EGG PACKAGING

Abstract

An egg packaging includes a body defining a cavity for receiving an egg, where the cavity has a base and an open end. The cavity defines a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use. The packaging includes one or more laterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in the cavity relative to the longitudinal axis and/or one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in the cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

Claims

1. Egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity for receiving an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises one or more laterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

2. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the or each laterally resilient portion is arranged to flex, thereby providing support against lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

3. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the packaging comprises a plurality of laterally resilient portions, optionally wherein the plurality of laterally resilient portions are substantially equally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis, optionally wherein the plurality of laterally resilient portions are arranged in one or more pairs of diametrically opposed laterally resilient portions.

4. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the body defines a boundary in relation to said cavity, coaxial with the longitudinal axis, and wherein the or each laterally resilient portion projects towards said longitudinal axis relative to the boundary, optionally wherein the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a curved profile in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis arranged such that an apex of the curved profile is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis of said cavity.

5. Egg packaging according to claim 4, wherein the boundary is a circular boundary and wherein the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a curved profile, wherein the curved profile is bound by an arc of the circular boundary, optionally wherein the curved profile of the or each laterally resilient portion is shaped as an inversion of the arc about its chord.

6. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the or each laterally resilient portion is arranged to define an arcuate profile extending in a direction away from the base of the cavity, wherein an apex of the arcuate profile is located furthermost from the longitudinal axis, optionally wherein at least one of said laterally resilient portions extends no further than the apex of the arcuate profile, optionally wherein at least one of said laterally resilient portion extends beyond the apex of the arcuate profile to project towards the longitudinal axis.

7. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the body comprises a side wall extending between the base and the open end of the cavity, optionally wherein the or each laterally resilient portion is provided by a respective portion of the side wall, optionally wherein the or each laterally resilient portion is integral with the side wall.

8. Egg packaging according to claim 7, wherein the body comprises a slit or opening arranged to facilitate flexing of the or each laterally resilient portion, optionally wherein the slit or opening is provided adjacent the open end of the cavity and/or along at least a portion of a length of the side wall extending between the base and the open end of the cavity.

9. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the body comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to said longitudinal axis.

10. Egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity for receiving an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

11. Egg packaging according to claim 9, wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion is configured to flex to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

12. Egg packaging according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the or each longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the base of said cavity and projects towards said cavity, optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion is integral with said base.

13. Egg packaging according to claim 12, wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion is substantially dome-shaped, such that an apex of the dome is nearmost the cavity, optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises a central depression at the apex of the dome-shape, configured to receive a portion of an egg, optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex of the dome, optionally wherein a plurality of channels are provided, each of which being concentric to the apex of the dome.

14. Egg packaging according to claim 13, wherein the or each substantially dome-shaped longitudinally resilient portion comprises a circular perimeter defining a ring arranged to form a foot on which the egg packaging can rest.

15. Egg packaging according to claim 9, wherein the egg packaging comprises the body having said cavity, and a lid coupled to the body, wherein at least one of the or each longitudinally resilient portions is provided by the lid, optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion is integral with said lid.

16. Egg packaging according to claim 15, wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises one or more resilient fingers extending from the lid towards the cavity, when the lid is closed, optionally wherein each longitudinally resilient portion comprises four resilient fingers arranged as two pairs of diametrically opposed fingers, optionally wherein each resilient finger comprises a curved profile such that the resilient finger extends away from the longitudinal axis when the lid is closed.

17. Egg packaging according to claim 15, wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion is substantially dome-shaped, such that an apex of the dome is nearmost the cavity, optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises a central depression at the apex of the dome-shape, configured to receive a portion of an egg in said cavity, optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex of the dome, optionally wherein a plurality of channels are provided, each of which being concentric to the apex of the dome.

18. Egg packaging according to claim 15, wherein a first longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the base and a second longitudinally resilient portion is provided by the lid.

19. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the or each laterally resilient portion and/or the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.

20. Egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity supporting an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises at least one of: one or more laterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateral movement of the egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis, and one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of the egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0125] Embodiments disclosed herein will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0126] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a packaging for eggs, as disclosed herein;

[0127] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the body of the egg packaging shown in FIG. 1;

[0128] FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative perspective view of the body of the egg packaging of FIG. 1;

[0129] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the body of the egg packaging of FIG. 1;

[0130] FIG. 5 illustrates a plan view of a series of cavities of the egg packaging of FIG. 1;

[0131] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the series of cavities illustrated in FIG. 5;

[0132] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the egg packaging of FIG. 1;

[0133] FIG. 8 illustrates a second embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, comprising an alternative longitudinally resilient portion provided in a base of each of the cavities of the packaging;

[0134] FIG. 9 illustrates a third embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, comprising an alternative longitudinally resilient portion provided in a base of each of the cavities of the packaging;

[0135] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a lid of a fourth embodiment of an egg packaging disclosed herein, the lid comprising additional longitudinally resilient portions;

[0136] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the egg packaging, comprising the lid of FIG. 10 and the body portion of FIG. 9;

[0137] FIG. 12 illustrates a fifth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, comprising a lid having alternative additional longitudinally resilient portions and the body portion illustrated in FIG. 9;

[0138] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein;

[0139] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions;

[0140] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a eighth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions;

[0141] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions;

[0142] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilient portions; and

[0143] FIG. 18 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0144] With reference to FIG. 1, an egg packaging, for example an egg box, is generally indicated at reference numeral 2. The egg packaging 2 comprises a lid 3 coupled to a body 4 by a hinge 5. For example, the hinge 5 may be a live hinge. In some embodiments, the hinge 5 is configured such that the lid 3 and body 4 can lie substantially flat when the lid is open, thereby facilitating stacking of the egg boxes 2.

[0145] The body 4 defines a plurality of cavities 6, each of which being arranged to receive an egg. In the illustrated embodiments, the body 4 defines six cavities 6 provided in a rectangular arrangement. It will be understood that any number of cavities 6 can be provided in the body 4, for example 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24 or more cavities may be provided.

[0146] The lid 3 is configured to be moved between an open position (as shown in FIG. 1) in which eggs occupying the cavities 6 can be accessed, and a closed position, in which the lid 3 extends across the body 4 of the packaging 2 to cover the eggs, thereby protecting the eggs.

[0147] As can be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, each cavity 6 comprises a base 8, an open end 10 and a longitudinal axis A extending in a direction between the base 8 and the open end 10. When the egg packaging 2 is in use, in other words when eggs are carried in one or more of the plurality of cavities 6, the longitudinal axis A is intended to be substantially vertical.

[0148] The egg packaging 2 comprises a plurality of laterally resilient portions 12 which are configured to provide support against lateral movement of an egg occupying a cavity 6, said lateral movement being lateral relative to the longitudinal axis A. In other words, the laterally resilient portions 12 provide support against substantially sideways movement of an egg in said cavity 6.

[0149] In the illustrated embodiments each cavity 6 is provided with four laterally resilient portions 12. With respect to a given cavity 6, each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex in order to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in the cavity 6, relative to the longitudinal axis A. Each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex such that, when a lateral force is applied to the portion 12, for example by an egg in the cavity 6, the laterally resilient portion 12 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6, i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the lateral force is absorbed by the laterally resilient portion 12.

[0150] When the laterally resilient portion 12 is no longer subjected to a lateral force, the portion 12 springs back towards the cavity 6, i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.

[0151] As can be clearly seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the laterally resilient portions 12 of a given cavity 6 are substantially equally spaced around the cavity 6 with respect to the longitudinal axis A. Furthermore, the laterally resilient portions 12 are arranged in pairs such that the laterally resilient portions 12 of each pair are diametrically opposed.

[0152] In the illustrated embodiments, each cavity 6 of the body 4 includes a side wall 16 extending between the base 8 and the open end 10 of the cavity 6. In other words, each cavity 6 is partially defined by a side wall 16 extending between the base 8 and the open end 10 of the cavity 6.

