ASSEMBLY OF FLAT SHEETS, METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE ASSEMBLY, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A PACKAGING, AND METHOD FOR PACKAGING AN OBJECT

Abstract

The invention provides a complex made up of consecutively stacked flat sheets configured for forming a package in a single run, wherein said complex comprises: at least a first die cut flat sheet configured for being folded and forming a wall of the package, comprising a continuous first rim demarcated by an outer contour and an inner contour, wherein said inner contour comprises a first portion and the outer contour comprises a second portion, wherein at least a first main flap extends along the first portion of the inner contour in the direction opposite the second portion of the outer contour; and an assembly comprising at least one additional flat sheet, wherein the perimeter of the at least one additional flat sheet is demarcated by the first rim of the first flat sheet. The invention furthermore provides a method for obtaining the complex, a method for manufacturing a package, and a method for packaging an item.

Claims

1. A complex made up of consecutively stacked flat sheets, wherein the complex is configured for forming a package in a single run, wherein said complex comprises: at least a first die cut flat sheet configured for being folded, comprising a continuous first rim demarcated by an outer contour and an inner contour, wherein said inner contour comprises a first portion and the outer contour comprises a second portion, said first and second portions corresponding with one another; wherein said at least a first sheet further comprises at least a first main flap extending along the first portion of the inner contour in the direction opposite the second portion of the outer contour, the first main flap being configured for forming a wall of the package; and an assembly comprising at least one additional flat sheet, wherein the perimeter of the at least one additional flat sheet is demarcated by the first rim of the first flat sheet; wherein at least one of the at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly is at least a second die cut flat sheet configured for being folded, comprising a second rim the outer contour of which demarcates its perimeter, wherein said at least a second sheet further comprises: at least a second main flap configured for forming a base of the package.

2. (canceled)

3. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein the at least a first die cut flat sheet further comprises at least a first auxiliary flap connected to the first main flap and configured for being part of the base of the package.

4. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein the at least a second die cut flat sheet further comprises at least a second auxiliary flap located between the second main flap and the second rim.

5. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 4, wherein at least a second auxiliary flap of the at least a second sheet comprises a frangible attachment with the inner contour of the second rim.

6. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly is one flat sheet made of thermoplastic material configured for forming the liner of the package.

7. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly is a third die cut flat sheet configured for being folded, comprising a third rim with corners on its inner contour, wherein its outer contour demarcates its perimeter, wherein said at least a third sheet further comprises: at least a third main flap substantially diagonal to one of the corners of the inner contour and connected with the third rim by a first portion of said third rim, said main flap being configured for forming at least one chamfered corner of the package.

8. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 7, wherein at least a third main flap further comprises at least a third auxiliary flap located at a second end of the at least a third main flap, the third auxiliary flap being configured for being supported on the at least a first auxiliary flap and/or main flap and/or on the at least second auxiliary flap and/or main flap.

9. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly is a flat sheet configured for forming a lid such that an item contained in the package is covered once the package has been formed.

10. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein the complex further comprises attachment means located on the at least a first flat sheet and/or the at least one flat sheet of the assembly.

11. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 10, wherein the attachment means are hot glue.

12. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 11, wherein the attachment means located on the at least one flat sheet made of thermoplastic material are a strong adhesive, the adhesive being placed only adjacent to the perimeter of the flat sheet made of thermoplastic material, so that this internal covering be kept attached to the package by means of the strong adhesive, whereas peeling or removal of the lidding film occurs under normal conditions.

13. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least a first die cut flat sheet, and/or the at least a second die cut flat sheet, are manufactured from a cellulosic material, such as paper, pressboard, or corrugated cardboard.

14. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein the at least a first sheet is attached in an articulable manner by its outer contour to the perimeter of at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly, so that the sheets are thereby stacked by means of their bending along said articulable attachment.

15. A method for obtaining a complex made up of consecutively stacked flat sheets, said complex being configured for forming a package in a single run, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) providing at least a first die cut flat sheet configured for being folded, comprising a first rim demarcated by an inner contour and an outer contour; and b) providing an assembly comprising at least one additional flat sheet, the perimeter of which is demarcated by the first rim of the first flat sheet; wherein at least one of the at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly is a second die cut flat sheet configured for being folded, comprising a second rim the outer contour of which demarcates its perimeter, wherein said at least a second sheet further comprises: at least a second main flap configured for forming a base of the package.

