MX2014016100A - Corner boards, container assemblies including the same, and methods of making and using the same. - Google Patents

Abstract

A corner board includes first and second sides, each including a board material; a bend between the first and second sides, joining first and second sides together; and a slit adjacent to a first end of the corner board, the slit completely crossing the bend and partially crossing the first and second sides. In addition, a method of manufacturing a corner board includes bending a board stock to form first and second sides of the corner board with an angle therebetween; cutting the board stock into fixed lengths, the bent and cut board stock forming the corner board; and forming a slit near a first end of the corner board. The present corner board may be advantageously rested or placed along a vertical edge of a container or stack of containers.

Description

ANGULAR CORNERS, SET OF CONTAINERS THAT INCLUDE THEM, AND PROCEDURES FOR MANUFACTURING AND USING THE SAME CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUEST The present application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 666,682, filed June 29, 2012 and United States Patent Application No. 13 / 904,967, filed May 29, 2013, which are incorporated here as a reference as if it were presented in its entirety in this document.

Field of the Invention The present invention relates, in general, to the field of corner angles and to the methods of manufacture and use thereof. More specifically, the embodiments of the present invention relate to a corner angle with a groove and / or a groove near one end, and to the methods of making and using such corner angles.

Background of the Invention The containers are used for the maintenance and / or storage of materials. Multiple containers can be stacked together as a single unit, for various reasons, such as storage, transportation, or other operations involving multiple containers. For example, various containers can be placed on a pallet, for your storage in a warehouse and / or for loading onto a trailer for transport (for example, from a distribution warehouse to a store). When moving a pallet of containers by means of a forklift, the operator of the forklift can inadvertently hit the edge of the pallet with a wall, with shelves of support, with a vehicle or even with another container or containers. Unexpected movement during transport of the containers may also cause the batteries to become unstable or fall, or otherwise be damaged. As a result, the handling of such containers or stacks of containers may cause damage to the exterior of the container or containers and / or the contents thereof.

Corner angles can be placed in the corners of stacks of containers to hold the stacks in place and / or mitigate damage to the containers. Conventionally, corner angles are attached to the outer edges of the stacks of containers using staples or tape. However, this procedure for fixing the corner angles takes a relatively long time and requires the use of additional materials with corner angles. Additionally, this method of fixing corner angles can create security risks; For example, a person could become injured with the staple or staples that can protrude from the corner angle when removing the angle or corner angles stapled from the group of containers, or cut when cutting the tape with a knife or a box cutter. These methods for fixing corner angles can also damage the container or containers and / or their contents. For example, the staple used to fix the Corner angle may pierce the contents within the underlying container, or the tape may tear the outer surface of the container, which often has a protective, moisture resistant or finished / decorative outer surface. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a corner angle in which the corner angle is easily placed in a stack of containers without the need to use additional means to fix the corner angle to the container or containers.

This section of "Overview of the background" of provides only as background information. The statements in this "Description of background" are not an acknowledgment that the subject matter disclosed in this "Background description" section constitutes prior art to this disclosure, and no part of this "Background description" section. "may be used as an admission that any part of the present application, including this" Description of background "section, constitutes the prior art to this disclosure.

Summary of the Invention Embodiments of the present invention relate to a corner angle that advantageously holds stacks of containers in place, eliminates and / or minimizes damage to containers, and reduces or minimizes expenses due to damaged containers and / or contents of containers. In addition, the current corner angle eliminates the need for expensive corner angle fixation materials and the risks associated with this type of fixing materials.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a corner angle, comprising first and second edges, each including a plate material; a curve between the first and second edges, the first and second edges joining together; and a slot near or adjacent to a first end of the corner angle, the slot completely crossing the curve and partially crossing the first and second edges. In various embodiments of the present invention, the corner angle has a groove comprising a portion of the corner angle between the groove and the first end of the corner angle, the groove forming an opening along the groove and / or the slot and the first end of the corner angle. The notch (e.g., the corner angle portion between the slot and the first end of the corner angle) extends into the curve of the corner angle.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a corner angle that includes bending plates to form the first and second edges of the corner angle, the first and second edges having an angle therebetween; cutting the plates into fixed lengths, forming the curved plates and cutting the corner angle; and forming a groove near a first end of the corner angle. Other embodiments of the method include forming a notch in the first end of the corner angle by pushing the portion of the curved plate between the groove and the first end of the corner angle inwardly from the angle, thereby forming an opening between the groove. and the first end of the corner angle.

