MODULAR CRATE ASSEMBLY AND ITS USE

Abstract

A modular crate assembly for the handling and transportation of goods, including a bottom pallet part and a sidewall having four side panels mounted onto the bottom pallet part. The four side panels are modular and formed of multiple side panel modules that are assembled and mutually joined at corners to form the sidewall, with each side panel module including first and second lateral mating interfaces configured to allow direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along two perpendicular planes to form the corners of the sidewall. The first and second lateral mating interfaces are configured to allow direct (or indirect) joining of two adjacent side panel modules along a same plane to form each side panel. The first lateral mating interface is provided with a male or female connecting structure configured to mate with a corresponding female or male connecting structure provided on the second lateral mating interface.

Claims

1.-39. (canceled)

40. A modular crate assembly for the handling and transportation of goods including a bottom pallet part and a sidewall consisting of four side panels that are mounted onto the bottom pallet part, wherein the four side panels are modular and formed of multiple side panel modules that are assembled and mutually joined at corners to form the sidewall, wherein each side panel module comprises first and second lateral mating interfaces, wherein the first and second lateral mating interfaces are configured to allow direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along two perpendicular planes to form the corners of the sidewall, wherein the first and second lateral mating interfaces are further configured to allow direct or indirect joining of two adjacent side panel modules along a same plane to form each side panel, and wherein the first lateral mating interface is provided with a male or female connecting structure configured to mate with a corresponding female or male connecting structure provided on the second lateral mating interface.

41. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, wherein each side panel includes two or more adjacent side panel modules arranged side by side in the same plane.

42. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, wherein each side panel includes two or more adjacent side panel modules arranged one on top of the other in the same plane.

43. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, wherein the first and second lateral mating interfaces are configured to allow direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the same plane.

44. The modular crate assembly according to claim 43, wherein the first lateral mating interface includes a first mating surface and a second mating surface oriented at 90 degrees with respect to the first mating surface, wherein the second lateral mating interface includes a third mating surface that is configured to cooperate with the first mating surface of another adjacent side panel module to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the two perpendicular planes, wherein the third mating surface is further configured to cooperate with the second mating surface of another adjacent side panel module to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the same plane, and wherein the first and second mating surfaces are each provided with a male or female connecting structure configured to mate with a corresponding female or male connecting structure provided on the third mating surface.

45. The modular crate assembly according to claim 44, wherein the first, second and third mating surfaces are oriented at substantially 45 degrees with respect to a longitudinal plane of the side panel module.

46. The modular crate assembly according to claim 43, wherein the first lateral mating interface includes a first mating surface, wherein the second lateral mating interface includes a second mating surface that is configured to cooperate with the first mating surface of another adjacent side panel module to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the two perpendicular planes, wherein the first mating surface is provided with a male or female connecting structure configured to mate with a corresponding female or male connecting structure provided on the second mating surface upon direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the two perpendicular planes, wherein an extreme edge of each of the first and second lateral mating interfaces is provided with a terminating lip, and wherein the terminating lips are configured to overlap one with the other upon direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the same plane.

47. The modular crate assembly according to claim 46, wherein the first and second mating surfaces are oriented at substantially 45 degrees with respect to a longitudinal plane of the side panel module.

48. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, wherein the first and second lateral mating interfaces are configured to allow indirect joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the same plane via an intermediate connecting part.

49. The modular crate assembly according to claim 48, wherein the first lateral mating interface includes a first mating surface, wherein the second lateral mating interface includes a second mating surface that is configured to cooperate with the first mating surface of another adjacent side panel module to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules along the two perpendicular planes, wherein the intermediate connecting part includes third and fourth mating surfaces that are configured to cooperate, respectively, with the first mating surface of a first adjacent side panel module and with the second mating surface of a second adjacent side panel module to provide the indirect joining of the first and second adjacent side panel modules along the same plane, wherein the first mating surface is provided with a male or female connecting structure configured to mate with a corresponding female or male connecting structure provided on the second mating surface, and wherein the third and fourth mating surfaces are each provided with a female or male connecting structure configured to mate with the corresponding male or female connecting structure provided on the first and second mating surfaces.

50. The modular crate assembly according to claim 49, wherein the first, second, third and fourth mating surfaces are oriented at substantially 45 degrees with respect to a longitudinal plane of the side panel module.

51. The modular crate assembly according to claim 48, wherein the intermediate connecting part exhibits a substantially trapezoidal cross-sectional profile.

52. The modular crate assembly according to claim 48, wherein the intermediate connecting part exhibits a substantially triangular cross-sectional profile.

53. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, wherein the bottom pallet part includes an assembly of one or multiple pallet modules.

54. The modular crate assembly according to claim 53, wherein each pallet module comprises: a main structural body exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border with first to fourth lateral sides; and first and second lateral flanges extending outwardly from the peripheral border of the main structural body, along the first and second lateral sides, and wherein the main structural body exhibits first and second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the peripheral border of the main structural body, along the third and fourth lateral sides, the first and second lateral grooves being each configured to receive the first and second lateral flanges, respectively, of another pallet module, so that the first, respectively second lateral flange of said other pallet module nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove.

55. The modular crate assembly according to claim 54, wherein the side panel modules are dimensioned such that the sidewall extends over a surface of the bottom pallet part, including the first and second lateral flanges extending outwardly along first and second lateral sides of the bottom pallet part.

56. The modular crate assembly according to claim 55, wherein the bottom pallet part further comprises one or more cover elements covering the first and second lateral flanges along the first and second lateral sides of the bottom pallet part.

57. The modular crate assembly according to claim 54, wherein the side panel modules are dimensioned such that the sidewall extends over a surface of the bottom pallet part, excluding the first and second lateral flanges extending outwardly along first and second lateral sides of the bottom pallet part.

58. The modular crate assembly according to claim 53, wherein each pallet module includes a set of releasable connection devices configured to selectively secure the pallet module to adjacent pallet modules.

59. The modular crate assembly according to claim 58, wherein the set of releasable connection devices includes releasable latch components.

60. The modular crate assembly according to claim 59, wherein the releasable latch components are toggle latch components including pairs of mutually engageable latch elements each comprising a movable latch element and a catch element.

61. The modular crate assembly according to claim 58, wherein the releasable connection devices are configured to allow manual securement of the pallet modules.

62. The modular crate assembly according to claim 58, wherein the releasable connection devices are configured to allow remote securement of the pallet modules.

63. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, further comprising a top part mounted onto an upper portion of the four side panels.

64. The modular crate assembly according to claim 63, wherein the top part includes an assembly of one or multiple top modules.

65. The modular crate assembly according to claim 64, wherein each top module comprises: a main structural body exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border with first to fourth lateral sides; and first and second lateral flanges extending outwardly from the peripheral border of the main structural body, along the first and second lateral sides, and wherein the main structural body exhibits first and second lateral grooves extending inwardly from the peripheral border of the main structural body, along the third and fourth lateral sides, the first and second lateral grooves being each configured to receive the first and second lateral flanges, respectively, of another top module, so that the first, respectively second lateral flange of said other top module nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove.

66. The modular crate assembly according to claim 65, wherein the top part further comprises one or more cover elements covering the first and second lateral flanges along the first and second lateral sides of the top part.

67. The modular crate assembly according to claim 64, wherein each top module includes a set of releasable connection devices configured to selectively secure the top module to adjacent top modules.

68. The modular crate assembly according to claim 67, wherein the set of releasable connection devices includes releasable latch components.

69. The modular crate assembly according to claim 68, wherein the releasable latch components are toggle latch components including pairs of mutually engageable latch elements each comprising a movable latch element and a catch element.

