CN115836012A

CN115836012A - Reusable container for liquid food

Info

Publication number: CN115836012A
Application number: CN202080102932.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: F·赫尔迈尔
Original assignee: B2b Beverage Services Co ltd
Current assignee: B2b Beverage Services Co ltd
Priority date: 2020-07-21
Filing date: 2020-07-21
Publication date: 2023-03-21
Also published as: WO2022017588A1; EP4118002A1; US20230348134A1; EP4118002B1

Abstract

The invention relates to a container (1) for a liquid, comprising a): a basic body (3) having at least one substantially cylindrical cavity (5) for receiving a liquid, wherein the cylindrical cavity (5) comprises two opposing end faces (7,9) and a circumferential lateral surface (11), wherein the lateral surface (11) extends substantially along a longitudinal direction (100) between the two end faces (7,9), and wherein the at least one end face (7,9) defines at least one opening (23) in the basic body (3) to provide access from the outside to the cavity (5), wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening (23) is at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5), and wherein the basic body (3) has at least one first magnetic connection (15), and b): at least one cover (25) adapted to close the opening (23), wherein the cover (25) has at least one second magnetic connection (17), wherein the cover (25) is releasably engageable with the base body (3) by a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connection (15) and the second magnetic connection (17).

Description

Reusable container for liquid food

1. Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a container for liquids.

2. Background of the invention

In the prior art, for the packaging of liquids, such as liquid foods, mainly disposable glass bottles, reusable glass bottles, disposable PET bottles, reusable PET bottles, aluminum cans, composite cartons (tetra pack) and plastic composite stand-up bags (Pouches), disposable plastic drinking cups, disposable drinking paper cups and other liquid containers are used. They have specific disadvantages depending on the material and both have a great influence on our environment. Depending on the material and whether disposable or multiple-use packaging is used, the logistics and cleaning costs are considerable. However, these packages account for a significant portion of the global amount of waste.

The prior art liquid containers are often difficult to clean or not at all suitable for re-use. Furthermore, plug-in or screw connections are provided in almost all containers with a reclosable closure. In the plug connection, shear forces prevail, which define the holding force. The desired holding force must be determined here by adapting the concentric diameters in consideration of the respective seal. In the case of frequent use (opening/closing), such shear forces can be weakened by material wear and the sealing capacity can thus also be reduced over time. Even in the prior art, the bolt mechanism that is often used has a possibility of wear with frequent use. Therefore, in particular in threaded connections formed from plastic, there is a risk of mechanical damage due to incorrect "setting" and thus of cutting. The threads are difficult to clean, which is disadvantageous for avoiding contamination, especially in the food industry.

3. Summary of the invention

The object of the present invention is to solve at least partly the above-mentioned problems and to provide a container for liquids which enables a high degree of recycling, thus saving raw materials to the maximum and keeping the package as long as possible in terms of life or service life. Furthermore, it should be easy to clean and thus be able to achieve maximum local re-use and refilling. It should therefore be possible to minimize the costly collection and return process. Furthermore, a hygiene-compliant cleaning should be possible which is simple and energy-saving, while also greatly reducing costly chemical treatments. Furthermore, it should be possible to achieve the highest possible high material purity at the end of the product cycle, so that a technical recovery of close to 100% can be achieved.

The above object of the invention is achieved by a container according to claim 1.

The invention relates to a container for liquids, comprising a): a main body having at least one substantially cylindrical cavity for receiving a liquid, wherein the cylindrical cavity comprises two opposing end faces and a circumferential lateral surface(s) ((

) Or delimited/defined thereby, wherein the lateral surface extends substantially in the longitudinal direction between said two end faces, and wherein at least one end face defines at least one opening in the base body for providing access to the cavity from the outside, wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, and wherein the base body has at least one first magnetic connection; and b): at least one cover adapted to close the opening, wherein the cover has at least one second magnetic connector, wherein the cover is releasably engageable with the base by a magnetic connection between the first and second magnetic connectors.

