REUSABLE PACKAGING SYSTEM

Abstract

Disclosed is a reusable packaging and delivering system including: a foldable outer layer configured to form a box or to collapse for storage; and, an inflatable inner layer configured to fit within the foldable outer layer and to secure the content when inflated or deflated. Also disclosed is a method for packaging a content using a reusable packaging system and returning the reusable packaging system, the method including: unfolding a foldable outer layer, forming a box; inflating an inflatable inner layer within the box via a valve; placing the content within the inflated inner layer; securing the packaging system with security seals on rims of the box and a fastening element; placing a delivery note within a transparent pocket; and removing the content and the delivery note upon delivery by a delivery person and returning the packaging system to the delivery person thereafter or until next delivery.

Claims

1. A reusable packaging and delivering system comprising: a foldable outer layer configured to form a box for packaging a content or to collapse for storage; and an inflatable inner layer configured to fit within the foldable outer layer and to secure the content when inflated or deflated.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the foldable outer layer is designed to be tapeless and made of a durable, thin layer of paper including but not limited to Kraft paper.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable inner layer is configured to provide an airtight cushion for shock protection and to waterproof the content in the packaging system.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the foldable outer layer and the inflatable inner layer form a pair that are customizable to pre-determined specifications to fit different sizes of the content.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable inner layer further comprises a valve for inflation and deflation.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the inflatable inner layer is manually or electrically inflatable via the valve.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the deflated inflatable inner layer can be folded and stored within the foldable outer layer for subsequent use.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable inner layer is removable and reusable for another packaging system of same size.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable inner layer is made of flexible material including but not limited to polymeric or elastomeric materials.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system further comprises: a transparent pocket affixed to the outer layer for holding notes; an identification label affixed to the outer layer for recording a safe return of the packaging system; a plurality of security seals configured to secure rims of the packaging system, ensuring content protection and indicating tampering; and a fastening element configured to secure the packaging system in folded or unfolded state.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a deposit system to encourage return of the packaging system.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the deposit system utilizes the identification label including but not limited to an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or a barcode to record safe return of the packaging system.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein the holding notes placed inside the transparent pocket include but are not limited to delivery notes with personal information, removable by the recipient upon returning the box for protection of the personal information without damaging the packaging system.

14. The system according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of security seals is small, self-adhesive seals configured to be torn or cut when the packaging system is opened and the seals are to remain adhered to the outer layer after initial cut, such that the torn or cut on the seals indicate tampering with the packaging system.

15. The system according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of security seals are placed over the torn or old cut seals when the packaging system is being reused.

16. The system according to claim 10, wherein the fasting element is manufactured from a resilient material with high tensile strength.

17. A method for packaging a content using a reusable packaging system and returning the reusable packaging system, the method comprising: unfolding a foldable outer layer, forming a box; placing the content within a deflated inner layer; inflating the inflatable inner layer within the box via a valve forming a cushion and securing the content by blowing air; securing the packaging system with a plurality of security seals on rims of the box and a fastening element; placing a delivery note within a transparent pocket affixed to the outer layer of the box; and removing the content and the delivery note upon delivery by a delivery person and returning the packaging system to the delivery person thereafter or until next delivery.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein upon returning the packaging system to the delivery person, safe return of the packaging system is confirmed.

19. The method according to claim 17, the step of returning the reusable packaging system further comprising: deflating the inner layer within the box; collapsing and folding the outer layer together with the deflated inner layer; securing the packaging system with the fastening element; returning the folded packaging system to a designated location; and, receiving a refund for a deposit associated with the returned packaging system via a deposit system upon scanning of an identification label on the outer layer.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] The features of the invention will be more readily understood and appreciated from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which:

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates flattened views of the packaging system;

[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates different sizes of the packaging system, stackable for delivery purposes;

[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates placement of contents using the packaging system;

[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a method of folding the packaging system;

[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment the packaging system;

[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates a self-returning machine, positioned at a pre-determined location for returning the packaging system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] For the purposes of promoting and understanding the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described in the following written specification. It is understood that the present invention includes any alterations and modifications to the illustrated embodiments and includes further applications of the principles of the invention as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.

