively connected, including by an adhesive connection, a thermal weld, other technique; the interior wall may also include a woven plastic based fabric, e.g. to increase abrasion resistance.

[0164] [Valve Carrying Portion]

[0165] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the packaging 2 includes a first example of a valve carrying portion 50 carrying a valve 52. The valve carrying portion 50 provides a fluidic connection between the valve 52 and the cavity 10. Accordingly, with the valve 52 in an open position, a pump (not illustrated) can be attached to the valve 52 to extract or insert fluid (typically air) from/into the cavity 10. With the valve 52 in a closed position, with the fluid extracted from the cavity 10, the particle material 14 can be held in the corresponding position to correspond to an article.

[0166] The valve carrying portion 50 is formed from as a flap from the same sheet as the body portion 6 (i.e. integrally therewith). The valve carrying portion 50 extends from the first side edge 36 of front portion 30 of the body portion 6. Accordingly, the valve carrying portion 50 does not house a packaged article.

[0167] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the valve carrying portion is arranged to extend from other edges on the front portion, or is arranged to extend from the back portion; the valve carrying portion is not formed integrally with the body portion; the valve carrying portion is not arranged as a flap, e.g. it may be arranged as a tube which is fluidically connected to the cavity at one end and the valve at the other end or other shape; the valve carrying portion may be omitted and the valve directly connected to the body portion; the valve caring portion may be fixed in the extended position, e.g. it comprises a rigid insert formed out of plastic or a like material.

[0168] The valve carrying portion 50 is shown in an extended position with the valve 52 not to overlap (e.g. when viewed in the in-plane direction defined by the longitudinal 100 and lateral 102 directions) the body portion 6. Since the material of the body portion 6 and valve carrying portion 50 is flexible, the valve carrying portion 50 is arrangeable in a retracted position (not illustrated) in which it is folded through 180 degrees from the extended position to overlap the body portion 6. A securing system (not illustrated), including Velcro™ or other suitable system, may secure the valve carrying portion 50 in the retracted position. The material of the exterior wall 16 and interior wall 18 biases the valve carrying portion 50 to the extended position.

[0169] The exterior seam 12 comprises an aperture 54 at an interface between the body portion 6 and the valve carrying portion 50. The aperture 54 provides the fluid connection through the cavity 10 to the valve carrying portion 50. The aperture 54 is the only break in the exterior seam 12 that otherwise bounds the cavity 10. A valve carrying portion seam 56 is arranged on the valve carrying portion 50 and extends from the exterior seam 12 to enclose the valve 52.

[0170] The connection system 42 extends over an interface between a valve carrying portion and the back portion 28 of the body portion 6. The portion of the connection system 42 extends over said interface is arranged in close proximity of the aperture 54.

[0171] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the valve carrying portion can by alternatively fluidically connected to the cavity, e.g. rather than with an aperture in the exterior seam, a tube arranged distal the exterior seam connects both portions.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 10, a second example of a valve carrying portion 50 carrying a valve 52 implements, where compatible, the features of the first example. In FIG. 10 the packaging 2 is in the partially closed position with the second front portion 40 open against the front portion 30 to expose the valve carrying portion 50. The valve carrying portion 50 is alternatively arranged on the body portion 6, and in particular as part of the exterior surface 20 of the exterior wall 16 of the front portion 30. A valve 52 is in fluid communication with the cavity 10 via an aperture (not illustrated) in the exterior wall 16.

[0173] The exterior seam 12 includes an extension portion 82 that defines a pocket for housing the valve 52 at a greater longitudinal 100 position that a proximal lateral extending portion 84 of the exterior seam 12. The valve 52 is arranged so that a portion of the valve 52 at the least longitudinal position is proximal, including in alignment with, the lateral extending portion 84 of the exterior seam 12.

[0174] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the valve carrying portion is alternatively arranged in an extension portion arranged on the back portion, and; the valve is partially arranged in the extension portion, e.g. it extends more beyond the lateral extending portion of the exterior seam.

[0175] [Protective Layer]

[0176] Referring to FIG. 5, the packaging 2 comprises a protective layer 58, which is arranged to be interposed between the interior wall 18 of the body portion 6 and the article 4 (only the silhouette of the article 4 is illustrated since it is wrapped in the protective layer 58). The protective layer 58 layer is arranged with a back surface to extend continuously over exterior surface 24 on the interior wall 18 of the back portion 28. The protective layer 58 layer is arranged with a front surface to extend over a front face of the article 4.

