MXPA00005893A - Collapsible container - Google Patents

Abstract

A collapsible container (10) orientable between assembled and collapsed positions having a base (14), a pair of side walls (34, 36) and a pair of end walls (44, 46). The base (14) has a pair of opposing upstanding end flanges (24, 26) integral thereto defining a corner line (31) at each end and a side face member (32) perpendicular. A pair of opposing side edges (16, 18) lie in a plane parallel to and spaced inward from an adjacent co-planar pair of side face members (32) and pivotably attached to one of the opposing side edges (16, 18), forming an extension of the base (14) when the container (10) is assembled. Each side wall (34, 36) has a latch member (66) at each lateral edge (58, 60, 62, 64) having upper and lower curved surfaces (68, 70) and a tooth (74) at its distal end. Each end wall (44, 46) has a pair of flanges (52, 54) with an opening (84) sized to slidingly receive a latching member (82) in the assembled state and is securely held by a living hinge. The container is adapted to being nestable when in the collapsed position.

Description

FOLDING CONTAINER TECHNICAL FIELD This invention is concerned with a multipurpose folding container for storing transportation of items of plant products and other goods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Folding containers and boxes are commonly used to transport and store a variety of items. Such boxes are commonly formed by injection molded plastic and are often adapted to receive items of perishable food such as edible products. When assembled, such containers are rectangular in shape and have a flat base surrounded by four vertical side panels that are attached to the flat base. When the containers are not in use, the collapsible feature of the containers allows the containers to be folded or otherwise reduced in size, thereby providing a desired compact size when the storage space is minimal. In such collapsible containers, the edges of the side wall are normally attached at the corners. However, for a container mounted during use, this corner system results in a less rigid container because the corners are subjected to forces REF.121020 torsional and other bending forces during use. Thus, corners are commonly a focal point of effort in containers of this type. In addition, the various types of retaining and fixing mechanisms available for containers of this type are normally subjected to similar forces resulting in a less rigid container when assembled. Consequently, there is a need for an improved collapsible container having a retention located to minimize the stress concentration present in the current containers. The retention system or fixation of the improved collapsible container should also include a stable and rigid structure when in use. The container should also be suitable for joining with similar containers when folded.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a collapsible container that minimizes stress concentration at the corners. It is another object in accordance with the present invention to provide a collapsible container that includes a retention mechanism between adjacent vertical walls to provide a stable and rigid container structure.

It is still another object in accordance with the present invention to provide a collapsible container having improved stability that is movable from its folded to its assembled state with relative ease and also effective in cost to manufacture. Furthermore, it is an object in accordance with the present invention to provide a collapsible container that is suitable for splicing with similar containers when in the folded position, for stacking and storage purposes. In carrying out the above objects, features and advantages of the present invention, a collapsible container is provided which includes a base, a first pair of opposite side walls and a second pair of opposite side walls. The base includes first and second pairs of opposite edges. One of the first couple seconds of the opposite edges is defined by a vertical base wall, wherein the base wall has a pair of vertical corner portions that are integrally formed with the base wall. Each corner portion has a wall portion of the side face defining a surface plane and a transverse plane perpendicular to the plane of the surface. The others of the first second pairs of opposite edges fall in a plane parallel to and spaced inward from a pair of coplanar side front walls. These others of the first and second pairs also extend between the pair of transverse planes. The collapsible container also includes a first pair of opposite side walls. Each of the first pair of opposite side walls is rotatably joined to a corresponding pair of the first and second pairs of opposite edges of the base-a distance away from the corner portions. Each of the first pair of opposing side walls has a pair of opposite side flanges that depend inwardly thereof and that are integrally formed thereto. Each side flange has a receiving aperture of the detent formed therethrough. The collapsible container also includes a second pair of opposite side walls. Each of the second pair of opposite side walls (or end walls) is rotatably joined to another corresponding one of the first and second pair of opposite edges of the base at a distance away from the corner portions. As the first pair, each of the second pair of opposite side walls defines a pair of opposite side edges and each side edge has a retaining element integrally attached thereto. Thus, when the container is oriented in a mounted position, each side flange of the first pair of opposite side walls is spliced with an adjacent side edge of the second pair of opposite side walls. In this orientation, each detent receiving aperture receives a corresponding retaining member thereby forming a secure connection between the pairs of opposite first and second side walls and thus resulting in any resultant stress being away from the corner portions. In another embodiment, the container is oriented in a first disassembled position in such a manner that the first and second pairs of opposite side walls are rotatably folded inwards. In this orientation, one of the first and second pairs of opposite side walls is layered or stratified between the other of the first and second pairs of opposite side walls and the base. When the container is oriented in a second disassembled position, the first and second pairs of opposite side walls are folded outwardly from the base. In yet another embodiment, each lateral flange of the first pair of opposite side walls has an opening and each side edge of the second pair of opposite side walls has a large tab element attached thereto. Thus, when the container is oriented in the assembled position, each opening receives a corresponding large tab element which forms an interference fit to assist in the alignment of the adjacent side walls.

