SHIPPING PACKAGING SYSTEM

Abstract

 The invention concerns a fixing system (10) for a shipping packaging system (31), comprising: (a) a plate (11), (b) a sealable, airtight bag (12) for storing at least one shipping item, and (c) wherein the plate (11) is attachable or attached to the sealable, airtight bag (12).

Description

1. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fixing system for a shipping packaging system. The invention also relates to a shipping packaging system comprising a fixing system as described herein and a closeable outer structure (for example a box).

2. Prior art

[0002] The present invention was made in view of the problems posed by climate change and the limited resources that nature provides to us, as well as the increasing problems of pollution of our environment. Millions of tons of packaging waste are produced every year. The amount of packing waste produced is increasing rapidly due to the tendency of consumers to buy more and more goods online.

[0003] In the prior art, a shipping system comprising a box made from cardboard, filled with a variety of filling materials, such as paper, polystyrene, foamed chips, foils of all kinds, polyurethane foam welded into plastic bags, bubble wrap etc. are known. One difficulty in recycling boxes and filling materials as known in the art is that these usually contain a mixture of different types of materials, which need to undergo different recycling pathways, for example cardboard and plastic. Few consumers make the effort to actually separate these materials. Therefore, the box and/or the filling material is often not recycled but thrown away and eventually burnt, leading to increased pollution and carbon dioxide emissions.

[0004] In the best case, the box consists of paper, is filled with a filling material consisting of paper and both the box and the filling material are recycled. However, even in that case, processing the materials for recycling still requires large amounts of water and energy as the box and the filling material as such are not reused.

[0005] Some reusable shipping containers are known in the art. However, the problem of providing a reusable filling material is generally ignored. One solution known in the prior art concerns a reusable container comprising a net, wherein the net is used to fix the shipping goods. However, the solution is inefficient and only works for very specific shapes of shipping goods. The solution does not work well for a variety of different sizes, shapes, and weights of the countless different goods that are ordered online today and shipped around the world. As a consequence, users will still use filling materials as known in the art to supplement the fixing effect of the net.

[0006] Vacuum storage bags are known for storing textiles, pillows, duvets etc. However, vacuum storage bags as known in the art are completely unsuitable for use as shipping containers. They are fragile, not waterproof, and particularly unsuitable for shipping fragile or heavy goods. Repairing vacuum storage bags as known in the art is not intended and not possible with reasonable effort. Instead, known vacuum storage bags have to be thrown away when they are broken.

[0007] It is thus an object of the present invention, to provide a fixing system for a shipping packaging system and a shipping packaging system, which are reusable, strong, robust, and versatile, meaning that goods of different shapes, sizes, and weights can be transported reliably therein.

[0008] A further object of the present invention is to provide a fixing system for a shipping packaging system and a shipping packaging system they can be easily repaired if a component thereof is broken and easily recycled at the end of its life cycle.

3. Summary of the invention

[0009] These objects are at least partially solved by the invention set out in the independent claims.

[0010] In particular, the invention concerns a fixing system for a shipping packaging system. The invention also concerns a shipping packaging system comprising a fixing system as described herein and a closeable outer structure (for example a box).

[0011] The fixing system is for a shipping packaging system and comprises:

(a) a plate,

(b) a sealable, airtight bag for storing at least one shipping item, and

(c) wherein the plate is attachable or attached to the sealable, airtight bag.

[0012] The term "attachable" comprises instances wherein the plate is permanently attached to the sealable, airtight bag or formed in a unitary manner with the sealable, airtight bag, as well as cases wherein a temporary attachment, detachment and re-attachment of the plate to the sealable, airtight bag is possible.

[0013] A shipping item is understood to be the item that is intended to be shipped by a user of the shipping packaging system. The user could be a company or a consumer. Thus, the shipping packaging system is for suitable for business to consumer, business to business, as well as for personal use (private individual to private individual). The fixing system is easy to use even for an untrained private individual. For instance, the sealable airtight bag can be evacuated by means of an ordinary vacuum cleaner, which is common in virtually every household.

[0014] An exemplary method of loading the fixing system comprises arranging the at least one shipping item in the sealable airtight bag, sealing the sealable, airtight bag, and evacuating the sealable, airtight bag.

[0015] During use of the fixing system, the plate is attached to the sealable, airtight bag. This imparts stability and robustness on the inventive fixing system.

[0016] The sealable, airtight bag is suitable for storing at least one shipping item. The shipping item is not part of the claimed system.

[0017] The inventive fixing system allows a shipping item to be fixed surprisingly strongly and reliably, regardless of its shape and size. Even heavy shipping items can be fixed for a long transport.

[0018] The inventive fixing system can be reused, thus allowing valuable resources to be saved and carbon dioxide emissions to be reduced.

[0019] The sealable, airtight bag may comprise a thermoplastic polymer, for example polyethylene or polypropylene. The sealable, airtight bag may comprise polyester and / or a polyamide, e.g. an aromatic polyamide (aramid).

[0020] The sealable, airtight bag may further comprise a plurality of fibers. The fibers improve the tear-resistance of the airtight bag.

[0021] The sealable, airtight bag may comprise a ripstop material. A ripstop material comprises a mesh of high tensile strength fibers, which maybe woven into a surrounding matrix. For example, the sealable, airtight bag may comprise a ripstop polyamide.