[0153] As is illustrated in FIG. 5, the side wall 16 of each cavity 6 defines a boundary 14 in relation to the cavity 6. Said boundary 14 is co-axial with the longitudinal axis A. Each of the laterally resilient portions 12 of a given cavity 6 is arranged to project towards the longitudinal axis A relative to the boundary 14. In alternative embodiments, the boundary 14 may be defined by means other than the cavity side wall 16.

[0154] With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, each laterally resilient portion 12 includes a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6, for example in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. Said curved profile 18 of each laterally resilient portion 12 is positioned such that an apex 18a of the curved profile 18 is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6. In other words, the curved profile of the laterally resilient portion 12 is curved towards the respective cavity 6 such that the apex 18a is provided closer to the longitudinal axis A than the remainder of the curved profile 18. As can be seen in FIGS. 5 and 6 in particular, this arrangement provides a “bowed” profile, such that the laterally resilient portions 12 have a spring-like functionality.

[0155] Again with reference to FIG. 5, for a given cavity 6, the boundary 14 defined by the sidewall 16 is a substantially circular boundary 14, coaxial with the longitudinal axis A. The laterally resilient portions 12 of the cavity 6 are formed from a portion of the cavity sidewall 16, which is deformed away from the circular boundary 14 in a direction towards the longitudinal axis A. In other words, the sidewall 16 comprises a substantially circular cross section, wherein the laterally resilient portions 12 are deformed away from this circular cross section towards the longitudinal axis A.

[0156] The curved profile 18 of each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is bound by an arc 20 of the circular boundary 14. Further, the curved profile 18 of the laterally resilient portions 12 is shaped as an inversion or mirror image of the arc 20 about its chord 22. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the angle subtended by the arc 20 proximal the open end 10 of the cavity is approximately 50°. However, it will be understood that other suitable angles may be used. Due to the shape of the cavity 6, it will be appreciated that the angle subtended by the arc proximal the base 8 of the cavity 6 may be different.

[0157] The arc length of the side wall 16 between adjacent laterally resilient portions 12 at the open end 10 of the cavity 6 is in the range of 10 mm-20 mm. However, it will be understood that other suitable arc lengths may be used. Due to the shape of the cavity 6, it will be appreciated that the arc length of the side wall 16 between adjacent laterally resilient portions 12 proximal the base 8 of the cavity 6 can be much less, for example in the range of 0-20 mm, for example 0-10 mm.

[0158] With reference to FIG. 4, the laterally resilient portions 12 of a given cavity 6 are arranged to define an arcuate profile 24 which extends in a direction away from the base 8 of the cavity 6. The arcuate profile 24 of each laterally resilient portion 12 is arranged such that an apex 24a of the arcuate profile 24 is located furthermost from the longitudinal axis A. In other words, the arcuate profile 24 extends such that its apex 24a is located further away from the longitudinal axis A than the remainder of the arcuate profile 24. In this way, a cavity 6 which is substantially ovoid is provided. In other words, the cavity 6 is shaped to approximately correspond to the shape of an egg.

[0159] As can be seen in FIG. 1, the lid 3 comprises a cover portion 48 and a side wall 50. The side wall 50 is arranged to extend from the cover portion 48 towards the body 4 of the egg packaging 2, when the lid 3 is in the closed configuration. A portion of the side wall 50 of the lid 3 is coupled to the body 4 by a hinge 5.

[0160] The cover portion 48 has an inner cover surface 52, which faces towards the body 4 when the lid 3 is closed, and an outer cover surface 54, which faces away from the body 4 when the lid 3 is closed.

[0161] The packaging 2 of the illustrated embodiments comprises six cavities 6 configured in a rectangular arrangement, such that the packaging body 4 has four corners 28. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the body 4 includes a pair of stanchions 26 extending from the body 4 at a position between adjacent cavities 6, for example extending from a central position between groups of four cavities 6. The stanchions 26 are configured to abut the inner cover surface 52 of the lid 3 when the lid 3 is closed. In this way additional strength and support against impacts to the lid 3 of the packaging 2 is provided, reducing the likelihood of damage to eggs contained in the packaging 2.