In yet another embodiment, each corner portion defines a corner line. Thus, when the container is oriented in the assembled position, each side flange is spliced with an adjacent side wall edge along a line distant from an adjacent corner line. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a folding box is also provided that is orientable between a mounted position and a folded position. This box has a base having a pair of opposite vertical end flanges formed integrally with the base and defining a corner line at each end. The base also includes a lateral front element adjacent to each corner line, oriented perpendicular to the corner line and formed integrally with the corner line. The base further includes a pair of opposite side edges, each falling in a plane parallel to and spaced inward from an adjacent coplanar pair of side front elements and extending between the coplanar pair of side front elements. This folding box also includes a pair of opposed side walls having an L-shaped cross section defined by a long wall and a relatively short wall. The short wall is "rotatably" attached to a corresponding edge of the opposite side edges of the base and when the box is oriented in the assembled position it forms an extension of the base.In the assembled position, the long wall is coplanar with the adjacent pair. Each lateral wall also has a retaining element disposed on each lateral edge, wherein the retaining element has upper and lower curved surfaces and a retaining h disposed at its distal end. pair of opposite end walls, each having a pair of flanges orthogonal thereto The flanges have an aperture dimensioned to slidably receive a corresponding retention element as the container is moved from the folded position to the assembled position. In this situation the h extends beyond the end wall and fixes to its position. with the present invention there is provided a collapsible container which is orientable in a mounted state and an inwardly folded state. The collapsible container includes: a bottom panel or bottom panel having a pair of opposed vertical flanges formed integrally. Each of the vertical flanged edges includes at each end an integral vertical corner element having a flat end portion, a flat side portion and a corner line defined between the flat end portion and the flat side portion. The bottom panel or the bottom panel further includes a pair of opposite side edges each located along an inward plane of an adjacent flat side portion. The collapsible container also includes a pair of opposed side walls having an L-shaped cross section that is defined by a long portion and a relatively shorter wall portion. The shorter wall portion is rotatably joined to a corresponding pair of the pair of opposite side edges, such that when the container is oriented in the assembled state the short wall position forms an extension of the base. In this assembled state, the long wall portion is coplanar with the flat side portion. Each of the opposite side walls further has a retaining element disposed on each side edge. The retaining element has upper and lower curved surfaces and a h element disposed at its distal end. The collapsible container also includes a pair of opposite end walls, each rotatably attached to a corresponding edge of the vertical flanged edges. Each end wall has a cross section U-shaped which includes a longer main wall portion and a pair of relatively shorter flanged portions attached to the side edges of the main wall portion and extending inward therefrom. Each flanged portion has an opening formed therein which is correspondingly formed to slidably receive the fastener. When the container is oriented in the assembled state the pair of opposite side walls and the pair of end walls are vertical. A) Yes, the fixing element is arranged in the opening and the tooth element extends beyond the opening to be fixed to the corresponding end wall. When the container is oriented in the folded inward state, each of the end walls and side walls is folded inward such that the pair of side walls is disposed between the bottom panel or bottom panel and the pair of walls. from the end. In this state, each shorter flanged portion is spliced >; with a corresponding flat side portion of a respective corner element. In another embodiment, the container is also steerable in an outwardly collapsible state wherein the pair of side panels is coplanar with the bottom panel. The container may also be connectable with similar containers. The above objects and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention are readily apparent from the following detailed description of the best modes for carrying out the invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 of the drawings illustrates the collapsible container according to the present invention oriented in an assembled state; Figure 2 of the drawings illustrates the foldable container of Figure 1 oriented in an outwardly foldable state; Figure 3 of the drawings illustrates the container of Figures 1-2 oriented in an inward folding state; Figure 4 of the drawings is a partial side view of the container according to the present invention with a partial section of the hinge mechanism; Figure 5 of the drawings illustrated is a partial side view of the container according to the present invention with a partial section of the side wall flanges and retaining system; Figure 6a of the drawings illustrates a portion of a second embodiment of an articulation system in accordance with the present invention; Figure 6b of the drawings illustrates a coupling portion to that shown in Figure 6a of a second embodiment of an articulation system in accordance with the present invention; Figure 6c of the drawings is a composite illustration showing the components of Figure 6a coupled with the components of Figure 6b; Figure 7 of the drawings is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a collapsible container according to the present invention; Figure 8 of the drawings is a perspective view of a base of the second embodiment of the collapsible container shown in Figure 7; Figure 9 of the drawings is a bottom plan view of the collapsible container shown in Figure 8; Figure 10a of the drawings is a partial perspective view of the bottom surface or bottom surface of the base of Figure 9 allowing the splice of the container; and Figure 10b of the drawings is a partial bottom plan view of the embodiment of the base of Figure 9 and 10a according to the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION With reference to Figure 1 of the drawings, the collapsible container 10 is illustrated therein. The components of the container 10 are normally formed by various types of plastic or polymeric material via an injection molding process. or another plastic molding process appropriate for this application. The collapsible container 10 can be used for storage or transportation of goods and can also be referred to as a folding box. The container 10 is particularly suitable for the transportation of edible products such as fruits and vegetables, where the circulation of air and / or refrigerated gas is necessary to keep the edible products fresh and consumable as long as they reach the market. This circulation is provided by means of the plurality of slots 12 provided in each panel especially in the container, as fully shown in Figures 1-3, and as best shown in Figure 2. The collapsible container 10 includes an element of base 14 having a bottom panel or bottom panel 15 which serves as the bottom support for the container. As best shown in the outwardly folded configuration of Figure 2, the bottom panel or bottom panel 15 is generally rectangular in shape and has four edges - i.e., a pair of opposite offset side edges 16 and 18, and a pair of opposite end edges 20 and 22. The base 14 further includes integrally molded vertical edges 24 and 26 (or base walls) oriented perpendicular to the lower panel 15, each defining an upper side edge 25 and 27 respectively. As is well understood in the art, the wall thickness of each of the walls and components illustrated and described herein may vary depending on the intended use and other desired characteristics of the container 10. The base 14 further includes four corner elements 28 located, of course, in each corner of the bottom panel or bottom panel 15. Similar to the vertical flanges, each corner element 28 is preferably integrally molded to the bottom panel or bottom panel 15 and to the vertical flanges 24 and 26. Specifically, each corner element 28 includes a face portion of the end 30 (or wall element or wall). end face) which is integral with its adjacent flange (24 and 26). Each portion of the corner 28 also includes a side face portion 32 (or side wall element or wall) that is oriented perpendicular to the face portion of the end 30. As shown in Fig. 1, the face portion 30 of the end of the portion 32 of the side face define a corner line 31 that is perpendicular to the bottom panel or bottom panel 15. As shown in Figures 1-2, the collapsible container 10 also includes a first pair of opposite side walls. 