[0022] The sealable, airtight bag may comprise a coating. The coating may improve the air impermeability. The coating may comprise a thermoplastic polymer, which allows for simple processing. The coating may comprise a silicone, which is airtight and durable.

[0023] The plate may be rigid and / or shock-absorbing. For example, the plate may comprise a polymer such as polypropylene, polyethylene or the plate may comprise a thermosetting polymer. All of these exemplary materials allow sufficient rigidity for the purposes of the invention. The plate advantageously allows at least one of the following:

• Maintaining the structure of the sealable, air-tight bag,
• Maintaining the structure of the padding element, especially so that it is not deformed when a vacuum is applied inside the sealable, air-tight bag, and / or
• Maintain a stable connection of the sealable, air-tight bag and the closeable outer structure when the fixing system is used as part of a shipping packaging system.

[0024] A rigid plate improves the protection of the shipping item. The plate may additionally, or alternatively, be shock-absorbing. Rigidity and shock-absorbing properties are not mutually exclusive for the purposes of the present invention. As a non-limiting example, the plate may comprise a foamed material, for example one of the aforementioned polypropylene, polyethylene, or thermosetting polymer, which can be rigid and shock-absorbing at same time. The shock-absorbing properties further prove the protection of the shipping items against frequent shocks during transport.

[0025] The plate may be repeatedly attachable to and detachable from the airtight bag. There are various ways of achieving this, only some of which are described herein in a purely exemplary manner. The repeated attachability and detachability allows for the fixing system to be repaired easily in case one of its components breaks. Therefore, the inventive fixing system is more sustainable. Moreover, it is possible to use a fixing system in shipping packaging systems, see below, of different sizes. It is contemplated that the fixing system comprising a plate of a certain area can be used for shipping packaging systems of different volumes. Thus, an optimal volume can be used depending on the size of the shipping item, which reduces the cost of shipping and the environmental footprint thereof.

[0026] However, alternatively, the plate may be formed in a unitary manner with the sealable, airtight bag. This construction is particularly sturdy. In a further alternative, the plate is permanently attached to the sealable, airtight bag, for example by welding.

[0027] The plate may comprise a first material and the sealable, airtight bag may also comprise the first material. This improves the recyclability.

[0028] The fixing system may further comprise a first fixing means and a second fixing means, wherein the plate is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag by: arranging the first fixing means to penetrate the sealable, airtight bag and the plate, and engaging the first fixing means with the second fixing means.

[0029] This way of attaching the plate to the sealable, airtight bag allows for a secure connection that may be releasable, if desired. The inventor discovered that, surprisingly, this way of attaching the plate to the sealable, airtight bag can be airtight, such that the vacuum is maintained inside the sealable, airtight bag. For example, a pressure can be exerted by the first fixing means and the second fixing means on the plate and/or the sealable, airtight bag. This may effect a compression of the plate and/or the sealable, airtight bag, which contributes to a an airtight seal.

[0030] This sealable, airtight bag may comprise a hole, configured to allow the first fixing means to penetrate through the hole. The hole may comprise a rim arranged around the hole. The sealable airtight bag may comprise a first thickness in a portion of the sealable, airtight bag arranged at a distance of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 4 cm from the hole. The rim of the sealable airtight bag may comprise a second thickness, wherein the second thickness is greater than the first thickness. This improves tear resistance, since the area around the hole is a weak spot, where the sealable, airtight bag may tear relatively easily.

[0031] The fixing system may further comprise a sealing means, wherein the sealing means comprises an airtight and compressible material, and wherein the plate is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag by arranging the sealing means between the first fixing means and the second fixing means and applying a pressure on the sealing means by engaging the first fixing means with the second fixing means.

[0032] This way of attaching the plate to the sealable, airtight bag allows for a more airtight attachment. Therefore, the time period for which a vacuum can be maintained in the sealable, airtight bag is extended and longer shipping times are possible.

[0033] The sealing means may be non-water-absorbent. Thus, the seal also comprises an improved imperviousness to water. Thus, the shipping item is more protected against moisture. This is particularly advantageous for example in very moist and wet environments and for shipping items that are especially moisture-sensitive, e.g. sensitive electronics, clothing etc.

[0034] The sealing means may be disk-shaped, either with edges, which may be rounded, or with a substantially circular circumference. The term "substantially circular circumference", means circular but allowing for deviations of up to 30%, preferably 25%, more preferably 20% from a mathematically ideal circle.

[0035] The sealing means may comprise a thermoplastic polymer, which allows for an airtight attachment. The sealing means may, alternatively, or additionally comprise neoprene, rubber, and / or ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber. These materials are particularly durable, airtight, and waterproof.

[0036] The sealing means maybe attached permanently to the first fixing means. This allows for particularly simple handling.

[0037] The first fixing means may comprise a screw and the second fixing means may comprise a nut. This provides a particularly simple, strong, yet releasable attachment of the plate and the sealable, airtight bag.

[0038] The fixing system may further comprise a third fixing means and a fourth fixing means, wherein the third fixing means is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag and / or the plate and the fourth fixing means is attachable to the plate and / or the sealable, airtight bag, wherein the third fixing means and the fourth fixing means are configured so that the third fixing means can be engaged with the fourth fixing means.