[0177] A longitudinal 100 dimension of the protective layer 58 is larger than the longitudinal 102 dimension of the article 4, such that first side and second side flaps 60 of the protective layer 58 wrap around the sides of the article 4 and overlap a back face of the article 4. The flaps 60 are connected with an connection system 61, which is exemplified as adhesive strips. A lateral 102 dimension of the protective layer 58 is larger than the lateral 102 dimension of the article 4, such that top and bottom flaps (not illustrated) of the protective layer 58 wrap around top and bottom of the article 4 and overlap the back face of the article 4.

[0178] The protective layer 58 is formed of Tyvek™, which comprises flashspun, high-density polyethylene fibres. The protective layer 58 has a potential of hydrogen (pH) of 6 to 7. The protective layer 58 has a weight of 30 to 50 g/m2.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 6, the protective layer 58 is removably connected by a location system to the back portion 28. In particular, a flap 68 is arranged at the corners of the protective layer 58 and realisably engages with a buckle 70 correspondingly arranged on the back portion 28.

[0180] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the protective layer is formed of other materials, including one or more of: a polyethylene material; a polyester material; a nylon material; a paper material, or other material, which may have a potential of hydrogen (pH) of 6 to 7 and/or a weight of 30 to 50 g/m2; the protective layer is connected to the front portion; the protective layer is not connected to the back portion; the protective layer may not wrap around the article or may not wrap around the article on all sides; the protective layer can be omitted.

[0181] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the protective layer is alternatively located on the back portion or front portion by a location system, including with: adhesive; sewing; removable connection systems, including a hook and loop fastening system exemplified by Velcro; one or more flaps that extend over an edge of the protective layer; the protective layer is not connected to the body portion, but an alignment marker may be provided on the body portion to indicate where to position the article and protective layer.

[0182] [Positioning System]

[0183] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the packaging 2 comprises a first example of a positioning system 62 that is arranged to position the article 4 on the body portion 6 in a positioned configuration, with the packaging 2 in the open configuration (as shown in FIG. 7). The positioning system 62 is configured to maintain the article 4 in the positioned configuration as the packaging 2 is transitioned between the open configuration (FIG. 7) and the closed configuration (FIG. 4).

[0184] The positioning system 62 is arranged on the exterior surface 24 of the interior wall 18 of the back portion 28, and positions the article 4 on said surface. The positioning system 62 is movable between an open position (FIG. 8) to receive the article 4 and a closed position (FIG. 7) in which a received article 4 is arranged in the positioned configuration.

[0185] The positioning system 62 comprises two extensions 64 that extend from the interior wall 18. The extensions 64 are arranged to extend around laterally extending edges of the article 4 that are separated in the longitudinal direction 100. The extensions 64 are connected to the interior wall 18 at a laterally extending seam 66. The seam 66 is longitudinally set back from the laterally extending edge of the article 4 such that: an adjoining back portion of the extension 64 extends in the longitudinal direction between the article 4 and the interior wall 18; an edge portion extends around the laterally extending edge of the article 4, and; a front portion of the extension extends over a front surface of the article 4. In this way the extensions 64 can accommodate a range of articles 4 with different longitudinal dimension.

[0186] The positioning system 62 includes a connection system 68 to retain the extensions 64 in a closed position. The connection system 68 is separate from the extensions 64, and comprises a variable length member, which is inserted through slots 70 in the extension. There are a plurality of slots 70 located at different longitudinal positions to accommodate a range of articles 4 with different longitudinal dimension. The variable length, which is achieved by hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro™) is also to accommodate a range of articles 4 with different longitudinal dimension.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 9, a second example of the positioning system 62 implements the features of the first example, however it alternatively integrates the protective layer 58 and has three extensions 64, which integrate the connection system 68.

[0188] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the positioning system is removably connected to the exterior surface of the interior wall, e.g. by a hook and loop fastening system as exemplified by Velcro™, or other system; the positioning system is permanently connected to the exterior surface of the interior wall, e.g. by an adhesive or sewn or other system; the positioning system may have other numbers of extensions, e.g. four; the connection system is integrated with the extensions; the positioning system comprises an alternative connection system, including adhesive strip, clips, other system; the positioning system is alternatively implemented including as ridges arranged in the exterior surface of the interior wall of the back portion to abut the article, and; the positioning system is arranged on the front portion.