A further aspect or aspects of the present invention relates to an apparatus for forming a corner angle with groove that simultaneously cuts the plates and forms the groove. In various embodiments of the apparatus, a fastener is configured to form the notch simultaneously with or immediately after cutting the plates and / or forming the groove. A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method of securing a plurality of stacked containers using the current corner angle.

These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description of the various embodiments below.

Description of the Figures of the Invention Figure 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary corner angle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure IB is a perspective view of an exemplary corner angle according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is an end view of the corner angle according to the embodiment of Figure 1 A and Figure 1 B.

Figure 3 is a side view of a corner angle "previously notched" by way of example according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary corner angle in a stack of containers.

Figures 5A-5C are structural diagrams of an exemplary apparatus and / or exemplary parts of an apparatus for manufacturing the corner angle of Figure 3, according to the present invention.

Figure 5D is a structural diagram of an apparatus or part of the exemplary apparatus for making the corner angle of Figure 1A and Figure IB, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary procedure for making the corner angle of Figure 1 A and Figure IB, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description of the invention Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawing or drawings. In order to achieve the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention more clearly, further details of the invention are described below with respect to the Figure or Figures. While the invention will be described in conjunction with the following embodiments, it will be understood that the descriptions are not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. In addition, in the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a complete understanding of the present invention. However, it will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, processes, components and fixing equipment have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the aspects of the present invention. The embodiments described herein are used only to explain, rather than limit, the invention.

In the context of the present application, and for the sake of convenience and simplicity, the angular expressions corner, corner angle, peripheral plate, corner plate, angular and angular plate can be used interchangeably herein, and the use of a Expression of this type generally includes the others, unless otherwise indicated in the context of its use in this document.

Therefore, the technical aspects of the embodiments of the present invention will be more fully and clearly described together with the drawings in the following embodiments. It will be understood that the descriptions are not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. Based on the described embodiments of the present invention, other embodiments may be obtained and / or derived by a person skilled in the art without creative contribution or effort, and are considered within the scope of legal protection provided to the present invention.

On the other hand, all the characteristics, measures or processes described in this document, except the characteristics and / or processes that are mutually exclusive, can be combined in any way and in any possible combination, either with each other or with the structures of the prior art. Any characteristic disclosed in this Descriptive memory, in the claims, in the Summary and in the Figures, may be replaced by other equivalent characteristics or characteristics with similar objectives, purposes and / or functions, unless otherwise specified. Each feature is generally only one embodiment of the invention disclosed herein.

Embodiments of the present invention can advantageously provide a corner angle that can rest or be placed along a vertical edge of a container or stack of containers, without the need for additional material or steps (eg, staples or tape) for Fix the corner angle to the container or stack. These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description below.

Angular corner as an example Figure 1A illustrates an exemplary corner angle in accordance with the present invention. In a first aspect of the present invention, corner angle 100 (which may also be known as a v-shaped plate)peripheral plate, peripheral protector, corner post, plate ag, protective edge or protector, angular plate or other similar term) may comprise a piece of rigid material, at an angle. A portion of the corner angle can have a slot (e.g., a cutout) 110 and a notch 120 at or near one end of the corner angle 100. In various embodiments of the present invention, the slot 110 is close to or adjacent one end of the angle 100, and the notch 120 is between the slot 110 and the end of the corner angle. The notch 120 extends generally inward from the point of origin of angle a, as shown in Figure 2.

Referring again to Figure 1A, the corner angle 100 may be formed of any material, such as paper, cardboard, pressed board, plastic, or any other laminate or combination thereof having or may have a predetermined minimum stiffness . However, laminated paper, plastic or a combination thereof (such as plastics blend) with a predetermined minimum stiffness is generally preferred. The materials listed comprise broad categories. For example, the "carton" can comprise any plate material comprising paper and / or fiber, such as pressed and / or corrugated cardboard, fibreboard, paperboard, carton for boxes and / or corrugated cardboard. Corner angle 100 may further comprise a wrapper (eg, paper) and / or a cardboard laminate and other material (such as plastic). In additional embodiments, the wrap may comprise a complete wrap or a partial wrap (for example, with the edges of the corner angle exposed). In some embodiments, the laminate may comprise one or more layers of paper and / or cardboard and one or more sheets or layers of plastic and / or wax.

In the embodiment of Figure 1A, corner angle 100 comprises a plurality of edges. In general, corner angle 100 has two edges 101, 102. Each edge 101, 102 of corner angle 100 is generally rectangular. However, in other embodiments, the edges of the corner angle can be square, triangular, trapezoidal, or any other suitable shape.