[0039] Despite the enumeration "third", "fourth" fixing means, it is not necessary that the fixing system comprises a first and second fixing means. However, it is possible that the fixing system comprises a first and second fixing means as well as a third fixing means and a fourth fixing means as described herein.

[0040] This arrangement is advantageous. It is possible that the third and fourth fixing means does not penetrate the sealable, airtight bag. This improves the resilience of the fixing system.

[0041] It is possible that the third fixing means is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag and / or the plate without the use of an adhesive or glue. It is possible that the fourth fixing means is attachable to the plate and / or the sealable, airtight bag without the use of an adhesive or glue. The third fixing means and the fourth fixing means may be configured so that the third fixing means can be engaged with the fourth fixing means without the use of an adhesive or glue. This improves the sustainability and recyclability of the fixing system.

[0042] In other words, the fixing system may further comprise a third fixing means and a fourth fixing means, wherein the third fixing means is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag and the fourth fixing means is attachable to the plate, wherein the third fixing means and the fourth fixing means are configured so that the third fixing means can be engaged with the fourth fixing means.

[0043] Note that either attachment can be achieved in a number of ways. In particular, the attachment could be configured so that the third fixing means is attachable to and removable from the sealable, airtight bag and the fourth fixing means could be attachable to and removable from the plate. The attachment may be direct or indirect (involving one or more intermediate elements).

[0044] However, it is also possible that the fourth fixing means is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag and the third fixing means is attachable to the plate, wherein the third fixing means and the fourth fixing means are configured so that the third fixing means can be engaged with the fourth fixing means.

[0045] The attachment could be configured so that the fourth fixing means is attachable to and removable from the sealable, airtight bag and the third fixing means could be attachable to and removable from the plate. The attachment may be effected by engaging the third fixing means with the fourth fixing means. The attachment maybe direct or indirect (involving one or more intermediate elements).

[0046] For example, the third fixing means and the fourth fixing means may be configured so that the third fixing means can be engaged in a form-fitting manner with the fourth fixing means. Such a form-fitting engagement can be achieved in numerous ways, for example, but not limited to the following cases:

• The third fixing means may comprise a hook-fastener and the fourth fixing means may comprise a loop fastener, or vice versa, so that the third and fourth fixing means could be engaged with a hook-and-loop fastener mechanism.
• The third fixing means may comprise an elastic element and the fourth fixing means may comprise a hook, or vice versa, so that the third and fourth fixing means could be engaged.
• The third fixing means may comprise a hook and the fourth fixing means may comprise a corresponding recess, or vice versa.
• The third fixing means may comprise a split pin (also known as cotter pin) and the fourth fixing means may comprise a corresponding recess, or vice versa.
• The third fixing means may comprise a latching flank and the fourth fixing means may comprise a latching tongue, or vice versa.
• The third fixing means could be wedged into a portion of the fourth fixing means.
• The third fixing means may an elongated recess and the fourth fixing means may comprise an L-shaped hook, or vice versa.
• The third fixing means may comprise a beading and the fourth fixing means may comprise a corresponding recess, or vice versa. This is particularly advantageous as it has been found to prevent accidental perforation of the sealable, air-tight bag.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, the third fixing means and the fourth fixing means could engage by other means. For example, the third fixing means may comprise a first magnetic element and the fourth fixing means may comprise a second magnetic element, wherein the first and second magnetic elements attract each other. Thus, a form-fitting engagement is not required. However, a particularly strong engagement can be achieved if the magnetic engagement is combined with a form-fitting engagement as described herein.

[0048] The fixing system may further comprise a padding element. The padding element may advantageously allow shocks that inevitably occur during transport to be absorbed.

[0049] The plate may have a composite structure. For example, the plate may comprise a padding element with cushioning properties and a rigid element. This may allow for optimal stability and cushioning properties while at the same time ensuring a low weight. A "rigid element" advantageously allow at least one of the following:

• Maintaining the structure of the sealable, air-tight bag,
• Maintaining the structure of the padding element, especially so that it is not deformed when a vacuum is applied inside the sealable, air-tight bag, and / or
• Maintain a stable connection of the sealable, air-tight bag and the closeable outer structure when the fixing system is used as part of a shipping packaging system.

[0050] It is possible that the plate comprises a lattice structure. This advantageously reduces the weight while still allowing for good stability. For example, the plate may comprise a padding element with cushioning properties and a rigid element and the rigid element may comprise a lattice structure.

[0051] The padding element may be arranged on an inside of the sealable airtight bag. An "inside" of the sealable, airtight bag is the space formed by the sealable, airtight bag that may be evacuated. Thus, during transport of the shipping item, the padding element is arranged between the shipping item and the sealable airtight bag. This allows for an optimal protection of the shipping item, while at the same time preventing damage to the sealable airtight bag due to movements of the shipping.

[0052] The padding element may comprise a foam. The padding element may comprise a thermoplastic polymer. The padding element may comprise a foam comprising a thermoplastic polymer.

[0053] For example, the padding element may comprise closed-cell polyethylene foam. This foam provides excellent padding properties, whilst being non-water-absorbent and thus advantageously not absorbing any water, which may damage the shipping item and increase the weight of the fixing system.