[0189] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10, where the valve carrying portion 50 is arranged on the body 6, the positioning system 62 and valve carrying portion 50 are arranged such that with the packaging 2 in the closed configuration and the positioning system 62 positioning an article 2 in the positioned configuration, the valve 52 does not overlap the positioned article 4.

[0190] [Interior Sock and Shaped Seam]

[0191] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, the particle material 14 is arranged in an insert 90 (FIG. 12 shows the part of the insert 60 forming the front portion 30 and back portion 28 and FIG. 13 shows only the part forming the font potion 30). The insert 90 is formed of a first layer 92 and a second layer 94. The insert 90 is arranged in the cavity 10 formed by the exterior wall 16 and the exterior wall 18 (as discussed for previous embodiments). The interior surface 22 of the exterior wall 16 adjoins the first layer 92 and the interior surface 26 of the interior wall 18 adjoins the second layer 94.

[0192] The interior seams 46 (as discussed for the preceding embodiments) are arranged on the insert 90 rather than to join the exterior wall 16 and the exterior wall 18. The insert 90 comprises an exterior seam 96 to define a cavity 98 of the insert 90. The cavity 10 between the exterior wall 16 and the exterior wall 18 is defined by the exterior seam 12 (as discussed for the preceding embodiments). An aperture 110 in the insert 90 fluidical connects the cavity 98 of the insert 90 and the cavity 10, which is in turn connected to the valve as discussed for the preceding embodiments. Hence fluid is evacuated from both the cavity 10 and the insert 90 via the valve.

[0193] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the interior seams are omitted, and; the interior seams may be formed to connect the exterior wall, the interior wall and the walls of the insert.

[0194] Referring to FIG. 12, the insert 90 has reinforcement portions 112 for connection to the interior wall and the exterior wall, e.g. by welding or an adhesive. The reinforcement positions 112 comprise sections of increased material mass at the exterior seam 96. There are three reinforcement portions 112 at the mid points of the edges of the portion of the insert that forms the back portion 28 and the front portion 30.

[0195] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: there are other numbers of reinforcement portions, and; the reinforcement portions are alternatively located, e.g. at the corners.

[0196] Referring to FIG. 13, the interior seam 46 is elongate and is arranged with a major portion 114 to extend along an axis parallel to a longitudinal direction of the packaging. The interior seams include laterally extending minor portions 116, and laterally and/or longitudinally extending minor portions 118. The minor portions 116, 118 are arranged at the ends of the major portions 114.

[0197] The interior seams 46 are arranged to define longitudinally extending rows 120, that are bounded by laterally extending columns 122. The rows 120 and columns 122 are characterised by the absence of an interior seam. The columns 122 are arranged at laterally extending edges of the cavity 98. In particular, the minor portions 116 define the columns 122, and the major portions 114 define the rows. The minor portions 118 define a separation distance between the rows.

[0198] [Self-Sealing Valve]

[0199] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, a valve 52 is provided that may be implemented with any of the preceding embodiments, or another embodiment disclosed herein. The valve 52 is arranged as a planar member formed of a laminate of a plurality of layers, which comprise: a displaceable layer 130; a support layer 132, and; the exterior wall of the valve carrying portion 50.

[0200] A displaceable layer 130 is connected around its periphery to the support layer 132, to define an inner displaceable member 134. Apertures 136 in the displaceable member 134, which are implemented as arc-shaped flaps by means of slits, are for fluid transmission through the displaceable layer 130. The support layer 132 provides a comparatively rigid support for the displaceable layer 130 and includes an aperture 138 for fluid transmission therethrough. The aperture 138 of the support layer 132 is arranged not to overlap the apertures 136 in the displaceable member 134. In this way, fluid is only transmittable through said layers when the displaceable member 134 is displaced from the support layer 132 as shown in FIG. 15. Such a condition arises when an exterior facing side of the displaceable layer 130 is subject to a comparatively lower pressure than an interior facing side, e.g. due to an evacuation pump (not illustrated). Else the displaceable member 134 is biased by the elasticity of the material into the support layer 132 to prevent fluid transmission though the valve 52, as shown in FIG. 16. Both the displaceable layer 130 a support layer 132 can be formed of a plastics based material.

[0201] [Signal of Vacuumed State]

[0202] The packaging 2 of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein may implement an indication system (not illustrated). The indication system indicates to a user when a threshold amount of fluid has been removed from the cavity 10. The indication system may indicate to a user: [0203] 1) a condition of insufficient fluid removed from the cavity, and/or; [0204] 2) a condition of sufficient fluid removed from the cavity.