Corner angle 100 can have any suitable thickness to protect the edge of a container and / or group (for example example, stack) of containers. In some embodiments, the thickness of corner angle 100 may have the same thickness as the material used to create corner angle 100. In one embodiment, angle corner 100 may have a thickness of approximately 0.4 cm (0, 16 inches). In other embodiments, the thickness may be in the range of 0.2 cm (0.08 inches) to 1.3 cm (0.50 inches), and may include a thickness of about 0.3 cm (0.12 inches) ); 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) or 0.6 cm (0.25 inches). Alternatively, corner angle 100 may have an internal thickness T2 less than an external thickness Ti (see, for example, U.S. Patent No. 5,813,537, which describes a so-called "apex" plate), or as an alternative , greater than the exterior thickness Ti, as shown in Figure IB. For example, T2 may be in the range of 0.3 cm (0.12 inches) to 1.3 cm (0.50 inches) (e.g., about 0.4 cm (0.16 inches), and Ti may be in the range of 0.2 cm (0.08 inches) to 0.95 cm (0.375 inches) (eg, approximately 0.3 cm (0.12 inches), or vice versa.

Referring again to Figure 1D, a length L1 of the edges 101, 102 of the corner angle 100 can be of any suitable length to protect the edge of a container and / or group of containers. In preferred embodiments, the length L1 of the edges 101, 102 of the corner angle 100 is about 60 cm (24 inches) to about 230 cm (90 inches). However, it should be understood that the length L1 of the edges 101, 102 of the corner angle 100 can be any value in the range, or more or less than such a range. In general, the thicker the corner angle 100 is, the greater the length Ll. For example, when corner angle 100 has a length of about 60 cm (24 inches) to 90 cm (36 inches), the thickness can be from about 0.3 cm (0.12 inches) to about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches). When corner angle 100 has a length of about 90 cm (36 inches) to 120 cm (48 inches), the thickness can be from about 0.4 cm (0.16 inches) to about 0.625 cm (0.25 inches) ). In addition, when corner angle 100 has a length of about 120 cm (48 inches) to 180 cm (72 inches), the thickness can be from about 0.625 cm (0.25 inches) to about 1.27 cm (0, 5 inches).

Referring to Figure 2, a width 1 of the edges 101, 102 of the corner angle 200 can be any suitable width to protect the edge of a container and / or group of containers, and provide support for a stack of containers. In preferred embodiments, the width W1 of each edge 101, 102 of the corner angle 100 is from about 2.5 cm (1 inch) to about 10 cm (4 inches). However, it should be readily understood that the width W1 of the edges 101, 102 of the corner angle 100 may have any value in the range, or more or less than such a range.

Slot 110 as shown in corner angle 100 of Figure 1A can be positioned at any suitable and / or predetermined distance from the end (e.g., a first end) of corner angle 100, while still allowing the corner angle 100 rest on the container (as shown later in Figure 4). Also, the longer the corner angle 100 is, the greater the distance of the slot 110 from the end of the corner angle 100. Similarly, the thicker the corner angle, the greater the distance of the slot 110 from the end of the angle corner 100. For example, when the angle 100 corner has a length of about 60 cm (24 inches) to 120 cm (48 inches), the distance can be from about 0.3 cm (0.12 inches) to about 0.375 cm (0.95 inches). Corner angle 100 has a length of about 120 cm (48 inches) to 150 cm (60 inches), the distance can be from about 0.375 cm (0.95 inches) to about 1.27 cm (0.5 inches) .

The notch 120 may comprise the material and / or a portion of the corner angle 100 between the slot 110 and the end of the corner angle 100. As shown in Figure 2, the notch 120 may have an angle opposite the angle a of the Corner angle 100. In general, the notch extends inward from the curve, the curve has an angle a of less than 180 °, and the notch has an angle of less than 180 ° oriented towards the angle a of the curve of corner angle 100. In one example, the curve can have an angle a of approximately 90 °, and the notch has an angle of approximately 90 ° oriented towards the angle of the curve. However, due to variations in the quality of the plate and the process of grouping, the notch can have an angle of about 60 ° to about 120 ° oriented towards the angle of the curve (normally between 90 ° and 105 °). In another embodiment, if the corner angle 100 is made of a molded material, such as plastic, the groove 120 may run generally straight through between the two end points of the groove 110. (for example, the notch has an angle of 0o). An opening 111 is formed between the slot 100 and the end of the corner angle 100, as shown in Figure 2. The opening 111 may have, but is not limited to, a diamond-shaped opening, an aperture in the shape of A, or other various opening shapes, depending on the shape and / or size of the corner angle, the slot in the corner angle, the containers, and / or the stack of containers. Alternatively, the notch 120 can assume any shape of a pendant notch or a notch having the capacity and adaptability to hang on the end of corner angle 100.