[0054] The sealable, airtight bag may be sealable by means of a redundant sealing system. Since the fixing system maybe exposed to quite rough transport conditions, for example depending on the terrain, the weight and size of the shipping item etc., it is advantageous for the sealing system to be redundant. In the present context "redundant" means that if one component of the sealing system fails, the sealing system may nonetheless maintain the vacuum within the sealable, airtight bag.

[0055] The sealing system may comprise a C-shaped profile, configured to receive a fitting portion, which fits into the C-shaped profile, wherein the C-shaped profile and / or the fitting portion are elastic and / or compressible. This provides for a simple airtight seal. By arranging two or more C-shaped profiles and corresponding fitting portions in series, a redundant sealing system is formed. In the present context, "in series" means adjacent to one another along a path into and out of the sealable, airtight bag. However, other types of seal can also be used to provide a redundant sealing system.

[0056] The sealable, airtight bag comprises may comprise at least on valve. The valve allows for a simple way of evacuating the sealable, airtight bag.

[0057] The plate may be arranged on an inside of the sealable, airtight bag. An "inside" of the sealable, airtight bag is the space formed by the sealable, airtight bag that may be evacuated. This arrangement advantageously provides a greater stability. Evacuating the sealable, airtight bag leads to significant vacuum forces. By arranging the plate on an inside of the sealable, airtight bag the forces are distributed around a rim of the plate. Thus, the connection is more stable and an unintended detachment of the plate from the sealable, airtight bag is less likely.

[0058] Generally, only one point of attachment of the plate to the sealable, airtight bag, e.g. by one first fixing means and one second fixing means, is sufficient. However, further points of attachment, for example a second, third, fourth, or fifth point of attachment further improve the stability.

[0059] It is also possible to arrange the plate on an outside of the sealable, airtight bag. In this case, it may be advantageous to provide more than one point of attachment of the plate to the sealable, airtight bag for improved stability. In this case, but also in case that the plate is arranged on an inside of the sealable, airtight bag, the plate may be attached not only a single point but over a certain fraction of its surface area to the sealable, airtight bag. The fraction is preferably at least 30%, more preferably 50%, most preferably at least 75% of the surface area of the plate to allow for a good stability.

[0060] The invention further concerns a shipping packaging system comprising a fixing system as described herein and a closeable outer structure. The fixing system can be arranged on an inside of the closeable outer structure.

[0061] The closeable outer structure may be regularly shaped, e.g. substantially like a cuboid. In the present context "substantially like a cuboid" means with deviations on the order of less than 30%, preferably less than 20%, more preferably less than 10% from a mathematically perfect cuboid. For example, the closeable outer structure may have rounded edges and corners. Such a regular shape is advantageous as it allows the shipping packaging system to be stacked during transport.

[0062] The closeable outer structure may be closeable in a substantially waterproof manner. The term "substantially waterproof" means essentially rainproof. Thus the content, in particular a shipping item transported within the shipping packaging system, advantageously remains dry during transport.

[0063] The closeable outer structure may be non-water-absorbent. Therefore, the weight of the shipping packaging system does not increase due to the absorption of water, for example rain, and the content, in particular shipping item transported within the shipping packaging system, advantageously remains dry during transport.

[0064] The fixing system may be repeatedly attachable to and detachable from the closeable outer structure. As described herein, the components of the shipping packaging system can thus be repaired easily. Moreover, the shipping packaging system can be used in the modular manner, for example, as described herein, one fixing system may be used with different sizes of the closeable outer structure, depending on the height of the shipping item. Therefore, an optimal size shipping packaging system may be used in the cost and environmental footprint of its transport is reduced.

[0065] The closeable outer structure may further comprise a machine-readable code, for example a barcode or a QR code. The machine-readable code allows automatic identification of the shipping packaging system. This could be used for routing the shipping packaging system during transport. This could alternatively or additionally be used to administer a rental system for an inventive shipping packaging system. For example, the shipping packaging system returned by a user can thus be identified. The machine-readable code may be permanently imparted, for example by printing, on the closeable outer structure. It may thus be possible to configure the transport of the shipping packaging system via an app on a smartphone, e.g. paying for transport and tracking the shipment.

[0066] It may be possible to use blockchain technology to track the shipping packaging system during transport.

[0067] The closeable outer structure may further comprise a display, e.g. an e-ink display to display the machine-readable code and / or other information.

[0068] The shipping packaging system may further comprise NFC or RFID sensors. The shipping packaging system may comprise functionality to support WiFi and / or mobile telecommunications systems, e.g. a 3G, 4G, or 5G system.

[0069] The shipping packaging system may further comprise a temperature sensor, a vibration sensor, and / or a gyroscope to track shipping conditions.

[0070] The shipping packaging system may further comprise a weight sensor to diagnose overloading.

[0071] The closeable outer structure may comprise at least one of a male or female mating element for attaching the shipping packaging system to a corresponding female or male mating element, respectively. Therefore, two or more shipping packaging systems can be (temporarily) attached to one another, for example during transport. This prevents damage to the shipping packaging system or loss of shipping packaging systems under rough transport conditions. For example, the male mating element may comprise a hook and the corresponding female mating element may comprise a substantially U-shaped receiver.