16. The method for obtaining a complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 15, wherein the method further comprises the steps of: c) providing attachment means; d) placing the attachment means on at least the first rim of the first flat sheet and positioning at least one additional sheet on the first flat sheet by making its perimeter match up between the inner contour and outer contour of the first flat sheet.

17. A method for manufacturing a package for containing items, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) providing a complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1; b) providing a mold and a piston configured for pressing flat sheets; c) positioning the first rim of the first flat sheet of the package on the mold; d) introducing the piston acting on the center of at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly; e) stopping the introduction of the piston once a predefined height of the depth of said package has been achieved.

18. A method for packaging at least one item, wherein the method comprises the steps of: i. providing a package manufactured according to the method of claim 17; ii. introducing at least one item inside the package; iii. positioning a lid thereon which comprises a perimeter with a value demarcated by the first rim of the first flat sheet; and iv. attaching along the first rim of the first flat sheet by causing the attachment of at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly with the lid, the inside of said package being thereby leak-tight.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein a determined atmosphere or a vacuum is applied after step ii), which achieves packaging in a modified atmosphere, or a vacuum inside the package, and prevents the leakage or loss thereof by means of making it leak-tight after step iv).

20. The complex made up of flat sheets according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least a third die cut flat sheet is manufactured from a cellulosic material, such as paper, pressboard, or corrugated cardboard.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0124] These and other features and advantages of the invention will be better understood based on the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment given solely by way of an illustrative and non-limiting example in reference to the attached drawings.

[0125] FIG. 1a schematically illustrates a complex made up of flat sheets formed by stacking a first die cut flat sheet and an additional flat sheet, the latter being a second die cut flat sheet in this case.

[0126] FIG. 1b schematically illustrates a complex formed by stacking a first die cut flat sheet and an additional flat sheet, the latter being a thermoplastic flat sheet in this case.

[0127] FIG. 1c schematically illustrates a plan view of a complex made up of flat sheets.

[0128] FIG. 2a schematically illustrates the package manufactured from the complex of FIG. 1a.

[0129] FIG. 2b schematically illustrates the package manufactured from the complex of FIG. 1c.

[0130] FIG. 2c schematically illustrates the package manufactured from the complex of FIG. 1c, wherein the first sheet further comprises auxiliary flaps.

[0131] FIG. 3 illustrates a complex formed by superimposing or stacking first, second, and third die cut sheets prior to being folded.

[0132] FIG. 4 illustrates the superimposition of first, second, and third die cut sheets formed into their final shape.

[0133] FIG. 5a shows a top perspective view of the final arrangement of the already formed sheets shown in FIG. 4 and superimposed in the order in which they would be arranged in the corresponding final package.

[0134] FIG. 5b shows a bottom perspective view of the final arrangement of the sheets formed in FIG. 4.

[0135] FIG. 6 shows the package comprising the liner or internal waterproofing covering.

[0136] FIG. 7a shows the package comprising the lidding film or external covering.

[0137] FIG. 7b shows the package of FIG. 7a wherein the lidding film can be seen partially removed from the package.

[0138] FIG. 8a schematically shows the tool comprising the mold with a central cavity and the piston.

[0139] FIG. 8b schematically shows the tool of FIG. 8a wherein the piston is formed by means for applying pressure and suction means.

[0140] FIG. 9a shows a particular embodiment of the package with a polygonal contour having 10 sides.

[0141] FIG. 9b shows a particular embodiment of the package comprising a plurality of first and/or second sheets.

[0142] FIG. 10 shows an item packaged in a protective atmosphere.

[0143] FIG. 11 shows a complex formed by sheets attached by articulable attachments.

[0144] FIG. 12 shows a complex formed by flat sheets and a lidding film attached by articulable attachments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Complex (100) Made Up of Consecutively Stacked Flat Sheets

[0145] FIG. 1a shows a complex (100) formed by a first die cut flat sheet (10) and an assembly (60) comprising at least one additional flat sheet. In this exemplified embodiment, said at least one additional flat sheet is a second die cut sheet (20).

