PLASTIC CONTAINER WITH HOOK ELEMENT

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a plastic container for storing and transporting objects.

BACKGROUND

Plastic containers for storing and transporting objects, for example in the course of warehousing, internal transportation, and/or delivery of the objects, are used in a variety of ways. In order to utilize the available storage space as efficiently as possible in the course of warehousing, i.e., a targeted and systematic storage of objects for later use, several plastic containers may be placed in storage one behind the other on shelves, for example. However, several plastic containers stored one behind the other present a challenge when placing them in storage and retrieving them from storage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an objective of the invention to provide an improved plastic container for storing and transporting objects, in particular a plastic container for improved placing in storage and retrieving from storage. The objectives underlying the invention are solved by the features of the independent claims.

In one aspect, a plastic container for storing and transporting objects is disclosed, which comprises a bottom and four side walls. A first of the side walls comprises a hook element made of plastic on an outer side of the plastic container. The hook element comprises a downwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile in a sectional plane perpendicular to the first side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container. The hook element comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs.

The hook element makes it possible to couple the plastic container to one or more other plastic containers for placing in storage and/or for retrieving from storage. For example, the plastic container with the hook element may be hooked into a receiving element of a further plastic container, in particular one of identical construction, which is designed complementary to the hook element. This allows the plastic container to be coupled to the other plastic container with a form-fitting, for example. In this way, for example, a train assembly of two or more coupled plastic containers may be formed. A respective train assembly of plastic containers comprises a plurality of plastic containers coupled together using respective hook elements, in particular form-fittingly coupled together. By coupling the plastic containers to one another, it may be ensured that a first, i.e., foremost position on an edge of the depth support of a storage rack is always occupied when plastic containers of the train assembly are placed in storage and/or retrieved from storage, as long as at least one plastic container is still present.

For example, the plastic containers comprise a hook element on the outer side of a first side wall and a complementary receiving element, i.e., pocket element, on the outer side of an opposite second side wall. The hook element and receiving element may, for example, have a complementary shape such that the hook element and receiving element of two plastic containers of identical construction may be coupled together in a form-fitting manner. The hook element and receiving element are shaped in such a way, for example, that the forces applied are distributed as evenly as possible in the plastic material from which the elements may be made, for example by injection molding. The hook element and receiving element are shaped, for example, in such a way that the forces applied are transferred into the bottom of the plastic container.

For example, the hook elements of the plastic containers of a train assembly enable force transmission from plastic container to plastic container, so that when a front plastic container of the train assembly is gripped, the frictional forces of all the plastic containers of the train assembly that are attached to each other may be overcome and the train assembly may be moved. In particular, pushing or pulling forces may be transmitted in the course of placing in storage or retrieving from storage, which enable the train assembly to move along a longitudinal direction of the train assembly.

When retrieving a plastic container from storage, for example, the foremost plastic container in the train assembly may be pulled out of a rack and suspended or decoupled from the train assembly. The train assembly is moved towards an edge of the rack or the depth support by a length of a plastic container, for example, so that a previously second foremost plastic container takes on the rack the position of the previously foremost and now decoupled plastic container. In this way, the foremost position always remains occupied by a plastic container, for example.

Similarly, an additional plastic container may be attached or coupled to a foremost plastic container of the train assembly during a placing in storage and pushed into the rack. In this case, for example, the train assembly is moved away from the edge of the rack or the depth support by a length of a plastic container and further into the rack when the additional plastic container is pushed into the rack. As a result, the additional plastic container in the rack takes the position of the previously foremost plastic container in the train assembly. In this way, the foremost position always remains occupied by a plastic container, for example.

Such placing in storage and retrieving from storage, in which pushing and/or pulling forces are transmitted along the train assembly, makes it possible that gripping the frontmost plastic container of the train assembly is sufficient. For example, it is not necessary to reach into the rack for placement in storage and/or retrieval from storage, nor are further technical devices required within the rack for placing the respective plastic containers in storage and/or retrieving the respective plastic containers from storage. Thus, for example, it may be avoided that an operating device, in particular an automated operating device, has to move into the depth of the rack for the purpose of placing respective plastic containers in storage and/or retrieving respective plastic containers from storage in order to place and/or pick up a plastic container. This makes it possible, for example, to realize a higher storage density with simultaneously simpler designed operating devices. The higher storage density may be achieved, for example, by the fact that the plastic containers may be stored close behind one another, for example coupled to one another in a form-fitting manner, and possibly close side by side if no additional space is required for further technical devices within the rack for placing the plastic containers in storage and/or for retrieving the plastic containers from storage.

In a sectional plane perpendicular to the first side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container, the hook element has a downwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile. Such a U-shaped cross-sectional profile enables, for example, simple hooking or form-fittingly coupling of the plastic container with a further plastic container, in particular of identical construction, which has a receiving element with a complementary upwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

The hook element comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs. A use of stabilizing ribs makes it possible to stabilize or stiffen the plastic hook element in such a way that it is suitable for transmitting forces, in particular pulling and/or pushing forces, which are large enough to overcome frictional forces from one or more other plastic containers coupled to the plastic container via the hook element. This applies to both static and dynamic frictional forces. The plastic containers rest on deep supports made of galvanized steel, for example. The frictional forces are, for example, frictional forces between plastic, such as polypropylene (PP), and steel, such as galvanized steel. This also applies in particular to loaded plastic containers. The pulling and/or pushing forces, that act on a foremost plastic container of a train assembly and are to be transmitted, e.g., act in a direction perpendicular to the first side wall of the foremost plastic container.

For example, the bottom of the plastic container comprises a support structure with a cell structure that has a pattern of cells with downwardly open cells. A cell structure is understood here to be a structure formed from a plurality of individual cells. An individual cell has, for example, at least one lateral cell wall via which neighboring cells are connected to each other. The individual cells may have different cross-sectional shapes, in particular polygonal cross-sectional shapes. The individual cells of the respective cell structures form, for example, downwardly open cavities with a cross-section, in particular a polygonal cross-section, parallel to an extension plane of the bottom or an upper side of the bottom. The polygonal cross-section may be, for example, a triangular, square, pentagonal, or hexagonal cross-section. For example, the cell structure may be a honeycomb structure with cells in the form of honeycombs with a hexagonal cross-section.

A respective cell structure may have the advantage that the plastic container only rests with the lower edges of the cells on a support, such as a deep support of a rack. Friction is limited, for example, to the respective lower edges. At the same time, the cell structure may ensure high stability of the bottom of the plastic container.

A U-shaped profile comprises two legs connected to each other. The connecting section between the two legs is the base of the U-shaped profile. The base may be flat, straight or concave, for example. In the case of a flat base, for example, additional curved transition sections may be provided between base and leg. The legs of the U-shaped profile may, for example, be straight or curved, in particular concavely curved. For example, the legs extend parallel to each other. For example, the legs extend perpendicular to a flat base of the U-shaped profile or to a tangent to a minimum or maximum of a curved base, in particular to a center of the base. For example, the two legs are inclined away from each other so that an opening of the U-shaped profile increases with increasing distance from the base. For example, a first of the two legs is inclined relative to a normal to a flat base of the U-shaped profile or to a tangent to a minimum or maximum of a curved base, in particular to a center of the base, while the second leg extends parallel to the normal. For example, both legs are inclined relative to a normal to a flat base of the U-shaped profile or to a tangent to a minimum or maximum of a curved base, in particular to a center of the base.