Referring to Figure 3, a distance (W2) from the end of the corner angle 300 to the groove 110 of FIGURE 1 AB may vary, depending on the type and / or thickness of the material used to create the corner angle 100. For example, a width W2 of the groove 120 of FIGURE 1 AB can be from about 0.3 cm to 2.5 cm (eg, from about 0.12 inches to about 1 inch). In one embodiment, the predetermined distance (W2) of the slot 110 to the corner angle end is approximately 1 cm (e.g., approximately 0.37 inches) when the corner angle 100 has a thickness of about 0.6 cm (eg, 0.16 inches) or more. In various embodiments, the predetermined distance (W2) of the slot 110 to the end of the corner angle can be from about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm. However, one skilled in the art will readily understand that the distance can be any suitable distance that achieves the objectives of the present invention. In further embodiments, when corner angle 100 is less than 0.6 cm (for example, 0.16 inches), the slot 110 may be 1.5 cm (eg, approximately 0.63 inches) from the corner end of the screen 100. In other embodiments, the predetermined distance (W2) from the slot 110 to the The angle of the corner angle can be from about 0.75 cm to about 3 cm when the corner angle has a thickness of less than 0.6 cm.

The length and / or depth (L2) of the slot 110 can be any suitable value that provides a suitable notch 120 and / or provides the corner angle 100 for resting on one or more containers. Generally, the depth (L2) of the slot 110 is a predetermined percentage of the width W1 of each edge 101, 102 of the corner angle 100. For example, the depth (L2) of the slot 110 may be 20-80% of the width W1 (see Figure 2) of each edge of the corner angle 100, or any value or range of values thereof (eg, 30-60%, approximately 50%, etc.), preferably 30 -50% of the width of each of the first and second edges 101, 102. Normally, the first and second edges 101, 102 have identical widths.

On the other hand, the angle of the corner angle 100 and the angle of the groove 120 may depend on the shape of the container and / or stack of containers. Generally, the angle of the notch 120 can have any value that provides or allows the corner angle 100 to rest on and / or against the corner of a container, wherein the angle of the notch 120 should be proportional to the angle of a notch. container or containers available in the market. However, an angle a of approximately 90 degrees is generally preferred.

A stack of sample containers protected with corner angles Figure 4 shows the exemplary use of the corner angle 100 in a group of containers 410, wherein the corner angle 100 rests on the vertical edge of the group of containers 410. Alternatively, corner angle corner 100 can resting on the edge or corner of one or more elements and / or objects (eg, a stack or arrangement of elements or objects, such as furniture), instead of the group of containers 410. To adequately secure the stacked containers, the notch 120 of the corner angle 100 is placed in an upper corner 115 of a stack of containers 410 in such a manner that the surface of the upper corner or edge 115 of the stack of containers 410 is exposed through the opening 111 (see FIG. 2) of the corner angle 100. The edges 101, 102 of corner angle 100 rest on the edges of the stack of containers 410 adjacent the edge of the stack of containers 410.

It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that corner angle 100 may extend to any suitable length along the edge of container group 410. While edges 101, 102 of corner angle 100 will generally have an equal length or smaller than the edge length of the container group 410, it should be understood that corner angle 100 may be longer than the edge length of a single container and / or group of containers 410. For example, the angle of The corner may have a length greater than the length of the vertical edge of a single container to protect the containers whose edges are generally vertically aligned with the container wherein the corner angle 100 is positioned. In this manner, corner angles 100 can be placed in one or more containers (e.g., on each edge or in a subset of the edges) in a group of containers to mitigate the damage to the edges of the containers in the group. Corner angle 100 may also be useful for protecting other elements or objects (eg, furniture, bathroom / kitchen accessories, windows, stacked building materials, such as wood / boards, bricks, plasterboard, etc.).