[0146] FIG. 1a particularly shows a first die cut flat sheet (10) comprising a first rim (10.1), wherein said rim is continuous, i.e., it is formed by a single element, being demarcated by an outer contour (10.1.1) and an inner contour (10.1.2). Said inner contour (10.1.2) further comprises a first portion (10.1.2.1) corresponding with a second portion (10.1.1.1) of the outer contour (10.1.1).

[0147] Throughout this document, corresponding will be understood to mean that both portions (10.1.2.1, 10.1.1.1) are the closest segments of both contours (10.1.1, 10.1.2), where there can be as many as there are first main flaps (10.2) comprised in the first sheet (10). Specifically, this embodiment of FIG. 1a shows four first portions (10.1.2.1) corresponding with four respective second portions (10.1.1.1) on the four sides of the first rim (10.1). Furthermore, it can be seen that the first portion (10.1.2.1) comprises two ends identified with points A and B, wherein said first portion (10.1.2.1) belonging to the inner contour (10.1.2) is a segment that is shorter than the segment of the second portion (10.1.1.1) belonging to the outer contour (10.1.1).

[0148] Furthermore, the first sheet (10) shown in FIG. 1a further comprises four first main flaps (10.2). Said flaps extend along the first portions (10.1.2.1) of the inner contour (10.1.2) in the direction opposite the second portion (10.1.1.1) of the outer contour (10.1.1). Said first main flaps (10.2) would each form a wall (1.3) of the package (1) once it is formed (see FIG. 2a for further detail).

[0149] On the other hand, taking into consideration the second die cut flat sheet (20) of the assembly (60) comprising at least one additional flat sheet, it would comprise a second rim (20.1) the outer contour (20.1.1) of which demarcates its perimeter. Said at least a second sheet (20) further comprises at least a second main flap (20.2) configured for forming a base (1.2) of the package (1) after being formed in the single run of the process of manufacturing said package (1) (see FIG. 2a for further detail).

[0150] For greater detail of the components of the first die cut flat sheet (10) and second die cut sheet (20), see FIG. 3 and its description.

[0151] FIG. 1b shows a complex (100) formed by a first die cut flat sheet (10) and an assembly (60) comprising at least one additional flat sheet. In this embodiment, said at least one additional flat sheet is a flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material configured for forming the liner of the package (1). In this embodiment, the first flat sheet (10) is made up of a continuous and flat first rim (10.1) which would comprise an outer contour (10.1.1) and an inner contour (10.1.2), said contours comprising a first portion (10.1.2.1) and a second portion (10.1.1.1), respectively. Furthermore, it can be seen that said first sheet further comprises four first main flaps (10.2) as defined for FIG. 1a.

[0152] On the other hand, the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material of the assembly (60) comprises a perimeter (40.1) that is demarcated by the first rim (10.1) of the first flat sheet (10) (see FIG. 1c for further detail). To attach the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material to any of the other sheets, such as the first sheet (10) in this case, for example, attachment means (3) are used (see FIG. 3 for further detail) located: [0153] only on the first rim (10.1) of the first flat sheet (10), or [0154] adjacent to the perimeter (40.1) of the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material.

[0155] In this embodiment, it will be understood that since the package (1) is manufactured (see FIG. 2b for further detail) in a single run, this sheet (40) experiences thermoforming when it comes into contact with the hot piston applying pressure and temperature to the sheet. Instead, if the piston did not incorporate heating means, the complex would have previously been heated before coming into contact with said piston.

[0156] Furthermore, the perimeter of the sheet may be larger than the outer contour of the rim during the step of manufacturing the package, and in a later process its projecting perimeter may be trimmed or reduced.

[0157] FIG. 1c shows a complex made up of flat sheets seen from a plan view or a top view with respect to the stacking thereof. Said FIG. 1c shows the feature that the perimeter of any of the additional flat sheets comprised in the assembly (60) is demarcated by the first rim (10.1) of the first flat sheet (10). As already discussed, the perimeter of the additional flat sheet may match up with the inner contour or with the outer contour of the first rim, or it may vary along same.