The U-shaped cross-sectional profile enables, for example, the hook element to be easily hooked into a receiving element of a further plastic container provided for this purpose, which has, for example, a complementary U-shaped cross-sectional profile. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element also makes it possible, for example, to redirect forces acting on the hook element, in particular in the direction towards the bottom of the plastic container. For example, the hook element is arranged for this purpose near the bottom of the plastic container, i.e., in a lower region of the first side wall.

In addition, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile has, for example, rounded transitions without corners, in particular only rounded transitions, as a result of which local force peaks and a resulting exceeding of a maximum limiting stress of the plastic material from which the plastic container is made may be avoided during force transmission. For example, the hook element has no corners along the force path, i.e., the transmission path of a force acting on the hook element, but only rounded curves, which means, for example, that local force peaks and thus material overloads may be avoided.

The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element counteracts, for example, a bending of the first side wall as a result of a force acting on the hook element.

Examples make it possible for the forces required to overcome the frictional force to be applied to the plastic containers of a train assembly via the hook elements in such a way that the limiting stress of the plastic material from which the plastic containers and in particular the hook elements are made is not exceeded at any point along the force transmission path. This applies, for example, to polypropylene (PP), from which the plastic containers may be made, for example by injection molding. This applies, for example, to recycled polypropylene, from which the plastic containers and in particular the hook elements may be made, for example by injection molding. A respective limiting stress for recycled polypropylene is around 20 MPa, for example. This applies, for example, to new, non-recycled polypropylene (PP), from which the plastic containers and in particular the hook elements may be made, for example by injection molding. A respective limiting stress for new, non-recycled polypropylene is around 30 MPa, for example.

A use of stabilizing ribs makes it possible, for example, to achieve sufficient stabilization or stiffening of the hook element and at the same time, for example, to maintain a constant wall thickness of all sections of the plastic container and in particular of the hook element, which is required for a manufacturing by injection molding.

Stabilizing ribs and/or stabilizing struts of the hook element generate, for example, lines of force between friction surfaces on the bottom of the plastic container and a connection section to an adjacent plastic container in a train assembly. The connection section is, for example, the section of a connection between the respective hook element and a receiving element of the neighboring plastic containers.

Curvatures of the hook element may move or distribute occurring stress maxima from an edge of the connection section to its center, for example, whereby a size of an effective area may be increased and thus the locally occurring stresses in the plastic material may be reduced.

A train assembly may, for example, comprise two or more plastic containers. For example, a train assembly comprises up to five plastic containers. For example, a train assembly comprises three plastic containers. For example, a train assembly comprises four plastic containers. For example, a train assembly comprises five plastic containers.

By using the stabilizing ribs, even in the case of a train assembly with up to five plastic containers, it may be ensured that the hook element is configured to pull up to four plastic containers, for example. It may therefore be ensured that the hook element is configured, for example, to transmit a force that is sufficient to overcome the frictional forces of four loaded plastic containers.

By form-fittingly coupling the hook element into a complementary receiving element, a form-fitting coupling, comparable to a claw coupling, may be implemented between the plastic containers of a train assembly.

By means of the stabilizing ribs, for example, a load applied to the hook element in the height range of the bottom may be transferred into the first side wall of the plastic container and from there further transferred into the bottom of the plastic container.

For example, several first stabilizing ribs of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the hook element are arranged parallel to each other and each extend, for example, perpendicular to the first side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container. Furthermore, the first stabilizing ribs each comprise a lower edge which comprises a downwardly open U-shape in an extension plane of the respective stabilizing rib.

For example, the first stabilizing ribs with the U-shaped curved lower edges form the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element. For example, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element is a cross-sectional profile of a cross-section through one of the first stabilizing ribs. For example, the first stabilizing ribs with the U-shaped lower edges each form an inner arc of the hook element, along which force is transmitted.

The parallel arrangement of the first stabilizing ribs next to each other may, for example, achieve a better, in particular a uniform distribution of the force over the individual stabilizing ribs and thus over the width of the hook element. This applies in particular when the first stabilizing ribs are arranged next to each other at equal distances.

For example, the first stabilizing ribs extend down to the bottom of the plastic container. By extending the first stabilizing ribs, for example along the first side wall, down to the bottom of the plastic container, effective force transmission along the first stabilizing ribs into the bottom of the plastic container may be ensured, for example.

For example, the first stabilizing ribs extend down below an upper side of the bottom of the plastic container. By extending the first stabilizing ribs, for example along the first side wall, down below an upper side of the bottom of the plastic container, the force transmission along the first stabilizing ribs into the bottom of the plastic container may be further improved, for example.

For example, at an end remote from the first side wall, the hook element comprises an inner surface that is essentially perpendicular to the bottom. This vertical inner surface enables, for example, a secure form-fitting connection between the hook element and a complementary receiving element.

For example, at an end remote from the first side wall, the hook element comprises an inner surface inclined obliquely in direction towards the first side wall. An inner surface inclined obliquely in direction towards the first side wall, for which, for example, a lower end of the inner surface is further away from the first side wall than an upper end of the inner surface, enables, for example, a further plastic container to be pulled towards the plastic container with the hook element or vice versa. In the course of inserting the hook element into a respective receiving element of the further plastic container, the receiving element is guided along the inclined inner surface of the hook element towards the first side wall of the plastic container with the hook element. Alternatively, for example, the hook element is guided together with the plastic container along the inclined inner surface towards the further plastic container when it is inserted into the receiving element.

For example, the hook element comprises a downward-facing support surface at the end remote from the first side wall. This support surface is used, for example, to support the hook element on a receiving element, in particular when the hook element is inserted into the receiving element.

For example, the support surface is designed as a first edge lip with a rounded first transition section to the inner surface of the hook element. The inner surface is, for example, an inner surface perpendicular to the bottom. For example, the inner surface is inclined obliquely in direction towards the first side wall. A rounded transition section may, for example, make it easier to insert the hook element into a receiving element of a further plastic container provided for this purpose.

For example, the hook element further comprises, on an outer side of the hook element facing away from the first side wall, a plurality of second stabilizing ribs of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the hook element, which are arranged next to each other along a direction extending parallel to the first side wall and the bottom of the plastic container and each extend perpendicular to the first side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container.

The parallel arrangement of the second stabilizing ribs next to each other may, for example, achieve a better, in particular a uniform distribution of the force over the individual stabilizing ribs and thus over the width of the hook element. This applies in particular when the second stabilizing ribs are arranged next to each other at equal distances.

For example, the first and second stabilizing ribs each extend in pairs in a common plane, wherein the common planes are each arranged perpendicular to the first side wall and the bottom of the plastic container. For example, the second stabilizing ribs, as outer stabilizing ribs, are each arranged further away from the first side wall of the plastic container than the first stabilizing ribs, which are, for example, inner stabilizing ribs. For example, the second and first stabilizing ribs extend one behind the other along a force transmission path from an end of the hook element remote from the first side wall down to the bottom of the plastic container. This enables effective force transmission from the second to the first stabilizing ribs and then from these down to the bottom of the plastic container.

For example, the hook element does not have a support surface at the end remote from the first side wall. For example, gaps between the second stabilizing ribs arranged on the outer side of the hook element facing away from the first side wall are downwardly open.