70. The modular crate assembly according to claim 67, wherein the releasable connection devices are configured to allow manual securement of the top modules.

71. The modular crate assembly according to claim 67, wherein the releasable connection devices are configured to allow remote securement of the top modules.

72. The modular crate assembly according to claim 63, wherein a height of each side panel module is equal to or is an integer multiple of a cumulative effective height of the bottom pallet part stacked onto the top part.

73. The modular crate assembly according to claim 72, wherein each side panel includes one or more unit-size panel modules, and wherein the height of the unit-size panel module is equal to the cumulative effective height of the bottom pallet part stacked onto the top part.

74. The modular crate assembly according to claim 73, wherein each side panel includes one or more larger-size panel modules, and wherein the height of the larger-size panel module is equal to n times the cumulative effective height of the bottom pallet part stacked onto the top part, n being an integer equal to or greater than 2.

75. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, wherein each side panel module includes one or more mounting holes for the provision of additional structural elements, such as structural reinforcements.

76. The modular crate assembly according to claim 40, wherein an upper portion of each side panel module is provided with at least one retaining element, and wherein a lower portion of each side panel module is provided with a releasable locking mechanism configured to interact with and selectively lock onto the retaining element of another below-located side panel module.

77. The modular crate assembly according to claim 76, wherein the retaining element protrudes from the upper portion of the side panel module and exhibits a lateral opening, and wherein the locking mechanism comprises a locking element that can be moved laterally into engagement with said lateral opening to lock onto the retaining element or be moved laterally out of engagement with said lateral opening to release the retaining element.

78. Use of the modular crate assembly according to claim 40 for freight logistics, warehousing, transport and/or shipment purposes.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Other features and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly from reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention which are presented solely by way of non-restrictive examples and illustrated by the attached drawings in which:

[0040] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a modular crate assembly in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention as seen from an upper viewing angle;

[0041] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the modular crate assembly of FIG. 1A as seen from an opposite direction and a lower viewing angle;

[0042] FIG. 1C is a side view of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 1A-B;

[0043] FIG. 1D is a partial perspective view of one corner of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 1A-C as seen from an upper viewing angle;

[0044] FIG. 1E is a partial perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 1D as seen from a lower viewing angle;

[0045] FIG. 2 is a perspective, partially exploded view of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 1A-E showing a top part thereof being removed from the upper portion of a sidewall of the modular crate assembly;

[0046] FIG. 3 is a perspective, partially exploded view of a bottom pallet part of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 1A-E and 2;

[0047] FIG. 3A is a top view of a pallet module and associated cover element forming part of the bottom pallet part of FIG. 3;

[0048] FIG. 4 is a perspective, partially exploded view of the top part of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 1A-E and 2;

[0049] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of part of the sidewall of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 1A-E and 2, namely, of eight side panel modules arranged in a square configuration;

[0050] FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of part of the sidewall shown in FIG. 5A, namely, one corner thereof where two adjacent side panel modules mutually join along two perpendicular planes;

[0051] FIG. 5C is an enlarged view of part of the sidewall shown in FIG. 5A, namely, a middle portion of one of the side panels where two adjacent side panel modules mutually join along the same plane;

[0052] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of one of the side panel modules depicted in FIGS. 1A-E, 2 and 5A-C shown in isolation;

[0053] FIG. 6B is a top view of the side panel module of FIG. 6A;

[0054] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a modular crate assembly in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention as seen from an upper viewing angle;

[0055] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the modular crate assembly of FIG. 7A as seen from an opposite direction and a lower viewing angle;

[0056] FIG. 7C is a side view of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 7A-B;

[0057] FIG. 7D is a partial perspective view of a top part of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 7A-C;

[0058] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a bottom pallet part of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 7A-D;

[0059] FIG. 8A is a top view of the bottom pallet part of FIG. 8;

[0060] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the top part of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 7A-D;

[0061] FIG. 10A is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged section of an exterior portion of one of the side panels of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 7A-D where two adjacent side panel modules are joined vertically and secured one to the other by means of locking mechanism;

[0062] FIG. 10B is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged section of an interior portion of the side panel and locking mechanism depicted in FIG. 10A;

[0063] FIG. 10C is a partial perspective view showing a cross-section of the interior portion of the side panel and locking mechanism depicted in FIG. 10B as viewed along a vertical cross-sectional plane passing through a retaining element cooperating with the locking mechanism;

[0064] FIG. 11A is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 7A-D as viewed along a horizontal cross-sectional plane passing through an upper portion of the sidewall of the modular crate assembly;

[0065] FIG. 11B is an enlarged view of part of the sidewall shown in the cross-section of FIG. 11A, namely, one corner thereof where two adjacent side panel modules mutually join along two perpendicular planes;

[0066] FIG. 11C is an enlarged view of part of the sidewall shown in the cross-section of FIG. 11A, namely, a middle portion of one of the side panels where two adjacent side panel modules are joined along the same plane via an intermediate connecting part;

[0067] FIG. 12A is a schematic side view of a modular crate assembly in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention making use of multiple side panel modules of the same size;

[0068] FIG. 12B is a schematic side view of a modular crate assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the invention making use of multiple side panel modules of different sizes;

[0069] FIG. 12C is a schematic side view of a modular crate assembly in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention making use of multiple side panel modules of different sizes;

[0070] FIG. 13 is a schematic side-by-side comparison of a unit-size side panel module depicted next to the bottom pallet part stacked onto the top part of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 12A-C showing that a height of the unit-size side panel module equals a cumulative effective height of the bottom pallet part stacked onto the top part;

[0071] FIG. 14 is a schematic side view showing multiple modular crate assemblies in accordance with embodiments of the invention that can further be attached side-by-side in case of need;

[0072] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a modular crate assembly in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention as seen from an upper viewing angle;

[0073] FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the modular crate assembly of FIG. 15A as seen from a lower viewing angle;

[0074] FIG. 15C is a side view of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 15A-B;

[0075] FIG. 16A is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the modular crate assembly of FIGS. 15A-C as viewed along a horizontal cross-sectional plane passing through a lower portion of the sidewall of the modular crate assembly;

[0076] FIG. 16B is an enlarged view of part of the sidewall shown in the cross-section of FIG. 16A, namely, one corner thereof where two adjacent side panel modules mutually join along two perpendicular planes;

[0077] FIG. 16C is an enlarged view of part of the sidewall shown in the cross-section of FIG. 16A, namely, a middle portion of one of the side panels where two adjacent side panel modules are joined along the same plane via an intermediate connecting part;

[0078] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a side panel module shown in isolation in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention;

[0079] FIG. 17B is a top view of the side panel module of FIG. 17A;

[0080] FIG. 17C is an enlarged view of part of a sidewall of a modular crate assembly according to the invention, the sidewall being formed of an assembly of side panel modules as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, FIG. 17C showing one corner of the sidewall where two adjacent side panel modules mutually join along two perpendicular planes; and

[0081] FIG. 17D is an enlarged view of part of a sidewall of a modular crate assembly according to the invention, the sidewall being formed of an assembly of side panel modules as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, FIG. 17D showing a middle portion of one of the side panels where two adjacent side panel modules mutually join along the same plane.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0082] The present invention will be described in relation to various illustrative embodiments. It shall be understood that the scope of the invention encompasses all combinations and sub-combinations of the features of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0083] As described herein, when two or more parts or components are described as being connected, secured or coupled to one another, they can be so connected, secured or coupled directly to each other or through one or more intermediary parts.