[0026] The present invention teaches a reusable packaging and delivering system 10 comprising of: a foldable outer layer 12 configured to form a box for packaging a content or to collapse for storage; and, an inflatable inner layer 14 configured to fit within the foldable outer layer 12 and to secure the content when inflated or deflated. FIG. 1 illustrates flattened views of the foldable outer layer 12 and the inflatable inner layer 14 of the packaging system.

[0027] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the foldable outer layer 12 is designed to be tapeless and made of a durable, thin layer of paper including but not limited to Kraft paper. The tapeless design prevents damage to the packaging system 10 when it is opened and reduces the time needed to remove tapes from the paper before recycling.

[0028] Durable material is used so that the packaging system 10 can be folded and unfolded many times without breaking.

[0029] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inflatable inner layer 14 is configured to provide an airtight cushion for shock protection and to waterproof the content in the packaging system 10.

[0030] The inflatable inner layer 14 in the system 10 provides better protection for the contents inside the packaging compared to other inventions. When air is pumped in with the contents inside, the layer acts as a tight air cushion that conforms to the shape and size of the item. The inflatable inner plastic layer 14 not only fits any shape and size of the item, but it also offers shock protection and facilitates waterproofing. Another advantage of using an inflatable inner layer 14 is the elimination of mixed materials in packing, which saves time sorting before recycling.

[0031] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the foldable outer layer 12 and the inflatable inner layer 14 form a pair that are customizable to pre-determined specifications to fit different sizes of the content to reduce the transportation cost. Each size is designed so that it can be stacked and placed on levels or racks stably during the transportation. The variety of sizes ensures that space is efficiently utilized during transportation, and the selection of appropriate box dimensions reduces the possibility of items falling during transit. FIG. 2 illustrates different sizes of the packaging system, stackable for delivery purposes.

[0032] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inflatable inner layer 14 further comprises a valve 16 for inflation and deflation. The inflatable inner layer 14 is manually or electrically inflatable via the valve 16. Packing and unpacking of the packaging system 10 are done simply by inflating and deflating the layer, as well as unfolding and folding the foldable outer layer 12 along with the inflatable inner layer 14, making the process much more convenient and faster than current methods involving extensive wrapping. FIG. 3 illustrates placement of contents using the packaging system.

[0033] The inflation can be done manually by the user or with any suitable existing electrical pump in the market. The inflation process is fast and saves time in packing compared to the current use of wrapping layers with adhesive tapes. The unpacking process of the packaging system 10 is also easy: the air is released by opening the valve 16 on the inflatable inner layer 14, reducing the chance of breaking the item when cutting the wrapping layers.

[0034] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the deflated inflatable inner layer 14 can be folded and stored within the foldable outer layer 12 for subsequent use. This feature helps to reduce the size for temporary storage before returning the packaging system 10. FIG. 4 illustrates a method of folding the packaging system.

[0035] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inflatable inner layer 14 is removable and reusable for another packaging system 10 of same size. This is to extend its life span, ensuring that it can be reused multiple times and reducing the need for frequent replacements. The inflatable inner layer 14 and the foldable outer layer 12 can be reused up to 20 times, or even more for the inner layer 14. After many uses, the packaging system 10 can also be recycled.

[0036] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the inflatable inner layer 14 is made of flexible material including but not limited to polymeric or elastomeric materials.

[0037] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system 10 further comprises: a transparent pocket 22 affixed to the outer layer 12 for holding notes; an identification label 24 affixed to the outer layer 12 for recording a safe return of the packaging system 10; a plurality of security seals 20 configured to secure rims of the packaging system 10, ensuring content protection and indicating tampering; and, a fastening element 18 configured to secure the packaging system 10 in folded or unfolded state. Additionally, the surface of the box and inflatable inner layer 14 is coated with an antiviral material to ensure hygiene during reuse.

[0038] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises a deposit system to encourage return of the packaging system 10. The identification label 24 is used to record whether the packaging system 10 is returned or not after use.

[0039] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the deposit system utilizes the identification label 24 including but not limited to an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) or a barcode to record safe return of the packaging system 10.

[0040] The packaging system 10 is primarily used for delivering online shopping materials. Companies use this system 10 and charge the customer a deposit when items are sent out. Each package is identified and recorded with an identification label 24 on its surface, allowing it to be easily tracked when sent out or returned. However, ordinary users may also use the packaging system 10 for storage purposes. They can fold and store the box for future use.