For example, the hook element further comprises, arranged on the outer side of the hook element, one or more stabilizing struts of the hook element, which extend perpendicular to the second stabilizing ribs and/or connect them to one another. The stabilizing struts are configured, for example, to further increase the stability or rigidity of the hook element. In particular, forces acting laterally may thus be better distributed along the width of the hook element, for example to the first and/or second stabilizing ribs.

For example, a section of the outer side of the hook element is inclined in direction towards the first side wall. Examples may have the advantage that the inclination of the outer side or the section of the outer side may improve force transmission of the hook element in direction towards the first side wall. In addition, support of the hook element at the first side wall may be improved in the course of force transmission.

For example, the section of the outer side of the hook element extends in an arc towards the first side wall. Examples may have the advantage that the curved shape of the outer side or the section of the outer side may improve force transmission of the hook element in direction towards the first side wall. In addition, support of the hook element at the first side wall may be improved in the course of force transmission. Finally, the stability of the hook element may be improved by the curved shape.

For example, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element comprises two legs, of which a leg arranged on the side of the first side wall is inclined relative to a normal of the bottom of the plastic container, so that an opening of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile increases with increasing distance from a base of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

An increasing opening may, for example, make it easier to insert or hook the hook element into a receiving element provided for this purpose. Furthermore, an opening that increases with increasing distance from the base of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile enables, for example, a further plastic container to be pulled towards the plastic container with the hook element or vice versa. In the course of inserting the hook element into a respective receiving element of the additional plastic container, the receiving element is automatically aligned by the decreasing opening of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile in the respective profile and, if necessary, guided towards the plastic container with the hook element. Alternatively, for example, the hook element is aligned during insertion and, if necessary, guided together with the plastic container towards the other plastic container into the receiving element.

For example, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element has rounded transitions between the legs and the base of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile has a concave base, for example.

Due to rounded transitions, local force peaks and thus material overloads may be avoided in the course of force transmission by the hook element along the U-shaped cross-section profile.

For example, one or more of the following components of the hook element are arranged above the bottom of the plastic container: a section of the hook element comprising the outer side of the hook element facing away from the first side wall, the base of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element, the support surface.

On the one hand, arranging parts of the hook element above the bottom of the plastic container may make it easier to create a form-fitting connection with a receiving element provided for this purpose. On the other hand, in the course of force transmission by the hook element, force absorption above the bottom and redirection of the absorbed force down to the bottom of the plastic container by the hook element may be facilitated.

For example, the hook element on the outer side of the plastic container is integrally molded with the first side wall. For example, the hook element is manufactured as part of the plastic container in one piece with the plastic container. Examples may ensure a firm connection between the plastic container and the hook element. In addition, no further work step is required to attach the hook element to the plastic container.

For example, the hook element on the outer side of the plastic container is connected to the first side wall using a first non-destructively detachable connection. For example, the hook element on the outer side of the plastic container is connected to the first side wall using a first non-destructively detachable plug-in connection. For example, the plug-in connection comprises a snap connection. For example, the hook element is held in the plug-in connection with the first side wall by means of latching or clipping.

For example, the hook element is manufactured by injection molding. The injection-molded hook element is then attached to the plastic container in an additional work step, for example. For example, the hook element is plugged into the plastic container.

Examples may have the advantage that the manufacturing of the plastic container and hook element, for example by injection molding, may be simplified if the plastic container and hook element are manufactured separately. In addition, a non-destructively detachable connection between the plastic container and the hook element allows the hook element to be replaced.

For example, a second side wall of the plastic container opposite the first side wall comprises a receiving element made of plastic on the outer side of the plastic container. The receiving element arranged on the second side wall of the plastic container has an upwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile in a sectional plane perpendicular to the second side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container. The receiving element comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element.

The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element enables, for example, simple hooking of a hook element of a further plastic container provided for this purpose, which has, for example, a complementary U-shaped cross-sectional profile. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element also enables, for example, the redirection of forces acting on the receiving element, in particular in the direction towards the bottom of the plastic container. For example, the receiving element is arranged for this purpose near the bottom of the plastic container, i.e., in a lower region of the second side wall.

In addition, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile has, for example, rounded transitions without corners, as a result of which local force peaks and a resulting exceeding of a maximum limiting stress of the plastic material from which the plastic container is made may be avoided during force transmission. For example, the receiving element has no corners along the force path, i.e., the transmission path of a force acting on the receiving element, but only rounded curves, which means, for example, that local force peaks and thus material overloads may be avoided.

The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element counteracts, for example, a bending of the second side wall as a result of a force acting on the receiving element.

The use of stabilizing ribs makes it possible, for example, to achieve sufficient stabilization or stiffening of the receiving element and at the same time, for example, to maintain a constant wall thickness of all sections of the plastic container and in particular of the receiving element, which is required for a manufacturing by injection molding.

Stabilizing ribs and/or stabilizing struts of the receiving element generate, for example, a line of force between friction surfaces on the bottom of the plastic container and a connection section to an adjacent plastic container in a train assembly. The connection section is, for example, the section of a connection between the respective receiving element and a hook element of neighboring plastic containers.

Curvatures of the receiving element may move or distribute occurring stress maxima, for example, from an edge of the connection section to its center, whereby a size of an effective area may be increased and thus the locally occurring stresses in the plastic material may be reduced.

By using the stabilizing ribs, even in the case of a train assembly with up to five plastic containers, it may be ensured that the receiving element is configured to pull up to four plastic containers, for example. It may therefore be ensured that the receiving element is configured, for example, to transmit a force that is sufficient to overcome the frictional forces of four loaded plastic containers.

By form-fittingly coupling a complementary hook element into the receiving element, a form-fitting coupling, comparable to a claw coupling, may be implemented between the plastic containers of a train assembly.

By means of the stabilizing ribs, for example, a load applied to the receiving element in the height range of the bottom may be transferred into the second side wall of the plastic container and from there further transferred into the bottom of the plastic container.

For example, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element is designed complementary to the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element in such a way that the receiving element is form-fittingly couplable to further hook element of a further plastic container of identical construction.

A train assembly of two or more plastic containers arranged one behind the other may be formed by form-fittingly coupling of two or more plastic containers, in particular those of identical construction.

Coupling several plastic containers so that a train assembly is formed with a plurality of plastic containers coupled together and arranged in a row one behind the other may have the advantage that available space in a warehouse, in particular in a rack, may be used more effectively and efficiently. In addition, the individual plastic containers may be prevented from moving on the crossbars of the rack by self-locking as a result of the coupling with the one or more other plastic containers. The coupled plastic containers restrict each other's freedom of movement due to the form-fitting couplings.

A distance between the side walls of two form-fittingly coupled plastic containers may be less than 1 mm, for example. For example, a maximum distance between the side walls of two form-fittingly coupled plastic containers is 5 mm. For example, a maximum distance between the hook element and the receiving element of two form-fittingly coupled plastic containers is 5 mm when a pushing force is applied to the plastic containers. For example, a minimum distance between the hook element and the receiving element of two form-fittingly coupled plastic containers is 0.7 mm when a pulling force is applied to the plastic containers.

For example, at an end remote from the second side wall, the receiving element comprises an inner surface that is essentially perpendicular to the bottom. This vertical inner surface enables, for example, a secure form-fitting connection between the receiving element and a complementary hook element.