[0072] The shipping packaging system may comprise a fixing system comprising a first fixing means and a second fixing means, wherein the first fixing means is arranged on an inside of the sealable, airtight bag and the second fixing means is arranged on an outside of the shipping packaging system. This is advantageous as the first fixing means and second fixing means thus fulfills the dual purpose of attaching the plate to the sealable, airtight bag, and additionally the plate and the sealable airtight bag to the closeable outer structure.

[0073] The closeable outer structure may be foldable. This advantageously allows the volume of the shipping packaging system to be reduced during transport of an empty shipping packaging system, i.e. the shipping packaging system presently not used to transport of the shipping item.

4. Brief description of the figures

[0074] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the figures. The figures show:

Fig. 1 shows an exemplary shipping packaging system according to the invention;

Fig. 2 shows the fixing system of the shipping packaging system according to Fig. 1;

Fig. 3a another exemplary fixing system according to the invention;

Fig. 3b shows a close-up of the exemplary fixing system according to Fig. 3a;

Fig. 4a shows an exemplary fixing system according to the invention and illustrates exemplary third and fourth fixing means comprising a beading and a corresponding recess;

Fig. 4b shows an exemplary closeable outer structure for a shipping packaging system and illustrates an example of how the fixing system of Fig. 4a can be mounted inside the closeable outer structure;

Fig. 5a shows a portion of an exemplary fixing system according to the invention and illustrates exemplary third and fourth fixing means similar to Fig. 4a, but the plate is arranged outside of the sealable, airtight bag;

Fig. 5b shows as similar embodiment as Fig. 5a, except that the plate comprises a composite structure; and

Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the invention comprising a magnetic engagement of third and fourth fixing means.

5. Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0075] In the following some embodiments of the invention are described in detail. It is to be understood that these embodiments can be modified in a number of ways and combined with each other whenever compatible and that certain features may be omitted in so far as they appear dispensable.

[0076] The scope of protection is determined by the claims. It is neither limited nor extended by the embodiments. Where an embodiment does not fall under the scope of the claims, it is to be understood as an example for illustrating aspects relating to the invention.

[0077] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary shipping packaging system 31 according to the invention. The shipping packaging system 31 comprises a fixing system 10 and a closeable outer structure 32. The fixing system 10 is arranged on an inside 33 of the closeable outer structure 32. The closeable outer structure 32 is regularly shaped, in this example substantially like a cuboid. The closeable outer structure 32 is foldable by means of the hinges 35. The closeable outer structure 32 is closeable in a substantially waterproof manner and is non-water-absorbent. The fixing system 10 is repeatedly attachable to and detachable from the closeable outer structure 32.

[0078] The closeable outer structure 32 further comprises a machine-readable code, in this example a barcode 36. In certain embodiments it may be possible to use blockchain technology to track the shipping packaging system during transport.

[0079] The closeable outer structure 32 further comprises a display 38, which could be an e-ink display, to display other information, e.g. the destination address.

[0080] The exemplary shipping packaging system 31 further comprises an NFC and / or an RFID sensor. In certain embodiments, the shipping packaging system may comprise functionality to support WiFi and / or mobile telecommunications systems, e.g. a 3G, 4G, or 5G system.

[0081] The shipping packaging system 31 may further comprise a temperature sensor, a vibration sensor, and / or a gyroscope to track shipping conditions. The shipping packaging system 31 may further comprises a weight sensor to diagnose overloading.

[0082] In certain embodiments, the closeable outer structure 32 may comprise at least one of a male or female mating element for attaching the shipping packaging system 31 to a corresponding female or male mating element, respectively.

[0083] The closeable outer structure 32 comprises compartment 37 arranged at the bottom of the closeable outer structure 32 to store the sealable, airtight bag 12 when it is not in use. The closeable outer structure 32 separates an inside 33 of the closeable outer structure from an outside 34 of the closeable outer structure 32.

[0084] Fig. 2 shows the fixing system 10 of the shipping packaging system 31 of Fig. 1 without the closeable outer structure 32.

[0085] The fixing system 10 is for a shipping packaging system 31 and comprises:

(a) a plate 11,

(b) a sealable, airtight bag 12 for storing at least one shipping item, and

(c) wherein the plate 11 is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0086] The sealable, airtight bag 12 can be evacuated by means of an ordinary vacuum cleaner. For this purpose, the sealable, airtight bag 12 comprises a valve 25. The valve 25 creates a passageway for air to be evacuated from an inside 13 of the sealable, airtight bag to an outside 14 of the sealable, airtight bag 12. An exemplary method of loading the fixing system 10 comprises arranging the at least one shipping item (not shown) in the sealable airtight bag 12, sealing the sealable, airtight bag 12, and evacuating the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0087] The sealable, airtight bag 12 is sealable by means of a redundant sealing system 24 (not shown in detail). The sealing system 24 comprises a C-shaped profile, configured to receive a fitting portion, which fits into the C-shaped profile, wherein the C-shaped profile and / or the fitting portion are elastic and / or compressible. This provides for a simple airtight seal. By arranging two or more C-shaped profiles and corresponding fitting portions in series, a redundant sealing system 24 is formed. In the present context, "in series" means adjacent to one another along a path 16 into and out of the sealable, airtight bag 12. However, other types of seal can also be used to provide a redundant sealing system.

