Packing container for objects of variable lengths

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In FIG.
1 a container embodying the present invention is illustrated consisting of two parts, a first part 1 and a second part 2 with the first part being movably displaceable in a telescoping manner into the second part.
In this embodiment, with part 1 telescoped within the second part 2, the outer surface of the first part bears against the inner surface of the second part.
The first part 1 has a longitudinally extending groove 3 of constant depth and width which extends parallel to its longitudinal axis.
Extending transversely of the longitudinal groove and equidistantly spaced along its length are locking grooves 4.
The locking grooves are similarly shaped and have the same depth as the groove 3 so that a common bottom surface extends between the grooves.
As viewed in FIG.
1 the longitudinal groove 3 extends from the open end 5 of the first part 1 to a location adjacent to but spaced from the closed end 6 of the part.
The length of the longitudinal groove, or more precisely, the length of the longitudinal groove containing the locking grooves determines the variable length of the container capable of being formed by the two parts 1, 2.
The second part 2 has a closed end 7 and an open end 8.
Adjacent the open end 8 three detents 9 are shown projecting inwardly into the second part 2.
While a single detent would be sufficient to provide the locking action between the first and second parts, it is preferable to use three detents aligned and spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the part.
The detents 9 have a complementary shape to the longitudinal groove 3 and they are spaced at the same interval as the locking grooves 4.
Further, the detents are shaped to fit in locking engagement within the locking grooves.
The first and second parts 1, 2 can be secured together in a telescopic manner to form an elongated container closed at its opposite ends.
In securing the two parts together the detents 9 are guided within and move through the longitudinal groove 3 until the desired overall length of the container is selected