For example, at an end remote from the second side wall, the receiving element comprises an inner surface inclined obliquely in a direction away from the second side wall. An inner surface inclined obliquely in the direction away from the second side wall, for which, for example, an upper end of the inner surface is further away from the second side wall than a lower end of the inner surface, enables, for example, a further plastic container to be pulled towards the plastic container with the receiving element or vice versa. In the course of inserting the respective hook element of the further plastic container into the receiving element, the hook element is guided along the inclined inner surface of the receiving element towards the second side wall of the plastic container with the receiving element. Alternatively, for example, the receiving element is guided together with the plastic container along the inclined inner surface towards the further plastic container when the hook element is inserted.

For example, the receiving element comprises a bearing surface which comprises the U-shaped cross-sectional profile. This bearing surface makes it possible, for example, to place a hook element on the receiving element, in particular when inserting the respective hook element into the receiving element.

For example, at an end of the receiving element remote from the second side wall, the bearing surface comprises a second rounded transition section to the inner surface of the receiving element and a second edge lip adjoining the second transition section. The bearing surface is directed upwards in the area of the second edge lip. The inner surface is, for example, an inner surface perpendicular to the bottom. For example, the inner surface is inclined obliquely in the direction away from the second side wall.

A rounded transition section may, for example, make it easier to insert a hook element provided for this purpose into the receiving element.

For example, several third stabilizing ribs of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element are arranged parallel to each other and each extend perpendicular to the second side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container.

By arranging the third stabilizing ribs parallel to each other, for example distributed over the width of the receiving element, a better, in particular a uniform distribution of the force over the individual stabilizing ribs and thus over the width of the receiving element may be achieved. This applies in particular if the third stabilizing ribs are arranged parallel to each other at even intervals.

For example, the third stabilizing ribs extend down to the bottom of the plastic container. By extending the third stabilizing ribs, for example along the second side wall, down to the bottom of the plastic container, effective force transmission along the third stabilizing ribs into the bottom of the plastic container may be ensured.

For example, the third stabilizing ribs extend down below an upper side of the bottom of the plastic container. By extending the third stabilizing ribs, for example along the second side wall, down below an upper side of the bottom of the plastic container, the force transmission along the third stabilizing ribs into the bottom of the plastic container may be further improved, for example.

For example, the receiving element further comprises, on an outer side of the receiving element, a plurality of fourth stabilizing ribs of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element, which are arranged next to each other along a direction extending parallel to the second side wall and the bottom of the plastic container and each extend perpendicular to the second side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container.

By arranging the fourth stabilizing ribs next to each other, for example distributed over the width of the receiving element, a better, in particular a uniform distribution of the force over the individual stabilizing ribs and thus over the width of the receiving element may be achieved. This applies in particular if the fourth stabilizing ribs are arranged next to each other at equal distances.

For example, the third and fourth stabilizing ribs of the receiving element each extend in pairs in a common plane, wherein the common planes are each arranged perpendicular to the second side wall and the bottom of the plastic container. For example, the third stabilizing ribs, as lower stabilizing ribs, are each arranged below and possibly closer to the second side wall of the plastic container than the fourth stabilizing ribs, which are, for example, upper stabilizing ribs. For example, the fourth and third stabilizing ribs extend one behind the other along a force transmission path from an end of the receiving element remote from the second side wall down to the bottom of the plastic container. This enables effective force transmission from the fourth to the third stabilizing ribs and then from these down to the bottom of the plastic container.

For example, the receiving element further comprises one or more stabilizing struts of the receiving element arranged on the outer side of the receiving element, which extend perpendicular to the fourth stabilizing ribs and/or connect them to one another. The stabilizing struts are configured, for example, to further increase the stability or rigidity of the receiving element. In particular, forces acting laterally may thus be better distributed along the width of the receiving element, for example to the third and/or fourth stabilizing ribs.

For example, the fourth stabilizing ribs arranged on the outer side of the receiving element are covered or overlapped by the bearing surface of the receiving element arranged at the end of the receiving element remote from the second side wall. For example, gaps between the fourth stabilizing ribs arranged on the outer side of the receiving element are not upwardly open.

For example, the receiving element does not have a bearing surface at the end remote from the second side wall. For example, the fourth stabilizing ribs arranged on the outer side of the receiving element are not covered or overlapped by any bearing surface of the receiving element. For example, gaps between the fourth stabilizing ribs arranged on the outer side of the receiving element are upwardly open.

For example, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element comprises two legs. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element also has at least one rounded transition between one leg of the two legs, which is arranged remote from the second side wall, and a base of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element.

Due to the rounded transition, local force peaks and thus material overloads may be avoided in the course of force transmission by the receiving element along the U-shaped cross-section profile.

For example, one or more of the following components of the receiving element are arranged above the bottom of the plastic container: the base of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element, the bearing surface.

On the one hand, arranging parts of the receiving element above the bottom of the plastic container may make it easier to create a form-fitting connection with a hook element provided for this purpose. On the other hand, in the course of force transmission by the receiving element, this may facilitate force absorption above the bottom and redirection of the absorbed force down to the bottom of the plastic container by the receiving element.

For example, the receiving element on the outer side of the plastic container is integrally molded with the second side wall.

For example, the receiving element is connected to the second side wall on the outer side of the plastic container using a second non-destructively detachable connection. For example, the receiving element is connected to the second side wall on the outer side of the plastic container using a second non-destructively detachable plug-in connection. For example, the plug-in connection comprises a snap connection. For example, the receiving element is held in the plug-in connection with the second side wall by means of latching or clipping.

For example, the receiving element is manufactured by injection molding. The injection-

molded receiving element is then attached to the plastic container in an additional work step, for example. For example, the receiving element is plugged into the plastic container.

For example, the plastic container is a plastic container manufactured by injection molding.

Injection molding is a primary molding process that is used in particular in plastics processing. The respective material, in this case plastic, is liquefied or plasticized using an injection molding machine and injected into a mold, the injection mold, under pressure. In the injection mold, the material returns to a solid state through cooling or a cross-linking reaction and may be removed as a finished part after the injection mold is opened. The cavity of the injection mold determines the positive form of the resulting finished part, i.e., the plastic container, as a negative form.

Manufacturing the plastic container by injection molding, for example, may have the advantage that comparatively little material is required to manufacture the plastic container. A sectional stabilization or stiffening of the plastic container, for example in the area of the hook element and/or the receiving element, is achieved, for example, by the respective stabilizing ribs and/or stabilizing struts.

Also disclosed, for example, is a plastic container for storing and transporting objects, which comprises a bottom and four side walls. One of the side walls comprises a receiving element made of plastic on an outer side of the plastic container. The receiving element arranged on the respective side wall of the plastic container has an upwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile in a sectional plane perpendicular to the side wall and to the bottom of the plastic container. The receiving element comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element.

For example, the receiving element is configured according to one of the examples described above for the receiving element.

Also disclosed, for example, is a train assembly of plastic containers which comprises two or more plastic containers coupled to one another in a form-fitting manner, in particular plastic containers of identical construction. In the train assembly, the plastic containers are arranged one behind the other, for example. For example, adjacent plastic containers are each connected to each other by means of a hook element and a receiving element of the respective plastic containers, which may be coupled in a form-fitting manner. For example, the respective hook and receiving elements each have U-shaped cross-sectional profiles that are designed complementary to each other in such a way that the receiving elements may be form-fittingly coupled to the respective hook elements.