34 and 36, which are positioned opposite each other transversely to the bottom panel or bottom panel 15. Each of the side walls 34 and 36 are rotatably joined to the bottom panel 15 by means of a hinge configuration or system 37, located in the edges (16, 18) of the lower panel 15. Thus, the side walls (34,36) are folded or rotated in relation to the bottom panel or bottom panel 15 at the edges 16 and 18, which are shown displaced inwardly from the bottom. to lateral face portion 32, as shown in Figure 2. Such articulation system 37 allows side walls 34 and 36 to be foldably positioned in three orientations: the location of the assembled container as shown in Figure 1; the orientation folded outwards, as shown in Figure 2 and the foldable orientation inward, as illustrated in Figure 3. As seen in Figure 2, the articulation system 37 does not extend over the length of the base 14, but ends at a distance away from each vertical flange 24 and 26, also as a distance away from an adjacent corresponding corner line 31. Each side wall 34 and 36 has an L-shaped cross-section, best shown in FIG. Figure -2. The L-shaped cross section includes a long wall section 40 and a relatively shorter wall section 42. When the container 10 is in the mounted orientation of Figure 1, the shorter wall portion 42 is rotatably joined to the wall. a respective lateral edge (16, 18) to be coplanar with the lower panel 15 and serve as an extension of the bottom panel 15 to complete the rectangularity of the bottom panel or bottom panel 15, thereby compensating the lateral displacement of the sides 16, 18. As a result, because no articulation is located between the long wall section 40 and the shorter wall section 42, the stress is minimized at that intermediate edge. As seen in Figures 1 and 4, the articulation mechanism 37 includes cylindrical elements 38 which are spaced transversely to the length in the shortest wall section 42, of each side wall 34 and 36. The cylindrical elements 38 are integrally molded to base 14 next to each side cut 16,18. Attached to the short wall section 42 on each cylindrical element 38 is an element 39 having a C-shaped cross section which retains and receives the cylindrical element 38 through its length, thus allowing the side walls 34 and 36 rotate and fold with respect to the bottom panel 15 with minimal wear of the articulation mechanism 37. This system is shown representatively in Figure 4 as it is applied to a similarly configured system 48 in which the end wall 46 rotates in relation to to base 14, as discussed in full detail in this. Of course, it is contemplated that this articulation system is capable of being put into operation in another configuration, ie with the cylindrical element 38 formed integrally with the side walls (34,36) and the C-shaped element 39 formed on the panel lower 15 for securely receiving the cylindrical element 38. Further, as best shown in Figure 2, each element 39 having a C-shaped cross section includes a portion 43 disposed thereon and molded integrally thereto. The flat portion 43 serves as a detent causing the articulation portions to pause when each side wall (34,36) is raised from one of the folded states to a vertical position in its preparation for assembly. In other words, the flat portion 43 prevents the user from having to retain each side wall (34, 36) in position while the end walls (44, 46) are raised to the upright position in preparation for assembly. When the container 10 is folded, the user only needs to push the side wall past the point at which it pauses. As illustrated in Figures 1-3, the collapsible container 10 further includes a second pair of opposite side walls 44 and 46. Of course, for ease of reference and discussion, the second pair of side walls is designated herein as a pair of end walls 44 and 46, which is an appropriate nomenclature for the generally rectangular base configuration. As the side walls 34 and 36, the end walls 44 and 46 are rotatably joined in a manner similar to the bottom panel 15 by means of an articulation mechanism 48 which is similar in structure to the articulation mechanism 37 described above, as seen in FIG. Figure 4. However, unlike the side walls, the end walls (44,46) are folded in relation to the base 14 at a distance away from the bottom panel 15. Particularly, the side walls of the end 44 and 46 they are rotatably connected to the vertical flanges 24 and 26 respectively of the lower panel 15, close to the upper edges 25, 27. The height of the vertical flanges (24,26) define the aforementioned distance away from the lower panel 15. Similar to the other walls discussed herein, the end walls 44 and 46 are orientable in three positions: mounted as shown in Figure 1; folded outwards as shown in Figure 2 and folded inwards as shown in Figure 3. The articulation system used for the end walls 34 and 36 is similar to that described above in association with the side walls 34 and 36 This system is shown as a partial sectional view in Figure 4, detailing the cylindrical element 38 and the C-shaped element 39. Similarly to the articulation mechanism 37, in a preferred embodiment the articulation mechanism 48 does not extend to the corner line 31 but it is away from it. As best shown in Figure 2, each end wall 44 and 46 has a U-shaped cross section formed by the wall portion of the main end 50, and two portions of shorter flanges 52 and 54 integrally joined to the portion of wall of the main end 50 and located on one side or the other of the wall portion of the main end 50. The flange portions 52 and 54 are oriented orthogonal to the wall portion of the main end 50 and, in the mounted orientation of the Figure 1, are directed inward toward the base 14 and the side walls 34 and 36, respectively. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a fixing or retaining mechanism for retaining the side walls is also included in the container 10. (34,36) together with the end walls (44 and 46) to obtain the desired stability when the container 10 is oriented in the assembled position, as shown in figure 1. To carry out these fixing and holding functions , reference should be made to Figure 2 and in particular to Figure 5. Provided on each side edge (58, 60) and (62, 64) of the side walls 34 and 36, respectively, is a retention element 66 extending outwardly thereof. As shown in Figure 2, each retention element 66 has a slightly curved upper surface 68, preferably convex and a slightly curved lower surface 70, preferably concave. Furthermore, a tooth 74 is disposed at a distant end of the retaining element 66. By way of example with respect to Figure 5, for purposes of retention, the shortest flange 52 and 54 of the end wall 46 has a receiver 75 of the detent provided to receive the retainer 66. The detent receiver 75 includes an aperture 76 receiving the detent and a direct link 77. The aperture 76 is defined by the upper wall 87 of the aperture 84 and the lower surface of the aperture. direct hinge 77. Particularly as shown in figure 1, the opening 76 is appropriately dimensioned and shaped to firmly receive the retainer 66. Adjacent to the opening 76 is the direct hinge 77, which is attached to each side flange 52 , 54 by means of an articulation fitting 78 and has an opening 79 disposed thereon, thus allowing it to be flexible throughout its length and particularly in the direction of upwards. The direct link 77 is not attached to any portion of the container 10 except in the hinge fitting 78. Thus, as a side wall (34 or 36) is raised upward and an adjacent end wall (44 or 46) is subsequently raised upwardly to receive the retaining member 66 to the mounted orientation, the opening 76 slidably receives the retainer 66, while the raised tooth 74 flexes the link 77 upwardly from the rest position, causing the articulation 77 is temporarily flexed to the opening 79. In the final mounted position, the tooth 74 is retained on the exterior of the direct joint 77, which has since returned to the resting position or near the resting position. Specifically, du the assembled state a lip or lip 83 of the direct joint 77 falls into the cavity 81 formed between the tooth 74 and the upper surface 68 of the retaining element 66, thereby retaining the retaining element 66 in a secure manner and providing the desired stability to maintain the container 10 in the assembled position. The depth created by the flanges 52, 54 allows a longer retainer 66 that would otherwise be possible. To fold the container 10 from the mounted orientation, the lever 85 of the direct link 77 is lifted upwards by the user, and the ridge 83 is thus raised from the cavity 81 allowing the retainer 66 and its tooth 74 to be released of receiver 75 of the catch.

