WO1988004521A1

WO1988004521A1 - Plant container

Info

Publication number: WO1988004521A1
Application number: PCT/AU1987/000441
Authority: WO
Inventors: Grahame Bruce Grundy
Original assignee: WAMBOIN Pty Ltd
Current assignee: WAMBOIN Pty Ltd
Priority date: 1986-12-23
Filing date: 1987-12-23
Publication date: 1988-06-30
Anticipated expiration: 1989-06-23

Abstract

A blank for forming into a plant pot container having at least one side wall and a bottom wall. A sheet material blank part (2) is provided for forming the container side wall(s), and a sheet material blank part (3) is provided for forming the container bottom wall. Blank part (2) has opposite end regions (6, 7) and is foldable to bring the end regions (6, 7) adjacent one another for interconnection. The folded blank part (2) adopts a generally tubular shape with open ends. The bottom wall blank part (3) is separate from or integral with the side wall blank part (2), when forming the side wall(s) so as to close one open end thereof.

Description

PLANT CONTAINER This invention relates generally to a container and in particular to a container made up from sheet material blanks as well as the blanks for making up those containers. The container is applicable for use as a plant pot and it will be convenient to hereinafter disclose the invention in relation to that exemplary application. It is to be appreciated, however, that the invention is not limited to that application.

An inconvenience of growing plants in planter pots and other containers is that the plants should be regularly repotted into larger pots as they outgrow their original smaller pots to ensure healthy plant growth. The repotting process may need to be carried out several times throughout the plant life.

A disadvantage of this process is the need for a ready supply of pots of varying sizes for use during transplanting. The stocking of- those pots may be costly. Moreover, although the pots of similar sizes may be nested together, large storage areas may be required for the pots when they are not in use, particularly for large pot users such as nurseries.

Transportation of the pots when not in use may also be expensive due to their overall bulk.

In addition, the removal of plants from pots can sometimes be difficult during repotting. That can be particularly so for plants that are "root bound" so that extreme care may need to be exercised to avoid plant damage during repotting. Sometimes pots need to be destroyed or damaged during plant removal so that they are not available for subsequent use.

The cost of providing and replacing pots may also be high which can add significantly to the overall plant cost.

It is an object of the present invention to alleviate these disadvantages through the provision of a relatively simply container that can be made up from sheet material blanks as required for use and which is applicable as a plant pot. It is a further object to provide simple and inexpensive sheet material blanks that can be made up into those containers.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a blank for forming into a plant pot container having at least one side wall and a bottom wall, including: a sheet material blank part for forming the container side wall(s), the blank part having opposite end regions and being foldable to bring the end regions adjacent one another for interconnection whereby the blank part adopts a generally tubular shape with open ends; and, a sheet material blank part for forming the container bottom wall, the bottom wall blank part being separate from or integral with the side wall blank part and being securable to the side wall blank part when forming the side wall(s) to close one open end thereof.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a container when formed from the above blank.

The following description refers to preferred embodiments of the container blank and container of the present invention. To facilitate an understanding of the invention, reference is made in the description to the accompanying drawings where the blank and container are illustrated. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments as hereinafter described and as illustrated.

In the drawings:

Fig. 1 is a plan view of a side wall blank part of a container of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a plan view of a bottom wall blank part of a conainer of the present invention;

Fig. 3 is a side view of a container formed from the blank parts adjusted to one size;

Fig. 4 is a side view of the container adjusted to a different size; and,

Fig. 5 is a detailed cross sectional side view of a portion of the container of Fig. 4.

The drawings generally illustrate pot container 1, (Figs. 3 and 4) formed of blank part 2 (Fig. 1) providing a container side wall, and blank part 3 (Fig. 2) providing a contaienr bottom wall.

Side wall blank part 2 may be provided by one or more pieces. Thus, a single piece may be provided (as illustrated) or, alternatively, several pieces may be connected together to form that part 2. Where there are several pieces then they may form respective side walls of the container 1.

In this preferred embodiment side wall blank part 2 is composed of only a single sheet material piece. That blank part 2 is generally elongate with longitudinal side edge regions 4 and 5 extending between opposed end edge regions 6 and 7, and providing respective top and bottom edges of container 1. Blank part 2 is folded transversely in order to bring end regions 6, 7 together and form a side wall of generally tubular configuration with open ends. During folding, blank part 2 may or may not be creased so that the side wall may be polygonal or generally circular in plan view.