[0158] For illustrative purposes, the first die cut flat sheet (10) and the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material shown in FIG. 1b are shown, since they both comprise a smaller number of elements which allows for better viewing. Nevertheless, the relationship between the perimeter (40.1) of the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material and the first rim (10.1) of the first flat sheet (10) would likewise apply regardless of what the at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly (60) is.

[0159] In this embodiment, the perimetral contour (40.1) of the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material is shown using a dotted line, and it can be seen that it is comprised at all times within the upper and lower confines of the first rim (10.1), which would be identified with the inner contour (10.1.2) and the outer contour (10.1.1) of the first rim (10.1), respectively.

Package (1) Manufactured from the Complex (100)

[0160] FIG. 2a schematically shows the package manufactured from the complex (100) of FIG. 1a. In particular, said package would be formed from the complex which would comprise a first die cut sheet (10) and a second die cut sheet (20).

[0161] In this case, the rim (1.1) of the package (1) is formed by attaching the first rim (10.1) of the first sheet (10) and the second rim of the second sheet (20). As can be seen, the first main flaps (10.2) would be attached to the second auxiliary flaps (20.3) by attachment means (3) (not shown), whereas the second main flap (20.2) is attached to the first auxiliary flaps (10.3) by attachment means (3) (not shown). As can be seen, in this configuration there may be non-overlapping gaps, which would be suitable for packages requiring a suitable appearance for presenting the items, or for items requiring frequent ventilation.

[0162] On the other hand, FIG. 2b schematically shows the package manufactured from the complex (100) of FIG. 1b or the complex (100) of FIG. 1c. In this example, the package would be formed from the complex which would comprise a first die cut sheet (10) and a flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material.

[0163] As can be seen, FIG. 2c is the same embodiment as the one depicted in FIG. 2b, but in which the first sheet (10) further comprises auxiliary flaps (10.3).

[0164] In the embodiments of FIGS. 2b and 2c, it can be seen that the perimetral contour (40.1) of the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material is comprised at all times within the confines marked by the inner contour (10.1.2) and the outer contour (10.1.1) of the first rim (10.1). Furthermore, because the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material would act like an internal waterproofing covering, it would be completely continuous, the elements that would be concealed being shown using dashed lines.

[0165] The internal covering or liner would be attached to the first sheet (10) only by the first rim (10.1) by means of a strong adhesive (not shown).

Detail of the Sheets (10, 20, 30) Forming the Complex (100) and the Stacking Thereof

[0166] FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of a complex formed by a first die cut flat sheet (10) and an assembly (60) comprising at least one additional flat sheet, wherein said assembly would be formed by a second die cut flat sheet (20) and a third die cut flat sheet (30).

[0167] It can furthermore be seen in this figure how the first die cut sheet (10), the second die cut sheet (20), and the third die cut sheet (30) would be positioned to form the complex (100) prior to their flaps being folded or collapsed for forming the package.

[0168] The stacking sequence shown in this figure corresponds to the first die cut sheet (10) being positioned firstly supported on a surface, and then at least a second die cut sheet (20) being placed on this first sheet (10), and finally a third die cut sheet (30) being placed on this second sheet (20). During this sheet stacking sequence, the contours of all the sheets are made to match up to make subsequent forming of the package (1) easier.

[0169] In particular, the first sheet (10) shown in FIG. 3 comprises a first rim (10.1) equal to the rim (1.1) of the package, a plurality of first main flaps (10.2) for forming the side faces (1.3) of the package, and a plurality of first auxiliary flaps (10.3). Furthermore, said first sheet (10) comprises a set of first holes or notches (10.6) and a set of first cuts or incisions (10.7) making it easier to fold both the first main flaps (10.2) and the first auxiliary flaps (10.3). The distribution, the shape, and the number of said first holes (10.6) and cuts (10.7) form the predefined drawing of the die cutting of the first sheet (10).

[0170] Additionally, the first sheet (10) comprises a plurality of first main folding lines (10.4) configured for acting as bending axes for folding the first main flaps (10.2), and it further comprises a plurality of first auxiliary folding lines (10.5) configured for acting as bending axes for folding the first auxiliary flaps (10.3).