The reduced stress concentrations of the seals as provided in accordance with the present invention are further shown in Fig. 1. For example, with reference to the line 80 formed by the coupling side edges of the side wall 34 and the wall of the end 46 (specifically the flange 52 of the end wall 46). The retention that is carried out is this spacing of the corner line 31 which is commonly subjected to relatively higher stress concentration forces. Thus, according to the following invention, not only the corner elements 28 are unitary and integral to the base 14 to more fully support the stress concentrations, but the retention that in the past had been carried out throughout the corner line 31 and was subjected to this effort according to the present invention away from it to reduce the effort at the corners, thereby reducing stresses on the seals. In addition to the retaining element 66, a relatively long tongue element 82 is also provided on each side edge (58, 60) and (62, 64) of the side walls 34 and 36. As shown in Figures 2- and 5 , each large tab element 82 projects from its respective edge of the side walls 34 and 36. Also on each shorter flange 52 and 54 of the end wall 44 is an opening 84 which resembles a narrow slot and which corresponds to the large tab element 82 to receive it during orientation of the assembled container. The opening 84 receives the large tab member 82 in a secure fit to provide a way by which to align and orient the adjoining walls, as well as secondly to help securely retain the side walls (36 and 36) and the end walls. (40 and 42) vertically together during the mounted orientation. In addition, as further shown in Figure 2, the upper portion of the side edges (58, 60) and (62, 64) of the side walls 34 and 36 respectively, include a relatively small tab element 86. As the element 82 with a large reed, in the mounted orientation, the small tab member 86 is received by a corresponding tab opening 88 formed in the shorter flanges 52 and 54 of the end wall 44, 46. The small reed element 86 is generally provided for purposes of alignment as well as to provide an additional point of engagement between the adjoining walls. Referring now to Figure 3, the container 10 is shown oriented in an inwardly foldable orientation. Again the term "inward" designates a general direction of movement of the various walls towards the base 14 and the lower panel 15. As indicated in Figure 3 clearly, the design according to the present invention allows the container 10 to be folded in a manner Compact for storage and transport. In this orientation the side walls 34 and 36 are guided inward via the articulation mechanism 37 and folded in layers on top of the bottom panel 14. Figure 3 illustrates the side wall 34 folded to the first and the side wall 36 subsequently folded over the same In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, it is noted that, when folded inwardly, the retention element 66 of the side wall 36 extends inwardly and abuts an opening 90 with its tooth 74 adjacent to the vertical wall 92. , while the retaining element 66 of the side wall 34 extends inwardly and abuts an opening 94 with its tooth 74 adjacent the vertical wall 96. Thus, the retaining element 66 and the length of the tooth 74 are in such a way that they do not interfere with any other component, allowing the walls to fold neatly and compactly. Subsequently, end walls 44 and 46 are folded inwardly over walls 34 and 36 via retaining system 48. As further shown in Figure 3, the greater relative width of the end walls (44 and 46) compared to the relatively narrow transverse width of the lower panel 15 of the side edge 16 to the side edge 18, allows the flange portions 52 and 54 of the end walls (44 and 46) laterally enclose the side walls 34 and 36. Specifically, when the container 10 moves to the folded inward state of Figure 3, the shorter wall section 42 of the side wall 34, which as mentioned previously , in the assembled state is coplanar with the lower panel 15 and forms part of the bottom panel or lower panel 15, now swings up and out of the way to make the bottom narrow (i.e., restore the natural displacement of these sides 16 , 18), thus creating the proper spacing so that the flange portions 52 and 54 oscillate to the folded inward state. Further, in the orientation shown in Figure 3, the flange portions 52 and 54 are co-planar and collinear with the side face portion 31 of the corner element 28. As best illustrated in Figure 2, it will be noted that the lower portions 53 and 55 of the flange portions 52 and 54 are displaced inward from the upper flange portions and accordingly, in the folded inward orientation of FIG. 3, the lower portions 53 and 55 are positioned in a plane parallel to and toward each other. inside the side face portion 32. Figures 6a-6c illustrate an alternative embodiment of the joint systems 37 previously discussed herein. Similar components will be designated by similar reference numbers that carry apostrophe designations () for consistency and ease of reference. It should be noted for the purposes of Figure 6 that while a component may be arbitrarily designated as a wall or a base, the coupling link portions described herein may be exchanged (that is, they may be provided on a wall and may be provided on an attached basis). Thus, instead of the cylindrical element 38 as in Figures 1-3, a wall designated as the base 14 'of Figure 6b has articulation elements 98 that include annular (or semi-annular) projections if in - (or protuberances) which extend towards the adjacent articulation elements 98. Shown in figure 6a, for example purposes, a portion of another wall, the side wall 34; having elements 97 that retain the articulation with semi-circular or U-shaped openings 102 formed therein to securely receive a corresponding projection 100 for an interference or fixation orientation, allowing the side wall 34 'to rotate about an axis 104 with respect to the base 14 '. This system provides stability in three directions, that is, the directions defining the opening 102. Figure 6a shows also illustrates a curved element 106 having a surface that engages the cylindrical member 38 'to provide stability in a fourth direction.

