Patent Description:
Film webs for covering asparagus beds have been known in practice for a long time. Asparagus is a relatively sensitive crop that must be protected during cultivation. In particular, film webs protect the asparagus growing in the asparagus bed from external weather influences such as cold and/or rain. In addition, film webs can accelerate the growth of the asparagus, so that cultivation can also take place in unfavorable geographical locations.

In order to protect the asparagus bed as best as possible from external weather influences, it is known to place the cover directly on the asparagus bed, so that the underside of the film web lies directly on the asparagus bed. On the one hand, this prevents wind from getting into the space between the cover and the asparagus bed, which would have a negative effect on asparagus growth. On the other hand, this protects the cover itself, as unintentional lifting of the cover due to the influence of wind is then avoided.

In order to ensure that the film web is as tight and/or taut as possible against the asparagus bed, it is known in the state of the art to weigh down the film web at the edges. In practice, weighting is known to be achieved by throwing sand or the like on the edge end and/or in the area of the side surfaces of the asparagus bed. To harvest asparagus, the weighting must first be removed from the cover and then the cover lifted at the harvesting point.

Since manually weighting the edges of the cover by throwing weighting material onto the side edges of the cover is time-consuming, it is also known from the state of the art to integrate the weighting material into the cover. For this purpose, the cover has pockets at the edges in which the weighting material is located. During handling - i.e. when the cover is lifted on and off to harvest the asparagus - the weighting material usually remains in the pockets at the edges.

However, the harvesting process itself has proven to be problematic and decidedly labor-intensive. Asparagus usually has a growth rate of <NUM> to <NUM> per day. When asparagus emerges from the asparagus bed with the asparagus head, the asparagus head bumps against the underside of the overlying cover. This does not hinder asparagus growth, but then leads to the asparagus not growing straight out of the asparagus bed, resulting in crooked asparagus spears. Such asparagus spears are undesirable, however, as their quality and/or commercial class is rated far worse than straight-grown asparagus. Accordingly - to achieve straight asparagus spears - asparagus has to be cut relatively frequently, which is very labor-intensive and ultimately leads to high costs of the asparagus.

<CIT> discloses a cover film with a fold. The cover film can be placed in a crown and is adapted in a way that the fold unfolds if the cultivated plants grow.

<CIT> discloses a cover film with integrated seeds.

<CIT> relates to a cover for an asparagus comb, wherein the cover has an elongated film web whose two longitudinal edges are each folded over on to themselves.

It is now the object of the present invention to remedy this situation.

According to the invention, the aforementioned object is at least substantially solved in a cover according to claim <NUM>.

According to the invention, the film web has a film reservoir with at least one fold, so that when the cover is placed on the asparagus bed, in the at least partially unfolded state of the fold, there is a spacing of the underside of the central region of the film web from the crown, in particular the upper side of the crown of the asparagus bed.

The aforementioned design according to the invention makes it possible to significantly simplify the harvesting process, as the time intervals between the successive harvesting processes can be considerably increased. The film reservoir creates the possibility that the asparagus, after growing out of the crown of the asparagus bed, will touch the underside of the central region of the cover, but will not experience any relevant resistance there due to the film reservoir, i.e. resistance that influences the orientation of the asparagus during growth, but instead the at least one fold of the film reservoir will open up. The asparagus and/or the relevant asparagus spears thus grow straight out of the dam crown, but are nevertheless protected upwards by the cover. In this way, the efficiency of the asparagus harvest can be considerably improved. Depending on the design of the film reservoir, there is an improvement of at least a factor of <NUM>, ultimately up to a factor of <NUM>. This improvement in harvesting efficiency ultimately results from the fact that asparagus only needs to be cut every two to four days, wherein straight asparagus spears of high quality are still harvested. Ultimately, the costs of harvesting and thus the price of the asparagus can also be reduced.

Furthermore, the realization of the film reservoir with at least one fold according to the invention makes it possible that the cover - as before - can also be lifted and put on again mechanically and/or automatically via a corresponding harvesting machine and/or device. Also, the movability of such a device in the longitudinal direction of the asparagus bed is guaranteed without further ado.

In a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the fold extends in the longitudinal and/or transverse direction of the film web. Preferably, the at least one fold of the film reservoir extends in the longitudinal direction of the film web, which in particular runs in the longitudinal direction of the asparagus bed and/or runs parallel to the side and/or longitudinal edges of the film web. Thus, the film reservoir can be provided over the entire length of the asparagus bed, so that a "buffer" and/or "film reservoir" is available for the asparagus growing out of the asparagus bed.

Preferably, it is provided that the fold running in the longitudinal direction of the film web extends over the entire length of the film web. This means that a "film reservoir" is available at every point of the cover over the length of the asparagus bed.

Furthermore, it can be alternatively or additionally provided in particular that the fold running in the transverse direction of the film web extends over the entire width of the film web.

The realization of at least one longitudinal fold, which extends over the entire length of the film web, and/or at least one transverse fold, which extends over the entire width of the film web, can be easily integrated into the production process of the cover in terms of production technology. As a rule, film webs for covers are extruded, wherein the aforementioned pockets are then realized at the edges, if necessary, by corresponding folding and partial welding of the pockets. After extrusion, the folding of the at least one fold of the film reservoir can then also take place before, simultaneously with or after the creation of the pockets.