The container according to the invention may be used in the field of liquid food packaging, but may also be used for containing other suitable liquids (e.g. cosmetics, detergents, etc.). The container according to the invention can be produced and used here in any volume size (e.g. 300, 500, 1000 ml). They can be used both as packaging and containers for cold liquids and in a double-walled manner as (closable) cups for coffee, tea and the like for the delivery and consumption of hot beverages. The substrate can be easily filled through an opening having a corresponding minimum opening size and can also be residue-free and easily cleaned in a domestic dishwasher. Such a large opening according to the invention thus ensures that on the one hand sufficient cleaning liquid can enter the cavity and on the other hand the discharged cleaning liquid can be discharged smoothly and does not accumulate in the cavity, which would otherwise lead to a deposition of particles transported in the cleaning liquid and thus adversely affect the cleaning result. The outer contour of the cover can be designed essentially freely, preferably with the same geometry as the base body. In the lid, ergonomic indentations or depressions may be incorporated in the lid profile, which enables easy gripping and turning, for example. It is noted that "substantially cylindrical" is by no means limited to a pure cylinder, even though a cylindrical shaping of the cavity may be particularly advantageous, but includes all cylindrical shapes, such as an oval or any other cylindrical shape. Likewise, the lateral surface may not extend coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the cylinder, but may taper or widen, so that it assumes the shape of a funnel or a truncated cone. The cross-sectional area is understood to mean the area of the cylinder cross-section perpendicular to the cylinder axis. The base body and the cover can be formed in one piece. This may improve the robustness of the component thus formed and simplify its manufacture.

The magnetic connections which allow the components of the container, i.e. for example the lid and the base body, to be magnetically connected may here for example each comprise permanent magnets of opposite polarity, so that they attract one another. It is also possible that only one magnetic coupling of one assembly has a permanent magnetic field, while the other magnetic coupling of the other assembly arranged opposite may not have a permanent magnetic field, e.g. a non-magnetized iron part, but is attracted by the magnetic field of the opposite magnetic coupling, thereby allowing a magnetic connection. This makes the implementation of the magnetic connection between the container assemblies very flexible and enables production cost savings.

The cover may be securely fastened to the base by a magnetic connection to enable liquid to be stored in the base. The container according to the invention may provide a wear-free connection type compared to a purely mechanical connection, such as a conventional rotating closure. Therefore, even after repeated use for many times, firm connection can be ensured. Also, the connection can be made without the use of adhesives, which can age over time, which can also be accelerated by corresponding cleaning processes, which impair the reliability of the connection. The main advantages of the magnetic connection according to the invention over conventional plug connections are: this magnetic coupling retention force allows for precise fine tuning of the retention force and associated sealing feasibility (Feinabistrimeng). It can maintain a constant holding force and thus a durable seal throughout the product life cycle. Furthermore, it can be kept absolutely smooth on the transition surface and thus enables easy and hygienic cleaning. Undercuts or curling, which provide space for deposits and bacteria, can thereby be avoided. Finally, the magnetic connection of the cover or of the plug-in adapter described hereinafter has the advantage that it can provide convenience to the consumer. In particular, a self-discovered (selbstfinded) positioning and closing can be achieved, which makes the closing of the connection between the container components easier and enables a faster closing at less cost. That is, the magnetic connection can be designed such that the magnetic force of the magnetic connection is oriented: i.e. once they approach each other, the magnetic connections move autonomously to a defined position, for example a fully closed final position (Endposition). Also, the so-called defined end point or sealing point can be reached automatically, which will prevent the wrong application of too little or too much force, so that the desired end point or sealing point can be reached perfectly in any case.

All elements of the container according to the invention can be cleaned very easily and completely both in a conventional dishwasher and in a professional dishwasher. This allows to omit all collection, transport and industrial cleaning processes that are burdensome on the environment and, through a large number of recycling cycles, the container according to the invention allows to improve the ecological balance compared to the containers according to the prior art. Also, the service life of the container according to the present invention can be extended by reusing up to 1000 times or more in the corresponding application.