[0088] During use of the fixing system 10, the plate 11 is attached to the sealable, airtight bag 12 as shown in Fig. 2. The plate 11 is on an inside 13 of the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0089] In this example, the sealable, airtight bag 12 comprises a ripstop polyamide with a silicone coating. However, other material choices are possible, for example as described herein.

[0090] In this example, the plate 11 is rigid and shock-absorbing and comprises polypropylene. The plate 11 is repeatedly attachable to and detachable from the airtight bag. For this purpose the plate 11 comprise a first 15a, second 15b, third 15c, fourth 15d, fifth 15e, and sixth 15f hole as shown in Fig. 2. These define six points of attachment. However, another number of points of attachment is also conceivable. An exemplary mechanism for attaching the plate 11 and the sealable, airtight bag 12 (only shown partly) is explained with respect to Fig. 3b below.

[0091] Fig. 3a is another exemplary fixing system 10 according to the invention and Fig. 3b shows a close-up of the exemplary fixing system 10 according to Fig. 3a.

[0092] The fixing system 10 is for a shipping packaging system 31 and comprises:

(a) a plate 11,

(b) a sealable, airtight bag 12 (only shown partly) for storing at least one shipping item, and

(c) wherein the plate 11 is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0093] The fixing system 10 further comprises a first fixing means 21 and a second fixing means 22, wherein the plate 11 is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag 12 by: arranging the first fixing means 21 to penetrate the sealable, airtight bag 12 and the plate 11, and engaging the first fixing means 21 with the second fixing means 22. In this example, the first fixing means 21 comprises a screw and the second fixing means 22 comprises a nut.

[0094] In this example, the first fixing means 21 is arranged on an inside of the sealable, airtight bag 12 and the second fixing means 22 is arranged on an outside of the shipping packaging system 31, in particular an outside 34 of the closeable outer structure 32.

[0095] The sealable, airtight bag 12 comprises a hole 29, configured to allow the first fixing means 21 to penetrate through the hole 29. The hole 29 comprises a rim arranged around the hole 29.

[0096] In certain embodiments it is possible that the sealable airtight bag comprises a first thickness in a portion of the sealable, airtight bag 12 arranged at a distance of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 4 cm from the hole. The rim of the sealable airtight bag may comprise a second thickness, wherein the second thickness is greater than the first thickness.

[0097] The fixing system 10 further comprises a sealing means 23a, b, wherein the sealing means 23a, b comprises an airtight and compressible material, and wherein the plate 11 is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag 12 by arranging the sealing means 23a, b between the first fixing means 21 and the second fixing means 22 and applying a pressure on the sealing means 23a, b by engaging the first fixing means 21 with the second fixing means 22. In this example the fixing system 10 comprises two points of attachment 27, 28.

[0098] In this exemplary embodiment, the fixing system 10 comprises a first sealing means 23a and a second sealing means 23b. The first sealing means 23a is arranged between the first fixing means 21 and the plate 11. The second sealing means 23b is arranged between the sealable, airtight bag 12 and the closeable outer structure 32, wherein, the first fixing means 21 also penetrates the closeable outer structure 32 and the second fixing means 22 is arranged on an outside 34 of the closeable outer structure 32.

[0099] The sealing means 23a, b are non-water-absorbent and disk-shaped with edges with a substantially circular circumference. The sealing means 23a, b comprise ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber.

[0100] The fixing system 10 further comprises a padding element 26. In this example, the padding element 26 is arranged on an inside of the sealable airtight bag. In particular, the padding element 26 is arranged further inside of the sealable airtight bag than the plate 11. In this example, the padding element 26 is attached to the plate 11 by cold welding such that the padding element 26 and the plate 11 form a composite element. However, other means of attachment are possible. The padding element 26 need not necessarily be attached to the plate 11. In this example, the padding element 26 comprises a closed-cell polyethylene foam.

[0101] Fig. 4a shows an exemplary fixing system according to the invention and illustrates exemplary third 43a, 43b and fourth 44a, 44b fixing means comprising a beading 43a, 43b and a corresponding recess 44a, 44b.

[0102] The fixing system 10 is for a shipping packaging system (not shown) and comprises:

(a) a plate 11,

(b) a sealable, airtight bag 12 for storing at least one shipping item, and

(c) wherein the plate 11 is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0103] In this case, the plate 11 is arranged on an inside 13 of the sealable, airtight bag. The fixing system 10 further comprises a third fixing means 43a arranged on a left side and a third fixing means 43b arranged on a right side. The fixing system 10 further comprises a fourth fixing means 44a arranged on a left side and a fourth fixing means 44a arranged on a right side. However, in other example there may be only one third fixing means and only one fourth fixing means or there may be two, three, four or more third fixing means and two, three, four or more fourth fixing means.

[0104] In this example, the third fixing means 43a, 43b are attachable to the plate 11 by means of a screw and nut-arrangement. However, other arrangements are possible. The fourth fixing means 44a, 44b are attachable to sealable, airtight bag 12. The third fixing means 43a, 43b and the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b are configured so that the third fixing means 43a, 43b can be engaged with the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b, respectively.