It is particularly advantageous in the context of the present invention that the fold is arranged on the upper side of the cover in the folded-in state. Thus, the folded-in fold rests on the upper side of the cover after the cover has been arranged on a asparagus bed. This arrangement of the fold on the upper side of the cover has therefore proved to be advantageous, since the growing asparagus pressing on the underside of the film web does not in this case experience any relevant resistance when the fold is unfolded.

Furthermore, the film reservoir preferably has at least two folds running at least substantially parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction of the film web. The folds run at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal edges of the film web and/or the cover. The two aforementioned folds can - but do not have to - be at least substantially identical. In principle, the folds can also be formed differently. The at least two folds can ensure an unfolding of the film reservoir and thus a provided "buffer" at different points of the asparagus bed, which is particularly advantageous with regard to the growing of the asparagus. According to the invention, it has been found that a film reservoir with two smaller folds is easier to unfold than one with only one larger fold. Ultimately, the folds can be arranged on the asparagus bed in such a way that the asparagus head emerging from the crown has to exert as little resistance as possible against the film web in order to unfold the film reservoir.

Preferably, two longitudinal folds and/or folds running in the longitudinal direction of the film web are spaced apart from each other in such a way that the folds are arranged in the area of the transition between the crown and the side surface when the cover is in the applied state. According to the invention, it has been established in tests carried out that an arrangement of the two longitudinally running folds of the aforementioned type can ensure optimum growth of the asparagus, wherein the asparagus can emerge from the asparagus bed in the area of the crown and unfold the folds by pressing lightly on the underside of the film web facing the crown.

In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the spacing of the longitudinal folds and/or folds running in the longitudinal direction of the film web is at least <NUM>, is preferably between <NUM> and <NUM> and is in particular <NUM> +/- <NUM> %. The aforementioned distances are related in particular to the width of the crown of the asparagus bed that is customary in practice. Thus, the crown of the asparagus bed usually has a width of approximately <NUM>. In this context, it is understood that for differently shaped asparagus beds, the spacing of the longitudinal folds can also be taken into account in the manufacture of the cover, so that the two longitudinal folds can be arranged in the area of the transition between the crown and the side surfaces when resting on the asparagus bed.

Alternatively or additionally, the film web preferably comprises a plurality of folds. In particular at least three, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably <NUM> to <NUM>, folds are provided. Preferably, at least four, more preferably at least five, folds are provided. The number of folds can depend on the width of the film web and/or different periods to harvest the asparagus.

Preferably, the folds are arranged symmetrically over the width of the film web, in particular with a mirror-symmetry, wherein the mirror axis is the middle axis of the film web.

More preferably, the folds are running substantially parallel to one another in the longitudinal direction of the film web and/or are designed identical. The spacing between two directly adjacent folds can be the same and/or vary over the width of the film web.

Moreover, the spacing between two directly adjacent folds can be between <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, the folds can be arranged in such a way that they merge at least substantially directly into each other.

Alternatively or additionally, the folds and/or at least one fold can run at least substantially parallel to one another and/or to the transverse direction of the film web. Folds running in transverse direction of the film web can be called transverse folds. Transverse folds can be provided over the length of the film web several times, preferably with substantially equal spacing between two directly adjacent folds. In a further preferred embodiment, the transverse folds can be provided with different spacings between two directly adjacent transverse folds.

Further, at least one fold and/or all folds can comprise at least three fold legs. The fold legs can be arranged in the unfolded-state on top of each other. The width running in transverse direction of the film web and/or the length running in longitudinal direction of the film web of the fold legs of one fold can be the same.

The transverse direction can be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

According to the invention, for at least one fold, preferably all folds, at least two fold legs of the fold facing each other, in particular all fold legs of the fold, are preferably firmly connected to each other, preferably welded, via at least one connecting region. The connecting region can be point-shaped and/or an elongated connecting region. Ultimately, the fold is fixed in place via the connecting region.

The realization of the aforementioned connecting regions can also be easily integrated into the production process of manufacturing the cover according to the invention.

In this context, it is understood that a plurality of connecting regions is provided over the length of the fold for fixing and/or securing the film web, wherein the connecting regions are spaced apart from one another. Between the spaced connecting regions there are unfoldable areas of the film reservoir, wherein the fold is not unfoldable in the area of the connecting regions.

The fixing and/or fastening of the film reservoir to the connecting regions has the advantage that an undesired unfolding of the film reservoir can be avoided. The fixing in the connecting regions ensures that the film reservoir is only unfolded when the cover is installed and/or in use - in particular when an asparagus head emerges from the upper side of the asparagus bed and requires an additional "buffer" of the film web material in order to continue growing. Also, after cutting the asparagus at a certain point of the asparagus bed, the connecting regions cause the fold to fall back to its original state when the cover is placed back on the asparagus bed.

In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the connecting region extends over at least <NUM>%, preferably over at least <NUM>%, more preferably between <NUM>% to <NUM>%, of the fold width of the fold reservoir. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the connecting region extends at least substantially over the entire fold width of the film reservoir. Such a connecting region makes it possible, in particular, to ensure that the at least one fold of the fold reservoir can be securely fixed in the connecting region. In addition, connecting regions formed in this way also ensure that the fold, when unfolded by growing asparagus spears, falls back into the original, folded state after harvesting.