[0171] In this embodiment, a first portion (10.1.2.1) of the inner contour (10.1.2) is understood to correspond to a first main folding line (10.4), whereas an opposite end (10.2.1) of the first main flap (10.2) is understood to correspond to a first auxiliary folding line (10.5). The same also occurs in FIGS. 1a-1c.

[0172] On the other hand, the second sheet (20) shown in FIG. 3 comprises a second rim (20.1) equal to the rim (1.1) of the package, at least a second main flap (20.2) for forming the base (1.2) of the package, and a plurality of second auxiliary flaps (20.3). The at least a first main flap (20.2) is preferably only one first main flap (20.2). Furthermore, said second sheet (20) comprises a set of second holes or notches (20.6) and a set of second cuts or incisions (not shown in these embodiments) making it easier to fold both the second main flap (20.2) and the second auxiliary flaps (20.3). The distribution, the shape, and the number of said second holes (20.6) and cuts thereby form the predefined drawing of the die cutting of the second sheet (20).

[0173] The second auxiliary flap (20.3) preferably comprises a frangible attachment with the inner contour (20.1.2) of the second rim (20.1).

[0174] Furthermore, the second sheet (20) comprises a plurality of second main folding lines (20.4) acting like bending axes for folding the second main flap (20.2) with respect to the second auxiliary flap (20.3), and it further comprises a plurality of second auxiliary folding lines (20.5) acting like bending axes for folding the assembly of the second auxiliary flaps (20.3) together with the second main flap (20.2). It can be seen that the plurality of second auxiliary folding lines (20.5) are in the inner contour (20.1.2) of the second rim (20.1). Additionally, the frangible attachment is an auxiliary folding line (20.5). Said frangible attachment preferably comprises a series of cuts for weakening said attachment.

[0175] Likewise, the third sheet (30) shown in FIG. 3 comprises a third rim (30.1) equal to the rim (1.1) of the package, a plurality of third main flaps (30.2) for forming the corners (1.4) of the package, which are preferably chamfered, and a plurality of third auxiliary flaps (30.3). Furthermore, said third sheet (30) comprises a set of third holes (30.6) and a set of third cuts (30.7) making it easier to fold both the third main flaps (30.2) and the third auxiliary flaps (30.3). The distribution, the shape, and the number of said third holes (30.6) and cuts (30.7) form the predefined drawing of the die cutting of the third sheet (30).

[0176] Additionally, the third sheet (30) comprises a plurality of third main folding lines (30.4) configured for acting as bending axes for folding the third main flaps (30.2), and it further comprises a plurality of third auxiliary folding lines (30.5) configured for acting as bending axes for folding the third auxiliary flaps (30.2).

[0177] Specifically, in this embodiment a first portion (30.1.2.1) of the inner contour (30.1.2) is understood to correspond to a third main folding line (30.4), whereas a second end (30.2.2) of the third main flap (30.2) is understood to correspond to a third auxiliary folding line (30.5).

[0178] Again taking into consideration the third die cut flat sheet (30), it comprises a third rim (30.1), wherein said rim is continuous and is demarcated by an outer contour (30.1.1) and an inner contour (30.1.2). Said inner contour (30.1.2) comprises corresponding chamfered corners. Said chamfered corners are first portions (30.1.2.1) each corresponding with a second portion (30.1.1.1) of the outer contour (30.1.1). It should be stated that corresponding will be understood as having the same meaning as for the first sheet (10), but being applied to the elements of the third sheet (30).

[0179] Throughout this document, holes or notches (10.6, 20.6, 30.6) will be understood as local absences of material which are distributed in the space demarcated by their respective rims (10.1, 20.1, 30.1) and make it easier to fold the main flaps (10.2, 20.2, 30.2). On the other hand, cuts or incisions (10.7, 30.7) mean that there is not an absence of material with respect to the original, i.e., the edges of the cut are located adjacent to one another.

[0180] It should be pointed out that not each and every one of the elements described above is indicated in these figures in order to make it easier to understand the reference numbers. The same occurs in the other figures of the present application.

[0181] FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of how the first die cut sheet (10), the second die cut sheet (20), and the third die cut sheet (30) for forming the package are positioned once all their main and auxiliary flaps have been folded into the final configuration. Said final configuration of the folding of both the main and the auxiliary flaps is the one which would be shown separately when they form the already formed package. As can be seen, all the main and auxiliary flaps have been folded using their respective main and auxiliary folding lines, accordingly.