[0105] In the example of Fig. 4a, the third fixing means 43a, 43b and the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b are configured so that the third fixing means 43a, 43b can be engaged in a form-fitting manner with the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b, respectively. In this example, the third fixing means 43a, 43b comprise a beading 43a, 43b and the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b comprise a corresponding recess 46a, 46b. This is particularly advantageous as it has been found to prevent accidental perforation of the sealable, air-tight bag 12. The recess 46a, 46b may be somewhat elastic so that the beading 43a, 43b can be inserted without the need for sliding the beading 43a, 43b over the whole length of the recess 46a, 46b, which can be advantageous for small spaces. However, it is possible that the recess 46 is rigid. In this case, the beading 43a, 43b can be slid in from the side and secured in place, for example by a locking pin.

[0106] Note that by engaging the third fixing means 43a, 43b and the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b, the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b are removably attached (directly) to the sealable, airtight bag 12. The recesses 46a, 46b are configured to be sufficiently large to accommodate the third fixing means 43a, 43b and the thickness of the sealable, airtight bag 12. In other words, in this case, the attachment of the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b to the sealable, airtight bag 12 is effected by engaging the third fixing means 43a, 43b with the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b. Note that by engaging the third fixing means 43a, 43b and the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b, the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b are removably attached indirectly to the plate 11. The third fixing means 43a, 43b is directly attached to the plate 11. The third fixing means 43a, 43b is directly attached in a removable manner to the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0107] Finally, the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b comprise a receiving mounting element 47. In this example, the fourth fixing means 44a comprises two receiving mounting elements 47 and the fourth fixing means 44b comprises a further two receiving mounting elements 47, so that the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b comprise a total of four receiving mounting elements 47.

[0108] Fig. 4b shows an exemplary closeable outer structure 32 for a shipping packaging system and illustrates an example of how the fixing system 10 of Fig. 4a can be mounted inside the closeable outer structure 32. The left side of Fig. 4b shows a top view of the closeable outer structure 32. The right side of Fig. 4b shows a perspective view of the closeable outer structure 32. The closeable outer structure 32 comprises a protruding mounting element 48. In this case, the closeable outer structure 32 comprises four protruding mounting elements 48, two each on opposing sides of the closeable outer structure 32. The protruding mounting elements 48 can be engaged with the receiving mounting elements 47 of the fourth fixing means 44a, 44b.

[0109] It is to be understood that any number of receiving mounting elements 47 and corresponding protruding mounting elements 48 can be used, for example, one, two, three, four, five, six, or more. It is also to be understood that the fourth fixing means 44am 44b may comprise a protruding mounting element and the closeable outer structure may comprise a corresponding receiving mounting element.

[0110] Fig. 5a shows a portion of an exemplary fixing system 10 according to the invention and illustrates exemplary third 43 and fourth 44 fixing means similar to Fig. 4a, but unlike in the embodiment of Fig. 4a, the plate 11 is arranged on an outside 14 of the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0111] The fixing system 10 is for a shipping packaging system and comprises:

(a) a plate 11,

(b) a sealable, airtight bag 12 for storing at least one shipping item, and

(c) wherein the plate 11 is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag 12.

[0112] The fixing system further comprise a third fixing means 43 and a fourth fixing means 44, wherein the third fixing means 43 is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag 12 and the fourth fixing means 44 is attachable to the plate 11, wherein the third fixing means 43 and the fourth fixing means 44 are configured so that the third fixing means 43 can be engaged with the fourth fixing means 44.

[0113] In this example, the third fixing means 43 is placed on an inside 13 of the sealable, airtight bag 12 without attaching the third fixing means 43 to the sealable, airtight bag 12 initially.

[0114] The fourth fixing means 44 is attached by means of a screw and a corresponding nut to the plate 11 (screw and nut not shown) at joining point 45. This allows repeated removal and replacement of damaged components. For example, if the plate 11 is damaged but the fourth fixing means 44 is not damaged, only the plate 11 needs to be replaced and vice versa. Other means of attachment are, of course, possible. It is also possible that the fourth fixing means 44 is integrally formed with the plate 11. This allows a particularly strong connection.

[0115] In the example of Fig. 5a, the third fixing means 43 and the fourth fixing means 44 are configured so that the third fixing means 43 can be engaged in a form-fitting manner with the fourth fixing means 44. In this example, the third fixing means 43 comprises a beading 43 and the fourth fixing means 44 comprises a corresponding recess 46, which is large enough to accommodate the beading 43 and the thickness of the sealable, airtight bag 12. This is particularly advantageous as it has been found to prevent accidental perforation of the sealable, air-tight bag. In this example, the recess 46 is rigid and the beading 43 can be slid in from the side and secured in place, for example by a locking pin.

[0116] Thus, by engaging the third fixing means 43 and the fourth fixing means 44, the third fixing means 43 is attached (removably) to the sealable, airtight bag 12 by "wedging" the sealable, airtight bag 12 between the third fixing means 43 and the fourth fixing means 44.

[0117] Fig. 5b shows as similar embodiment as Fig. 5a, except that the plate comprises a composite structure. This composite structure is not limited to this embodiment but may be for any of the embodiments described herein as the skilled person will recognize.