The fold width of the fold reservoir is understood to be the width of the fold in the folded state when the fold is resting on the top of the cover. For example, if the fold width is <NUM>, the fold reservoir has in particular a total width of <NUM> when fully unfolded.

In particular, the fold width and/or the width in transverse direction of the film web of at least one fold leg can be between <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM> and in particular <NUM> +/- <NUM>%. Therefore, the width of the film web in the unfolded state can be increased in the unfolded regions by at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> to <NUM> and in particular <NUM> +/- <NUM>%, for each fold having at least three fold legs and two fold legs that can be unfolded. In particular, the total width of the film web can be increased in the unfolded state in the unfolded regions by at least <NUM>, preferably by at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM> +/- <NUM>% - in particular dependent on the number of folds provided and/or the fold width. Preferably, a film web having <NUM> folds can have an increased width in the unfolded state in the unfolded regions of <NUM> +/- <NUM>% compared to the folded state. Alternatively or additionally, a film web having <NUM> folds can have an increased width in the unfolded state in the unfolded regions of <NUM> +/- <NUM>% compared to the folded state.

According to the invention, a plurality of connecting regions is provided over the length of the fold or over the length of the film reservoir as seen in the longitudinal direction of the fold, as explained previously. According to the invention, the connecting regions are at least substantially equally spaced apart from each other. This is particularly advantageous for production reasons, as a continuous, longitudinally stretched film web can thus be produced, preferably in an inline process. However, the distance between the connecting regions can also vary in at least two sections of the film web, in particular depending on the asparagus bed and the asparagus growing therein.

In another preferred embodiment, the distance between adjacent connecting regions is at least <NUM>. In particular, the distance between adjacent connecting regions is between <NUM> and <NUM> and preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>. The spacing of the connecting region can be selected in particular as a function of the asparagus bed and the position of the asparagus bed - which ultimately determines the external weather influences.

According to the invention, the connecting region and/or all connecting regions can comprise at least one welding line. The welding line can be arranged transverse, oblique and/or inclined to the longitudinal direction and/or to the transverse direction. Preferably, the welding line can have an angle of between <NUM> ° to <NUM>°, more preferably between <NUM> ° to <NUM>°, to the longitudinal direction of the film web.

Furthermore, the welding line can be designed as a straight line and/or can have a wave and/or an arc shape.

In addition, the welding line of at least one connecting region, preferably of all connecting regions, can be designed continuous, partial and/or dotted over the fold width of the fold. If the welding line is designed as a dotted line, each welding part can have a length of at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>. The welding line can be arranged parallel to the transverse direction and/or the longitudinal direction of the film web.

Further, the connecting regions and/or the welding lines can be the same for one film for different folds or can be different to one another. For example, a film web can comprise for one fold an inclined welding line and for another fold having other connecting regions a dotted welding line.

Moreover, a fold end can be formed as a bend and/or transition between two directly adjacent fold legs. A fold can also have a fold start which is located at the other end of the fold leg having the fold end. The fold start can be formed as a fold line. Further, the fold start can be formed as a bend and/or transition between two directly adjacent fold legs.

Furthermore, in another embodiment, it may be provided that the fold ends of at least two directly adjacent longitudinal folds face each other. Alternatively, the fold ends of the longitudinal folds can face away from each other. In a further alternative, the folds can also be arranged next to each other in such a way that both fold ends face a longitudinal edge of the film web.

In particular, the fold starts and/or fold ends can be directed and/or face the same longitudinal edge of the film web or different longitudinal edges. Moreover, two directly adjacent fold starts can face each other or can be arranged in such a way that they are facing away from each other.

In the context of the present invention, the terms "fold end" and "fold start" are to be understood in particular as meaning that each fold can have a fold start and a fold end. The fold start and/or the fold end can be formed as a crease line and/or fold line. The fold starts are in particular at least substantially arranged in a first plane of the film web, which preferably also comprises the longitudinal edges or at least one longitudinal edge. The fold ends can be arranged in a further plane which preferably runs at least substantially parallel to the transverse direction, preferably the first plane and the further plane are aligned parallel to one another. It has to be understood that the aforementioned embodiments refer in particular to the folded state of the film web.

Preferably, a fold line is provided at the fold end of a fold. Such a fold line facilitates the folding back of an unfolded fold into the folded state.

Furthermore, in another preferred embodiment, it is provided that the width of the fold is at least <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>. According to the invention, the width of the fold is understood to be in particular the width of the fold in the folded state, when the fold rests on the main side of the film web, which is usually the upper side. In the case of a three-leg fold, each leg of the fold has the aforementioned width. In the unfolded state, this results in a total width that corresponds to three times the leg width and/or an increase of twice the fold leg width.

Finally, the width of the fold makes it possible to increase the distance between the crown and the film web by the width of the fold, so that in particular the asparagus can emerge from the asparagus bed by at least the width of the fold. Consequently, the asparagus can emerge from the crown of the asparagus bed by at least <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>, without the asparagus head experiencing any relevant resistance from the film web.

Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the film reservoir is formed such that the spacing from the bottom of the central region of the film web to the top of the crown can be increased by at least <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>, by unfolding the film web. The increase in spacing across the film reservoir can be achieved in particular by unfolding all folds of the film reservoir. In addition, the widths of the individual folds of the film reservoir can differ from each other in the unfolded state or be at least substantially the same.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the fold or at least one fold is formed at least as a double fold with two fold sections. Preferably, the ends of the fold sections point in opposite directions. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the fold sections are folded over each other, wherein the ends of the fold sections can be arranged at least substantially over each other. The formation of the fold as a double fold makes it possible in particular to increase the width of the unfolded fold, especially in comparison to a "single fold" (i.e. a fold with a fold section having two fold legs). The film web can comprise a plurality of double folds, which are preferably spaced apart from each other and/or which are preferably identically formed.

Preferably, the width of the cover with folded-in film reservoir is at least <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>, further preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>. The width of the film web can in particular depend on the asparagus bed, in particular such that the film web can be applied at least substantially over the entire surface of the side surfaces and over the crown of the asparagus bed. As a result, the film web can at least substantially completely surround and/or protect the asparagus bed.

The length of the cover is at least <NUM>. In particular, the length of the cover can be provided depending on the length of the asparagus bed. As a rule, however, asparagus covers of the type according to the invention have predetermined lengths, for example of <NUM> or a multiple thereof. The length of the cover depends essentially on how a cover can be rolled up and how large the diameter of the roll may be for handling purposes. Ultimately, however, it is not uncommon, for example in the case of very long dams, that a plurality of covers is used, wherein these then overlap towards the end.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the film web is preferably folded over on itself along both of its longitudinal edges, the folded-over areas each forming pockets that can be filled with filling material. In particular, the pockets that can be filled with filling material can be formed between two, in particular T-shaped, joints and/or welds.

Preferably, the pockets are also only filled with water and/or sand or soil as filling material when they are placed on the asparagus bed.

In particular, the pockets according to the invention allow for a simple weighting of the cover when it is placed on the asparagus bed. In this way, it can be prevented that the film web "flies away" and/or slips in the case of strong wind.

The connections for forming the individual pockets have in particular one part running at least substantially transversely and another part running at least substantially in the longitudinal direction of the film web, the part aligned transversely to the longitudinal direction merging in particular at least substantially directly into the part running in the longitudinal direction, in particular so that a T-shaped joint is formed. Preferably, the upper part of the T-shaped joint - i.e. the part of the joint running in the longitudinal direction of the film web - faces the central region of the film web.

The top side of the film web may be white or at least substantially white, while the underside may alternatively or additionally be black, green, grey and/or dark grey and/or dark and/or brown or vice versa. In particular, the white (top) side is configured to provide a reflective surface for sunlight, while the dark, grey, dark grey, green, brown and/or black (bottom) side is configured to provide absorption of sunlight. To achieve the respective coloration, additives, color pigments or the like can be added to the corresponding surfaces of the film web. An additional coating of the top side or the underside of the film web can also be ensured.

Particular preferably, the film web can be used in such a way that the film web can be turned to the desired side in each case, in particular depending on the weather conditions. Accordingly, at least one side is formed as a white or at least substantially white side, which can ultimately form the top side or the underside in the state of use. In particular, the folds are formed in such a way that in the state of use a reversibility of the film web can be ensured without further ado, so that the film web can flexibly adapt to different weather conditions. Of course, the grey, dark grey, black, brown, green and/or dark side can also form the underside or the top side, depending on the state of use.

Further preferably, the film web has both a reflective side (i.e. a white or at least substantially white side) and an absorbent side (i.e. a black, grey, dark grey, green, brown and/or dark side). Alternatively, however, it may also be provided that at least only at least one side, which in the state of use may in particular form both, the underside and the top side, is reflective or absorbent.

That the reflective side forms the top side of the film web is preferably, particular during warmer periods, so that the area covered by the film does not heat up unnecessarily. On the other hand it is particularly preferred that the absorbent side forms the top side in the state of use when there is a colder weather period, i.e. in autumn, winter or spring. Then, solar radiation can be deliberately used to heat the covered area, after which optimization of the harvesting can be achieved.

In particular, the unfolding behavior of the film reservoir according to the invention can be achieved in any state of use - especially regardless of whether the absorbent or the reflective side of the film web forms the top side in the state of use.

The invention also relates to a use of a cover according to at least one of the aforementioned types for covering and/or placing on an asparagus bed.

With regard to preferred embodiment and/or advantages reference can be made to the above explanations which can apply in the same way to the use according to the invention without further explanation.

Further features, advantages and possible applications of the present invention will be apparent from the following description of examples of embodiments based on the drawing and the drawing itself. In this context, all the features described and/or illustrated constitute the subject-matter of the present invention, either individually or in any combination, irrespective of their summary in the claims and their correlation.

<FIG> schematically shows a cover <NUM> which is placed on an asparagus bed <NUM>. The cover <NUM> is only intended to be used for placing on the asparagus bed <NUM>.

The cover <NUM> has a film web <NUM>. Ultimately, the cover <NUM> has been manufactured from the film web <NUM>. It is explicitly pointed out that the film web <NUM> is a thin plastic film. The proportions of the thickness of the film web <NUM> in comparison to the asparagus bed <NUM> are not correctly shown in <FIG>. In fact, the thickness of the film web <NUM> is many times smaller compared to the shown ratios of the asparagus bed <NUM>.

The asparagus bed <NUM> comprises a crown <NUM> and side surfaces <NUM> adjoining the crown <NUM>.