[0162] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, the laterally resilient portions 12 which are provided adjacent the corners 28 of the body 4 are each arranged to extend to a height beyond the apex 24a of its arcuate profile 24. In this way, the laterally resilient portions 12 provided at the body corners 28 project towards the longitudinal axis A, in other words towards the cavity 6.

[0163] Similarly, laterally resilient portions 12 provided adjacent a stanchion 26 are arranged to extend to a height along the stanchion 26, such that the laterally resilient portion 12 extends beyond the apex 24a of its arcuate profile 24. In this way, the laterally resilient portions 12 provided adjacent the stanchions 26 project towards the longitudinal axis A, in other words towards the cavity 6.

[0164] Consequently, the laterally resilient portions provided adjacent the corners 28 and stanchions 26 of the body 4 act to retain eggs contained in the respective cavities 6 by providing a “gripping” action e.g. by projecting over the widest part of the egg.

[0165] The remaining laterally resilient portions 12, i.e. those not adjacent a corner 28 or stanchion 26 of the body 4, are provided such that the portions 12 extend from the base no further than the apex 24a of its arcuate profile 24. In other words, the cavity opening 10 in the region of these laterally resilient portions is provided at a location which is positioned along the arcuate profile no further than the apex 24a of the arcuate profile 24.

[0166] In alternative embodiments, the body 4 may comprise laterally resilient portions 12 arranged such that all of the laterally resilient portions 12 extend from the base no further than the apex 24a of its arcuate profile 24. Alternatively, other combinations of laterally resilient portions 12 having a variety of heights can be used.

[0167] As is shown in FIGS. 1-4, a slit 30 is provided in the body 4, adjacent each laterally resilient portion 12 and proximal the open end 10 of the cavity 6, in an upper surface 70 of the body 4. By providing a slit 30 in the body 4 of the packaging 2, flexing of the laterally resilient portions 12 is facilitated. In some embodiments, a slit 30 is also provided proximal the base of the cavity 6, again to facilitate flexing of the laterally resilient portions 12. This is illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0168] The egg packaging 2 is formed from a plastics material, for example polypropylene. In alternative embodiments, the egg packaging can be formed from foamed plastics, paper, card, papier-mâché, or any other suitable material.

[0169] The thickness of the plastics material from which the egg packaging is formed is typically in the range of 0.4-1.0 mm, for example 0.4-0.7 mm, for example 0.4-0.5 mm. Accordingly, the side wall 16 of the respective cavities has a thickness in the range of 0.4-1.0 mm, for example 0.4-0.7 mm, for example 0.4-0.5 mm.

[0170] The use of plastics material, for example instead of a paper based material, is particularly advantageous in enabling the thickness of the material used to be reduced. This has the benefit of enabling closer stacking of the egg packaging, consequently, a greater number of egg boxes can be transported in a given volume of space, for example in a vehicle.

[0171] At least a portion of each laterally resilient portion 12 comprises a reduced thickness compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging. In the illustrated embodiments, each laterally resilient portion 12 comprises a reduced thickness as compared to the side wall 16 of the respective cavity 6. By reducing the thickness of the laterally resilient portion 12, flexing of the laterally resilient portion 12 is facilitated. For example, the thickness of the or each laterally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

[0172] In some embodiments, the laterally resilient portions 12 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16, have the same thickness.

[0173] In the illustrated embodiments, the base 8 of each cavity 6 is provided with a longitudinally resilient portion 32 which is arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg occupying the cavity 6, relative to said longitudinal axis A. As will be described in more detail below, the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is configured to flex in order to support an egg against longitudinal movement in the cavity 6. The longitudinally resilient portion 32 is integrally formed with the base 8 and is arranged to project towards said cavity 6.