Side wall blank part 2 may be of any suitable developed shape having regard to the desired side wall shape and thus final container configuration. In that regard, in one embodiment (not illustrated) blank part 2 may be of a substantially rectangular shape with straight edge regions 4, 5, so that the side wall will be of a constant size between the top and bottom edges of container 1. In an alternative embodiment (illustrated) blank part 2 may be otherwise shaped with angled or curved side edge regions 4, 5, so that, upon folding, blank part 2 forms a non-constant size between the top and bottom edges. Thus, the side wall may taper or converge inwardly from the top edge to the bottom edge, and that may be especially useful in the exemplary application of the container as a plant pot. One such side wall shape may be achieved (for a generally circular side wall as illustrated) through an arcuate shaped side wall blank part 2 in which side edge regions 4, 5, curve parallel to one another between end edge regions 6, 7, and end edge regiond 6, 7, angle inwardly from side edge region 4 toward side edge region 5.

End edge regions 6, 7, are releasably interconnectable upon folding of blank part 2 until those edge regions 6, 7, overlap. Connection means 8 at end edge regions 6, 7, are provided for that purpose.

In a preferred embodiment (illustrated), connection means 8 provides a "barbed tab an slit" connection incorporated into side wall blank part 2. Thus, at end edge region 6 one or more (such as three) connection tabs 9 having barbs 10 are formed whilst cooperable slits 11 are formed at end edge region 7. Then, as end edge regions 6, 7, are brought together during blank part folding they are caused to overlap sufficiently to enable tabs 9 to be manoeuvered through slits 11. As will be well appreciated by those skilled in this art, barbs 10 of tabs 9 coact with the slit edges to inhibit return and thus release of tabs 9 from the slits 11. Versatility of container 1 will be enhanced through the provision of connection means 8 that enables selection of different relative positions at which end edge regions 6, 7, are interconnected. In this way, regions 6, 7, can be brought together to overlap a greater or lesser extend, and still be connected together, thereby varying the plan size of the resulting container. That may be achieved by incorporating several slits 11 cooperable with respective tabs 9 at spaced apart positions along blank part 2. Then, slits 11 for receiving tabs 9 are selected according to the desired size of the side wall. Where a pluralit of tabs 9 are provided (illustrated) then slits 11 may be arranged in spaced apart rows.

In an alternative • preferred embodiment (not illustrated) rleasable interconnection is provided by one or more separate connection elements. The element(s) may include clips, pins, studs, rivets, nuts and bolts, or other fasteners well known to those skilled in the relevant art. As necessary, side wall blank part 2 may be provided with apertures at or adjacent end edge regions 6, 7, thereof and through which the elements can pass. Again, the relative location of end regions 6, 7, may vary to adjust side wall size, and that may be achieved by repositioning the connection elements and if necessary providing several apertures at spaced apart position for receiving those elements.

Bottom wall blank part 3 may also be provided by one or more blank pieces. Preferably (illustrated), only a single piece will be used. In addition, (illustrated) bottom wall blank part 3 is formed separate from side wall blank part 2, although it may be formed integral therewith.

Bottom wall blank part 2 has a developed shape that will at least substantially conform to the shape of the side wall so as to fit therewithin. Thus, where the side wall is circular in plan shape then bottom wall blank part 3 will also be of that general shape. It should be appreciated that the bottom wall need not conform precisely to the shape of the side wall, and in particular in the exemplary application of the container an ill fit may be advantageous in providing gaps to allow water drainage from container 1. Bottom wall blank part 3 is supported within the confines of the side wall, and that support is by side wall blank part 2. Thus, no auxiliary support or fastening means is required to hold the bottom within the side wall although it should be appreciated that such means may be provided if desired. Support of the bottom wall is at peripheral edge region 12 of bottom wall blank part 3 and at or adjacent side edge region 5 of side wall blank part 2.