When the cover <NUM> is in place, the underside <NUM> of the film web <NUM> is placed on the asparagus bed <NUM>. The film web <NUM> has a central region <NUM> and side regions <NUM>. The central region <NUM> is arranged between the side regions <NUM> of the film web <NUM>. The side regions <NUM> of the film web <NUM> are used to rest on the side surfaces <NUM> of the asparagus bed <NUM>. The central region <NUM> of the film web <NUM> is placed on the crown <NUM> of the asparagus bed <NUM>. The underside <NUM> of the central region <NUM> is at least essentially facing the crown <NUM> of the asparagus bed <NUM>.

<FIG> further shows that the film web <NUM> has a film reservoir <NUM> with at least one fold <NUM>. In the embodiment example shown in <FIG>, two folds <NUM> are provided. The aforementioned condition that the underside <NUM> of the central region <NUM> is facing the crown of the asparagus bed <NUM> refers to the folded-in condition of the film reservoir <NUM> and/or the folds <NUM>. It is understood that in the unfolded condition, in any case, areas of the fold reservoir do not have to be directly facing the crown <NUM>.

The film reservoir <NUM> is designed in such a way that, when the cover <NUM> is placed on the asparagus bed <NUM>, in the at least partially unfolded state of the at least one fold <NUM>, there is a spacing of the underside <NUM> of the central region <NUM> of the film web <NUM> from the crown <NUM>, in particular the upper side <NUM> of the crown <NUM>.

Moreover, as can be seen in particular from <FIG>, the folds <NUM> are folded onto the upper side of the cover <NUM>. This facilitates the unfolding of the folds <NUM> by the growing asparagus spears acting on the underside of the cover <NUM>.

The unfolded state of the film reservoir <NUM> is understood to mean that the at least one fold <NUM> of the film reservoir <NUM> has at least partially unfolded and/or unfolded. The unfolding of the film reservoir <NUM> may depend on how far the asparagus spears <NUM> growing in the asparagus bed <NUM> have emerged from the crown <NUM>.

<FIG> shows schematically that the asparagus heads <NUM> emerge from the crown <NUM> or the upper side <NUM> of the crown <NUM> and thus lead to the unfolding of the fold <NUM>. It can be provided that the fold <NUM> can unfold in dependence of the exit of the asparagus head <NUM> from the asparagus bed <NUM>. Thus, in particular, there does not have to be an "immediate" transition from the folded-in to the unfolded state of the film reservoir <NUM>, but the unfolding of the film reservoir <NUM> can be adapted in particular to the growth rate of the asparagus spears <NUM>.

Finally, the film reservoir <NUM> is designed to provide a reservoir and/or buffer of material of the film web <NUM> that can be unfolded or unfolded depending on the growth of the asparagus spears <NUM> and the emergence of the asparagus heads <NUM> from the upper side <NUM> of the crown <NUM>. The provided buffer material of the film web <NUM> can allow a straight growth of the white asparagus spears <NUM>, as the asparagus heads <NUM> do not have to grow transversely or curved. The pressure exerted on the underside <NUM> of the central region <NUM> of the film web <NUM> triggers the unfolding of the film reservoir <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the folds <NUM> run in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>.

<FIG> each show a schematic top view of the film web <NUM>, with differently formed folds <NUM> being shown schematically in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the fold <NUM> runs in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>. In <FIG>, a further embodiment is shown in which the fold <NUM> runs at least essentially transversely to the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>, namely in particular in the transverse direction T of the film web <NUM>.

In the state in which the film web <NUM> shown in <FIG> is placed on the asparagus bed <NUM>, the fold <NUM> can thus run in particular transversely to the longitudinal direction of the asparagus bed <NUM>.

<FIG> shows schematically that the fold <NUM> running in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM> extends at least substantially over the entire length of the film web <NUM>.

<FIG> shows schematically that the fold <NUM> running transversely to the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM> and/or the fold <NUM> running in the transverse direction T of the film web <NUM> extends over the entire width of the film web <NUM>.

It is not shown that folds <NUM> running in transverse direction T of the film web <NUM> can be provided over the length of the film web <NUM> several times, preferably with a substantially equal spacing between two directly adjacent folds <NUM>. In a further preferred embodiment, the transverse folds <NUM> can be provided with different spacings between two directly adjacent transverse folds <NUM>.

<FIG> shows schematically that the film reservoir <NUM> has at least two folds <NUM> running at least substantially parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>. The folds <NUM> can be at least substantially identical or symmetrical to each other. In further embodiments, different folds <NUM> of a film reservoir <NUM> can also be provided.

The folds <NUM> shown in <FIG> and running in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM> are spaced apart from each other in such a way that the folds <NUM> are arranged in the area of the transition between the crown <NUM> and the side surfaces <NUM> when the cover <NUM> is in the applied state. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the fold <NUM> is arranged at least substantially completely at the side region <NUM> in the area of the transition to the crown <NUM>.

Also not shown is that the spacing <NUM> between the longitudinal folds <NUM> or between two directly adjacent folds <NUM> is at least <NUM>. In particular, the spacing <NUM> is between <NUM> to <NUM>. In particular, the spacing <NUM> can correspond at least substantially to the width of the crown <NUM>. The two longitudinal folds <NUM> can thus be spaced apart by the spacing <NUM> corresponding to the width of the crown <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that a plurality of folds <NUM> is provided. The folds <NUM> merge directly into each other.