The method may further comprise wrapping or placing bands in the group of containers 410, or other elements and / or objects stacked or grouped, together with the angle or corner angles 100 in place with a wrap, rope, or band. Wrapping, placing ropes, or bands in the group of containers generally improves the stability, handling, protection, and / or alters the resistance of the container group 410. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the The procedure may use any wrapping, rope, band or strap suitable for use in the containers, elements and / or objects to which it is applied. For example, the wrap may comprise an extensible film, flattened film, lacing film and / or strapping film, any of which may be solid or ventilated. Moreover, the wrap, rope, and / or band may comprise a shrink wrap, extensible film, roll or rolls of stretch film on a reel, tape, one or more straps, one or more bands, net, rope, cord, canvas , or any other suitable wrapper (or combination of wrappers and / or bands) for a group of containers (stacked). Moreover, the wrap, rope or band can wrap any and / or each portion of the group of containers 410.

An example of the apparatus for the manufacture of corner angles with grooves or notches Figures 5A-5B are structural diagrams showing parts of the equipment 500 for the manufacture of the corner angle of Figure 3. Figure 5C is an apparatus 500 for making the corner angle of FIG. 1 AB or, alternatively, of the angle corner of Figure 3.

Figure 5A shows a side view of a first cutting device 530 and a second cutting device 520, both attached to a central shaft 510 and secured by the bolt 515. In various embodiments, the iron is cut and the groove is formed simultaneously using a "dual purpose" cutting tool as shown in Figure 5A. For example, the first cutting device 530 can be configured to cut plates for corner angles into individual sections. The first cutting device 530 can be, for example, a saw blade. The second cutting device 520 is configured to form a slot in the corner angle near or adjacent to the cutting end of the corner angle 100. The second cutting means 520 can be selected from the group consisting of a blade, a laser, a saw blade, and a water jet.

In general, the second cutting device 520 is displaced and / or separated from the first cutting device 530 at a predetermined distance DI, and a cutting edge or surface of the second cutting device 520 is raised to a predetermined distance D2 with respect to to an edge or cutting surface of the first cutting device 530. The distance DI is generally equal to the width of the notch (e.g., width W2 in Figure 2 of notch 120 of Figure 1A-B, from ab0.3 cm to ab2.5 cm (ab0.12). inches to ab1 inch.) In some embodiments, the distance DI from the slot 110 to the end of the corner angle can be from ab0.5 cm to ab2 cm, for example, the distance from the slot 110 to the end of the corner angle (which may be predetermined) is approximately 1 cm (eg, approximately 0.37 inches) when corner angle 100 has a thickness of approximately 0.6 cm (eg, 0.16 inches) or However, one skilled in the art will readily understand that the distance DI can be any suitable distance that achieves the objectives of the present invention.The distance D2 is generally calculated according to the formula [Wl-L2] sinG, where Q = [180 ° - a] / 2, and Wl, L2 are already as described herein (for example, Wl is the width of a corner angle corner, L2 is the length or depth of the groove on each edge of the corner angle, it is already the angle of the curve in the corner angle).

Figure 5B shows a top-down view of a countertop 540 with a cutout 545 therein. Countertop 540 is the surface along which one or more pieces of plates are fed (e.g., along a direction substantially perpendicular to cutout 545), and cutout 545 is an area where the first cutting device 530 (for example, a radial saw blade) moves laterally during the cutting process of the corner angle 100. Generally, the width of the counter 540 depends on the number of pieces of corner angle plates that feed and cut. Normally, when a corner angle plate piece (or length) is fed and cut, the countertop 540 measures from about 0.61m (2 feet) to about 1.22m (4 feet) wide. When two pieces (or lengths) of corner angle plates are cut, the width of the countertop 540 is generally about 0.76m (2.5 feet) to about 1.52m (5 feet). Additionally, the length of the countertop should be sufficient to allow a radial saw or other cutting apparatus to cut the corner angle plate fed (eg, from about 0.91M (3 feet) to about 1.83m (6 feet). ft) or more). Typically, the width of the opening 545 can be from about 1.27 cm (0.5 inches) to about 5.08 cm (2 inches). The length and width of the opening 545 are sufficient for the blade or blades of the cutting apparatus to cut the corner angle and clear the corner angle on both edges. Generally, the length of the cut 545 may be from about 20.32 cm (8 inches) to about 60.96 cm (24 inches) (eg, from about 30.48 cm (12 inches) to about 40.64 cm ( 16 inches), and the width of the opening 545 can be from about 1.27 cm (0.5 inches) to about 10.16 cm (4 inches) (e.g., from about 2.54 cm (1 inch) to approximately 5.08 cm (2 inches)).