Again, it is not necessary to repeat that as with Figures 1-3, it is fully contemplated that the articulation-receiving elements 97 having opening 102 may just be positioned on the base 14 ', while the articulation element 98 having Projection 100 can be formed in integral conformity with an attached side wall. Fig. 6c illustrates a partial assembly according to this embodiment, showing the components of Figs. 6a and 6b coupled in an alternative articulation assembly or assembly. As shown in Figures 1-3, each of the side walls (34, 36) and end walls (40, 42) include an opening 107 and 108 for the hand, respectively, ideally suited for use as a handle or handle for the purpose of carrying the container 10. With reference to figures 7-9 of the drawings, a second embodiment of a collapsible container according to the present invention is shown. The container 110 is shown in Figure 7 in a mounted orientation. As in the previous embodiment, the container 110 is also capable of being folded to each of an inwardly folded and a folded outward position in the manner illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. The container 110 includes a plurality of slots 112. formed therein to promote the circulation of air and other gases to keep the contents of the container fresh. A base 114 is further included which is discussed further herein in association with Figures 8-9. The container 110 also includes a pair of opposed side walls 134 and 136, also as a pair of opposite end walls 144 and 146 with flanges 152, 154. Each side wall (134, 136) and end wall (144, 146) it is rotatably joined to the base 114. Figure 8 illustrates the base 114 and the container 110 shown in figure 7. The base 114 includes a bottom panel or a bottom panel 115 which is rectangular in shape and has opposite side edges 116 and 118, and further includes opposite end edges 120 and 122. A pair of opposed vertical flanges 124 and 126 is provided and each is formed perpendicular to the bottom panel 115. Each vertical flange 124 and 126 defines an upper side edge 125 and 127 , respectively. In a manner similar to the first embodiment previously described herein, each side wall (134, 136) is rotatably hinged with respect to the base 114 with an upper edge of the corresponding end (125, 127). Thus, each end wall (144,146) is rotatably joined to the base 114 at a distance 114. In particular, the distance is defined by the height of the vertical flanges 124 and 126. With respect to the articulation systems of the container 110, shown in association with the base 114 of Fig. 8 are the lower portions of the articulation systems 137 (for the side walls) and 148 (for the end walls). Specifically, the articulation systems 137 and 148 include a plurality of lower articulation elements 197 that are integrally formed with the base 114 and are similar to the articulation portion 97 illustrated in Figure 6a representatively attached to the sidewall 34 '. As shown in Figure 8, three lower link elements 197 are provided along each upper edge of the end (125, 127), while five elements are provided along each side edge (116, 118). of lower articulation 197. These lower articulation elements 197 are spaced apart and centered along the length of the respective edge. Thus, in this embodiment and the side walls (134,136) and the end walls (144, 146) of Figure 7 have a coupling joint portion similar to the hinge portion 98 shown in Figure 6b (without the cylindrical element). 38 ') and can be put into operation similarly in relation to the adjoining portion 197. The cover articulation portions 98 are spaced apart and centered along their respective lower edges of the side walls 134,136 and end walls. 144, 146) for coupling with the corresponding lower base link elements 197.

In addition, each vertical flange 124 and 126 includes at either one end or another a vertical mounting post 117 projecting upwardly beyond the upper edges 125 and 27 and is integrally formed with the vertical flanges 124 and 126. Each Mounting post 117 includes two openings 119 and 121 formed therein. Each mounting post 117 also defines a corner line 131. The opening 119 is located relatively lower and the opening 121 is located relatively higher along the height of the post 117. Each collinear pair of the openings 117 is provided for receiving a corresponding projection (not shown in figure 8 but similar to projection 100 or 200 ') provided at each end of a corresponding side wall (134 or 136), to provide an additional pivot point for each side wall with respect to the base 114. Conversely, each collinear pair of openings 121 share an axis adjacent to the upper surface (125, 127) of the vertical wall 124, 126. The openings 121 are provided to receive a corresponding projection or other element provided either in one end or the other on each end wall (144, 146) thereby allowing each end wall to rotate with respect to the base 114. Thus, openings 119 and 121 provide They provide an additional pivot point and securing point along the lateral sides of each wall, thus enabling a stable articulation mechanism. Referring again to Figure 10a, a partial perspective view of a bottom surface 113 ', a base 114' similar to the base 114 of Figures 7-9 but having an alternative articulation configuration is shown therein. . As before, the similar components of FIGS. 10A-10B to those of FIGS. 7-9 will be designated by like reference numerals which carry premium designations (x) for consistency and ease of reference. In particular, Figure 10a shows a base 114 'having articulation elements 198' with projections 200 'similar to the base 114' (with the articulation element 98) shown in Figure 6b, but without the cylindrical element 38 '. Thus, a side wall or end wall suitable for coupling with the base 114 'of Figure 10a would thus have a hinge configuration similar to that of the hinge portion 97 of Figure 6a, without the curved element 106. Figure 9 is a bottom plan view and figure 10b is a partial plan view of the containers (110, 110 '), which share a common bottom surface (113) of the base (114, 114 ') and provide a design that allows the splicing of similar containers (110-110') one on top of the other when they are in the inwardly folded orientation (as in Figure 3). This design allows an inwardly folded container 10 to be stacked on top of a similarly folded container such that the resulting stack is stable. In particular, in this spliced orientation, the bottom surface 113 would mate with the end walls (144, 1146) having a corresponding design as shown in Figure 7, allowing the like containers to be securely connected. With such a design of the bottom surface, the containers can also be stacked crosswise. Of course, it is contemplated that the embodiment shown in Figures 1-4 is also apt to be joined with similar containers in the manner described above. Figure 10b is a partial amplified view of the design of Figure 9 showing in general the corner area bounded by the intersection of lines AA and BB of Figure 9. It will be noted in Figures 7-10 that the base (114 , 114 ') does not have a complete corner section (ie, no side loading portion corresponding to the portion 32 of Figures 1-3). Instead of this, it is noted that in this embodiment the side walls (134, 136) have a portion (135) that occupies this area and that would have the pivot projection corresponding to the aperture 119. It is also recognized that the retention of the modalities of Figures 7-10 is similar to that shown in Figures 1-3 and 5. It is noted in particular that as the other modality, the retention in the present is far from the corner line given the similar U-shaped design of the end walls 144 and 146 to that of 44 and 46. Finally, it should be noted that similar components among the modalities shown in FIG. Figures 7-10 typically add 100 to the reference number of the common components of Figures 1-5. It will be understood, of course, that while the various forms of the invention shown herein include the best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention, they are not intended to illustrate all possible forms thereof. It will also be understood that the words used are descriptive rather than limiting and that various changes can be made without deviating from the spirit or scope of the invention as claimed below. It is noted that, in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects to which it refers.