[0174] The longitudinally resilient portion 32 of the illustrated embodiments is substantially dome-shaped such that an apex of the dome is nearmost the cavity 6. As can be seen in FIG. 7, the apex of the dome-shaped portion 32 includes a central depression 36 which is shaped to receive an end portion of an egg 68. The longitudinally resilient portion 32 also includes a channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40 (as viewed from the interior of the cavity 6), wherein the channel 38 and ridge 40 are concentric with the apex of the dome-shaped portion 32.

[0175] FIG. 7 shows a first embodiment of the longitudinal resilient portion 32 comprising a single channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40. FIG. 8 shows a second embodiment of the longitudinally resilient portion 32, which also comprises a single channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40. FIG. 8 shows a third embodiment of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 including two channels 38 and two corresponding ridges 40. Any number of channels 58 and/or ridges 60 may be used, e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4.

[0176] The longitudinally resilient portion 32 of each cavity 6 is configured to flex such that, when a longitudinal force is applied to the portion 32, for example by an egg 68 in the cavity 6, the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed by the longitudinally resilient portion 32. The arrangement of the concentric channel(s) 38 and corresponding ridge(s) 40 facilitates this flexing.

[0177] When the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is no longer subjected to a longitudinal force, the portion 32 springs back towards the cavity 6, i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.

[0178] It is believed that by increasing the number of channels 38 and ridges 40, the overall flex in the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is increased.

[0179] In each of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, the dome-shaped portion 32 includes a circular perimeter defining a ring 42. The circular perimeter of the dome-shaped portion 32 is provided where the base 8 meets the side wall 16 of the cavity 6. This provides a rigid ring 42 which is inherently strong and so provides further protection against impacts to an egg 68 in the cavity 6. The ring 42 is also arranged to form a foot on which the egg packaging 2 can rest.

[0180] At least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 comprises a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging 2. In the illustrated embodiments, at least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 comprises a reduced thickness compared to the side wall 16 of the cavity 6. In the illustrated embodiments, the thickness of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 gradually reduces between its circular perimeter 42 and its apex, such that the region of most reduced thickness is at the apex. This is shown in FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0181] By reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32, flexing of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is facilitated. For example, the thickness of the narrowest portion of the of the longitudinally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

[0182] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16, have the same thickness.

[0183] When the egg packaging 2 is in use, an egg 68 is introduced into at least one of the cavities 6. In the case where the egg is sufficiently large, as the egg is introduced into the cavity 6, the surface of the egg 68 comes into contact with the laterally resilient portions 12 of the cavity 6. The laterally resilient portions 12 flex away from the cavity 6 as the egg 68 is moved into the cavity 6, thereby accommodating the egg 68.

[0184] The egg 68 is located in the cavity 6 such that an end of the egg 68 rests in the central depression 36 of the dome-shaped longitudinally resilient portion 32 provided in the base of the cavity 6.

[0185] When the egg 68 is in position in the cavity 6, the laterally resilient portions 12 abut the surface of the egg, as can be seen in FIGS. 7 to 9. Alternatively, if the egg is relatively small, it may be that none of the laterally resilient portions 12, or only some of the laterally resilient portions 12, abut the surface of the egg. In this way, the egg packaging 2 is configured to accommodate eggs of a range of sizes.

[0186] Once the egg has been positioned in the cavity of the egg packaging, the lid 3 is closed over the body 4, hence over the egg.

[0187] As the egg packaging 2 is carried or otherwise moved or transported, the egg 68 is supported against lateral movement in the cavity 6 by the laterally resilient portions 12. When the egg packaging 2 is impacted by a lateral force, eggs carried by the egg packaging 2 are supported against lateral movement by the laterally resilient portions 12.

[0188] When the egg packaging 2 is subjected to a lateral force, an egg 68 in one of the cavities 6 may be forced against the sides of the cavity 6. In this way, the egg 68 applies a lateral force to the laterally resilient portions 12 of the cavity 6. As described above, each of the laterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex such that, when an egg 68 applies a lateral force to the laterally resilient portion 12, the laterally resilient portion 12 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6, i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the lateral force is absorbed, at least partially, by the laterally resilient portion 12. When the laterally resilient portion 12 is no longer subjected to a lateral force, the portion 12 springs back towards the cavity 6, i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.