Figure 5C shows a front view of a cutting apparatus 500 for making corner angles with groove and / or groove. The apparatus 500 includes an outer radial saw blade 530 (i.e., the first cutting device) with a saw blade cover 560 fixed to the support ( example, a radial arm) 550. The first cutting device 530 and the second cutting device 520 (not visible in Figure 5C) can be fixed to an axis, rod or other device defining a radial axis (for example, the shaft 510, Figure 5A) which is driven or rotated by a motor in housing 555. Support 550 is generally configured to allow the first cutting device 530 and the second cutting device 520 to move laterally through the corner angle . As shown in Figures 5A and 5C, the cut through the corner angle and the groove in the corner angle can be made at the same time. In one embodiment, when a corner angle corner is cut into a section (eg, an independent corner angle), a groove is formed in the next corner angle. In a further embodiment, the cuts and slots are made automatically through computer-controlled movements of the radial arm saw through the corner angle plate at predetermined intervals, as the corner angle plate is fed to along the countertop 540 at a predetermined speed (eg, 0.3-3.05 m / s (1-10 ft / sec), or any type or range of speeds therein).

Figure 5D shows a side view of the dual purpose cutting apparatus with a fastener 580 for simultaneously extending the notch (eg, notch 120 in Figure 1A-B) inwards, while cutting the corner angle plate and the slot forms (e.g., slot 110 of FIG. 1A-B). For example, a metal fastener 580 can be fixed to the support 570 and / or saw cover 560, in a position between the cutting devices 530 and 520 configured to form the notch 120 of FIGURE 1 A-B simultaneously with or immediately after the first cutting device 530 cuts the corner angle plate and the second cutting device 520 forms the groove. Normally, the metal fastener 580 extends between the end of the second cutting device 520 and the first cutting device 530, ending in a blunt tip, whose end is usually vertically closer to the edge or end of the second cutting device 520 that of the end or edge of the first cutting device 530. As the first cutting device 530 cuts the main corner angle into a separate section and the second cutting device 520 forms the slot, the metal attachment 580 hits the edge of the cutting edge 530. corner angle with sufficient force to reverse the position and / or angle of the material at the end of the corner angle between the slot and the end of the cut, thereby forming the notch. In one embodiment, the metal fastener 580 may comprise a roller (not shown) at the blunt tip end. In one embodiment, the element 575 represents a metal clamp mounted or fixed to the cover 560, extending in and out of the plane of the page, which stabilizes the fastener 580 against impact from the edge of the corner angle.

In an alternative embodiment, the element 575 is a fixing mechanism that allows the various accessories to be attached to the cover 560. Such fasteners may comprise a pneumatic ram, air jet, pneumatic press, die or other pushing device, etc. . Generally, such fixations do not extend beyond the outer edge of the second cutting device 520. Therefore, the material which extends inwardly (for example, notch 120) can be created using equipment that does not come into direct contact with the angular corner, which can improve equipment operating time between maintenance or repair procedures.

An exemplary manufacturing process for corner angles with groove and / or groove Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing corner angles with groove and / or groove. An exemplary method of manufacturing such corner angles (e.g., corner angles of Figures 1A-B and 3) is described below.

In one embodiment, the method of manufacturing a corner angle comprises bending a plate to form the first and second edges of the corner angle, cutting the plate into fixed lengths, and forming a slot near or adjacent to a first end of the angle of corner. The first and second edges of the corner angle have an angle between them. Also, the curved and cut plate forms the corner angle. In a further embodiment of the method, a notch is formed near or adjacent to the first end of the corner angle.

Figure 6 shows a flow chart 600 of an exemplary method of making a notched corner angle (e.g., corner angle 100 of Figure 1A-B). The method of manufacturing a slotted corner angle generally comprises forming a slot 110 near one end of the corner angle 100, and the method of forming a notched corner angle generally also comprises forming from a notch 120 at the end of the corner angle 100 from the material between the slot 110 and the end of the corner angle.

Referring again to Figure 6, the procedure begins at 610, and at 620, the plate is laminated with one or more layers of paper and / or plastic. The plate may comprise a pre-laminated corner angle plate, comprising a plurality of layers of paper, and, optionally, one or more layers of plastic, adhesively laminated to one or two layers of paper and / or plastic (when they are present) adjacent. In various embodiments, the preform (e.g., sheet cut or formed in a predetermined width) may comprise alternative layers of paper or other feed and adhesive material folded at a desired angle OI.