[0084] In the context of the present invention, the expressions bottom pallet part, pallet module and pallet assembly are understood to refer to self-supporting platforms configured to allow the handling and transportation of goods, as used in particular for freight logistics, warehousing, transport and/or shipment purposes. As discussed below, the bottom pallet part of the crate assembly of the invention may advantageously consist of a pallet assembly built of one or multiple pallet modules which are nested laterally within and interlock with one another to form a platform that is adapted in particular to support and allow transport and shipment of goods or equipment, be it by ground, sea or air transportation.

[0085] The invention will be described in relation to various embodiments of a modular crate assembly (or modular crate system) comprising a modular bottom pallet part that advantageously consists of one or more pallet modules that are assembled one with the other to form pallet assemblies of varying configurations and sizes. The bottom pallet part as discussed herein is preferably based on the modular pallet architecture disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1, but it will be appreciated that the present invention is in effect applicable to any modular pallet architecture that would provide similar modularity and benefits.

[0086] As far as the configuration and physical interconnection of the pallet modules are concerned, one may accordingly refer to the full disclosure of International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1, which publications are incorporated herein by reference. Ideally, each pallet module includes, as shown e.g. in FIGS. 3, 3A, 8 and 8A, (i) a mating system configured to allow lateral nesting of another pallet module to form the nested pallet assembly, and (ii) a securing system configured to allow the pallet module to be secured to or released from another pallet module of the nested pallet assembly. The interconnectable pallet modules may once again be of different sizes.

[0087] FIGS. 1A-E to 6A-B are illustrative of a first embodiment of a modular crate assembly for the handling and transportation of goods in accordance with the invention, which modular crate assembly is generally designated by reference sign CR. FIGS. 1A to 1E show the modular crate assembly CR in a fully assembled state, including a bottom pallet part PL and a sidewall consisting of four side panels SP that are mounted onto the bottom pallet part PL. In the illustrated example, the modular crate assembly CR further comprises a top part

[0088] TP mounted onto an upper portion of the four side panels SP, thereby forming a closed space around the relevant goods. FIG. 2 shows the modular crate assembly CR in a partly disassembled state, with the top part TP being removed from the upper portion of the sidewall. In other embodiments, the top part TP could in effect be omitted to form an open crate assembly.

[0089] In the illustrated example, the bottom pallet part PL consists of an assembly of four individual pallet modules PLM, as shown in greater detail in FIGS. 3 and 3A, that are designed in accordance with the modular pallet architecture disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1. More specifically, each pallet module PLM is a unit-size pallet module and the four pallet modules PLM are assembled in a two-by-two configuration to form the bottom pallet part PL. Each pallet module PLM comprises a main structural body 10 exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border 10A with first to fourth lateral sides. First and second lateral flanges 11, 12 extend outwardly from the peripheral border 10A of the main structural body 10 along the first and second lateral sides. The main structural body 10 also exhibits first and second lateral grooves 13, 14 extending inwardly from the peripheral border 10A of the main structural body 10, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each of the first and second lateral grooves 13, 14 is configured to receive a corresponding one of the first and second lateral flanges 11, 12 of another pallet module PLM, so that the first, respectively, second lateral flange 11, 12 of said other pallet module PLM nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove 13, 14, as depicted in FIG. 3.

[0090] On the underside of each pallet module PLM, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 1C and 1E, there is provided a foot structure FT that advantageously forms an integral part of each pallet module PLM to create clearances between the bottom pallet part PL and the ground to ensure suitable handling of the crate assembly CR by means of forklifts and the like. In other embodiments, the foot structure could consist of individual foot elements removably secured to the underside of each pallet module, as further disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1.

[0091] By way of preference, and in accordance with the principle disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1, each pallet module PLM further includes a set of releasable connection devices 50A, 50B (see FIGS. 3 and 3A) configured to selectively secure each pallet module PLM to adjacent pallet modules PLM. In the illustrated example, the releasable connection devices include releasable latch components 50A, 50B and are preferably toggle latch components including pairs of mutually engageable latch elements each comprising a movable latch element 50A and a catch element 50B. In this case, the releasable latch components 50A, 50B are configured to allow manual latching of the pallet modules PLM. In other embodiments, one could however contemplate the use of any other suitable type of releasable connection devices, such as releasable connection devices configured to allow remote securement of the pallet modules PLM using e.g. motorized latch components or any other adequate, remotely actuatable securement mechanism.

[0092] Also visible in FIG. 3 are four cover elements CM1 that are designed to cover the, otherwise exposed, first and second lateral flanges 11, 12 that extend along first and second lateral sides of the bottom pallet part PL that coincide with the first and second lateral sides of the pallet modules PLM. These cover elements CM1 are also visible, partly or entirely, in FIGS. 1A to 1C and 2. Each of the cover element CM1 is provided with a catch element 50B designed to cooperate with the movable latch element 50A of the associated pallet module PLM.

[0093] The top part TP likewise includes an assembly of multiple top modules TPM, namely, in the illustrated example, an assembly of four individual top modules TPM, as shown in FIG. 4. The top modules TPM are in effect designed along essentially the same principle as the pallet modules PLM. More specifically, each top module TPM is a unit-size module and the four top modules TPM are assembled in a two-by-two configuration to form the top part TP. Each top module TPM comprises a main structural body 20 exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border 20A with first to fourth lateral sides. First and second lateral flanges 21, 22 extend outwardly from the peripheral border 20A of the main structural body 20 along the first and second lateral sides. The main structural body 20 also exhibits first and second lateral grooves 23, 24 extending inwardly from the peripheral border 20A of the main structural body 20, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each of the first and second lateral grooves 23, 24 is configured to receive a corresponding one of the first and second lateral flanges 21, 22 of another top module TPM, so that the first, respectively, second lateral flange 21, 22 of said other top module TPM nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove 23, 24, as depicted in FIG. 4.

[0094] Also visible in FIG. 4 are four cover elements CM2 that are similar to the cover elements CM1 of the bottom pallet part PL, which cover elements CM2 are likewise designed to cover the, otherwise exposed, first and second lateral flanges 21, 22 that extend along first and second lateral sides of the top part TP and coincide with the first and second lateral sides of the top modules TPM. These cover elements CM2 are also visible, partly or entirely, in FIGS. 1A to 1C and 2. In effect, the dimensions of the bottom pallet part PL and top part TP may advantageously be chosen so as to match one another, thereby allowing for the use of identical cover elements CM1, CM2 at the bottom and top of the modular crate assembly CR.

[0095] While not specifically shown, each of the top modules TPM may advantageously be provided with a set of a releasable connection devices, as previously discussed with respect to the bottom pallet part PL, configured to selectively secure each top module TPM to adjacent top modules TPM. Such releasable connection devices may likewise be releasable latch components such as toggle latch components including pairs of mutually engageable latch elements each comprising a movable latch element 50A and a catch element 50B as shown in FIGS. 3 and 3A, allowing manual latching of the top modules TPM. In other embodiments, one could however once again contemplate the use of any other suitable type of connection devices, including releasable connecting devices configured to allow remote securement of the top modules TPM using e.g. motorized latch components or any adequate, remotely actuatable securement mechanism. The same applies to the cover elements CM2 which may likewise be provided with a catch element 50B designed to cooperate with the movable latch element 50A of the associated top module TPM.