[0189] Therefore the likelihood of breakage of the egg from side-on impact is reduced, since such forces are absorbed, at least partially, by the laterally resilient portions 12 by flexing of these portions.

[0190] In addition, the egg 68 is supported against longitudinal movement in the cavity 6 relative to the longitudinal axis A by the longitudinally resilient portion 32 of the base 8. When the egg packaging 2 is subjected to a longitudinal force, an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the base 8 of the cavity 6. In this way, the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the longitudinally resilient portion 32 of the cavity 6. As described above, the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is configured to flex such that, when the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the portion 32, the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by the longitudinally resilient portion 32.

[0191] When the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is no longer subjected to a longitudinal force, the portion 32 springs back towards the cavity 6, into its original position.

[0192] Therefore the likelihood of breakage of the egg from end-on impact is reduced, since such forces are absorbed by the longitudinally resilient portion 32 by flexing of this portion 32.

[0193] When an egg 68 is removed from the cavity 6, the laterally resilient portions 12 flex away from the cavity 6 to enable the egg 68 to be removed. Alternatively, if the egg 68 is relatively small, it may be that none of the laterally resilient portions 12 abut the surface of the egg and so the egg 68 can simply be removed.

[0194] In some embodiments, the lid 28 is provided with a series of additional or second longitudinally resilient portions 44, such that each cavity 6 is provided with a first longitudinally resilient portion 32 in the base 8 and a corresponding second longitudinally resilient portion 44 provided by the lid 3. Each second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is provided integrally with the cover 48 of the lid 3. In the embodiment of FIG. 10, each second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is in the form of a plurality of resilient fingers 46.

[0195] The plurality of resilient fingers 46 extend from the inner cover surface 52 of the lid 3. In the illustrated embodiment, each second longitudinally resilient portion 44 includes four resilient fingers 46 arranged as two pairs of diametrically opposed fingers 46. Each set of four resilient fingers 46 is equally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6, when the lid is in the closed position. In other words, each resilient finger 46 in the set of four is equidistant from the longitudinal axis A.

[0196] As can be seen from FIG. 11, the plurality of resilient fingers 46 extend from the inner cover surface 52 such that the outer cover surface 54 remains flat. In this way, application of labelling to the container, for example by in-mould labelling, is facilitated.

[0197] Each resilient finger 46 is curved such that diametrically opposed pairs of resilient fingers 46 extend away from each other. In other words, each resilient finger 46 is curved such that it extends away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the resilient fingers 46 are arranged to abut an egg 68 in a corresponding cavity 6 when the lid 3 is closed. This is shown in FIG. 11. Alternatively, if a comparatively small egg is located in the cavity 6, the resilient fingers 46 may not abut the surface of the egg.

[0198] The curved profile of each resilient finger 46 facilitates flexing of the resilient finger 46 when a longitudinal force relative to the longitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6 is applied. The resilient fingers 46 are configured to flex away from the longitudinal axis A. In other words, the resilient fingers 46 are configured to flex such that each resilient finger 46 of a diametrically opposed pair is configured to flex away from the other resilient finger 46 of the pair.

[0199] In use, when the egg packaging is subjected to a longitudinal force, an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the lid 3 of the cavity 6. In this way, the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3 corresponding to the cavity 6 in which the egg 68 is located, i.e. to the four resilient fingers 46 corresponding to the cavity 6. As described above, the resilient fingers 46 are configured to flex such that, when the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the resilient fingers 46, the resilient fingers 46 flex away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by the resilient fingers 46.

[0200] When the resilient fingers 46 are no longer subjected to a longitudinal force, the fingers 46 spring back towards the longitudinal axis A, into the original position.

[0201] Accordingly, by providing a first longitudinally resilient portion 32 in the base 8 and a second longitudinally resilient portion 44 in the lid for each cavity 6, an egg 68 in the cavity 6 is supported against longitudinal movement both in the direction of the lid 3 and in the direction of the base 8.