Here, the outer configuration of the container may correspond to the shape of a conventional beverage carton package known to those skilled in the art, so as to enable a consumer to easily handle already known and long-term use package shapes without having to adapt to unfamiliar and not "learned" usage procedures. The outer contour of the body may also be supplemented with a suitable ergonomic shaping. Furthermore, the outer contour can be adjusted in order to enable stackability of the containers. For this purpose, corresponding identical openings and/or projections can be provided on the outer side of the containers, which engage one another side by side and/or one above the other when the containers are stacked or stored. For example, the container may have at least one recess and/or at least one protrusion on its outer side, wherein the recess and/or protrusion is shaped to suitably engage into the at least one recess and/or at least one protrusion of the outer side of at least one adjacently arranged further container. Here, the outer shape can also be designed as a circle or a cylinder, for example a cylinder. Accordingly, the end face of the outer shape may have a rectangular, square or circular shape.

In a preferred embodiment, the lateral surface is formed by an inner wall of the base body and defines a lateral inner wall (mantelinenwan), wherein the lateral inner wall does not comprise a region which extends the lateral inner wall at an inclination angle of >70 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction, preferably at an inclination angle of >55 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction, more preferably at an inclination angle of >40 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction, more preferably at an inclination angle of >25 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction, more preferably at an inclination angle of >10 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction. Most preferably, the lateral inner wall does not comprise an area having an inclination angle with respect to the longitudinal direction.

The inclination of the lateral inner wall includes both an inclination into the cavity interior space and an inclination out of the cavity interior space, which results in a corresponding protrusion or depression being formed in the lateral inner wall. Thus, according to the invention, it is possible to avoid the provision of disadvantageously steep protrusions or depressions in the lateral inner wall, so that the introduction of cleaning liquid, such as rinsing water, is not hindered, for example, during rinsing. This also makes it possible to easily discharge the introduced cleaning liquid. The container according to the invention is free of undercuts or other geometrical cavities or angles which are difficult to access, which favour the accumulation of liquid or which would hinder the flow of liquid into and out of the cavity. This improves the cleanability of the container according to the invention, for example in a dishwasher, and thus enables residue-free and hygienic-standard cleaning.

The smaller the inclination angle provided, the easier the liquid flows out along the lateral inner wall. Depending on the field of application and the type of cleaning provided, different, suitable inclination angles can be provided in the container according to the invention. The inclination angle is not formed with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder or an axis coaxial thereto, but rather with respect to a substantially longitudinal direction of extension of the lateral inner wall, which direction of extension may also extend obliquely to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. However, the substantially longitudinal direction of extension of the lateral inner wall may of course also extend coaxially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the column. In any case, the angle of inclination should be ≦ 70 ° since this will enable a rapid outflow of the liquid introduced into the cavity.

In a preferred embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 80% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, preferably at least 90% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, more preferably at least 95%, and most preferably at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity. In this case, the respective end face at which the opening is located is mainly constituted by the opening.

Thereby, it can be ensured that the opening has a sufficient size with respect to the narrowest point of the cavity, which makes the container according to the invention easier to fill and clean. Especially in case the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, a smooth transition without any edges along the transition from the cavity to the opening may be provided. In this case, the cylindrically formed cavity may correspond to the shape of a tube having one side opened.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body has four rectangular outer surfaces which extend substantially coaxially to the longitudinal direction, wherein the longitudinally extending edges of the outer surfaces are arranged adjacent to one another so as to define a circumferential cuboid lateral surface. Particularly preferably, the base body is substantially cuboid, i.e. has six faces which are formed by rectangles perpendicular to one another.

The base body can have any base surface, but is preferably rectangular or circular, and the base surface dimensions can be adapted accordingly depending on the desired filling volume. Preferably, the outer dimensions (length, width, height) can be adapted to the liquid output devices (filling devices) available on the market and to the formal standards and conditions of refrigerators and shelf systems.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body also has at least one outer face on the end side, which is arranged on the end side of the cuboid lateral outer face, wherein the outer face on the end side is preferably square.

The base body can thus be bounded and closed to the outside by a quadrilateral surface on five sides and has an opening on its sixth side. The outer contour of the base body can depend on the formation of a substantially cylindrical cavity. For example, the cuboid-shaped outer contour of the base body can be defined by the circular diameter of the substantially cylindrical cavity and the square end-side outer surface correspondingly comprising the circular shape. The walls may all be constructed in one piece, for example cast, which improves the mechanical robustness of the container. One or more corners of the matrix formed by the outer surface may have a rounded (ablerund) shape. This improves the gripping and holding comfort for the user, in addition to improving the cleanability of the outer surface.