<FIG> shows that the plurality of folds <NUM> can be arranged symmetrical with regard to the transverse direction T over the fold width <NUM>. Furthermore, the folds <NUM> are arranged in the embodiment example according to <FIG> in such a way that they have a mirror-symmetry, wherein the mirror axis is the middle axis of the film web <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the spacing between two directly adjacent folds can vary over the width of the film web <NUM> and/or in transverse direction T. Thus, two directly adjacent folds <NUM> can be spaced apart from one another.

The three folds <NUM> shown in <FIG> run at least substantially parallel to one another in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>.

The film web <NUM> can comprise between three to ten folds <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that a fold <NUM> comprises three fold legs <NUM>, wherein the fold legs <NUM> are arranged on top of each other in the unfolded state. The fold legs <NUM> of one fold <NUM> can have the same width (in transverse direction T of the film web <NUM>) and/or length (in longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>).

The fold legs <NUM> can be arranged in the unfolded state in such a way that the fold end <NUM> is arranged in the folded-state on the underside <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, or on the top side <NUM> of the film web <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. A fold <NUM> that has a fold end <NUM> arranged on the top side <NUM> of the film web <NUM> facing away from the crown <NUM> can be described as a forward fold <NUM>, wherein a fold <NUM> that has a fold end <NUM> arranged on the underside <NUM> of the film web <NUM> can be described as a backward fold <NUM>. Each fold <NUM> can in particular be designed either as a backward or forward fold <NUM>. Also, one film web <NUM> can comprise only forward folds <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, or only backward folds <NUM>. However, it is also possible that a film web <NUM> comprises forward as well as backward folds <NUM>.

A fold <NUM> can in particular comprise a fold end <NUM> and a fold start <NUM>. The fold start <NUM> and/or the fold end <NUM> can be formed as a crease line and/or fold lone. <FIG> shows that the fold starts <NUM> in the folded state are arranged at least substantially in a first plane which preferably includes at least one longitudinal edge <NUM>. The fold ends <NUM> are arranged in the folded state in <FIG> in a further place which is in particular parallel to the transverse direction T and/or the first plane.

<FIG> shows that the fold ends <NUM> are arranged in a further plane, wherein the fold starts <NUM> are arranged in different planes. In particular the film web <NUM> comprises at least one plane for the fold starts <NUM> and/or the fold ends <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the fold legs <NUM> of the fold <NUM> facing each other are firmly connected to each other, preferably welded, via at least one connecting region <NUM>. The connecting region <NUM> can have different shapes and in particular be elongated or circular. In the case of an elongated design of the connecting region <NUM>, it is provided in particular that the connecting region <NUM> preferably extends at least substantially transversely to the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically shows at least essentially point-shaped and/or circular connecting regions <NUM>.

<FIG> also shows a plurality of connecting regions <NUM>, wherein the region of the film reservoir <NUM> provided between the connecting regions <NUM> can be unfolded.

In <FIG>, at least substantially elongated connecting regions <NUM>, in particular welds, and/or fixings are provided.

The fold <NUM> can be prevented from being unfolded in the area of the connecting region <NUM> by means of the connecting regions <NUM>. Thus, a fixation of the fold <NUM> is provided at least in sections, preferably running in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>. In this way, it can be made possible to avoid an undesired and/or unintentional unfolding of the fold <NUM> and/or of the film reservoir <NUM>. In particular, unfolding of the fold <NUM> should only be caused by the asparagus heads <NUM> emerging from the crown <NUM>. Finally, the connecting regions <NUM> also ensure that a crease unfolded by the growth of the asparagus folds in again after the asparagus has been harvested and the cover <NUM> has been replaced.

In this context, it is particularly useful if the fold <NUM> has a fold line, in particular one provided during manufacture, which enables the fold to easily return to its original folded state. The fold line is always provided between adjacent fold legs <NUM>.

In the different embodiments according to <FIG>, it is provided that the fold <NUM> has at least three fold legs <NUM> and further comprises a fold end <NUM>. The end of the fold can be designed as a fold line realized in terms of production technology. The fold end <NUM> can be formed as a bend and/or transition between two directly adjacent fold legs <NUM>. Furthermore, a fold <NUM> can also have a fold start <NUM> which is located at the other end of the fold leg <NUM> having the fold end <NUM>. The fold start <NUM> can be formed as a fold line. Furthermore, the fold start <NUM> can be formed as a bend and/or transition between two directly adjacent fold legs <NUM>.

The fold legs <NUM> which are arranged on the top side <NUM> or underside <NUM> of the film web <NUM> can merge into other parts of the film web <NUM>. The width of each fold leg <NUM> can be defined by the fold width <NUM> and/or or the width of the fold leg <NUM> which is located between the outer fold legs <NUM> and/or those fold legs <NUM> which are on the underside <NUM> or top side <NUM>.

In further embodiments not shown, the fold <NUM> may also have four or more fold legs <NUM>, in particular wherein the fold legs <NUM> may be folded on top of each other or side by side.

<FIG> schematically shows that the connecting region <NUM> extends at least substantially over <NUM>% of the fold width <NUM>. Ultimately, the connecting region <NUM> extends at least wide enough over the fold width <NUM> to prevent unwanted unfolding of the fold <NUM>. However, the fold width <NUM> can also correspond to the width of a fold leg <NUM>. The fold width <NUM> refers to the folded-in state of the fold <NUM> or of the film reservoir <NUM> in the lying state of the fold <NUM>.