For example, the hook elements of the plastic containers of the train assembly are configured in accordance with one of the examples of hook elements described above. For example, the receiving elements of the plastic containers of the train assembly are configured in accordance with one of the examples of receiving elements described above.

For example, the train assembly comprises three form-fittingly coupled plastic containers. For example, the train assembly comprises four form-fittingly coupled plastic containers. For example, the train assembly comprises five form-fittingly coupled plastic containers.

It is understood that one or more of the aforementioned examples may be combined as long as the combined examples are not mutually exclusive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following, examples are described in greater detail making reference to the drawings. It is shown:

FIG. 1 a first perspective side view of an exemplary plastic container,

FIG. 2 a second perspective side view of an exemplary plastic container,

FIG. 3 a third perspective side view of an exemplary plastic container,

FIG. 4 a first cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element,

FIG. 5 a second perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element,

FIG. 6 a third perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element,

FIG. 7 a fourth perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element,

FIG. 8 a perspective view of an exemplary hook element,

FIG. 9 a further perspective view of an exemplary hook element,

FIG. 10 a first perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary receiving element,

FIG. 11 a second perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary receiving element,

FIG. 12 a third perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary receiving element,

FIG. 13 a perspective view of an exemplary receiving element,

FIG. 14 a further perspective view of an exemplary receiving element, and

FIG. 15 a cross-sectional view of two plastic containers connected to each other with a form-fitting connection.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following, similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective side view of an exemplary plastic container 100 for storing and/or transporting objects. The plastic container 100 comprises a bottom 102 and four side walls 104, 106, 108, 110. For example, the plastic container 100 has a cuboid or cube shape. Objects may be stored and/or transported in an interior 112 of the plastic container 100, which is delimited by the four side walls 104, 106, 108, 110 and the bottom 102. The four side walls 104, 106, 108, 110 are arranged, for example, in pairs parallel to each other on opposite sides of the plastic container 100. For example, a first side wall 104 of the four side walls is arranged opposite and, for example, parallel to a second side wall 106 of the four side walls. For example, the first and second side walls 104, 106 each extend perpendicular to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Alternatively, the first and second side walls 104, 106, which are arranged opposite each other, may each be inclined outwardly, for example. For example, a third side wall 108 of the four side walls is arranged opposite and, for example, parallel to a fourth side wall 110 of the four side walls. For example, the third and fourth side walls 108, 110 each extend perpendicular to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Alternatively, the third and fourth side walls 108, 110, which are arranged opposite each other, may also each be inclined outwards, for example. For example, the plastic container 100 is designed to be stackable, so that two or more identical plastic containers 100 may be stacked on top of each other.

The first side wall 104 of the plastic container 100 comprises a hook element 140 made of plastic on an outer side 120 of the plastic container 100, i.e., on an outer side of the first side wall 104, which may also be seen in FIG. 2. The hook element 140 comprises a downwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile in a sectional plane perpendicular to the first side wall 104 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Furthermore, the hook element 140 comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs.

The hook element 140 comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs 156 of the plurality of stabilizing ribs on an outer side facing away from the first side wall 104. These stabilizing ribs 156 are arranged side by side, for example, along a direction 157 extending parallel to the first side wall 104 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, these stabilizing ribs 156 also each extend perpendicular to the first side wall 104 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

The hook element 140 further comprises, for example, one or more stabilizing struts 158 of the hook element 140 arranged on the outer side of the hook element 140. These stabilizing struts 158 extend, for example, perpendicular to the stabilizing ribs 156. For example, the stabilizing struts 158 connect the stabilizing ribs 156 to each other. For example, the stabilizing struts 158 extend along the direction 157. For example, one or more of the stabilizing struts 158 extend two-dimensionally parallel to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

The plurality of stabilizing ribs also comprises, for example, further stabilizing ribs, the lower edge of which comprises a downwardly open U-shape in an extension plane of the individual stabilizing ribs. For example, the downwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 is formed by the further stabilizing ribs with their downwardly open U-shaped lower edges. For example, the further stabilizing ribs of the hook element 140 are arranged parallel to each other, in particular parallel to each other along the direction 157, and extend, for example, in each case perpendicular to the first side wall 104 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

For example, the hook element 140 is integrally molded on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100 with the first side wall 104. For example, the hook element 140 is integrally molded with the first side wall 104 by means of an injection molding process in the course of manufacturing the plastic container 100.

For example, the hook element 140 on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100 is connected to the first side wall 104 using a non-destructively detachable connection. The respective non-destructively detachable connection is for example a form-fitting connection, such as a plug-in connection. For example, the hook element 140 is held in the plug-in connection with the first side wall 104 by means of latching or by means of clipping.

In addition, the second side wall 106 of the plastic container 100 opposite the first side wall 104 comprises, for example, a receiving element made of plastic on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100, which is shown in FIG. 3. The receiving element arranged on the second side wall 106 of the plastic container 100 has, for example, an upwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile in a sectional plane perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Furthermore, the receiving element comprises, for example, a plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element.

For example, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element is designed complementary to the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 in such a way that the receiving element may be form-fittingly coupled to a further hook element of a further plastic container of identical construction if this further plastic container is arranged with the further hook element on the second side wall 106 of the plastic container 100. Similarly, due to the complementary configuration of its U-shaped cross-sectional profile to the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element of the plastic container 100, the hook element of the plastic container 100 is form-fittingly couplable to a further receiving element of a further plastic container when this further plastic container is arranged with the further receiving element on the first side wall 104 of the plastic container 100. In this way, a train of plastic containers may be formed with a plurality of identical plastic containers 100.

FIG. 2 shows the plastic container 100 of FIG. 1 in a second perspective side view from the first side wall 104 with the hook element 140. In FIG. 1, the respective plastic container 100 is shown in a first perspective side view from the third side wall 108. For example, objects for storage and/or transportation may be arranged in the interior 112 of the plastic container 100 on the upper side 124 of the bottom 102. In this case, a center of gravity of the plastic container 100 loaded with the objects is located above the bottom 102 or the upper side 124 of the bottom 102.

FIG. 3 shows the plastic container 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 in a third perspective side view from the second side wall 106 with the receiving element 180. The second side wall 106 of the plastic container 100 opposite the first side wall 104 comprises a receiving element 180 made of plastic on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100, i.e., on the outer side of the second side wall 106. The receiving element 180, which is arranged on the second side wall 106 of the plastic container 100, has an upwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile in a sectional plane perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. The receiving element 180 comprises, for example, a bearing surface 188, which comprises the U-shaped cross-sectional profile. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180 is configured complementary to the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 in FIGS. 1 and 2 in such a way that the receiving element 180 is form-fittingly couplable to a further hook element of a further identical plastic container.

For example, the receiving element 180 comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180. The receiving element 180 comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs 196 of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180 on an outer side of the receiving element 180, which are arranged side by side along a direction 197 extending parallel to the second side wall 106 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 and each extend perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, the direction 197 shown in FIG. 3 is parallel to the direction 157 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

For example, the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180 comprises a plurality of further stabilizing ribs 182 that are arranged parallel to each other and each extend perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. The further stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180 are arranged parallel to each other along the direction 197, for example. For example, the further stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180 are arranged on an underside of the receiving element 180 shown in FIG. 3.