[0096] In accordance with the invention, the four side panels SP are modular and formed of multiple side panel modules SPM that are assembled and mutually jointed at corners to form the sidewall. In the illustrated example, each side panel SP consists of an assembly of four adjacent, unit-size side panel modules SPM assembled in a two-by-two configuration, namely, adjacent side panel modules SPM that are arranged side by side as well as one on top of the other in a same plane. In other words, in the illustrated example, a total of sixteen side panel modules SPM are used to form the sidewall of the depicted modular crate assembly CR. One will however appreciate that, depending on the size of the goods, the sizes of the bottom pallet part PL, top part TP, and sidewall could vary, and that each side panel SP could especially include more than two adjacent side panel modules SPM distributed horizontally and/or vertically.

[0097] As shown in the partially exploded view of FIG. 2, the top part TP is secured to the upper portion of the sidewall by means of a set of securing elements including, in the illustrated example, a set of sixteen screws 30 (also partly visible in FIGS. 1C to 1E) and associated bolts 35. More specifically, the screws 30 are inserted through corresponding mounting holes 25-29 (see FIG. 4) provided in the top modules TPM and associated cover elements CM2, as well as corresponding mounting holes 151, 152 (see FIGS. 5A, 6A and 6B) provided in the upper portion of each side panel module SPM.

[0098] In the illustrated example (see especially FIG. 4), each top module TPM includes four pairs of mounting holes 25, 26, 27, 28, namely, first and second pairs of mounting holes 25, 26 extending vertically through the first and second lateral flanges 21, 22, along the first and second lateral sides, and third and fourth pairs of mounting holes 27, 28 extending vertically through the main structural body 20, across the first and second lateral grooves 23, 24, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each cover element CM2 includes a corresponding pair of mounting holes 29 that match the location of the associated pair of mounting holes 25, respectively 26 when the cover element CM2 is positioned on the relevant lateral flange 21, 22.

[0099] In the illustrated example, as shown especially in FIGS. 5A, 6A and 6B, the upper portion of each side panel module SPM is provided with first and second pairs of mounting holes 151, 152 that are distributed to match the location of the mounting holes 25-29 when assembled to the top part TP. More specifically, the position of the first pair of mounting holes 151 is selected to match that of mounting holes 25, resp. 28, while the position of the second pair of mounting holes 152 is selected to match that of mounting holes 26, resp. 27. Corresponding mounting holes 153, 154 are also provided on the lower portion of each side panel module SPM, as shown e.g. in FIGS. 5A and 6A, to allow each side panel module SPM to be secured to another side panel module SPM located immediately below or to the bottom pallet part PL. Attachment of adjacent side panel modules SPM in the vertical direction is likewise ensured by a set of screws 30, inserted through matching pairs of mounting holes 151/153, resp. 152/154, and bolts 35, visible in FIGS. 1C to 1E, similar to those used for securing the top part TP to the upper portion of the sidewall.

[0100] Attachment of a bottom portion of the sidewall to the bottom pallet part PL is also ensured by a set of screws 30 and bolts 35 as shown in FIGS. 1C to 1E. More specifically, the screws 30 are inserted through mounting holes 153, resp. 154, and corresponding mountings holes provided on the bottom pallet part PL. More specifically, the screws 30 are inserted through corresponding mounting holes 15-19 provided in the pallet modules PLM and associated cover elements CM1, as shown in FIG. 3A, that match the position of the mounting holes 153, 154 provided on the lower portion of the relevant side panel modules SPM.

[0101] In the illustrated example, each pallet module PLM includes four pairs of mounting holes 15, 16, 17, 18, namely, first and second pairs of mounting holes 15, 16 extending vertically through the first and second lateral flanges 11, 12, along the first and second lateral sides, and third and fourth pairs of mounting holes 17, 18 extending vertically through the main structural body 10, across the first and second lateral grooves 13, 14, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each cover element CM1 includes a corresponding pair of mounting holes 19 that match the location of the associated pair of mounting holes 15, respectively 16 when the cover element CM1 is positioned on the relevant lateral flange 11, 12.

[0102] One will appreciate that, in the example illustrated in FIGS. 1A-E to 6A-B, the side panel modules SPM are dimensioned such that the sidewall extends over a surface of the bottom pallet part PL, including the first and second lateral flanges 11, 12 that extend outwardly along the first and second sides of the bottom pallet part PL where the cover elements CM1 are provided.

[0103] As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, each stage of the sidewall of the modular crate assembly CR consists of eight side panel modules SPM arranged in a square configuration. In the illustrated example, each side panel module SPM comprises first and second lateral mating interfaces 100, 200 that are configured to allow direct joining of adjacent side panel modules SPM both along two perpendicular planes to form the corners of the sidewall (as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B) and along a same plane to form each side panel SP (as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C).

[0104] More specifically, the first lateral mating interface 100 includes a first mating surface 100A and a second mating surface 100B oriented at 90 degrees with respect to the first mating surface 100A, while the second lateral mating interface 200 includes a third mating surface 200A. The third mating surface 200A is configured, on the one hand, to cooperate with the first mating surface 100A of another adjacent side panel module SPM to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM at the corners of the sidewall, i.e. along two perpendicular planes as shown e.g. in FIG. 5B. The third mating surface 200A is further configured, on the other hand, to cooperate with the second mating surface 100B of another adjacent side panel module SPM to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM along the same plane as shown e.g. in FIG. 5C, thereby allowing the formation of the side panels SP.

[0105] While other angles could be contemplated, the first, second and third mating surfaces 100A, 100B, 200A are preferably oriented at substantially 45 degrees with respect to a longitudinal plane of the side panel module SPM.

[0106] By way of preference, the first and second mating surfaces 100A, 100B are each provided with a male (or female) connecting structure 110, resp. 120 configured to mate with a corresponding female (or male) connecting structure 210, resp. 220 provided on the third mating surface 200A. In this way, adequate direct joining of the side panel modules SPM can be reliably ensured and maintained.

[0107] FIGS. 7A-D to 11A-C are illustrative of a second embodiment of a modular crate assembly for the handling and transportation of goods in accordance with the invention, which modular crate assembly is generally designated by reference sign CR*. FIGS. 7A to 7D show the modular crate assembly CR* in a fully assembled state, including a bottom pallet part PL* and a sidewall consisting of four side panels SP* that are mounted onto the bottom pallet part PL*. In the illustrated example, the modular crate assembly CR* further comprises a top part TP* mounted onto an upper portion of the four side panels SP*, thereby forming a closed space around the relevant goods. In other embodiments, the top part TP* could once again be omitted to form an open crate assembly.

[0108] In the illustrated example, the bottom pallet part PL* consists by way of illustration of a single pallet module PLM*, as shown in greater detail in FIGS. 8 and 8A. This pallet module PLM* is likewise designed in accordance with the modular pallet architecture disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1. More specifically, the pallet module PLM* is a medium-size pallet module exhibiting twice the size of the unit-size pallet module PLM depicted in FIGS. 3 and 3A. The pallet module PLM* likewise comprises a main structural body 10* exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border 10A* with first to fourth lateral sides. First and second lateral flanges 11*, 12* similarly extend outwardly from the peripheral border 10A* of the main structural body 10* along the first and second lateral sides. The main structural body 10* also exhibits first and second lateral grooves 13*, 14* extending inwardly from the peripheral border 10A* of the main structural body 10*, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each of the first and second lateral grooves 13*, 14* is likewise configured to possibly receive a corresponding one of the first and second lateral flanges of another similar pallet module, so that the first, respectively, second lateral flange of said other pallet module nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove 13*, 14*.

[0109] On the underside of the pallet module PLM*, as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, there is provided a foot structure FT* that advantageously forms an integral part of the pallet module PLM* to create clearances between the bottom pallet part PL* and the ground to ensure suitable handling of the crate assembly CR* by means of forklifts and the like. In other embodiments, the foot structure could once again consist of individual foot elements removably secured to the underside of each pallet module, as further disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1.