<FIG> further shows schematically that a plurality of equally spaced connecting regions <NUM> are provided along the length of the fold <NUM>. Thus, the areas of the film web <NUM> formed between the connecting regions <NUM> can in particular be of at least substantially the same length.

Not shown is that the spacing <NUM> between adjacent connecting regions <NUM> can be at least <NUM>, in particular between <NUM> to <NUM>.

<FIG> show that the connecting region <NUM> can connect firmly at least two fold legs <NUM> together which are facing each other. <FIG> shows that the connecting region <NUM> is arranged between the upper fold leg <NUM> which is located on the top side <NUM> and the middle fold leg <NUM>. <FIG> shows that the connecting region <NUM> connects firmly all fold legs <NUM> of the fold <NUM>. Further, <FIG> shows that the connecting region <NUM> connects firmly the lower fold leg <NUM> which is arranged on the underside <NUM> with the middle fold leg <NUM>.

The connecting region <NUM> can comprise a welding line <NUM>, which is schematically shown in <FIG>, wherein <FIG> represents the detail highlighted in <FIG>.

Further, <FIG> shows that the welding line <NUM> is arranged transverse, oblique and/or inclined to the longitudinal direction L and to the transverse direction T. <FIG> illustrates that the welding line <NUM> encloses an angle α to the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>. The angle α can be between <NUM> ° to <NUM>°, more preferably between <NUM> ° to <NUM>°. In <FIG> the angle α is approximately <NUM>° +/- <NUM>°.

<FIG> shows that the welding line <NUM> has a wave shape. It is not shown that the welding line <NUM> can have an arc shape.

The welding line <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> is continuous over the fold width <NUM>. Therefore, the welding line <NUM> also extends over the whole width of the fold legs <NUM>.

Alternatively or additionally, the welding line <NUM> can be partial as shown in <FIG>. A partial welding line <NUM> does not extend over the whole fold width <NUM>. The welding line <NUM> can be in particular arranged at least substantially in the middle of the fold <NUM>.

Further, <FIG> shows that the welding line <NUM> is dotted and extends as a non-continuous line over the whole fold width <NUM>.

It is not shown that for different fold <NUM> different connecting regions <NUM> in particular with different forms of welding lines <NUM> can be provided. The different connecting regions <NUM> and/or welding lines <NUM> for one film web <NUM> can follow a predetermined pattern or are arranged randomly.

In <FIG>, different folds <NUM> are shown schematically.

<FIG> shows that the fold ends <NUM> of the two directly adjacent longitudinal folds <NUM> face away from each other. This corresponds to the embodiment of the folds <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

Further, the fold starts <NUM> can be directed and/or face the same longitudinal edge <NUM> of the film web <NUM> or different longitudinal edges <NUM>. Moreover, two directly adjacent fold starts <NUM> can face each other or can be arranged in such a way that they are facing away from each other.

<FIG> shows a further embodiment in which the fold ends <NUM> face each other. Thus, the folds <NUM> can be formed in mirror-symmetry to each other, in particular with the mirror axis running at least substantially transversely to the width of the film web <NUM> and in particular in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an at least substantially similar configuration of the folds <NUM>, in which the fold ends <NUM> face a longitudinal edge <NUM> - namely the same longitudinal edge <NUM> of the film web <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the fold <NUM> is formed as a double fold with two fold sections <NUM>. Furthermore, <FIG> shows that the ends <NUM> of the fold sections <NUM> point in opposite directions. In particular, a T-shaped free space is enclosed by the double fold.

<FIG> show that the film web <NUM> can comprise several double folds <NUM> having each two fold sections <NUM> and two section ends <NUM> corresponding to fold ends <NUM> and two fold starts <NUM> or section starts <NUM>. <FIG> shows that the sections ends <NUM> can be placed in the folded state on the underside <NUM>, wherein <FIG> shows that the section ends <NUM> can be placed on the top side <NUM>. The double folds <NUM> can be spaced apart from each other in particular with a distance of at least <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>, in particular <NUM> to <NUM>.

The folds <NUM> shown in <FIG> enclose an at least substantially (as seen in crosssection) slit-shaped, unfoldable free space.

<FIG> shows a further embodiment in which a fold <NUM> is used, which is arranged in particular in the central region <NUM> of the film web <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the schematic embodiment of a film web <NUM> shown in <FIG> in the state of use. The fold <NUM> is arranged in particular at least substantially in the center of the central region <NUM> and in particular at least substantially in the center of the crown <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the cover <NUM> shown in <FIG> with the film reservoir <NUM> at least partially unfolded.

In addition, <FIG> shows a further section of the film web <NUM> which, in particular, is not unfolded, for example because the asparagus heads <NUM> have not yet emerged from the crown <NUM> there. The rear (unfolded) section is spaced from the front section by the connecting region <NUM>, so that the unfolding of the front section due to the connecting region <NUM> has at least essentially no influence on the rear section. The individual sections of the film web <NUM> can thus unfold or unfold at least substantially independently of each other.

<FIG> shows schematically that the width <NUM> of the fold <NUM> is at least <NUM>. The width <NUM> of the fold <NUM> can also correspond to the width of the film reservoir <NUM> in the unfolded state and thus in particular indicate the distance from the upper side <NUM> of the crown <NUM> to the underside <NUM> of the film web <NUM> or be related to this distance.