[0205] Condition 1) may for example be achieve during evacuation pumping to set the particle material in the corresponding position. Condition 2) may for example be achieved by a undesirable transition from condition 1) if the packaging is punctured or otherwise damaged.

[0206] In a first example the indication system comprises a mechanical formation that increases in visibility as the packaging transitions from condition 1) to condition 2). The mechanical formation may not be visible for condition 1) but may be visible for condition 2). As an example of such a system, a comparatively rigid indication member is located within the cavity 10. As fluid is evacuated from the cavity, the exterior wall 16 is drawn over the indication member, such that it becomes visible from an exterior of the packaging. The indication member may be shaped to provide a message e.g. “packaged” or “evacuated” or other suitable shape.

[0207] In a second example, the indication system comprises electrical circuitry with a sensor to determine fluid removal crossing a threshold and provide a notification to a user. The sensor may for example be a pressure sensor. The electrical circuitry may implement an indication system to provide said notification, e.g. via visual, haptic or audible feedback. The electrical circuitry may determine crossing of a threshold via a comparator or other suitable implementation.

[0208] In a third example, the indication system comprises mechanical noise creation system, that is actuated to create an audible noise as fluid removal crosses a threshold. As an example the mechanical noise creation system is implemented as a geometric construction that is arranged to snap between first and second configurations. The geometric construction may be located in the cavity such that it is actuated from a first position to a second position as the packaging is transitioned from condition 1) to 2), e.g. as the interior surface of the cavity presses on the geometric construction due to increasing reduction of fluid in the cavity.

[0209] [Air Channels]

[0210] Referring to FIG. 17 the cavity 10 includes a first example of a flow regulation system 140, which is arranged to maintain a network of flow channels 142 within the cavity 10 independent of an arrangement of the particle material 14 (which was illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 11).

[0211] The flow regulation system 140 is implemented as a channel forming member 144 that directly adjoins the interior surface 26 of the interior wall 18 of the cavity 10. Undulations in the channel member 144 form closed channels between the channel forming member 144 and the interior wall 18 and open channels on the other side of the channel forming member 144.

[0212] The channels have a diameter that is selected to be less than that of the particle material, for example the width between adjacent walls of the channels may be 1-3 mm. In this way the particle material is prevented from blocking the channels 142.

[0213] The figures illustratively show the channel forming member 144 overlapping the valve carrying portion 50, however it may also overlap parts of or the entire remainder of the cavity 10. The channel forming member 144 is formed on the interior surface that includes the valve carrying portion so that the channels can fluidically link directly with the valve.

[0214] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the channel forming member is formed integrally with the interior surface, e.g. by creating undulations is said surface via welding or addition of adhesive; in embodiments comprising the insert 90, the channel forming member is formed on an interior wall of the insert 90, and; the channel forming member may be formed on the other side of the cavity, e.g. on both sides or one side thereof.

[0215] Referring to FIG. 18 the cavity 10 includes a second example of a flow regulation system 140, which implements the features of the first embodiment, however the channel creating member 144 is arranged as a celled structure with porous cells than extend in the depth direction. The material may comprise a 3D polyester mesh fabric.

[0216] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: other channel creating members may be implemented, e.g. any fluidical communicative material that prevents the particle material blocking its passageways.

[0217] [Method of Forming Packaging]

[0218] A method of forming the packaging 2 may comprise the following steps:

[0219] Step 1: cut sheets of the exterior wall 16 and interior wall 18 to the peripheral shape illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0220] Step 2: insert the valve 52 in to a valve aperture in the valve carrying portion 50.

[0221] Step 3: adhesively fix the connection system 30 to the interior wall 18.

[0222] Step 4: form the exterior seam 12, interior seam 46 and valve carrying portion seam 56 by high frequency welding.

[0223] Step 5: insert the particle material 14 into the cavity 10 via the valve 52, and close the valve 52 to prevent further transmission of the particle material in or out of the cavity 10.

[0224] Step 6: connect the protective layer 58 and positioning system 62 to the interior wall 18.

[0225] In variant embodiments: where appropriate the steps of method may be executed in a different order, e.g. step 4 before step 2 or 3 etc.; steps may be omitted, e.g. in embodiments that do not comprises a protective layer and/or positioning system step 6 can be omitted.