REGVINDICATIONS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property: 1 A collapsible container characterized in that it comprises: a base having first and second pairs of opposite edges, one of the first and second pairs of opposite edges are each defined by a vertical base wall; a first pair of opposing side walls, each rotatably joined to a corresponding pair of the first and second pairs of opposite edges of the base, each of the first pair of opposite side walls having a pair of opposite lateral flanges depending inwardly from the opposite side walls. same and integral therewith, each side rim has a retainer of the retainer formed therein, the retainer of the retainer includes an opening and a flexible retainer hinge and having a retainer release element that can be actuated by a user and a second pair of opposite side walls, each rotatably joined to another corresponding one of the first and second pairs of opposite edges of the base, each of the second pair of opposite side walls having a pair of opposite side edges, each side edge having a retaining element attached thereto, wherein, when the container is oriented in a mounted position each lateral flange of the The first pair of opposite side walls is connected to an adjacent lateral edge of the second pair of opposite side walls, such that each opening receives a corresponding retaining element which is held in its position by the retaining link, thereby forming a joint secure between first and second pairs of opposite side walls and wherein, in order to return the container to a folded position from the assembled position, each retainer release member is actuated by the user in order to release the retainer retained in the container. same. 2. The collapsible container of claim 1, wherein the container is oriented in a first disassembled position, the first and second pairs of opposite side walls are rotatably folded inward such that one of the first and second pairs of the walls opposite sides is laid in layers between the other of the first and second pairs of opposite side walls • and the base and when the container is oriented in a second disassembled position, the first and second pairs of opposite side walls are rotatably folded outwardly from each other. base. 3. The collapsible container of claim 1, characterized in that each side flange of the first pair of opposite side walls has an opening and each side flange of the second pair of opposite side walls has an elongate element there having a curvature along its length. length, wherein, when the container is oriented in the assembled position, each aperture receives a corresponding elongate member to form an interference fit to help jointly retain the adjacent side walls. The collapsible container of claim 1, wherein each base wall has a pair of vertical corner portions formed integrally therewith, each corner portion defining a corner line, such that when the container is oriented in the Mounted position, each side flange is spliced with an adjacent side edge along a distant line on the adjacent corner line. A foldable container orientatable between a mounted position and a folded position, characterized in that it comprises: a base having a pair of opposite vertical end flanges integral to the base and a pair of opposite lateral edges extending between the pair of flanges from the opposite vertical ends; a pair of opposite side walls rotatably joined to a corresponding edge of the opposite side edges of the base, each opposite side wall has a retaining element disposed on each lateral edge, the retaining member having a pair of opposed tapered surfaces and a pair of opposite end walls each having a pair of indentations dependent therein, the flanges have an aperture and an adjacent detent joint having a releasable portion operable by the user, the aperture is dimensioned to slidably receive the pair of opposed tapered surfaces of a corresponding detent element as the container is moved from the position folded to the assembled position and wherein the retaining element is secured by the retaining link in the assembled position and where, to release the container from the assembled position, the releasable portion operable by the user is operated by a user to release the retention element thereof. The collapsible container according to claim 5, characterized in that each pair of opposite vertical end flanges includes a corner mounting portion at each end having a first opening for receiving a pivot protrusion of an adjacent side wall and a second one. opening for receiving a pivot protrusion from a wall of the adjacent end, thereby allowing additional pivot points between the pair of opposite side walls and the pair of end walls opposed to the base. 7. An adjustable foldable container in an assembled state and an inwardly folded state, characterized in that it comprises: a bottom panel or bottom panel having a pair of opposed vertical flanged edges integrally formed, each of the pair of vertical flanged edges included in each end an integral vertical corner element having a flat end portion, a flat side portion and defining a corner line therebetween, the bottom panel or bottom panel having a pair of opposite side edges each located at length of an inward plane of an adjacent flat side portion; a pair of opposite side walls having an L-shaped cross section defined by a long wall portion and a relatively short wall portion, the short wall portion is rotatably joined to a corresponding pair of the pair of opposite side edges, such that when the container is oriented in the assembled state, the short wall portion forms a coplanar extension of the base and the long wall portion is coplanar with the flat side portion, each of the opposite side walls additionally having an element of retainer disposed on each side edge, the retaining element has upper and lower curved surfaces and a pair of opposite end walls, each rotatably attached to a corresponding edge of the vertical flanged edges and has a U-shaped cross section which includes a longer main wall portion and a pair of relatively shorter flanged portions attached to the main wall portion and directed inward thereof, each flanged portion has a flexible retention joint and an adjacent aperture formed therein correspondingly formed to slidably receive the retention element, wherein, when the container is oriented in the assembled state, the pair of side walls and the pair of end walls are vertical in such a way that the retaining element is disposed in the opening and fixed to its position by the retaining hinge and when the container is oriented in the inwardly folded state, each of the end walls and side walls is folded inwardly such that the pair of opposite side walls is disposed between the bottom panel or bottom panel and the pair of end walls, such that each shorter flanged portion is spliced with a corresponding flat side portion of a corner element. prospective The collapsible container of claim 7, characterized in that the container is also orientable in a collapsible folded outward state wherein the pair of side panels are coplanar with the bottom panel. 9. The collapsible container according to claim 1, characterized in that the retention release elements are operable in a vertical direction. 10. The collapsible container according to claim 1, characterized in that the detent release elements are operable in a horizontal direction. The collapsible container according to claim 1, characterized in that each retaining element has at least one tapered surface. The collapsible container according to claim 1, characterized in that the base includes a plurality of lower articulation elements, - each lower articulation element is defined by a flat external surface and a curved inner surface and i has an opening already in place. one end or the other, each opening is for receiving rotatably and securely therein a protrusion element disposed on a corresponding wall, wherein, during the assembled position, the flat portion is coplanar with its corresponding side wall. The foldable container according to claim 5, characterized in that the retention release elements are operable in a vertical direction. The collapsible container according to claim 5, characterized in that the retention release elements are operable in a horizontal direction. 