[0110] By way of preference, and in accordance with the principle disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1, the pallet module PLM* further includes a set of releasable latch components 50A, 50B, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 8A, configured to selectively allow latching of the pallet module PLM* to adjacent pallet modules, if needed. The comments made hereinabove with regard to the releasable latch components 50A, 50B of the first embodiment of FIGS. 1A-E to 6A-B are equally applicable in the context of this second embodiment of the invention, and any other adequate connection devices could be contemplated to ensure securement of the pallet module PLM* to other pallet modules.

[0111] The top part TP* of the modular crate assembly CR* includes, much like the first embodiment, an assembly of multiple top modules TPM*, namely, in the illustrated example, an assembly of four individual top modules TPM*, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 9. The top modules TPM* are in effect designed along essentially the same principle as previously described in connection with the top modules TPM of the first embodiment. More specifically, each top module TPM* is a unit-size module and the four top modules TPM* are assembled in a two-by-two configuration to form the top part TP*. Each top module TPM* comprises a main structural body 20* exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border 20A* with first to fourth lateral sides. First and second lateral flanges 21*, 22* likewise extend outwardly from the peripheral border 20A* of the main structural body 20* along the first and second lateral sides. The main structural body 20* also exhibits first and second lateral grooves 23*, 24* extending inwardly from the peripheral border 20A* of the main structural body 20*, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each of the first and second lateral grooves 23*, 24* is configured to receive a corresponding one of the first and second lateral flanges 21*, 22* of another top module TPM*, so that the first, respectively, second lateral flange 21*, 22* of said other top module TPM* nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove 23*, 24*, as depicted in FIGS. 7D and 9.

[0112] As shown in FIGS. 7D and 9, each of the top modules TPM* is advantageously provided with a set of a releasable latch components 50A, 50B configured to selectively secure each top module TPM* to adjacent top modules TPM*. Such releasable latch components 50A, 50B may likewise be toggle latch components including pairs of mutually engageable latch elements each comprising a movable latch element 50A and a catch element 50B as shown, allowing manual latching of the top modules TPM*. In other embodiments, one could once again contemplate the use of any other suitable type of releasable connection devices, such as releasable connection devices configured to allow remote securement of the top modules TPM* using e.g. motorized latch components or any adequate, remotely actuatable securement mechanism.

[0113] In accordance with the invention, the four side panels SP* are modular and formed of multiple side panel modules SPM* that are assembled and mutually jointed at corners to form the sidewall. In the illustrated example, each side panel SP* consists of an assembly of four adjacent side panel modules SPM* assembled in a two-by-two configuration, namely, adjacent side panel modules SPM* that are arranged side by side as well as one on top of the other in a same plane. In other words, in the illustrated example, a total of sixteen side panel modules SPM* are once again used to form the sidewall of the depicted modular crate assembly CR*. One will again understand that, depending on the size of the goods, the sizes of the bottom pallet part PL*, top part TP*, and sidewall could vary, and that each side panel SP* could especially include more than two adjacent side panel modules SPM* distributed horizontally and/or vertically.

[0114] The top part TP* may be secured to the upper portion of the sidewall by any appropriate means, including a set of screws and bolts as discussed in the context of the first embodiment. The same is true with regard to attachment of the lower portion of the sidewall to the bottom pallet part PL*.

[0115] In the illustrated example, attachment of the side panel modules SPM* in the vertical direction is advantageously ensured by means of a releasable locking mechanism LK that is provided in a lower portion of each side panel module SPM*, as shown in FIGS. 7C and 10A, and configured to interact with and selectively lock onto a retaining element 600 (shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C) that is provided on an upper portion of each side panel module SPM*. In this way, each side panel module SPM* can selectively be locked onto another side panel module SPM* located immediately below.

[0116] More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, the retaining element 600 protrudes from the upper portion of the side panel module SPM* and exhibits a lateral opening 600A (visible in FIG. 10C) that is shaped and dimensioned to receive a locking element 650 of the locking mechanism LK. The locking element 650 can be moved laterally into engagement with the lateral opening 600A, as shown, to lock onto the retaining element 600 or moved out of engagement with the lateral opening 600A to release the retaining element 600. Lateral movement of the locking element 650 is controlled by a slider 60 that can be moved between a locking position, as shown in FIG. 10A, or an unlocking position.

[0117] One will appreciate that, in the example illustrated in FIGS. 7A-D to 11A-C, and in contrast to the first embodiment, the side panel modules SPM* are dimensioned such that the sidewall extends over a surface of the bottom pallet part PL*, excluding the first and second lateral flanges 11*, 12* that extend outwardly along the first and second sides of the bottom pallet part PL*.

[0118] As shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C, each stage of the sidewall of the modular crate assembly CR* consists of eight side panel modules SPM* arranged in a square configuration. In the illustrated example, each side panel module SPM* comprises first and second lateral mating interfaces 300, 400 that are configured to allow direct joining of adjacent side panel modules SPM* along two perpendicular planes to form the corners of the sidewall (as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B). In contrast to the first embodiment, the first and second lateral mating interfaces 300, 400 are not configured to allow direct joining of adjacent side panel modules SPM* along a same plane to form each side panel SP*, but rather indirect joining via an intermediate connecting part 500 (as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11C).

[0119] More specifically, the first lateral mating interface 300 includes a first mating surface 300A and the second lateral mating interface 400 includes a second mating surface 400A that is configured to cooperate with the first mating surface 300A of another adjacent side panel module SPM* to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM* at the corners of the sidewall, i.e. along two perpendicular planes as shown e.g. in FIG. 11B. The intermediate connecting part 500, which is used in this case to allow connection of adjacent side panel modules SPM* in the same plane, includes third and fourth mating surfaces 500A, 500B that are configured to cooperate, respectively, with the first mating surface 300A of a first adjacent side panel module SPM* and with the second mating surface 400A of a second adjacent side panel module SPM* to provide the indirect joining of the first and second adjacent side panel modules SPM* along the same plane as shown e.g. in FIG. 11C.

[0120] While intermediate connecting parts 500 are necessary in this case to allow formation of the relevant side panels SP*, one will appreciate that cover elements CM1, CM2 as discussed in the context of the first embodiment are not necessary.

[0121] While other angles could potentially be contemplated, the first, second, third and fourth mating surfaces 300A, 400A, 500A, 500B are preferably oriented at substantially 45 degrees with respect to a longitudinal plane of the side panel module SPM*.

[0122] By way of preference, the first mating surface 300A is provided with a male (or female) connecting structure 310 configured to mate with a corresponding female (or male) connecting structure 410 provided on the second mating surface 400A. Likewise, the third and fourth mating surfaces 500A, 500B are each provided with a female or male connecting structure 510, resp. 520 configured to mate with the corresponding male or female connecting structure 310, resp. 410 provided on the first and second mating surfaces 300A, 400A. In this way, adequate joining of the side panel modules SPM* can be reliably ensured and maintained.

[0123] FIGS. 12A to 12C are schematic illustrations of further embodiments of a modular crate assembly CR in accordance with the invention. The modular crate assembly CR shown in FIG. 12A is in essence configured in a manner similar to the second embodiment of FIGS. 7A-C to 11A-C, the depicted side panel SP consisting of an assembly of four side panel modules SPM that are joined laterally via intermediate connecting parts 500. FIG. 12B shows a possible variant in which the vertical arrangement of two side panel modules SPM on the right-hand side is replaced by a single panel module SPM having twice the size of the side panel module SPM. FIG. 12C shows yet another possible variant in which the horizontal arrangement of two side panel modules SPM on the lower side, inclusive intermediate connecting part 500, is replaced by a single panel module SPM of a corresponding size. Other variants could be contemplated, including variants where the two-by-two arrangement of side panel modules SPM shown in FIG. 12A, inclusive connecting parts 500, is replaced by a single side panel module of a corresponding size.