In a preferred embodiment, support of bottom wall blank part 3 is provided by a series of support lugs 13 spaced apart along side edge region 5 and on which peripheral edge region 12 bears. Lugs 13 are conveniently formed by cutting discrete slits 14 in side wall blank part 2 to define lug portions 15 that can then be bent out of the plane of blank part 2 so as to project inwardly from the side wall beneath the bottom wall. Each slit 14 may be of an inverted U- or V- or arcuate shape so that when portion 15 is bent inwardly upwardly facing "mouth" 16 (Fig. 5) is formed between portion 15 and the side wall into which peripheral edge region 12 seats. Where side wall blank part 2 is intended to provide only a single plane size side wall then bottom wall blank part 3 may be sized so as to fit nearly in position within the confines of the side wall. Alternatively, and particularly where side wall blank part 2 provides different sized side walls (illustrated), the bottom wall blank part 3 is adjustable to fit within the confines of side walls having different plan sizes. This alternative has the advantage of being able to use the same bottom wall blank part 3 with the side wall blank part 2 regardless of the selected plan size. In a preferred embodiment, adjustment of the bottom wall blank part size is achieved by slitting blank part 3 which then permits circumferential distortion of blank part 3 so that it can partially overlap itself and effectively reduce the plan size. One (illustrated) or more radially extending slits 17 may be provided so that, upon blank part distortion, blank edge regions 18 defining slit(s) 17 overlap to a greater or lesser extend and blank part 3 forms into a generally conical shape. Such a blank part 3 will project upwardly from peripheral edge region 12 into container 1 when fitted within the side wall .

Where bottom wall blank part 3 is circular in plan shape then single slit 17 may be provided, extending from the blank part cnetre and opening through peripheral edge region 12. It should be appreciated that additional slits may be provided, particularly for differently shaped bottomw all blank parts 3.

It should be appreciated that adjustment of the bottom wall blank part 3 may be achieved by other arrangements . In that regard, the blank part 3 may be provided with one or more fold lines along which blank part 3 folds in a pleating manner to cause distortion and thus alteration of the plan size. Again, any such fold lines may extend radially, and where blank part 3 is circular, then may extend inwardly from peripheral edge region 12. In the exemplary application of container 1, bottom wall blank part 3 may be provided with one or more through holes 19 to facilitate drainage. Holes 19 may be spaced apart about peripheral edge region 12 and/or located at and/or toward the centre of blank part 3. Side wall and bottom wall blank parts 2, 3, may be composed of any suitable sheet material having regard to the intended application of container 1. In the exemplary application the material should be sufficiently stiff to support a container plant, but flexible enough to enable the necessary folding of parts 2, 3. The material should also be resistant to deterioration, such as rotting, during use. Plastics material such as polypropylene may be used. The sheet material may have a thickness of between about 0.5 and 1.0 millimetres, and may be 0.7 millimetres thick. The side and bottom walls of the container may be coated or otherwise treated on their surfaces having regard to their intended application. In that regard, at least the surfaces of blank parts 2, 3, that provide the outside of container 1 5 may have a decorative finish, such as a decorative patten embossed thereon. In the exemplary application, the blank surfaces that provide the inside of container 1 may be coated with a plant fertilizer or other chemical that can be sourced by a plant in the container to facilitate plant growth. A ¹⁰ slow release fertilizer may be coated on those surfaces and that may then minimise the maintenance requirements of a contained plant.

In the exemplary application of the invention container 1 may be a self standing pot. Alternatively, (not 15 illustrated) container 1 may be hung or suspended in the manner of a hanging basket. For that purpose suspension lines can be connected to the side wall at or adjacent the top edge thereof. That connection may be direct between support line ends and side edge region 4. That connection may be through 20. suitable connection elements.

Depending on the nature of the material selected for side wall blank part 2 it may be necessary to reinforce the side wall against inward collapsed when hung with the suspension lines. Where that occurs a reinforcing ring may be

25 provided about the top edge of the container. That j reinforcing ring may be provided by a ring blank part of sheet material that is folded along side edge region 4 forming the top edge of the container. That ring may be connected to the side wall either separately or together with the suspension

30 lines. The reinforcing ring blank part may be composed of a strip of material the seme or similar used to provide the side and bottom wall blanks.

Tupically, the container of the present invention will be transported and stored in a collapsed condition. As a result, storage space and commensurate costs may be minimal compared with transportation and storage arrangements for current containers, particularly plant pots.

When it is desired to pot a plant using container 1 then the container can be made up from blank parts 2 and 3 "on site" . In that regard, side wall blank part 2 is initially folded into its tubular configuration and end edge regions 6, 7, connected together. The interconnection of those edge regions 6, 7, will be determined by the desired size of the side wall expanse, and thus eventual container size. Bottom wall blank part 3 is then fitted inside the side wall so that periphera edge region 12 is brought to bear upon the pushed out support lugs 13. Depending on the relative plan sizes of the side wall and bottom wall it may be necessary to distort bottom wall blank part 3 to fit it within the completed side wall. That distortion will tend to facilitate retention within the side wall by forcing peripheral edge region 12 outwardly into firm engagement with the side wall and into mouths 16. Where container 1 is to be hung then the suspension lines, and if necessary the reinforcing ring, are then connected to the side wall.