[0118] In this example, the plate comprises a padding element 17 with cushioning properties and a rigid element 18. In this example, the padding element 17 is arranged on an outside of the sealable airtight bag 12. However, in other arrangements, a padding element 26 may be arranged on an inside 13 of the sealable airtight bag 12 additionally or alternatively (see e.g. Figs. 3a, 3b). A thickness of the padding element 17 is greater than a thickness of the rigid element 18. This construction allows for optimal stability and cushioning properties while at the same time ensuring a low weight. It is also possible that the rigid element 18 comprises a lattice structure. The padding element 17 may have any combination of the properties of the padding elements described herein.

[0119] The closeable outer structure 32 comprises compartment 37 arranged at the bottom of the closeable outer structure 32 to store the sealable, airtight bag 12 and the plate 11 when these are not in use.

[0120] Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the invention comprising a magnetic engagement of third 43 and fourth fixing means 44.

[0121] In this example, the third fixing means 43 comprises a first magnetic element 43 and the fourth fixing means 44 comprises a second magnetic element 44, wherein the first 43 and second 44 magnetic elements attract each other. Thus, a form-fitting engagement as shown in Fig. 5a is not required. In this example, the first magnetic element 43 is arranged inside the sealable, airtight bag 12 but this is not essential. It is possible, for example, that the first magnetic element 43 is integrally connected to the sealable, airtight bag 12 by cold-welding.

[0122] A particularly strong engagement can be achieved if the magnetic engagement, similar to Fig. 5b is combined with a form-fitting engagement as described herein. Structurally this can be accomplished with the arrangement of Fig. 5a, wherein the third fixing means 43, i.e. the beading 43, comprises a first magnetic element and the fourth fixing means comprises a second magnetic element 44, wherein the first 43 and second 44 magnetic elements attract each other. However, other arrangements are possible.

Reference signs:

[0123] 

10

Fixing system

11

Plate

12

Sealable, airtight bag

13

Inside of the sealable, airtight bag

14

Outside of the sealable, airtight bag

15a-f

holes in the plate

16

Path into and out of the sealable, airtight bag

17

Padding element

18

Rigid element

21

First fixing means

22

Second fixing means

23a,b

Sealing means

24

Sealing system

25

Valve

26

Padding element

27

First attachment point

28

Second attachment point

29

Hole in the sealable, airtight bag

31

Shipping packaging system

32

Closeable outer structure

33

Inside of the closeable outer structure

34

Outside of the closeable outer structure

35

Hinge

36

Barcode

37

Compartment

38

Display

43

Third fixing means

44

Fourth fixing means

45

Joining point

46

Recess

47

Receiving mounting element

48

Protruding mounting element

Claims

1. A fixing system (10) for a shipping packaging system (31), comprising:

(a) a plate (11),

(b) a sealable, airtight bag (12) for storing at least one shipping item, and

(c) wherein the plate (11) is attachable or attached to the sealable, airtight bag (12).

2. The fixing system (10) according to the previous claim, wherein the plate (11) is rigid and / or shock-absorbing.

3. The fixing system (10) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the plate (11) is repeatedly attachable to and detachable from the sealable, airtight bag (12).

4. The fixing system (10) according to one of the previous claims, further comprising a first fixing means (21) and a second fixing means (22), wherein the plate (11) is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag (12) by:
arranging the first fixing means (21) to penetrate the sealable, airtight bag (12) and the plate (11), and engaging the first fixing means (21) with the second fixing means (22).

5. The fixing system (10) according to claim 4, further comprising a sealing means (23a, b), wherein the sealing means (23a, b) comprises an airtight and compressible material, and wherein the plate (11) is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag (12) by arranging the sealing means (23a, b) between the first fixing means (21) and the second fixing means (22) and applying a pressure on the sealing means (23a, b) by engaging the first fixing means (21) with the second fixing means (22).

6. The fixing system (10) according to one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the first fixing means (21) comprises a screw and the second fixing means (22) comprises a nut.

7. The fixing system (10) according to one of the previous claims, further comprising a third fixing means (43) and a fourth fixing means (44), wherein the third fixing means is attachable to the sealable, airtight bag (12) and / or the plate (11) and the fourth fixing means (44) is attachable to the plate (11) and / or the sealable, airtight bag (12), wherein the third fixing means (43) and the fourth fixing means (44) are configured so that the third fixing means (43) can be engaged with the fourth fixing means (44).

8. The fixing system (10) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the sealable, airtight bag (12) is sealable by means of a redundant sealing system (24).

9. The fixing system (10) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the plate (11) is arranged on an inside of the sealable, airtight bag (12).

10. A shipping packaging system (31) comprising a fixing system (10) according to one of the previous claims and a closeable outer structure (32).

11. The shipping packaging system (31) according to the previous claim, wherein the fixing system (10) is repeatedly attachable to and detachable from the closeable outer structure (32).

12. The shipping packaging system (31) according to one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the closeable outer structure (32) further comprises a machine-readable code (36).

13. The shipping packaging system (31) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the closeable outer structure (32) comprises at least one of a male or female mating element for attaching the shipping packaging system (31) to a corresponding female or male mating element, respectively.

14. The shipping packaging system (31) according to one of claims 10 to 13 comprising a fixing system (10) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the first fixing means (21) is arranged on an inside of the sealable, airtight bag (12) and the second fixing means (22) is arranged on an outside of the shipping packaging system (31).

15. The shipping packaging system (31) according to one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the closeable outer structure (32) is foldable.

Drawing