15. The collapsible container according to claim 5, characterized in that the base includes a plurality of lower articulation elements, each lower articulation element has an opening already at one end or the other and is defined by a flat external surface and a curved inner surface, each opening is for securely receiving therein a protruding element disposed on a corresponding wall of the side walls or the end to rotationally attach- each wall to the base, wherein, during the assembled position, the The flat portion is coplanar with its corresponding opposite side wall. 16. The collapsible container according to claim 5, characterized in that the base includes a plurality of portions mounted in the machine oriented perpendicular to the base and integral with it, wherein each of the pair of opposite side walls and each of the pair of opposite end walls are rotatably mounted to the corner mounting portions. A collapsible container characterized in that it comprises: a base having first and second pairs of opposite edges, one of the first and second pairs of opposite edges is defined by a vertical base wall and each of the first and second pairs of edges Opposites includes a respective first and second plurality of lower link elements, each of the first and second pluralities of lower link elements is defined by a flat outer surface and a curved inner surface and have an opening either at one end or the other; a first pair of opposite side walls, each having a plurality of first pivot protrusion elements attached thereto to be rotatably and securely received in the opening of a corresponding element of the first plurality of lower link elements, each of the first pair of opposed sidewalls has a pair of opposite side rims dependent therein and integral with it, each side ridge has a receiving portion of the retainer formed therein, the receiving portion of the retainer includes an opening adjacent to the rim. a flexible retention joint having a retainer release element that is operable by a user and a second pair of opposed side walls each having a plurality of second pivot protrusion elements attached thereto to be received in a secure rotatable manner in the opening of a corresponding element of the second plurality of the lower articulation elements, each of the second pair of opposite side walls have a pair of opposite lateral edges, each lateral edge has at least one retaining element projecting therefrom, wherein, the container is oriented in a mounted position each lateral flange of the first pair of opposite side walls is connected to an adjacent lateral edge of the second pair of opposite side walls, in such a way that the opening receives a corresponding retaining element which is held in position by the retaining hinge, thereby forming a secure connection between the first and second pairs of opposite side walls and wherein, in the assembled position, the flat portion of the lower link element is coplanar with its corresponding opposite side wall and where, to return the container to a folded orientation the user operates the retainer release element releasing by means of This is the retention element secured in it. The collapsible container according to claim 17, characterized in that each retaining element has at least one tapered surface. 19. A retention mechanism suitable for use in a collapsible container having a side wall and an end wall that are able to move between a mounted position and a disassembled position, the side wall has a lateral edge of the side wall and the end wall has a side edge of the end which are adjacent to each other, wherein, in the assembled position the side and end walls are secured together and in the disassembled position the side and end walls are uncoupled from each other, the mechanism of retention is characterized in that it comprises: a retaining element disposed on the side edge of the side wall and a receiving portion of the retainer disposed on the side edge of the end wall for receiving the retention element therein., the receiving portion of the retainer has an opening, a flexible retaining link and a retainer release member that is operated by a user, wherein, in the assembled position, the opening of the retainer receiving portion receives the retainer therein, in such a way that the retaining element is retained in its position by the retaining link and where, to release the retention element from the opening and place the container in the disassembled position, the retainer release element it is operated by the user. The retention mechanism according to claim 19, characterized in that the retention release element is operable in a horizontal direction and the opening has a substantially vertical orientation. 21. A collapsible container capable of moving between a folded orientation position and an assembled orientation, characterized by comprising: a base having first and second pairs of opposite edges; a first pair of opposite side walls, each rotatably joined to a corresponding pair of the first pairs of opposite edges of the base, each of the first pair of opposite side walls having a pair of opposite side edges, each side edge having a retaining element disposed thereon; and a second pair of opposite side walls each rotatably connected to a corresponding pair of the second pair of opposite edges of the base, each of the second pair of opposite side walls having a pair of inwardly opposite flanges depending thereon, each flange it has an inwardly directed surface with an aperture formed therein and a retaining hinge adjacent to the -movable opening between a rest position and a second position, wherein, when the container is moved from the folded orientation to the mounted orientation, each opening slidably receives a corresponding retention element thereby displacing the retention articulation element from the rest position to the second position and where, when the container is in the assembled position, the retention joint corresponding one returns to the rest position to secure the retention element. The collapsible container according to claim 21, characterized in that each flange further includes a retention release element cooperating with the retention articulation element, such that in order to return the container to the folded orientation, the The retention release member is actuated by a user by thereby moving the retention link member to the second position and allowing the retention element to be released. 23. The collapsible container according to claim 22, characterized in that the retention release element is operable in a vertical position. 24. The collapsible container according to claim 22, characterized in that the retention release element is operable in a horizontal direction. 25. The collapsible container according to claim 21, characterized in that, when the container is oriented in the folded position, the first and second pairs of opposite side walls are folded inward such that one of the first and second pairs of Opposite side walls are stratified in that the other of the first and second pairs of opposite side walls and the base. 26. The collapsible container according to claim 21, characterized in that each side surface has a second opening and each side edge of the first pair of opposite side walls has an elongate element that has a curvature along its length attached thereto, wherein, when the container is in the mounted orientation, each aperture receives a corresponding elongate member to form an interference fit to assist in jointly retaining the adjacent side walls. 27. The collapsible container according to claim 21, characterized in that the base _has a plurality of vertical corner portions formed integrally therewith, each corner portion defining a corner line in such a way that when the container is in the Mounted orientation, each side ridge is spliced with an adjacent side edge along a line distant from the adjacent corner line. The collapsible container according to claim 21, characterized in that the first and second pairs of opposite edges include a plurality of lower articulation elements having an articulation opening at each end for rotatably receiving therein a pivot member disposed on a corresponding side wall. 29. A collapsible container orientatable between a mounted position and a folded position, characterized in that it comprises: a base having a pair of opposite end edges and a pair of opposite lateral edges extending between the pair of edges of the opposite end; a pair of opposite side walls rotatably connected to a corresponding edge of the opposite side edges of the base, each opposite side wall having a side edge and a retaining element disposed thereon; and a pair of opposite end walls each having a pair of indented flanges therein, the flanges having an inwardly directed surface with an opening and an adjacent retaining hinge, the opening extending between the surface directed towards in and the outer surface of the end wall and is dimensioned to slidably receive a corresponding retention element as the container is moved from the folded position to the assembled position and wherein the retention element is secured by the articulation of retention in the assembled position. 