When a plant growing in container 1 requires repotting it can be a simple procedure to remove the plant. In that regard, the plant and growing medium may be pushed upwardly out of container 1 by applying pressure to th bottom wall forcing the bottom wall together with the plant and growing medium out of the side wall. As an alternative, end edge regions 6, 7, may be disconnected and side wall blank part 2 peeled away from the plant and growing medium. Thus, plant removal from container 1 can be achieved easily and with little likelihood of damage occuring to the plants.

During a plang repotting process the plant may be repotted into the same container if container 1 is adjustable to various sizes. In any event, if containr 1 is not adjustable it may be reused for potting another plant repotted from a smaller container. Because of this adjustment facility a reduced stock of container sizes and numbers may be possible which may reduce required storage space and storage costs. For containers that are not reused then they may be stored in their blank condition which again may minimise storage space and costs associated therewith.

The blanks used to form the container of the present invention are of a simple configuration which may be easily cut or otherise formed from sheet material. This may reduce containe production costs when compared to the costs associated with existing container such as plant pots.

Finally, it is to be to be understood that various modifications and/or alterations may be made to the container without departing from the ambit of the present invention as defined in the claims appended hereto.

Claims

Claims :

1. A blank for forming into a plant pot container having at least one side wall and a bottom wall, including: a sheet material blank part for forming the container side wall(s), the blank part having opposite end regions and being foldable

5 to bring the end regions adjacent one another for interconnection whereby the blank part adopts a generally tubular shape with open ends; and, a sheet material blank part for forming the container bottom wall, the bottom wall blank part being separate from or integral with the side wall blank lo part and being securable to the side wall blank part when forming the side wall(s) to close one open end thereof.

2. A blank as claimed in claim 1, wherein the side wall blank part is generally arcuate shaped between the end regions so that when folded the generally tubular shaped blank part

15 tapers or converges toward the one open end.

3. A blank as claimed in claim 2, wherein the side wall blank part has parallel curved top and bottom edge regions extending between the end regions and the side wall blank part, when folded, - adopts an inverted frusto conical shape.

^'20 4. A blank as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the side wall blank part has interconnection means at the end regions thereof for releasably interconnecting those end regions. 5. A blank as claimed in claim 4, wherein the

25 interconnection means includes at least one connection tab at one end region and at least one connection slit at the other end region into which the connection tab can be interlockingly received. 6. A blank as claimed in claim 5, wherein two or more connection slits are provided in spaced apart relation in a direction extending along the side wall blank part between the end regions, the connection tab being receivable in different

5 selected ones of the connection slits so as to vary the peripheral extent of the folded side wall blank part and thus the size of the container.

7. A blank as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the bottom wall blank part has a plan shape that at least 0 substantially conforms to the shape of the folded side wall blank part at the one open end.

8. A blank as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the side wall blank part has a series of support lugs spaced apart along a side edge region thereof that defines the one open end 5 of the folded side wall blank part, and the bottom wall blank part is shaped and size to fit within the side wall blank part with a peripheral edge region of the bottom wall blank part bearing against the lugs to secure the bottom wall blank part in position within the folded side wall blank part. o 9- A blank as claimed in claim 8 wherein the support lugs are formed by slits made in the side wall blank part so as to define lug portions that can be bent inwardly from the plane of the side wall blank part to provide the support lugs.

10. A blank as claimed in claim 9 wherein each slit is an 5 inverted U- or V- or arcuate shape so that, when the lug portions are bent inwardly, an upwardly facing mouth is formed between the lug and side wall blank part into which the peripheral edge of the bottom wall blank part can seat.

11. A blank as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the bottom wall blank part is adjustable to vary the peripheral extent thereof to fit that blank part within the folded side wall blank part at the one open end.

12. A blank as claimed in the preceding claim wherein the bottom wall blank part has at least one radial slit extending between the centre and peripheral edge thereof, the bottom wall blank part being distortable so as to overlap edge regions defining the slit and thereby vary the peripheral extent of the bottom wall blank part to fit the blank part within the folded side wall at the one open end thereof.

13. A blank as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the side wall and bottom wall blank parts are separate from each other.

14. A blank for forming into a plant pot container having at least one side wall and a bottom wall, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

15. A plant pot container when formed from a blank as claimed in any preceding claim. -