In a preferred embodiment, the other end face of the cylindrical cavity forms an inner wall of the base body and defines an end-side inner wall of the cylindrical cavity, or the other end face of the cylindrical cavity defines at least one further opening in the base body to provide access to the cylindrical cavity from the outside.

In a first alternative, the end faces which do not delimit the aforementioned opening in the base body can be designed to be closed. Thereby providing a cavity with only one opening. All walls delimiting the cavity can be formed in one piece, which increases the robustness and simplifies the production. In a second alternative, the provision of a further opening provides a substantially cylindrical cavity with two openings on opposite end sides, which allows the possibility of cleaning or filling or emptying the cylindrical cavity from both end sides. Both openings can be closed by respective covers. Here, the lids may be identical or different, for example in terms of shape and/or material used, which provides flexibility in the design of the container according to the invention.

In a preferred embodiment, the cover has an upper part and a lower part, wherein the lower part has a seat shaped to fit into the lateral inner wall of the cylindrical cavity and/or wherein the upper part is shaped to engage flush with the outer surface of the base, wherein the upper part preferably has a square shape.

The cover can thus be designed such that it closes in a form-fitting manner with the outer contour of the base body and with the inner contour of the cylindrical cavity. Thus, although the inner cavity and the outer contour of the base body are designed differently if necessary, it is not only possible to provide a suitable seal for the cavity, but also to provide a suitable outer contour for the container, so that a plurality of containers according to the invention can be stored, for example, side by side or on top of one another. For example, in the case of a rectangular or square outer contour of the lid, the rotary movement of the lid can be achieved by forming a substantially circular base in the lower part of the lid, which base projects concentrically into the cavity of the base in the closed state of the container. The transition from the lid to the container may preferably be provided with a seal, for example an O-ring, so that a corresponding seal may be provided between the base and the lid. By the magnetic connection of the magnetic connections of the base body and the cover, a sealing can be ensured accordingly.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one corner defined in at least one inner wall of the cylindrical cavity is rounded and has a radius of 0.1 to 10mm, preferably 1 to 6mm, preferably 1 to 3mm, and most preferably 2mm, where preferably all corners defined in or on the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity are rounded and have a radius of 0.1 to 10mm, preferably 1 to 6mm, preferably 1 to 3mm, and most preferably 2mm.

Proper rounding of the corners aids in cleaning of the cavity and prevents liquid from depositing in the corners. The rounded corners may also be correspondingly easier to dry after cleaning, for example by hot air.

In a preferred embodiment, the lid has at least one third magnetic connection and at least one lid opening, wherein the container further comprises at least one insert which is shaped for engaging into the lid opening, wherein the insert has at least one fourth magnetic connection, wherein the insert can be releasably engaged with the lid by means of a magnetic connection between the third magnetic connection and the fourth magnetic connection.

Inserts of different functions may be used in one or more of the lid openings. These cover openings can likewise be provided with the above-mentioned magnetic connections, which enable simple, reliable, rapid insertion and replacement of the insert. The insert may likewise have a rounded base element which is introduced into the lid opening to close and seal the lid opening. The base element of the respective insert thus introduced into the cover opening can be sealed by a sealing element, for example an O-ring, and this sealing can be ensured by a corresponding magnetic connection between the cover and the insert.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the provision of a third magnetic coupling may also be eliminated. In this case, a magnetic connection may be provided between the fourth magnetic connection of the insert and the second magnetic connection of the cover. The insert can be formed in one piece. This may improve the robustness of the insert and simplify its production. When the base is configured with two openings and two covers, each cover may have the same or different inserts. This increases the flexibility of the scope of use of the container according to the invention. The base body can have at least one first magnetic connection at the upper edge of the outer side, which is cast in the Polymer (Polymer) of the base body. Furthermore, the cover can have at least one second magnetic connection which is cast into the polymer of the cover, wherein the magnetic connections of the base body and the cover are arranged opposite one another when the base body and the cover are fully engaged. Thus, a maximum adhesion force can be achieved since the magnets are arranged at a distance from each other as small as possible. For example, the cap may have at least one third magnetic coupling cast into the polymer of the cap and the insert may include at least one fourth magnetic coupling cast into the polymer of the insert, wherein the magnetic couplings of the cap and the insert are disposed opposite each other when the cap and the insert are fully engaged.