[0124] FIG. 13 is illustrative of a further embodiment of the invention, wherein a height of each side panel module is equal to an integer multiple of a cumulative effective height of the bottom pallet part PL stacked onto the top part TP. More specifically, FIG. 13 shows that the height H.sub.SPM of the unit-size side panel module SPM is here equal to the said cumulative effective height. By adopting such a design rule, it is potentially possible to allow multiple modular crate assemblies to be connected together side by side, thereby achieving even greater modularity and flexibility in the packaging of goods. Such a possibility is schematically illustrated by FIG. 14 which shows three modular crate assemblies CR that can be connected together, namely, two crate assemblies CR stacked one on top of the other, as shown on the right-hand side in FIG. 14, and a third crate assembly CR of larger size, as shown on the left-hand side in FIG. 14.

[0125] FIGS. 15A-C and 16A-C are illustrative of a further embodiment of a modular crate assembly for the handling and transportation of goods in accordance with the invention, which modular crate assembly is generally designated by reference sign CR**. FIGS. 15A to 15C show the modular crate assembly CR** in a fully assembled state, including a bottom pallet part PL** and a sidewall consisting of four side panels SP** that are mounted onto the bottom pallet part PL**. In the illustrated example, the modular crate assembly CR** further comprises a top part TP** mounted onto an upper portion of the four side panels SP**, thereby forming a closed space around the relevant goods. In other embodiments, the top part TP** could once again be omitted to form an open crate assembly.

[0126] In the illustrated example, the bottom pallet part PL** consists by way of illustration of a single pallet module PLM**. much like the bottom pallet part PL* of the second embodiment. This pallet module PLM** is likewise designed in accordance with the modular pallet architecture disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1. More specifically, the pallet module PLM** is a medium-size pallet module exhibiting twice the size of the unit-size pallet module PLM depicted in FIGS. 3 and 3A. The pallet module PLM** likewise comprises a main structural body 10** exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border 10A** with first to fourth lateral sides. First and second lateral flanges 11**, 12** similarly extend outwardly from the peripheral border 10A** of the main structural body 10** along the first and second lateral sides. The main structural body 10** also exhibits first and second lateral grooves 13**, 14** extending inwardly from the peripheral border 10A** of the main structural body 10**, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each of the first and second lateral grooves 13**, 14** is likewise configured to possibly receive a corresponding one of the first and second lateral flanges of another similar pallet module, so that the first, respectively, second lateral flange of said other pallet module nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove 13**, 14**.

[0127] On the underside of the pallet module PLM**, as shown in FIGS. 15B and 15C, there is provided a foot structure FT** that advantageously forms an integral part of the pallet module PLM** to create clearances between the bottom pallet part PL** and the ground to ensure suitable handling of the crate assembly CR** by means of forklifts and the like. In other embodiments, the foot structure could once again consist of individual foot elements removably secured to the underside of each pallet module, as further disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1.

[0128] By way of preference, and in accordance with the principle disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1, the pallet module PLM** further includes a set of releasable latch components configured to selectively allow latching of the pallet module PLM** to adjacent pallet modules, if needed. The comments made hereinabove with regard to the releasable latch components 50A, 50B of the first and second embodiments of FIGS. 1A-E to 11A-C are equally applicable in the context of this other embodiment of the invention, and any other adequate connection devices could be contemplated to ensure securement of the pallet module PLM** to other pallet modules.

[0129] The top part TP** of the modular crate assembly CR** includes, much like the first and second embodiments, an assembly of multiple top modules TPM** namely, in the illustrated example, an assembly of four individual top modules TPM**, as shown in FIG. 15A. The top modules TPM** are in effect designed along essentially the same principle as previously described in connection with the top modules TPM, resp. TPM* of the first and second embodiments. More specifically, each top module TPM** is a unit-size module and the four top modules TPM** are assembled in a two-by-two configuration to form the top part TP**. Each top module TPM** comprises a main structural body 20** exhibiting a generally quadrilateral peripheral border 20A** with first to fourth lateral sides. First and second lateral flanges 21**, 22** likewise extend outwardly from the peripheral border 20A** of the main structural body 20** along the first and second lateral sides. The main structural body 20** also exhibits first and second lateral grooves 23**, 24** extending inwardly from the peripheral border 20A** of the main structural body 20**, along the third and fourth lateral sides. Each of the first and second lateral grooves 23**, 24** is configured to receive a corresponding one of the first and second lateral flanges 21**, 22** of another top module TPM**, so that the first, respectively, second lateral flange 21**, 22** of said other top module TPM** nests laterally within the first, respectively second lateral groove 23**, 24**, as depicted in FIGS. 15A.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 15A, each of the top modules TPM** is advantageously provided with a set of a releasable connection devices, namely, releasable latch components, configured to selectively secure each top module TPM** to adjacent top modules TPM**. Such releasable latch components may in particular be toggle latch components as already discussed in connection with the first and second embodiments. In other embodiments, one could once again contemplate the use of any other suitable type of releasable connection devices, such as releasable connection devices configured to allow remote securement of the top modules TPM** using e.g. motorized latch components or any adequate, remotely actuatable securement mechanism.

[0131] In accordance with the invention, the four side panels SP** are modular and formed of multiple side panel modules SPM** that are assembled and mutually jointed at corners to form the sidewall. In the illustrated example, each side panel SP** consists of an assembly of four adjacent side panel modules SPM** assembled in a two-by-two configuration, namely, adjacent side panel modules SPM** that are arranged side by side as well as one on top of the other in a same plane. In other words, in the illustrated example, a total of sixteen side panel modules SPM** are once again used to form the sidewall of the depicted modular crate assembly CR**. One will again understand that, depending on the size of the goods, the sizes of the bottom pallet part PL**, top part TP**, and sidewall could vary, and that each side panel SP** could especially include more than two adjacent side panel modules SPM** distributed horizontally and/or vertically.

[0132] The top part TP** may be secured to the upper portion of the sidewall by any appropriate means, including a set of screws and bolts as discussed in the context of the first and second embodiments. The same is true with regard to attachment of the lower portion of the sidewall to the bottom pallet part PL**.

[0133] In the illustrated example, attachment of the side panel modules SPM** in the vertical direction is advantageously ensured by means of a releasable locking mechanism LK that is provided in a lower portion of each side panel module SPM**, which releasable locking mechanism LK is similar to the locking mechanism LK already discussed in connection with the second embodiment.

[0134] In a manner similar to the second embodiment of FIGS. 7A-D to 11A-C, the side panel modules SPM** are dimensioned such that the sidewall extends over a surface of the bottom pallet part PL**, excluding the first and second lateral flanges 11**, 12** that extend outwardly along the first and second sides of the bottom pallet part PL**.

[0135] As shown in FIGS. 16A to 16C, each stage of the sidewall of the modular crate assembly CR** consists of eight side panel modules SPM** arranged in a square configuration. In the illustrated example, each side panel module SPM** likewise comprises first and second lateral mating interfaces 300*, 400* that are configured to allow direct joining of adjacent side panel modules SPM** along two perpendicular planes to form the corners of the sidewall (as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B). Furthermore, the first and second lateral mating interfaces 300*, 400* are likewise configured to allow indirect joining of adjacent side panel modules SPM** along a same plane via an intermediate connecting part 500* to form each side panel SP** (as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16C).