For example, the receiving element 180 is integrally molded with the second side wall 106 on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100. For example, the receiving element 180 is integrally molded with the second side wall 106 by means of an injection molding process in the course of manufacturing the plastic container 100.

For example, the receiving element 180 on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100 is connected to the second side wall 106 using a non-destructively detachable connection. The respective non-destructively detachable connection is, for example, a form-fitting connection, such as a plug-in connection. For example, the receiving element 180 is held in the plug-in connection with the second side wall 106 by means of latching or by means of clipping.

FIG. 4 shows a first cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element 140 made of plastic, which is arranged on an outer side 120 of a plastic container 100 for storing and transporting objects. The hook element 140 is comprised by or attached to a first side wall 104 of the plastic container 100. The cross-sectional view is a view of a sectional plane perpendicular to the first side wall 104 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. In the sectional plane shown, the hook element 140 comprises a downwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

Further, the hook element 140 comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs 142, 156. A plurality of first stabilizing ribs 142 of the plurality of stabilizing ribs 142, 156 of the hook element 140 are arranged parallel to each other. For example, the first stabilizing ribs 142 are arranged parallel to each other along a direction perpendicular to the image plane. In addition, they each extend perpendicular to the first side wall 104 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, the first stabilizing ribs 142 each comprise a lower edge 144 which comprises a downwardly open U-shape in an extension plane of the respective stabilizing rib 142, i.e., in a plane perpendicular to the first side wall 104 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

The first stabilizing ribs 142 extend along the first sidewall 104 of the plastic container 100, for example, down to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, for example, the first stabilizing ribs 142 further extend down below the upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, the first sidewall 104 of the plastic container 100 thereby also extends down below an upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

For example, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 includes two legs 162, 164, one leg 162 of which is arranged on a side of the first side wall 104 and the other leg of which is arranged opposite the first side wall 104. The leg 162 arranged on the side of the first side wall 104 is inclined relative to a normal 126 of the bottom 102 or a surface normal 126 of the upper side 124 of the bottom 102, so that an opening 170 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile increases with increasing distance from a base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

Further, the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 has, for example, rounded transitions 168 between the legs 162, 164 and the base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile is flat and extends parallel to the upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Alternatively, for example, the base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile may be concave.

The hook element 140 further comprises, at an end remote from the first side wall 104, an inner surface 146 substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102. Alternatively, the inner surface 146 of the hook element 140 arranged at the end remote from the first side wall 104 could also be inclined obliquely in direction towards the first side wall 104.

For example, the hook element 140 comprises a downwardly directed support surface 148 at the end remote from the first side wall 104. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, this support surface 148 is formed as an edge lip 149. For example, the edge lip 149 has a rounded transition section 150 to the inner surface 146 of the hook element 140 which is substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102. In the alternative case of an inner surface 146 inclined obliquely in the direction towards the first side wall 104, the transition section 150 is, for example, a rounded transition or transition section to the respectively inclined inner surface 146.

In addition to the first stabilizing ribs 142, the hook element 140 of the plastic container 100 further comprises a plurality of second stabilizing ribs 156 on an outer surface 152 of the hook element 140 facing away from the first side wall 104. These second stabilizing ribs 156 are arranged side by side along a direction extending parallel to the first side wall 104 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100, i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the image plane, and each extend perpendicular to the first side wall 104 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

Furthermore, one or more stabilizing struts 158 of the hook element 140 are arranged on the outer side 152 of the hook element 140. These stabilizing struts 158 extend perpendicular to the second stabilizing ribs 156 and connect them to one another, for example.

A section 154 of the outer side 152 of the hook element 140 is inclined in direction towards the first side wall 104. In FIG. 4, the section 154 is a straight section of the outer side 152 that is inclined towards the first side wall 104. Alternatively, the section 154 may be a section of the outer side 152 that extends in an arc towards the first side wall 104.

For example, while the first stabilizing ribs 142 extend down below the upper side 124 of the bottom 102, a section 160 of the hook element 140 comprising the outer side 152 of the hook element 140 facing away from the first side wall 104 is arranged above the bottom 102 or an upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 is arranged above the bottom 102 or an upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the support surface 148 is arranged above the bottom 102 or an upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

For example, the hook element 140 is integrally molded on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100 with the first side wall 104. For example, the hook element 140 is integrally molded with the first side wall 104 by means of an injection molding process in the course of manufacturing the plastic container 100.

For example, the hook element 140 on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100 is connected to the first side wall 104 using a non-destructively detachable connection. The respective non-destructively detachable connection is, for example, a form-fitting connection, such as a plug-in connection. For example, the hook element 140 is held in the plug-in connection with the first side wall 104 by means of latching or by means of clipping.

FIG. 5 shows a second perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element 140, which corresponds to the hook element 140 in FIG. 4. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 5 is an oblique perspective view from the side of the third side surface 108. FIG. 5 shows how the first stabilizing ribs 142 are arranged parallel to each other in a row along the direction 157. Similarly, the second stabilizing ribs 156 on the outer side 152 of the hook element 140 are arranged in a row along the direction 157 parallel to each other. Here, the second stabilizing ribs 156 are interconnected by the stabilizing struts 158, which extend along the direction 157 and parallel to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

FIG. 6 shows a third perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element 140, which corresponds to the hook element 140 in FIG. 4. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 is a perspective view obliquely downwards from the third side surface 108. In the example of the hook element 140 shown in FIG. 6, the first stabilizing ribs 142 extend only to the upper side 124 of the bottom 102, but not beyond. Otherwise, the hook element 140 corresponds to the hook element 140 of FIG. 4. In addition, FIG. 6 shows the force path 220 when the plastic container 100 is pulled on the hook element 140. FIG. 6 shows that first and second stabilizing ribs 142, 156, for example, are each arranged in pairs one behind the other in planes parallel to the cutting plane, so that a force applied onto the hook element 140, in particular a pulling force directed away from the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100, is transferred into the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 via the two stabilizing ribs 142, 156. A respective force path 220 of the force transmission from the hook element 140 via the stabilizing ribs 156, 142 into the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 is shown in FIG. 6. A foremost pair of a second, i.e., outer, stabilizing rib 142 and a first, i.e., inner, stabilizing rib 142 in the sectional view is highlighted by hatching in FIG. 6.

The bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 comprises, for example, a cell structure 221 into which a respective force, in particular a pulling force, may be transferred. Such a cell structure 221 may, for example, have the advantage that, compared to a simple flat bottom, on the one hand the stability of the bottom 102 may be increased and, on the other hand, friction of the bottom 102 may be reduced.