[0182] FIGS. 5a and 5b illustrate the final arrangement of the already folded sheets (10, 20, 30), i.e., with all their flaps collapsed into the final configuration, forming the package. FIG. 5a particularly allows observing a top view of the package (1) formed with the sheets already folded into the final configuration once they have been stacked. On the other hand, FIG. 5b allows observing said package (1) from a bottom view.

[0183] Both figures show the spaces formed between the different flaps of one and the same sheet once they are folded into their final configuration, and wherein in this specific case with the three folded sheets, flaps of different sheets overlap said spaces, producing a compact package. In a preferred embodiment, the auxiliary flaps are arranged for overlapping the attachment of two main flaps of different sheets in those locations and directions where it is most likely that the two main flaps will separate from one another. This likelihood of them separating from one another is due to the loads attributed to the weight of the item (2) contained therein, understanding that said item causes a localized load that is distributed throughout the entire package, being transferred through the flaps between different sheets. The attachment of an auxiliary flap of one sheet with a main flap of another sheet makes said transfer and distribution of loads possible.

[0184] In order to keep said auxiliary flap of one sheet attached to a main flap of another sheet, attachment means (3) are used on the face of the auxiliary flaps that will face the corresponding main flap. Furthermore, said attachment means (3) are put on the faces of the perimetral rims in contact with one another. FIG. 3 shows some examples of where the attachment means (3) can be applied on the different sheets; however, these examples are not limiting, where the exact position may vary, or there may not be attachment means (3) on each and every one of the flaps, besides on the respective rims thereof. Said attachment means (3) are not shown in the following figures for illustrative purposes.

[0185] Throughout the document, the terms face and surface in reference to the main flaps and/or auxiliary flaps and/or contours are understood to be considered equivalent to one another.

[0186] Said attachment means are preferably hot glue, such as a thermoplastic adhesive. This adhesive is designed for working under shearing between the flaps, and it additionally must have an adhesive strength, i.e., between the flap and adhesive, that is greater than the cohesive strength, i.e., between the molecules of the adhesive itself. Therefore, if stresses exceed at any point the maximum cohesive strength, the main and auxiliary flaps of different sheets will only become detached, not causing cracking, which may lead to the package tearing altogether.

Internal Covering (40) and External Covering (50) of the Package (1)

[0187] FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the package (1) further comprising an internal covering (40) or liner. This internal covering (40) is thermoformed during the formation of the package from the flat sheet (40) made of thermoplastic material. Furthermore, the liner (40) is configured for waterproofing the inside of the package (1). As can be seen in FIG. 6, said internal covering (40) completely covers the inside of the package (1) internally with respect to the contour of the rim (1.1) of the package. Throughout this explanation, the terms internal covering and liner will be understood to be equivalent.

[0188] In the event that said internal covering (40) projects beyond the contour of the rim (1.1), the excess portion can be trimmed or adapted so that its contour matches up with said rim (1.1) of the package.

[0189] Throughout the document, to distinguish the internal covering (40) from the lid (50), the liner (40) is shown with dots, whereas the lid (50) is shown with lines.

[0190] FIG. 7a shows the package (1) further comprising an external covering or lidding film (50), both terms being understood as being equivalent. Said lidding film (50) is attached stretched out only along the rim (1.1) of the package, without creases or bowing. Furthermore, the heat-sealed attachment (51) keeping the lidding film attached with the rim (1.1) of the package can be seen. Said heat-sealed attachment (51) is preferably performed between the lidding film (50) and the internal covering (40) along the rim (1.1) of the package, when both coverings are arranged on the package (1). This heat-sealing of both coverings is made easier because the rim (1.1) formed from the rims (10.1, 20.1, 30.1) of the sheets forming the package (1) is completely flat.

[0191] Like in FIG. 6, in the event that said lidding film (50) projects beyond the contour of the rim (1.1), the excess portion can be trimmed or adapted so that its contour matches up with said rim (1.1) of the package. This is understood as the perimeter (50.1) of the lidding film (50) being trimmed until it is within the confines of said rim (1.1) of the package, or in other words within the confines of the first rim (10.1) of the first sheet (10).