[0136] More specifically, and in a manner similar to the second embodiment, the first lateral mating interface 300* includes a first mating surface 300A* and the second lateral mating interface 400* includes a second mating surface 400A* that is configured to cooperate with the first mating surface 300A* of another adjacent side panel module SPM** to provide the direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM** at the corners of the sidewall, i.e. along two perpendicular planes as shown e.g. in FIG. 16B. The intermediate connecting part 500*, which is used in this case to allow connection of adjacent side panel modules SPM** in the same plane, likewise includes third and fourth mating surfaces 500A*, 500B* that are configured to cooperate, respectively, with the first mating surface 300A* of a first adjacent side panel module SPM** and with the second mating surface 400A* of a second adjacent side panel module SPM** to provide the indirect joining of the first and second adjacent side panel modules SPM** along the same plane as shown e.g. in FIG. 16C.

[0137] While intermediate connecting parts 500* are necessary in this case to allow formation of the relevant side panels SP**, one will once again appreciate that cover elements CM1, CM2 as discussed in the context of the first embodiment are not necessary.

[0138] While other angles could potentially be contemplated, the first, second, third and fourth mating surfaces 300A*, 400A*, 500A*, 500B* are preferably oriented at substantially 45 degrees with respect to a longitudinal plane of the side panel module SPM**.

[0139] By way of preference, the first mating surface 300A* is provided with a male (or female) connecting structure 310* configured to mate with a corresponding female (or male) connecting structure 410* provided on the second mating surface 400A*. Likewise, the third and fourth mating surfaces 500A*. 500B* are each provided with a female or male connecting structure 510*, resp. 520* configured to mate with the corresponding male or female connecting structure 310*, resp. 410* provided on the first and second mating surfaces 300A*. 400A*. In this way, adequate joining of the side panel modules SPM** can be reliably ensured and maintained.

[0140] In contrast to the second embodiment where the intermediate connecting part 500 exhibits a substantial trapezoidal cross-sectional profile, as visible in FIGS. 11A and 11C, the intermediate connecting part 500* here exhibits a substantially triangular cross-sectional profile as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16C. This allows maximum usage of the available space immediately above the main structural body 10** of the underlying pallet module PLM**. In the second embodiment of FIGS. 7A-D to 11A-C (see also FIGS. 12A-C and 14), the trapezoidal cross-sectional profile of the intermediate connecting part 500 implies that the side panels SP* are offset slightly inward from the peripheral border 10A* of the main structural body 10* of the underlying pallet module PLM*.

[0141] Also visible in FIGS. 15A-C and 16A-C are a plurality of mounting holes, designated by reference sign 350* in FIGS. 15C, 16B and 16C, that are provided on each side panel module SPM** for the optional provision of additional structural elements, including in particular structural reinforcements to increase the structural strength of the crate assembly CR**. Such structural reinforcements could for instance take the shape of longitudinal beams or rods secured to the relevant side panels SP** or crossbars extending inside the storage space formed by the sidewall, namely, crossbars extending transversely between opposite side panels SP**.

[0142] FIGS. 17A to 17D show yet another embodiment of the invention. This embodiment combines the advantage of relying on the use of a single type of side panel modules, designated by reference sign SPM***, comprising first and second lateral mating interfaces 700, 800 that are configured to allow direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM*** along two perpendicular planes to form the corners of the sidewall (as shown in FIG. 17C) and to allow direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM*** along a same plane to form each side panel, designated SP*** (as shown in FIG. 17D).

[0143] In that regard, no intermediate connecting part is required in this case and the extreme edge of each of the first and second lateral mating interfaces 700, 800 is provided with a terminating lip 700b, resp. 800b. As shown in FIG. 17D, these terminating lips 700b, 800b are configured to overlap one with the other upon direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM*** along the same plane. This overlapping of the terminating lips 700b, 800b is sufficient to ensure mechanical stability between the side panel modules SPM*** along each side panel SP***, thereby doing away with the necessity to provide an intermediate connecting part.

[0144] In the embodiment of FIGS. 17A-D, one may accordingly note that the male and female connecting structures 710, 810 are only configured to mate one with the other upon direct joining of two adjacent side panel modules SPM*** at the corners of the sidewall.

[0145] The side panel module SPM*** however retains the same functionality as the side panel module SPM* of FIGS. 7A-D to 11A-C or the side panel module SPM** of FIGS. 15A-C to 16A-C, namely the provision of a retaining element 600 protruding from the upper portion the side panel module SPM***. The comments above made with reference to the locking mechanism of FIGS. 10A-C therefore also apply to the embodiment of FIGS. 17A-D.

[0146] The side panel module SPM*** is similarly provided with a plurality of mounting holes 350* for the optional provision of additional structural elements, including in particular structural reinforcements (such as longitudinal beams/rods or crossbars) to increase the structural strength of the crate assembly.

[0147] Various modifications and/or improvements may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0148] In other embodiment, multiple side panel modules could be replaced by side panel modules of greater dimensions. For instance, the two-by-two arrangement of side panel modules SPM shown in FIGS. 1A-E and 2 could perfectly be replaced by a single panel module of a corresponding size. The same is true with respect to the arrangement of side panel modules SPM*, resp. SPM**, inclusive intermediate connecting parts 500, resp. 500*, shown in FIGS. 7A-D and FIGS. 15A-C, which could likewise be replaced by a single panel module of a corresponding size. In effect, an assortment of side panel modules of varying sizes could be contemplated, in a manner similar to the principle disclosed in International (PCT) Publications Nos. WO 2020/141492 A1 and WO 2020/141494 A1 with regard to the pallet modules.

[0149] Likewise, in other embodiments, multiple top modules could be replaced by top modules of greater dimensions. For instance, the two-by-two arrangement of top modules TPM, TPM*, resp. TPM** used in connection with the aforementioned embodiments could perfectly be replaced by a single top module of a corresponding size or by any other suitable assembly of top modules.

[0150] Furthermore, rather than being arranged on the top side of the top modules (as shown e.g. in FIGS. 7A, 7D, 9 and 15A), the relevant connection devices 50A, 50B could alternatively be arranged on the underside of the top modules.

[0151] In addition, referring to the embodiments of FIGS. 7A-C to 11A-C. 15A-C to 16A-C, and 17A-D. attachment of the top part TP*, resp. TP**, could be performed by means of mounting pins inserted laterally in the top modules TPM*, resp. TPM**, to cooperate with the lateral opening 600A of the relevant retaining elements 600 that protrude from the upper portion of the uppermost side panel modules SPM*, SPM**, resp. SPM***, thus doing away with the use of screws and bolts to secure the top part to the sidewall.