FIG. 7 shows a fourth perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary hook element 140, which corresponds to the hook element 140 in FIG. 4. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 7 is an oblique top perspective view from the side of the third side surface 108. In the example shown in FIG. 7, an exemplary configuration of the inner surface 146 is shown at the end of the hook element 140 remote from the first sidewall 104, in which the inner surface 146 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100, i.e., parallel to the normal 126 of the bottom 102 or a surface normal 126 of the upper side 124 of the bottom 102. In addition, in this example, one leg, i.e., the leg 164 of the downwardly opened U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 arranged remote from the first side wall 104, is formed by the inner surface 146. The other leg 162 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile arranged on the side of the first side wall 104 is formed, for example, by the lower edges of the first stabilizing ribs 142, as is the base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile. In this case, the leg 162 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile arranged on the side of the first side wall 104 is inclined relative to a normal 126 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100, for example, so that an opening 170 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile increases downwards with increasing distance from the base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

The downwardly directed support surface 148 of the hook element 140, which is arranged at the end of the hook element 140 remote from the first side wall 104, is formed, for example, as an edge lip 149, which has a rounded transition section 150 to the inner surface 146.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an exemplary hook element 140, which corresponds to the hook element 140 in FIG. 4. The view of FIG. 8 is an oblique perspective view from the top of the third side surface 108. FIG. 8 shows how the first stabilizing ribs 142 are arranged parallel to each other in a row along the direction 157. Similarly, the second stabilizing ribs 156 on the outer side 152 of the hook element 140 are arranged in a row along the direction 157 parallel to each other. Here, the second stabilizing ribs 156 are interconnected by the stabilizing struts 158, which extend along the direction 157 and parallel to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. FIG. 8 also shows the cell structure 221 comprised by the bottom 102.

FIG. 9 shows a further perspective view of an exemplary hook element 140, which corresponds to the hook element 140 in FIG. 4. The view of FIG. 9 is a perspective view from below. In this view, an exemplary configuration of the inner surface 146 of the hook element 140 is shown at the end of the hook element 140 remote from the first side wall 104, in which the inner surface 146 forms a leg, i.e., the leg 164 of the downwardly opened U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140, which is arranged remote from the first side wall 104. Furthermore, the transition of the first stabilizing ribs 142 to the inner surface 146 is shown, which is, for example, a smooth transition. The other leg 162 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile, which is arranged on the side of the first side wall 104, is formed, for example, by the lower edges of the first stabilizing ribs 142, as is the base 166 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

Furthermore, the downwardly directed support surface 148 of the hook element 140 arranged at the end of the hook element 140 remote from the first side wall 104 is shown. This support surface 148 is formed, for example, as an edge lip 149, which has a rounded transition section 150 to the inner surface 146. FIG. 9 also shows the cell structure 221 comprised by the bottom 102.

FIG. 10 shows a first perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary receiving element 180 made of plastic, which is arranged on an outer side 120 of a plastic container 100 for storing and transporting objects. The receiving element 180 is comprised by or attached to a second side wall 106 of the plastic container 100. This second side wall 106 of the plastic container 100 is, for example, a side wall of the plastic container 100 arranged opposite the first side wall 104 with a hook element. The cross-sectional view is a view of a sectional plane perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. In the sectional plane shown, the receiving element 180 has an upwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

The receiving element 180 comprises a plurality of stabilizing ribs 182, 196 of the receiving element 180. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180 in FIG. 10 is designed, for example, complementary to a U-shaped cross-sectional profile of a hook element 140 in such a way that the receiving element 180 may be form-fittingly coupled to a further hook element of a further identical plastic container.

The receiving element 180 has, for example, a bearing surface 188, which is, for example, comprised by the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180.

At an end remote from the second sidewall 106, the receiving element 180 includes, for example, an inner surface 186 substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102, i.e., the perpendicular inner surface 186 extends substantially parallel to the normal 126 of the bottom 102 or a surface normal 126 of the upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Alternatively, the inner surface 186 may, for example, be inclined in a direction away from the second sidewall 106.

At the end remote from the second side wall 106, the receiving element 180 further comprises, for example, a rounded transition section 190 to the inner surface 186, which may, for example, be oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102, or inclined obliquely in a direction away from the second side wall 106. Furthermore, at the end remote from the second side wall 106, the receiving element 180 comprises, for example, an edge lip 189 adjoining the second transition section 190. In this case, the bearing surface 188 of the receiving element 180 is, for example, directed upwards in the region of the second edge lip 189.

The plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180 comprises, for example, a plurality of lower stabilizing ribs 182, i.e., stabilizing ribs 182 arranged on an underside of the receiving element 180, which are arranged parallel to each other. The lower stabilizing ribs 182 are arranged side by side, for example, along the direction 197 extending parallel to the second side wall 106 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, the direction 197 shown in FIG. 10 is parallel to the direction 157 shown previously in the figures. Further, the lower stabilizing ribs 182 each extend, for example, perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. The lower stabilizing ribs 182 extend along the second side wall 106, for example, down to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the lower stabilizing ribs 182 extend down below an upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

In addition, the receiving element 180 comprises a plurality of outer stabilizing ribs 196 of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180 on an outer side 192 of the receiving element 180. These outer stabilizing ribs 196 are arranged side by side, for example along the direction 197 extending parallel to the second side wall 106 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. In addition, the outer stabilizing ribs 196 each extend, for example, perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180 comprises two legs 202, 204. An inner leg 202 of the two legs 202, 204 is arranged on the second side wall 106 or is formed by the second side wall 106. An outer leg 204 of the two legs 202, 204, which is arranged remote from the second side wall 106, is formed, for example, by a section of the inner surface 186 of the receiving element 180 facing the second side wall 106. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180 further comprises, for example, at least one rounded transition 208 between the leg 204 arranged remote from the second side wall 106 and a base 206 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the base 206 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile is flat and extends parallel to the upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Alternatively, for example, the base 206 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile may be concave.

As shown in FIG. 10, the base 206 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180 is arranged, for example, above the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the bearing surface 188 of the receiving element 180 is also arranged above the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100, as shown in FIG. 10.

For example, the receiving element 180 is integrally molded with the second side wall 106 on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100. For example, the receiving element 180 is integrally molded with the second side wall 106 by means of an injection molding process in the course of manufacturing the plastic container 100.

For example, the receiving element 180 on the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100 is connected to the second side wall 106 using a non-destructively detachable connection. The respective non-destructively detachable connection is, for example, a form-fitting connection, such as a plug-in connection. For example, the receiving element 180 is held in the plug-in connection with the second side wall 106 by means of latching or by means of clipping.

In addition, FIG. 10 shows the force path 220 when the plastic container 100 is pulled on the receiving element 180. In FIG. 10 it is shown that lower and outer stabilizing ribs 182, 196, for example, are each arranged in pairs one behind the other in planes parallel to the sectional plane, so that a force applied onto the receiving element 180, in particular a pulling force directed away from the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100, is transferred into the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 via the two stabilizing ribs 182, 196. A respective force path 220 of the force transmission from the receiving element 180 via the stabilizing ribs 182, 196 into the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 is shown in FIG. 10. A foremost pair of a lower stabilizing rib 182 and an outer stabilizing rib 196 in the sectional view is highlighted by hatching in FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 shows a second perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary receiving element 180, which corresponds to the receiving element 180 in FIG. 10. The view of FIG. 11 is a perspective view from the side of the third side wall 108. In the example shown in FIG. 11, an exemplary configuration of the inner surface 186 at the end of the receiving element 180 remote from the second sidewall 108 is shown, in which the inner surface 186 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100, i.e., parallel to the normal 126 of the bottom 102 or a surface normal 126 of the upper side 124 of the bottom 102. Furthermore, in this example, one leg, i.e., the leg 204 of the upwardly open U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180, which is arranged remote from the second side wall 108, is formed by the inner surface 186, as is the base 206 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile. The other leg 202 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile, which is arranged on the side of the second side wall 108, is formed, for example, by the second side wall 108 itself. In the example shown, both legs 202, 204 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile are each oriented perpendicular to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100, i.e., parallel to the normal 126 of the bottom 102 or a surface normal 126 of the upper side 124 of the bottom 102, such that an opening of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile remains substantially constant with increasing upward distance from the base 206 of the U-shaped cross-sectional profile.