[0226] In embodiments that comprise an insert 90: the insert 90 can be formed to include the exterior seam 96 of the insert and the interior seam 46 of the insert; the insert 90 may then be inserted between the exterior wall 16 and interior wall 18 and connected at the reinforcement positions 112 to said walls; the exterior seams 12 may then be formed to connect the exterior wall 16 and interior wall 18 around the insert 90; the insert 90 may then be filled with the particle material 14, e.g. through an aperture of the valve carrying portion 52 before connection of the valve 52, and; alternatively the particle material 14 may be filled into the insert 90 before the insert 90 is inserted between the exterior wall 16 and interior wall 18.

[0227] [Method of Packaging an Article]

[0228] A method of packaging and article 4 in the packaging 2 may comprise the following steps:

[0229] Step 1: the valve 52 is set to the open position and it is ensured that there is enough fluid in the cavity 10 for mobility of the particle material 14.

[0230] Step 2: referring to FIG. 5, the protective layer 58 is wrapped around the article 4.

[0231] Step 3: referring to FIG. 7, the positioning system 62 is moved to the closed position to position the article centrally on the back portion 28.

[0232] Step 4: referring to FIG. 4, the back portion 28 and front portion 30 are arranged to face each other with the article 4 there between. With the packaging 2 in the partially closed position, the connection system 42 connects the back portion 28 and front portion 30 together.

[0233] Step 5: referring to FIG. 2, the second front portion 40 is closed against the front portion 30. With the packaging 2 in the closed position, the connection system 42 connects the second front portion 40 and front portion 30 together.

[0234] As the packaging 2 is closed the interior wall 18 and particle material 14 are selected so that the cavity 10 is moulds to the shape of the article 4 (i.e. into the corresponding position) without the need for manually pressing it into the corresponding position.

[0235] Step 6: a pump (not illustrated) is attached to the valve 52, and with the valve 52 not overlapping the article 4 so as not to press the valve 52 into the article 4, fluid is removed from the cavity 10 to set the particle material 14 in the corresponding position around the article 4. The valve 52 is then moved to the closed position.

[0236] Step 7: the packaging 2 is then handled at the extension portions 44 distal the article 4.

[0237] In variant embodiments: where appropriate the steps of method may be executed in a different order, e.g. step 2 before step 1 etc.; steps may be omitted, e.g. in embodiments that do not comprises a protective layer and/or positioning system steps 2 and/or 3 can be omitted; in embodiments that do not comprise a second front portion step 5 can be omitted etc.

[0238] As used in this specification, any formulation used of the style “at least one of A, B or C”, and the formulation “at least one of A, B and C” use a disjunctive “or” and a disjunctive “and” such that those formulations comprise any and all joint and several permutations of A, B, C, that is, A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in any order, A and C in any order, B and C in any order and A, B, C in any order. There may be more or less than three features used in such formulations.

[0239] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps then those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as “at least one” and “one or more” in the claims should not be construed to imply that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim element to inventions containing only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an.” The same holds true for the use of definite articles. Unless stated otherwise, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0240] Unless otherwise explicitly stated as incompatible, or the physics or otherwise of the embodiments, example or claims prevent such a combination, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples, and of the following claims may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially ones where there is a beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to only any specified benefit, and instead may arise from an “ex post facto” benefit. This is to say that the combination of features is not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g. numbering) of the example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of the claim(s). Moreover, this also applies to the phrase “in one embodiment”, “according to an embodiment” and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording and are not to be construed as limiting the following features to a separate embodiment to all other instances of the same or similar wording. This is to say, a reference to ‘an’, ‘one’ or ‘some’ embodiment(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and/or all embodiments, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, the reference to “the” embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment.

[0241] The foregoing description of one or more implementations provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various implementations of the present disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCES

[0242] 2 Packaging [0243] 28 Back portion, 30 Front portion, 40 Second front portion [0244] 32 Bottom edge [0245] 34 Top edge [0246] 36 First side edge [0247] 38 Second side edge [0248] 6 Body portion [0249] 8 Adaptive portion [0250] 10 Cavity [0251] 12 Exterior seam [0252] 54 Aperture [0253] 14 Particle material [0254] 46 Interior seam [0255] 16 Exterior wall [0256] 20 Exterior surface [0257] 22 Interior surface [0258] 18 Interior wall [0259] 24 Exterior surface [0260] 26 Interior surface [0261] 42 Connection system [0262] 44 Extension portion [0263] 50 Valve carrying portion [0264] 52 Valve [0265] 56 Valve carrying portion seam [0266] 58 Protective layer [0267] 60 Flaps [0268] 62 Positioning system [0269] 64 Flaps [0270] 66 Connection system [0271] 4 Article