[0041] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the holding notes placed inside the transparent pocket 22 include but are not limited to delivery notes with personal information, removable by the recipient upon returning the box for protection of the personal information without damaging the packaging system 10.

[0042] The transparent pocket 22 for holding the delivery note eliminates the need for sticking the address label onto the packaging system 10, which currently damages the packaging when customers remove the label. Removing the delivery note after delivery also protects customer privacy. Customers can easily remove the delivery note with personal information, such as name and address, from the transparent pocket 22, ensuring that the packaging system 10 carries no information after use. The tapeless design and the transparent pocket 22 for the delivery note prevent the use of adhesive tapes or stickers, avoiding damage to the packaging system 10 after use. This differs from the current situation, where the address label is firmly stuck on the packaging system, making it difficult to remove and causing damage that renders the packaging system unusable and destined for disposal instead of reuse.

[0043] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of security seals 20 is small, self-adhesive seals configured to be torn or cut when the packaging system 10 is opened and the seals 20 are to remain adhered to the outer layer 12 after initial cut, such that the torn or cut on the seals 20 indicate tampering with the packaging system 10. This protects privacy by allowing the customer to verify if the packaging system 10 has been tampered with if any security seals 20 are broken. FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention which includes the valve 16, placement of new security seals 20 at rims of the packaging, the transparent pocket 22 for notes on the outer layer 12 of the packaging system and the fastening element 18 for goods packed and ready for delivery. A barcode 24 may also be placed on the packaging system to record safe return of the packaging system.

[0044] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of security seals 20 is placed over the torn or old cut seals 20 when the packaging system 10 is being reused. The security seals 20 do not need to be removed after use, reducing the chances of damaging the packaging.

[0045] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fasting element 18 is manufactured from a resilient material with high tensile strength. The fastening element 18 is attached to the packaging system 10. It is used to fix the packaging system 10 in place during return and also provides more secure packing during item delivery.

[0046] The present invention also discloses a method for packaging a content using a reusable packaging system 10 and returning the reusable packaging system 10, the method comprising: unfolding a foldable outer layer 12, forming a box; placing the content within a deflated inflated inner layer 14; inflating the inflatable inner layer 14 within the box via a valve 16 forming a cushion and securing the content by blowing air; securing the packaging system 10 with a plurality of security seals 20 on rims of the box and a fastening element 18; placing a delivery note within a transparent pocket 22 affixed to the outer layer 12 of the box; and, removing the content and the delivery note upon delivery by a delivery person and returning the packaging system 10 to the delivery person thereafter or until next delivery.

[0047] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, upon returning the packaging system 10 to the delivery person, safe return of the packaging system 10 is confirmed. Customers can choose to return the packaging system 10 immediately at the delivery location or during the next delivery by handing it directly to the delivery person.

[0048] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the step of returning the reusable packaging system 10 further comprising: deflating the inner layer 14 within the box; collapsing and folding the outer layer 12 together with the deflated inner layer 14; securing the packaging system 10 with the fastening element 18; returning the folded packaging system 10 to a designated location; and, receiving a refund for a deposit associated with the returned packaging system 10 via a deposit system upon scanning of an identification label 24 on the outer layer 12.

[0049] Customers have the option to return the used packaging system 10 using self-return machines located at convenient spots such as shopping malls or delivery collection points. After scanning the identification label 24, the packaging system 10 is recorded. For door-to-door service, the delivery person will confirm the return. At self-return machines, after scanning, the compartment lid corresponding to the company will open. An RFID reader will read the label as the box is placed inside, confirming the return. If the box is found damaged or with the plastic inner layer removed, the box's record will be updated using the identification label 24. Once the return is confirmed, the deposit will be refunded to the customer's account or through another method for customer collection. An embodiment of the self-returning machine is further illustrated in FIG. 6 wherein, the self-returning machine is positioned at a pre-determined location for returning the packaging system.

[0050] Further, advertisements can be placed on the foldable outer layer 12, which provides an opportunity to attract companies to adopt the packaging system 10. As more companies use the packaging system 10, they can share resources for collection, thereby reducing costs. Additionally, companies can generate revenue from placing advertisements on the packaging system 10.

[0051] The present invention explained above is not limited to the aforementioned embodiment and drawings, and it will be obvious to those having an ordinary skill in the art of the present invention that various replacements, deformations, and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.