In other embodiments, the corner angle comprises layers of paper and / or other feed material with uncured (i.e. wet or wet) adhesive between the layers. In such embodiments, the method may further comprise drying the corner angle. For example, if the material is a multilayer board, pressed board, or paperboard, the curing time will provide time for the adhesive (eg, glue) between the layers to cure or dry. Providing a suitable curing period can allow easy manipulation of the corner angle during its manufacture, as well as providing greater strength and / or durability of the corner angle during use. In some embodiments, the curing period may depend on the time of year. For example, during the winter months, when temperatures are colder, it may take 10-14 days for corner angles to heal, while it may take about 3-4 days during the summer months.

At 630, a corner angle 100 is formed by folding the corner angle plate at an angle a, forming the first and second edges (see, for example, the edges 101, 102 of Figure 1A-B) of the corner angle. 100. Alternatively, a preformed corner angle having two edges 101, 102 at an angle a running the length of the corner plate material can be used. In general, the corner angle has an angle a of approximately 90 °.

At 640, corner angle 100 is cut into pieces of fixed length. The fixed length pieces may have a predetermined length (e.g., L1 in Figure 1 A-B) from about 60 cm (24 inches) to about 230 cm (90 inches). However, it should be readily understood that the predetermined length (e.g., L1 in Figure 1 AB) of the edges (e.g., 101, 102 in Figure 1 AB) of the corner angle 100 can be any value in the range , or more or less an interval of this type.

At 650, slots 110 are cut at a predetermined distance (e.g., width W2 in Figure 3) from the end of corner angle 100. Each slot 110 is generally cut at each edge (101, 102 in Figure 1). AB) of corner angle 100 to a predetermined depth (e.g., length L2 in Figure 3) from the point of origin of the angle. The distance W2 can be from about 0.3 cm to about 3 cm. The simultaneous formation of the slots 110 and cuts of the corner angle can be carried out as described above. In one embodiment, a corner first corner is cut in a section and a groove is formed in the next corner angle simultaneously. In a further embodiment, the cuts are made and the slots are formed automatically through a computer controlled movement of a "dual purpose" cutting apparatus through the corner angle plate, at predetermined intervals as the Corner angle plate is inserted into the apparatus (e.g., 500 in Figure 5C) at a predetermined speed (e.g., 0.3-3.05 m / s (1-10 ft / sec)).

Corner angle 100 and slot 110 can be cut with any capable cutting tool, such as a blade, laser or saw blade, including a radial saw. In one embodiment, the tool for cutting the corner angle and forming the groove includes two cutting devices substantially from edge to edge. In such an example, the bundle and / or sheet or sheets that intersect the angular corner and form the groove are offset from each other (eg, spaced apart at distance W2), from the edge of the sheet, bundle, or other tool. slotting that cuts the raised slot at a distance [W1 - L2] sin6, where Q = [180 ° - a] / 2 (and Wl, L2 are already as described in this document).

At 660, a determination is made whether to form a notch or not. If a notch forms, then at 670, the notch (e.g., notch 120 of Figure 1 AB) is formed at, near, or adjacent to the end of the angle 100 by pushing or forcing the material of the curved corner angle between the slot 110 and the cutting end of the corner angle 100 inwardly from the angle and / or edge of the corner angle. For example, the corner angle plate curved between the slot 110 (Figure 1 A-B) and the end of the angular corner 100 is pushed inward from angle a. Generally, the formation of the notch also forms an opening 111 between the slot 110 and the first end of the corner angle 100, as described above. Therefore, the formation of the groove 120 also forms at 670 in Figure 6 an opening 111 at the corner angle between the groove 110 and the end of the corner angle. After the notch is formed, or if a notch is not formed, then the procedure ends at 680.

CONCLUSION Embodiments of the present invention can advantageously provide a corner angle that can rest or be positioned along a vertical edge of a container or stack of containers, without the need for additional materials or steps (e.g., staples or tape) for Fix the Corner Angle to the container or stack of containers. Thus, the current corner angle advantageously holds stacks of containers in place when the stack is wrapped with appropriate wrapping material, and eliminates and / or minimizes the need for additional material, the risk of injury to the user and / or the damage to the containers or materials inside, and the costs and expenses associated with them.

The above descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms described, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the teaching or teachings above. The embodiments are chosen and described in order to explain better the principles of the invention and their application or practical applications, to thereby allow other experts in the field to better use the invention and various embodiments with various modifications that are suitable for the particular use envisaged. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

Claims (20)

1. An angular corner, comprising: first and second edges, each comprising a plate material; a curve between the first and second edges, the first and second edges joining together; Y a groove adjacent to a first end of the corner angle, the groove completely crossing the curve and partially crossing the first and second edges.