[0202] FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a longitudinally resilient portion 44 provided in the lid 3. In this embodiment, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is integrally provided with the lid 28. As will be appreciated from FIG. 12, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is substantially the same as the first longitudinally resilient portion 32.

[0203] As with the first longitudinally resilient portion 32, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is substantially dome-shaped such that an apex of the dome is provided nearmost the corresponding cavity 6. Each of the second longitudinally resilient portions 44 includes a central depression 56 which is shaped to receive an end portion of an egg 68 positioned in a cavity 6 when the lid 3 is in the closed position.

[0204] The second longitudinally resilient portion 44 shown in FIG. 12 includes a pair of channels 58 and a pair of corresponding ridges 60 (as viewed from the interior of the cavity 6), wherein the channels 58 and ridges 60 are concentric with the apex of the dome-shape of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44. As with the first longitudinally resilient portion 32, a number of different profiles is possible. In some embodiments, a single channel 58 and ridge 60 may be provided. For example, profiles similar to those shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 can be used. It will be understood that any suitable profile may be used to provide the second longitudinally resilient portions 44, for example, any number of channels 58 and/or ridges 60 may be used, e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4.

[0205] At least a portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 comprises a reduced thickness compared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging. In the illustrated embodiments, second longitudinally resilient portion 44 comprises a reduced thickness as compared to the cover portion 48 of the lid 3. In the illustrated embodiments, the thickness of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 gradually reduces between the perimeter of the dome-shape and its apex, such that the region of most reduced thickness is at the apex.

[0206] By reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44, flexing of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is facilitated. For example, the thickness of the narrowest portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

[0207] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the cover portion 48 of the lid 3, have the same thickness.

[0208] As with the first longitudinally resilient portion 32 provided by the base 8, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3, is configured to flex such that, when a longitudinal force is applied to the portion 44, for example by an egg 68 in the corresponding cavity 6, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed by the second longitudinally resilient portion 44. The arrangement of the concentric channel(s) 58 and corresponding ridge(s) 60 facilitates this flexing. When the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is no longer subjected to a longitudinal force, the portion 44 springs back towards the cavity 6, into its original position.

[0209] Accordingly, when the egg packaging 2 is subjected to a longitudinal force, an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the lid 3 of the cavity 6. In this way, the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3. As described above, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is configured to flex such that, when the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to the portion 44, the longitudinally resilient portion 44 is moved in a direction away from the cavity. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by the second longitudinally resilient portion 44.

[0210] When the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is no longer subjected to a longitudinal force, the portion 44 springs back towards the cavity 6, into its original position.

[0211] In this way, eggs occupying the cavities 6 of the egg packaging 2 are supported against longitudinal movement relative to the longitudinal axis A in the direction of the base 8 of the cavity 6 and in the direction of the lid 3.

[0212] Therefore the likelihood of breakage of the egg 68 from end-on impacts is reduced, since such forces are absorbed, at least partially, by the longitudinally resilient portions 32, 44 of the base and lid, by flexing of these portions.

[0213] Although the invention has been described above with reference to one or more embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, in alternative embodiments, it may be that a longitudinally resilient portion is provided only by the lid, in other words that there is no longitudinally resilient portion provided by the base.

[0214] With regards to the laterally resilient portion, it will be appreciated that other suitable profiles can also be used. For example, the laterally resilient portion 12 may comprise a flat profile 62, as illustrated in FIG. 14, and not a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis A. Flexing of the laterally resilient portion 12 is facilitated by the slit 30 provided adjacent the cavity opening 10. It will be appreciated that the remaining features described in relation to the laterally resilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1 to 6 also apply to the laterally resilient portion 12 illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0215] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 15, the laterally resilient portion 12 may comprise a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis A, wherein the curved profile 18 has a pair of apexes 18a. Each apex 18a is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis A. It will be appreciated that the remaining features described in relation to the laterally resilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1 to 6 also apply to the laterally resilient portion 12 illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0216] Laterally resilient portions 12 as illustrated in FIG. 15 are arranged to flex away from the cavity 6 in a similar manner to the laterally resilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1-6. In the case where there are four laterally resilient portions 12 per cavity 6, this has the advantage that an egg in the cavity may be contacted by the laterally resilient portions 12 at up to eight contact points around the side of the egg i.e. at each apex 18a. Accordingly, any impact load on the side of the egg may be spread across up to eight contact points.