30. The collapsible container according to claim 29, characterized in that each flange further includes a releasable portion operable by the cooperating user. with the retention joint, in such a way that in order to release the container from the assembled position, the release position actuated by the user is operated by a user to release the retention element therefrom. The collapsible container according to claim 30, characterized in that the release portion operable by the user is movable in a vertical position. 32. The collapsible container according to claim 30, characterized in that the release portion operable by the user is movable in a horizontal direction. 33. The collapsible container according to claim 29, characterized in that each pair of the edges of the opposite end is defined by a rim of the vertical end. 34. The collapsible container according to claim 33, characterized in that each rim of the vertical end includes a corner mounting portion at each end having a first opening for receiving a pivot element from an adjacent side wall and a second opening for receiving a pivot element of a wall of the adjacent end. 35. A collapsible container capable of being oriented in an assembled state, characterized in that it comprises: a bottom panel or rectangular bottom panel having a first pair of opposite edges and a second pair of opposite edges; a first pair of opposite side walls rotatably mounted to the first pair of opposite edges, each of the first pair of opposite side walls having a retaining element disposed on each side edge; and a second pair of opposite side walls each rotatably mounted to the second pair of opposite edges, each of the second pair of opposite side walls having a U-shaped cross section that includes a longer main wall portion and a pair of portions. relatively shorter flanges directed towards the first pair of opposite sidewalls, each flanged portion has a flexible retention joint and an adjacent opening for slidably receiving the retention element, the opening extending longitudinally through the rim, where, when the The container is oriented in the assembled state, the first and second pairs of side walls are vertical in such a way that the retaining element is received by the opening and secured by the retaining articulation. 36. The collapsible container according to claim 35, characterized in that the container is orientable in an inwardly folded state, such that each of the first and second pairs of side walls is folded inwardly such that one of the first and second pairs of side walls is arranged between the bottom panel and the other of the first and second pairs of the side walls. 37. The collapsible container according to claim 35, characterized in that each flange further includes a retention release element cooperating with the retention articulation element, such that, in order to return the container to the folded orientation, the retention release member is operated by the user. , thereby displacing the retaining link element to the second position and allowing the retention element to be released. 38. The collapsible container according to claim 37, characterized in that the retention release element is operable in a vertical direction. 39. The collapsible container according to claim 37, characterized in that the retention release element is operable in a horizontal direction. 40. The collapsible container according to claim 35, characterized in that each retaining element has at least one tapered surface.41. The collapsible container according to claim 35, characterized in that the base includes a plurality of corner fitting portions oriented perpendicular to the base and integral with it, wherein each of the pair of opposite side walls and each of the pair of opposite end walls are rotatably mounted to the corner mounting portions. 42. The collapsible container according to claim 35, characterized in that the first and second pairs of opposite edges include a plurality of lower articulation elements that have an opening at either end, each opening is for receiving rotationally and secure therefrom a pivot element disposed on a corresponding wall. 43. A collapsible container characterized in that it comprises: a base having first and second pairs of opposite edges, each including a first and second respective plurality of lower articulation elements, each of the first and second plurality of lower articulation elements each has an opening at either end; a first pair of opposite side walls, having a plurality of first pivot elements attached thereto, the first pivot elements are received in corresponding openings in the first plurality of lower link elements for rotatably mounting the first pair of opposite side walls in relation to the base, each of the first pair of opposed sidewalls has a pair of opposite lateral flanges dependent therein that include an inwardly directed surface having a retention opening formed therein and a joint portion. of adjacent retainer; and a second pair of opposite side walls having a plurality of second pivot elements attached thereto, the second pivot elements are received in corresponding openings in the second plurality of lower link elements to rotatably mount the second pair of opposite side walls in relation to the base, each of the second pair of opposite side walls have a pair of opposite side edges having at least one retaining element projecting therefrom, wherein, when the container is oriented in a mounted position, each inwardly directed surface of the first pair of opposite side walls is spliced and releasably attached to an adjacent side edge of the second pair of opposite side walls, the retention opening slidably receiving the at least one retainer therein. which is secured by the joint portion of the retainer. 44. The collapsible container according to claim 43, characterized in that each of the first and second plurality of lower articulation elements is defined by a flat portion and a curved portion, such that the flat portion of each articulation element bottom is coplanar with its corresponding opposite side wall. 45. The collapsible container according to claim 43, characterized in that the side flange includes a release element operable by a user, wherein to move the container from the mounted position, the user activates the release element. 46. The foldable container according to claim 45, characterized in that the retaining opening extends from the surface directed inward to the external surface of the second pair of side walls. 47. A latching mechanism suitable for use in a collapsible container having a side wall and an end wall that are able to move between a mounted position and a disassembled position, the side wall has a side edge of the side wall and the end wall has a side edge of the end wall that are adjacent to each other, wherein in the mounted position the side and end walls are releasably secured together and in the folded position the side and end walls are decoupled from each other, the retention mechanism is characterized in that it comprises: a retaining element disposed on the side edge of the side wall and a retainer portion of the retainer disposed on the side edge of the end wall to receive the retainer therein, the retainer portion of the retainer has an aperture, a flexible retainer hinge, and a retainer element. releasing retention that is operable by a user, wherein, in the assembled position, the opening of the receiving portion of the retainer receives the retaining member therein such that the retaining member is retained in position by the articulation of the retention member. retention and where, to release the retention element from the opening and place the container in the position removed, the retention release element is operated by the user. 48. The retention mechanism according to claim 47, characterized in that the retention release element is operable in a horizontal ction. 49. The retention mechanism according to claim 47, characterized in that the retention release element is operable in a vertical direction.