2. The corner angle of claim 1, wherein the plate material comprises paper, cardboard, pressed and / or corrugated cardboard, fibreboard, paperboard, carton for boxes, cardboard for containers, plastic or any laminate or other combination of the same.

3. The corner angle of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second edges has a thickness of about 0.2 cm to about 1.3 cm.

4. The corner angle of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second edges has a length of about 20 cm to about 90 cm and a width of about 2.5 cm to about 10 cm.

5. The corner angle of claim 1, wherein the slot is at a predetermined distance from the first end of the corner angle.

6. The corner angle of claim 5, wherein the predetermined distance is from about 0.5 cm to about 2 cm when the corner angle has a thickness of about 0.6 cm or more, and about 0.75 cm to approximately 3 cm when the corner angle has a thickness of less than 0.6 cm.

7. The corner angle of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second edges have an identical width, and the groove has a depth of approximately 20-50% of the width of each of the first and second edges. .

8. The corner angle of claim 1, further comprising a groove comprising a portion of the corner angle between the groove and the first end of the corner angle, the groove forming an opening along the groove and / or between the groove and the groove. slot and the first end of the corner angle.

9. The corner angle of claim 8, wherein the notch extends into the interior of the curve.

10. The corner angle of claim 9, wherein the curve has a first angle of about 90 °, and the notch has a second angle of about 60 ° to about 120 ° facing the first angle.

11. The corner angle of claim 1, wherein the notch has a width of about 0.3 cm to 2.5 cm.

12. A method of manufacturing a corner angle, comprising: curving a plate to form the first and second edges of the corner angle, having an angle therebetween; cut the plate into fixed lengths, forming the curved plate and cut the corner angle; Y form a slot near a first end of the corner angle.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising forming a notch in the first end of the corner angle.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein forming the notch comprises pushing the bent plate between the slot and the first end of the corner angle towards the inside from the angle, thereby forming an opening between the slot and the first end of corner angle.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the slot is a predetermined distance from the first end of the corner angle, the predetermined distance being from about 0.3 c to about 3 cm.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the plate is cut and the groove is formed simultaneously with dual-purpose equipment that includes: a first cutting device selected from the group consisting of a first blade, a first laser, a first saw and a first water jet; Y a second cutting device selected from the group consisting of a second blade, a second laser, a second saw and a second water jet, wherein the second cutting device is displaced and / or separated from the first cutting device a first predetermined distance, and a cutting edge or surface of the second cutting device is raised to a second predetermined distance with respect to a cutting edge or surface of the first cutting device.

17. A method of securing a plurality of stacked containers using the corner angle of claim 8, comprising: placing the corner angle notch in a higher corner of a stack of containers, elements and / or objects; Y wrapping or placing bands in the stack of containers, elements and / or objects with a wrapping material or bands.

18. An apparatus for forming a corner angle with slot, comprising: a first cutting device selected from the group consisting of a first blade, a first laser, a first saw and a first water jet, wherein the first cutting device is configured to cut the plate for the corner angle in individual sections; a second cutting device selected from the group consisting of a second blade blade, a second laser, a second saw and a second water jet, wherein the second cutting device is configured to form a slot in the corner angle fence of a first end of the corner angle; Y a support to which are fixed each of the first and second cutting devices, wherein the support is configured to move the first and second cutting devices through the angular corner, the second cutting device being moved and / or separated of the first cutting device at a first predetermined distance, and a cutting edge or surface of the second cutting device is raised to a second predetermined distance with respect to a cutting edge or surface of the first cutting device.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a fastener attached to the support, wherein the fastener is configured to form the notch simultaneously with or immediately after the first cutting device is configured to cut the plate and the second cutting device it is configured to form the slot.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the fastener comprises a pneumatic ram, a pneumatic press, a roller or a rounded metal projection. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A corner angle includes first and second edges, each including a plate material; a curve between the first and second edges, the first and second edges joining together; and a slot adjacent to a first end of the corner angle, the groove completely crossing the curve and partially crossing the first and second edges. In addition, a method of manufacturing a corner angle includes curving a plate to form first and second edges of the corner angle with an angle therebetween; cut the plate into fixed lengths, forming the curved plate and cut the corner angle; and forming a groove near a first end of the corner angle. The current corner angle can rest or be advantageously positioned along a vertical edge of a container or a stack of containers.