[0217] FIG. 16 illustrates a further alternative embodiment in which each laterally resilient portion 12 is formed as a resilient finger 64 extending from the side wall 16 of the cavity 6 in a direction away from the base 8 of the cavity 6. Each resilient finger 64 comprises the same features as the laterally resilient portion 12 described in relation to FIGS. 1-6. In addition, each resilient finger 64 is defined by a slit 66 extending along either side of the finger 64 and across the top at a location adjacent the cavity opening 10. In other words, the slit 66 is substantially u-shaped to define the finger 64. The slit 66 is formed of two parallel slits 66a extending along the cavity side wall 16, and a third slit 66b extending between the two parallel slits 66a at the cavity opening 10. The third slit 66b being formed in the upper surface 70 of the body 4. As can be seen from FIG. 16, each resilient finger 64 projects into the cavity 6 beyond the remainder of the cavity side wall 16.

[0218] Each resilient finger 64 is configured to flex such that, when an egg applies a lateral force to the resilient finger 64, the finger 64 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6, i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, the lateral force is absorbed by the resilient finger 64. When the resilient finger 64 is no longer subjected to a lateral force, the finger 64 springs back towards the cavity 6, i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.

[0219] A further embodiment of the laterally resilient portions is illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18. In this embodiment, each laterally resilient portion 12 is the same as those described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 6. In particular, the laterally resilient portions 12 include a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis. The laterally resilient portions 12 also include an arcuate profile 24 which extends away from the base 8 of the cavity 6 such that a substantially ovoid cavity 6 is provided.

[0220] The laterally resilient portions 12 of the embodiment of FIGS. 17 and 18 differ from those of FIGS. 1 to 6 in that the arcuate profile 24 of each laterally resilient portion 12 does not extend the full height of the cavity 6. The arcuate profile 24 extends part way along the height of the cavity 6. As the laterally resilient portion 12 extends towards the open mouth of the cavity 6, the arcuate profile 24, which can be thought of as a concave profile, transitions into a convex curved profile 72 which extends away from the cavity 6. The convex curved profile 72 terminates at the open end 8 of the cavity 6, at which point the laterally resilient portion 12 is coupled to an upper surface 70 of the egg packaging body 4.

[0221] Due to the curved profile 18 of the laterally resilient portion 12 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis A, and the curved profile 72 of the laterally resilient portion 12 in a plane along the longitudinal axis A, a convex portion 74 is formed which bulges or projects towards the longitudinal axis A. The convex portion 74 can be thought of as a domed portion, having its apex nearmost the longitudinal axis A.

[0222] The curvature of the convex portion 74 enables this portion to deflect away from the longitudinal axis A. Accordingly, when an egg is introduced into the cavity 6, the convex portion 74 deflects away from the longitudinal axis A to accommodate the egg. The convex portion 74 is resilient such that, when the egg is removed from the cavity 6, the convex portion 74 springs back to its original shape. In this way, absorption of lateral forces impacting on the egg is facilitated.

[0223] The convex portion 74 is arranged to abut a surface of an egg in the cavity 6. In this way, retention of the egg in the cavity 6 is facilitated since the convex portions 74 provide a “gripping” action against the surface of the egg.

[0224] It is noted that no slits or openings in the cavity side wall 16 and/or the body upper wall 70 are required to enable deflection of the convex portion 74 or the laterally resilient portion 12 in general.

[0225] The convex portion 74 also comprises a reduced thickness in relation to the remainder of the packaging, as is the case with the laterally resilient portion 12 in general, which is described in detail above. For example, the thickness of the convex portion 74 is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

[0226] In some embodiments, the convex portion 74 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16, have the same thickness.