List of Reference Numerals and Signs Used Therein

[0152] CR modular crate assembly (first embodiment) [0153] PL bottom pallet part of modular crate assembly CR [0154] PLM (unit-size) pallet module(s) [0155] FT foot structure [0156] SP side panels forming sidewall of modular crate assembly CR [0157] SPM (unit-size) side panel module(s) [0158] TP top part of modular crate assembly CR [0159] TPM (unit-size) top module(s) [0160] 10 main structural body of pallet module PLM [0161] 10A generally quadrilateral peripheral border of main structural body 10 with first to fourth lateral sides [0162] 11 first lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 10A of the main structural body 10 along first lateral side [0163] 12 second lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 10A of the main structural body 10 along second lateral side [0164] 13 first lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 10A of the main structural body 10 along third lateral side [0165] 14 second lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 10A of the main structural body 10 along fourth lateral side [0166] 15-19 mounting holes [0167] CM1 cover element(s) designed to cover first or second lateral flange 11, 12 [0168] 20 main structural body of top module TPM [0169] 20A generally quadrilateral peripheral border of main structural body 20 with first to fourth lateral sides [0170] 21 first lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 20A of the main structural body 20 along first lateral side [0171] 22 second lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 20A of the main structural body 20 along second lateral side [0172] 23 first lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 20A of the main structural body 20 along third lateral side [0173] 24 second lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 20A of the main structural body 20 along fourth lateral side [0174] 25-29 mounting holes [0175] CM2 cover element(s) designed to cover first or second lateral flange 21, 22 [0176] 30 screws [0177] 35 bolts [0178] 50A releasable connection device(s), e.g. releasable latch component(s)/toggle latch component (movable latch element) [0179] 50B releasable connection device(s), e.g. releasable latch component(s)/toggle latch component (catch element) [0180] 100 first lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM [0181] 100A first mating surface provided at first lateral mating interface 100 [0182] 100B second mating surface provided at first lateral mating interface 100 [0183] 110 (male) connecting structure provided on first mating surface 100A for cooperation with (female) connecting structure 210 [0184] 120 (male) connecting structure provided on second mating surface 100B for cooperation with (female) connecting structure 220 [0185] 200 second lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM [0186] 200A third mating surface provided at second lateral mating interface 200 [0187] 210 (female) connecting structure provided on third mating surface 200A for cooperation with (male) connecting structure 110 [0188] 220 (female) connecting structure provided on third mating surface 200A for cooperation with (male) connecting structure 120 [0189] 151-154 mounting holes [0190] CR* modular crate assembly (second embodiment) [0191] PL* bottom pallet part of modular crate assembly CR* [0192] PLM* (medium-size) pallet module [0193] FT* foot structure [0194] SP* side panels forming sidewall of modular crate assembly CR* [0195] SPM* (unit-size) side panel module(s) [0196] TP* top part of modular crate assembly CR* [0197] TPM* (unit-size) top module(s) [0198] 10* main structural body of pallet module PLM* [0199] 10A* generally quadrilateral peripheral border of main structural body 10* with first to fourth lateral sides [0200] 11* first lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 10A* of the main structural body 10* along first lateral side [0201] 12* second lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 10A* of the main structural body 10* along second lateral side [0202] 13* first lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 10A* of the main structural body 10* along third lateral side [0203] 14* second lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 10A* of the main structural body 10* along fourth lateral side [0204] 20* main structural body of top module TPM* [0205] 20A* generally quadrilateral peripheral border of main structural body 20* with first to fourth lateral sides [0206] 21* first lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 20A* of the main structural body 20* along first lateral side [0207] 22* second lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 20A* of the main structural body 20* along second lateral side [0208] 23* first lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 20A* of the main structural body 20* along third lateral side [0209] 24* second lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 20A* of the main structural body 20* along fourth lateral side [0210] 300 first lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM* [0211] 300A first mating surface provided at first lateral mating interface 300 [0212] 310 (male) connecting structure provided on first mating surface 300A for cooperation with (female) connecting structure 410 or 510 [0213] 400 second lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM* [0214] 400A second mating surface provided at second lateral mating interface 400 [0215] 410 (female) connecting structure provided on second mating surface 400A for cooperation with (male) connecting structure 310 or 520 [0216] 500 intermediate connecting part [0217] 500A third mating surface provided on intermediate connecting part 500 [0218] 510 (female) connecting structure provided on third mating surface 500A for cooperation with (male) connecting structure 310 [0219] 500B fourth mating surface provided on intermediate connecting part 500 [0220] 520 (male) connecting structure provided on fourth mating surface 500B for cooperation with (female) connecting structure 410 [0221] LK releasable locking mechanism [0222] 60 slider for lateral actuation of locking element 650 [0223] 600 retaining element provided on upper portion of side panel module SPM* [0224] 600A lateral opening of retaining element 600 [0225] 650 laterally-movable locking element of locking mechanism LK [0226] CR modular crate assembly (further embodiments) [0227] PL bottom pallet part of modular crate assembly CR [0228] PLM (medium-size) pallet module [0229] FT foot structure [0230] SP side panels forming sidewall of modular crate assembly CR [0231] SPM (unit-size) side panel module(s) [0232] SPM (double-size) side panel module [0233] SPM (double-size) side panel module [0234] 500 intermediate connecting part(s) [0235] TP top part of modular crate assembly CR [0236] TPM (unit-size) top module(s) [0237] H.sub.SPM height of (unit-size) side panel module SPM [0238] CR** modular crate assembly (further embodiment) [0239] PL** bottom pallet part of modular crate assembly CR** [0240] PLM** (medium-size) pallet module [0241] FT** foot structure [0242] SP** side panels forming sidewall of modular crate assembly CR** [0243] SPM** (unit-size) side panel module(s) [0244] TP** top part of modular crate assembly CR** [0245] TPM** (unit-size) top module(s) [0246] 10** main structural body of pallet module PLM** [0247] 10A** generally quadrilateral peripheral border of main structural body 10** with first to fourth lateral sides [0248] 11** first lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 10A** of the main structural body 10** along first lateral side [0249] 12** second lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 10A** of the main structural body 10** along second lateral side [0250] 13** first lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 10A** of the main structural body 10** along third lateral side [0251] 14** second lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 10A** of the main structural body 10** along fourth lateral side [0252] 20** main structural body of top module TPM** [0253] 20A** generally quadrilateral peripheral border of main structural body 20** with first to fourth lateral sides [0254] 21** first lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 20A** of the main structural body 20** along first lateral side [0255] 22** second lateral flange extending outwardly from peripheral border 20A** of the main structural body 20** along second lateral side [0256] 23** first lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 20A** of the main structural body 20** along third lateral side [0257] 24** second lateral groove extending inwardly from peripheral border 20A** of the main structural body 20** along fourth lateral side [0258] 300* first lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM** [0259] 300A* first mating surface provided at first lateral mating interface 300* [0260] 310* (male) connecting structure provided on first mating surface 300A* for cooperation with (female) connecting structure 410* or 510* [0261] 350* mounting holes provided on side panel module SPM** for the provision of e.g. structural reinforcements [0262] 400* second lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM** [0263] 400A* second mating surface provided at second lateral mating interface 400* [0264] 410* (female) connecting structure provided on second mating surface 400A* for cooperation with (male) connecting structure 310* or 520* [0265] 500* intermediate connecting part [0266] 500A* third mating surface provided on intermediate connecting part 500* [0267] 510* (female) connecting structure provided on third mating surface 500A* for cooperation with (male) connecting structure 310* [0268] 500B* fourth mating surface provided on intermediate connecting part 500* [0269] 520* (male) connecting structure provided on fourth mating surface 500B* for cooperation with (female) connecting structure 410* [0270] SP*** side panels forming sidewall of modular crate assembly [0271] SPM*** (unit-size) side panel module(s) [0272] 700 first lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM [0273] 700A first mating surface provided at first lateral mating interface 700 [0274] 700b terminating lip provided on extreme edge of first lateral mating interface 700 [0275] 710 (male) connecting structure provided on first mating surface 700A for cooperation with (female) connecting structure 810 [0276] 800 second lateral mating interface of side panel module SPM*** [0277] 800A second mating surface provided at second lateral mating interface 800 [0278] 800b terminating lip provided on extreme edge of second lateral mating interface 800 [0279] 810 (female) connecting structure provided on second mating surface 800A for cooperation with (male) connecting structure 710