[0192] FIG. 7b shows the package of FIG. 7a wherein the lidding film (50) can be seen partially removed from the package. This occurs because the heat-sealed attachment (51) progressively breaks upon pulling on the lidding film (50), this action corresponding to the usual manner of opening the package to access the inside thereof and handle the item (2) contained therein. As can be seen, the internal covering (40) is kept attached to the package by means of the strong adhesive, whereas peeling or removal of the lidding film (50) occurs under normal conditions.

Tool (6) Comprising a Mold (4) and a Piston (5) for Manufacturing the Package (1)

[0193] FIG. 8a schematically shows an embodiment of a tool (6) comprising a mold (4) and a piston (5). In said embodiment, the mold (4) comprises a central cavity (41) and retainers (42). Said retainers (42) are spaced according to the dimensions of the rim (1.1) of the package, their function being to hold said rim (1.1) of the package down and/or keep it immobile such that it matches up with the perimeter of the central cavity (41).

[0194] On the other hand, FIG. 8a shows a piston (5) reproducing the final configuration of the package. Said piston (5) moves vertically downwards, as indicated by the arrow that is shown, the passage thereof causing both the main and the auxiliary flaps of the different sheets to fold, in addition to causing the thermoforming of the liner (40) (where appropriate) until achieving the final configuration of the package.

[0195] The figure shown on the left in FIG. 8a is a schematic depiction of how the complex or the stack of sheets (10, 20, 30) is positioned on the mold prior to the package (1) being formed. The image on the right shows the final situation in which the piston has completely descended to a predefined height corresponding with the depth of the package, and the package (1) with the final configuration is comprised between the central cavity (41) reproducing its outer shape, and the piston (5) reproducing the inside of said package (1). Furthermore, the piston (5) comprises holes (5.3) distributed in the central cavity of the mold that allow the air to exit from the inside of said central cavity. As can be seen, the step of forming the package from the assembly shown in the image on the left takes place in a single run, i.e., in a single action of pressing the stacked sheets with the piston.

[0196] Furthermore, the piston (5) can incorporate heating means to make it easier to disperse the attachment means (3) when they consist of hot glue, such as thermoplastic adhesives.

[0197] FIG. 8b schematically shows a particular example of the tool (6) comprising a mold (4) and a piston (5). In said example, the mold (4) comprises a central cavity (41) and retainers (42). Said retainers (42) are positioned for holding the rim (1.1) of the package down and keeping it immobile such that it matches up with the perimeter of the central cavity (41). Furthermore, said retainers (42) make leak-tight an upper cavity (5.1) of the piston (5) located above the mold and incorporating injectors (5.2) for applying pressurized air on the outer face of the upper sheet of the stacking, which is the internal covering or liner (40) in this example. Furthermore, the piston (5) comprises holes distributed in the central cavity of the mold that allow the air to exit from the inside of said central cavity. Said holes preferably comprise suction means (5.3) for extracting the air from the inside of said cavity, which help with the process for forming the final configuration.

[0198] The figure shown on the left in FIG. 8b is a schematic depiction of how the stack of sheets (10, 20, 30) and internal covering (40) are positioned on the mold prior to the package (1) being formed. The image on the right shows the final situation in which both the injectors (5.2) and the suction means (5.3) of the piston have applied compressed air on one a face and suction on the opposite face of the package (1), the package (1) with the final configuration being in contact with the walls of the central cavity (41) reproducing its outer shape.

[0199] Furthermore, heating means would be arranged to cause the thermoforming of the internal covering or liner (40).

Specific Embodiments of the Package (1)

[0200] FIG. 9a shows a particular embodiment of the package (1) comprising 10 side faces (1.3). In this embodiment, the chamfered corners (1.4) of the package have been contemplated as side faces (1.3) of the package. It is thereby understood that said side faces (1.3) and chamfered corners (1.4) can be considered equivalent for carrying out the invention.

[0201] In this embodiment, the following is contemplated: [0202] at least a second sheet (20) forming the base (1.2) of the package; and [0203] at least another sheet, either the first sheet or third sheet (10, 30), forming one of the side faces (1.3) or chamfered corners (1.4), which are understood as equivalent, being alternating in the package.