FIG. 12 shows a third perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary receiving element 180, which corresponds to the receiving element 180 in FIG. 10. The view of FIG. 12 is a perspective view from above from the side of the third side wall 108. In this view, in particular the bearing surface 188 of the receiving element 180 is shown, which is, for example, comprised by the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180. At an end remote from the second side wall 106, the receiving element 180 comprises, for example, an inner surface 186 substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102, i.e., the perpendicular inner surface 186 extends substantially parallel to the normal 126 of the bottom 102 or a surface normal 126 of the upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Alternatively, the inner surface 186 may, for example, also be inclined in a direction away from the second side wall 106.

At the end remote from the second side wall 106, the receiving element 180 further comprises, for example, a rounded transition section 190 to the inner surface 186, which may, for example, be oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom 102, or inclined obliquely in a direction away from the second side wall 106. Furthermore, at the end remote from the second side wall 106, the receiving element 180 comprises, for example, an edge lip 189 adjoining the second transition section 190. In this case, the bearing surface 188 of the receiving element 180 is, for example, directed upwards in the region of the edge lip 189.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of an exemplary receiving element 180, which corresponds to the receiving element 180 in FIG. 10. The view of FIG. 13 is a perspective view obliquely from above from the side of the second side wall 106. Shown in particular in this view are the plurality of outer stabilizing ribs 196 of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180, which the receiving element 180 comprises on an outer side 192 of the receiving element 180. These outer stabilizing ribs 196 are arranged side by side, for example along the direction 197 extending parallel to the second side wall 106 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, the direction 197 shown in FIG. 13 is parallel to the direction 157 shown previously in the figures. In addition, the outer stabilizing ribs 196 each extend, for example, perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

Furthermore, the edge lip 189 arranged at the end of the receiving element 180 remote from the second side wall 106 is shown, in the region of which the bearing surface 188 of the receiving element 180 is directed upwards, for example.

FIG. 14 shows a further perspective view of an exemplary receiving element 180, which corresponds to the receiving element 180 in FIG. 10. The view of FIG. 14 is a perspective view from below. In this view, in particular the lower stabilizing ribs 182 of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180 are shown, i.e., the stabilizing ribs 182 arranged on an underside of the receiving element 180. These lower stabilizing ribs 182 are arranged parallel to each other. For example, the lower stabilizing ribs 182 are arranged side by-side along the direction 197 extending parallel to the second side wall 106 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. For example, the direction 197 shown in FIG. 14 is parallel to the direction 157 shown in the figures previously. Further, the lower stabilizing ribs 182 each extend, for example, perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. The lower stabilizing ribs 182 extend along the second side wall 106, for example, down to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the lower stabilizing ribs 182 extend down below an upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

Further shown in particular are the plurality of outer stabilizing ribs 196 of the plurality of stabilizing ribs of the receiving element 180, which the receiving element 180 comprises on an outer side 192 of the receiving element 180. These outer stabilizing ribs 196 are arranged side by side, for example along the direction 197 extending parallel to the second side wall 106 and the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. In addition, the outer stabilizing ribs 196 each extend, for example, perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100.

FIG. 14 also shows the cellular structure 221 comprised by the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100. Such a cell structure 221 may, for example, have the advantage that, compared to a simple flat bottom, on the one hand, the stability of the bottom 102 is increased and, on the other hand, friction of the bottom 102 may be reduced.

FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of two form-fittingly connected plastic containers 100, 101. The cross-sectional view is a view of a sectional plane perpendicular to the second side wall 106 and to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 and perpendicular to a first side wall 105 and to the bottom 103 of the further plastic container 101. In the sectional plane shown, the receiving element 180 of the plastic container 100 and a hook element 141 of the further plastic container 101 have complementary U-shaped cross-sectional profiles. The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180 of the plastic container 100 is upwardly open and the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 141 of the further plastic container 101 is downwardly open.

The two plastic containers 100, 101 are, for example, two plastic containers of identical construction. The plastic container 100 corresponds, for example, to the plastic container 100 described in the preceding figures. The further plastic container 101 is, for example, a plastic container of identical construction to the plastic container 100. For example, a bottom 103 of the further plastic container 101 corresponds to the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100, a first side wall 105 of the further plastic container 101 corresponds to the first side wall 104 of the plastic container 100, a third side wall 109 of the further plastic container 101 corresponds to the third side wall 108 of the plastic container 100, an inner space 113 of the further plastic container 101 corresponds to the inner space 112 of the plastic container 100, an outer side 121 of the further plastic container 101 corresponds to the outer side 120 of the plastic container 100, an upper side 125 of the bottom 103 of the further plastic container 101 corresponds to the upper side 124 of the bottom 102 of the plastic container 100 and a hook element 141 of the further plastic container 101 corresponds to the hook element 140 of the plastic container 100.

The U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the receiving element 180 of the plastic container 100 is, for example, designed to complement the U-shaped cross-sectional profile of the hook element 140 in such a way that the receiving element 180 may be form-fittingly coupled to the further hook element 141 of the further identical plastic container 101. In this way, two or more identical plastic containers 100, 101 may be coupled to one another one behind the other in a form-fitting manner. The plastic containers 100, 101 coupled to one another form, for example, a train assembly 230. If a foremost plastic container of such a train assembly 230 is pulled, for example, from a rack in which the train assembly 230 is stored, the other plastic containers of the train assembly 230 are pulled behind. If, for example, the foremost plastic container is pulled from the rack and decoupled from the train assembly 230, i.e., a form-fitting coupling of the foremost plastic container with a subsequent plastic container following in the train assembly 230 is released, the subsequent plastic container automatically takes the place of the previously foremost plastic container in the rack.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered exemplary and not restrictive. The invention is not limited to the disclosed examples.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

• • 100 plastic container
  • 101 plastic container
  • 102 bottom
  • 103 bottom
  • 104 side wall
  • 105 side wall
  • 106 side wall
  • 108 side wall
  • 109 side wall
  • 110 side wall
  • 112 interior
  • 113 interior
  • 120 outer side
  • 121 outer side
  • 124 upper side
  • 125 upper side
  • 126 normal
  • 140 hook element
  • 141 hook element
  • 142 stabilizing rib
  • 144 bottom edge
  • 146 inner surface
  • 148 support surface
  • 149 edge lip
  • 150 transition section
  • 152 outer side
  • 154 section of the outer side
  • 156 stabilizing rib
  • 162 leg
  • 164 leg
  • 166 base
  • 168 transition
  • 170 opening
  • 180 receiving element
  • 182 stabilizing rib
  • 186 inner surface
  • 188 bearing surface
  • 189 edge lip
  • 190 transition section
  • 192 outer side
  • 196 stabilizing rib
  • 197 direction
  • 202 leg
  • 204 leg
  • 206 base
  • 208 transition