It is not shown that the fold width <NUM> and/or the width in transverse direction T of the film web <NUM> of at least one fold leg <NUM> can be between <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM> and in particular <NUM> +/- <NUM>%. Therefore, the width of the film web <NUM> in the unfolded state can be increased in the unfolded regions by at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> to <NUM> and in particular <NUM> +/- <NUM>%, for each fold <NUM> having at least three fold legs <NUM> and two fold legs <NUM> that can be unfolded. In particular, the total width of the film web <NUM> can be increased in the unfolded state in the unfolded regions by at least <NUM>, preferably by at least <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM> +/- <NUM>% - in particular dependent on the number of folds <NUM> provided and/or the fold width <NUM>. Preferably, a film web <NUM> having four folds <NUM> can have an increased width in the unfolded state in the unfolded regions of <NUM> +/- <NUM>% compared to the folded state. Alternatively or additionally, a film web <NUM> having two folds <NUM> can have an increased width in the unfolded state in the unfolded regions of <NUM> +/- <NUM>% compared to the folded state.

The increased width of the film web <NUM> can be used to increase the distance between the underside <NUM> of the central region <NUM> of the film web <NUM> and the upper <NUM> of the crown <NUM> of the asparagus bed <NUM>.

By unfolding the film reservoir <NUM>, the spacing between the underside <NUM> and the upper side <NUM> can ultimately be increased by at least the width of the unfolded film reservoir <NUM> and/or by the width <NUM> of the at least one fold <NUM>.

Not shown is that the width of the cover <NUM> with folded-in film reservoir <NUM> is at least <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> to <NUM>.

Furthermore, it is not shown that the length of the cover <NUM> is at least <NUM> or that the film web <NUM> can be rolled up or provided to the user as a roll.

<FIG> shows that the film web <NUM> is folded over on itself along each of its longitudinal edges <NUM>, the two folded-over areas <NUM> each forming pockets <NUM> which can be filled with filling material. The pockets <NUM> may be formed between joints <NUM>, in particular welds <NUM>.

The joints <NUM> are shown schematically in <FIG>, where they are designed in particular as T-shaped welded connections. The T-shaped welded joints <NUM> have a part running at least substantially in the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM> and a part running at least substantially transversely to the longitudinal direction L of the film web <NUM>. The part of the joint <NUM> extending at least substantially in the longitudinal direction L faces in particular the central region <NUM>. The part of the joint <NUM> running transversely to the longitudinal direction L can directly adjoin the part running in the longitudinal direction L and in particular project to the outer edge of the cover <NUM>.

The pockets <NUM> can be filled with filling material such as water, sand and/or soil, in particular when the film web <NUM> has been placed on the asparagus bed <NUM>. The filling material can be used to weigh down the edges of the film web <NUM> so that it cannot slip unintentionally or fly away in strong winds, especially when in use.

The film web <NUM> can have an absorbent side or reflective side which forms the underside <NUM> or the top side <NUM> of the film web <NUM>. It is not shown that the film web <NUM> has both a reflective side and an absorbent side. Further, it is not shown that the film web <NUM> can also be used in such a way that the film web <NUM> can be turned to the desired side in each case so that the absorbent side or the reflective side of the film web <NUM> can form in the state of use the top side <NUM>.

The absorbent side can be dark, grey, dark grey, green, brown, and/or black, wherein the reflective side can be white or at least substantially white.

Further, it is not shown that the folds <NUM> or the film reservoir <NUM> can be designed in such a way that the reversibility of the film web <NUM> can be ensured without further ado, so that the reflective or the absorbent side can form the top side <NUM> - depending on the weather conditions.

In particular, the unfolding behavior of the film reservoir <NUM> can be achieved in any state of use - regardless of whether the absorbent or the reflective side of the film web <NUM> forms the top side <NUM> in the state of use.

Claim 1:
Cover (<NUM>) comprising a film web (<NUM>) intended to be placed on an asparagus bed (<NUM>), wherein in the placed state of the cover (<NUM>) the underside (<NUM>) of the central region (<NUM>) of the film web (<NUM>) at least partially faces the crown (<NUM>) of the asparagus bed (<NUM>) and the undersides (<NUM>) of the side regions (<NUM>) of the film web (<NUM>) are provided for at least partial placement on the side surfaces (<NUM>) of the asparagus bed (<NUM>),
wherein the film web (<NUM>) has a film reservoir (<NUM>) with at least one fold (<NUM>), so that, when the cover (<NUM>) is placed on the asparagus bed (<NUM>), in the at least partially unfolded state of the fold (<NUM>), a spacing of the underside (<NUM>) of the central region (<NUM>) of the film web (<NUM>) from the crown (<NUM>) results,
wherein a plurality of in particular at least substantially equally spaced connecting regions (<NUM>) is provided over the length of the at least one fold (<NUM>), and
wherein the connection regions (<NUM>) comprise at least one welding line,
characterised in that
for at least one fold (<NUM>), preferably for all folds (<NUM>), at least two fold legs (<NUM>) of the fold (<NUM>) facing one another, preferably all fold legs (<NUM>) of one fold (<NUM>), are firmly connected, preferably welded, to one another via at least one connecting region (<NUM>).