[0204] Therefore, one and the same sheet, either the first sheet (10) or the third sheet (30), does not form: [0205] a side face (1.3) and a chamfered corner (1.4) adjacent to one another; or [0206] two side faces (1.3), or chamfered corners (1.4), adjacent and consecutive with respect to one another when they are considered equivalent;
since subsequent folding thereof would be hindered. In the event that neither the first cut (10.7) nor the third cut (30.7) exists, and/or the first hole (10.6) nor the third hole (30.6) exists, between main flaps of one and the same sheet (10, 30), this condition is applicable to any embodiment of the invention.

[0207] FIG. 9b shows a particular embodiment of the package (1) comprising four side faces (1.3). Like for the embodiment shown in FIG. 9a, the side faces (1.3) of the package are considered equivalent to the chamfered corners (1.4) of the package, so using first sheets (10) or third sheets (30) for forming the side faces (1.3) or chamfered corners (1.4), respectively, are considered equivalent to one another.

[0208] In this embodiment, a plurality of first sheets (10) and/or third sheets (30) are placed on the preceding sheet in the stacking sequence by making the contours of their rims (10.1, 30.1) match up in order to made subsequent forming of the package (1) easier. Furthermore, each of the first sheets (10) and/or third sheets (30) comprises a main flap (10.2) forming a side face (1.3) of the package in the folding thereof and an auxiliary flap (10.3).

[0209] The last sheet to be stacked in the stacking sequence of this embodiment is the second sheet (20) which comprises a second main flap forming the base (1.2) of the package and a plurality of second auxiliary flaps (20.3). The stacking order of the sheets is therefore understood as being modifiable depending on the specific design of the drawing that said die cut sheets have, this process of stacking in this case being equivalent to the process described in the preceding paragraphs.

Item (2) Packaged in a Modified Atmosphere

[0210] FIG. 10 shows an item (2), wherein said item can be packaged in a protective atmosphere, in vacuum, or in a normal atmosphere. The package (1) is formed from the complex made up of consecutively stacked flat sheets, said complex comprising in this case die cut sheets comprising foldable flaps, in addition to an internal covering (40) and an external covering (50) attached by means of a heat-sealed attachment (51). Furthermore, the item (2) contained therein can be seen, preferably being a food product.

Complex (100) Formed by Sheets Attached by an Articulable Attachment (7)

[0211] FIG. 11 shows the complex illustrated in FIG. 3, wherein the first sheet (10) is attached in an articulable manner by its outer contour (10.1.1) to the perimeter of at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly (60). The sheets are thereby stacked by means of their bending along the articulable attachment. Said bending has been schematically depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12 by means of the arrows that are drawn.

[0212] In particular, the first sheet (10) would comprise an articulable attachment (7) with the second sheet (20), whereas the second sheet (20) would comprise an articulable attachment (7) with the third sheet (30), the articulable attachments (7) being on two opposite sides of the outer contour (20.1.1) of the second rim (20.1) of the second sheet (20). In other words, the sheets are obtained attached together in the form of a triptych by articulable attachments (7), allowing them to be flat when they are unfolded and to be stacked when their articulable attachments (7) are bent.

[0213] FIG. 12 shows the complex illustrated in FIG. 11 further comprising a lid (50). In particular, the first sheet (10) is attached in an articulable manner by its outer contour (10.1.1) to the perimeter of at least one additional flat sheet of the assembly (60) wherein it is furthermore attached in an articulable manner to the lid (50). The sheets are thereby stacked by means of their bending along the articulable attachment.

[0214] In particular, the first sheet (10) would comprise an articulable attachment (7) with the second sheet (20), whereas the second sheet (20) would comprise an articulable attachment (7) with the third sheet (30), whereas the third sheet (30) would comprise an articulable attachment (7) with the lid (50), the articulable attachments (7) being on two opposite sides of the outer contour (30.1.1) of the third rim (30.1) of the third sheet (30). In other words, the sheets are obtained attached in the form of a quadriptych by articulable attachments, allowing them to be flat when they are unfolded and to be stacked when their articulable attachments (7) are bent.