Furthermore, the outer contour of the container may be adapted accordingly in order to accommodate the outwardly protruding insert of an adjacent container. For example, the base body may have at least one recess on its outer side, which is shaped to receive a corresponding protruding insert of at least one adjacently arranged container.

Furthermore, when the components of the container, in particular the base, the lid and/or the insert, which are engageable by the magnetic connection are fully engaged, the magnetic connection of the container may have a suitably large adhesion force to prevent accidental release of these components. Here, adhesion force means a force that a magnet can be perpendicularly applied to a plate (e.g., an iron plate) and provide a corresponding magnetic connection with the magnet. The adhesion force may for example depend on the material, magnetization, geometry and volume of the magnet. In order to achieve a vertical release of the magnet from the plate, a force directed opposite the adhesion force, which is greater than the adhesion force, must be applied. In practice, the adhesion force is also often expressed as the maximum weight that the respective magnet can hold. The adhesion of the container according to the invention should here be sufficiently great to prevent the liquid from flowing out of the cavity of the base body and thus also to limit its retention. The adhesion should also be sufficiently great that accidental release of the lid, for example during transport, is not possible. The adhesion force required to prevent unintentional detachment may also depend on the filling capacity and the associated weight and force. The adhesion of the container components (i.e., base, lid, and/or insert) that may be engaged by the magnetic coupling may be designed to varying degrees depending on the design and use of the container and the individual components.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body does not have a mechanical connection, in particular a plug connection and/or a screw connection, for connecting to the lid.

Thus, the magnetic coupling may be the only coupling that interconnects the various components of the container (i.e., e.g., the base, lid, and/or insert). In this way, a smooth surface can advantageously be formed on the components of the container, which enables simple and thorough cleaning. A mechanical connection is understood to mean all connections, in particular sealed connections, in which two or more components are connected to one another by mechanical engagement. This is usually achieved by a corresponding formation in the wall of the assembly (Ausformungen), for example by a thread in the outer or inner wall of the base container and a corresponding thread in the outer or inner wall of the lid, which threads are formed in unison with each other and allow the assemblies to engage each other.

A threaded connection is here understood to mean a connection which is effected by means of a counter-rotation of the components, including so-called bayonet connections. A plug connection is understood here to mean a connection which is produced by an opposite, substantially linear movement of the components. Here, the components can have one or more corresponding recessed formations, for example undercuts, into which correspondingly arranged and shaped protruding formations (for example projections) of the other component can engage and lock when two components are plugged into one another. The above-described screw or plug connections are only two examples of mechanical connections, but many other configurations and arrangements of mechanical connections are also conceivable, which can be avoided by the container according to the invention. Common to all disadvantageous mechanical connections is that they do not allow smooth shaping of the surface of the component and are therefore often difficult to clean. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that these embodiments may be applied to all connections between container components, and may also be applied, for example, to connections between a lid and an insert.

In a preferred embodiment, the component which can be joined by the magnetic connection, in particular the base body, the cover and/or the insert, further comprises at least one integrated release aid which is designed to facilitate the release of the magnetic connection by a user.

Thus, the user can manually detach the cover from the base, although the adhesion provided actually prevents the cover from loosening, for example, lifting vertically. Preferably, the auxiliary element is provided integrally with the container according to the invention, so that no separate tool has to be used for releasing. Thereby simplifying the use of the container according to the invention. The integrated release aid can be composed of one or more elements which allow the magnetic connection to be broken by manual operation by the user. For example, the individual components of the container may be provided with suitable means on their connecting edges for relative movement of the components, for example by suitable formations in the walls which enable guided movement of the components. Thus, a user may apply a shear force, for example by rotation or translation of one or more components relative to each other, whereby opposing magnetic couplings may be moved relative to each other, which will result in a corresponding reduction in force between the magnetic couplings. Thereby, the user can finally separate these components from each other. For example, the lid and base may be configured such that a user may first rotate the lid and then lift it. In this case, the integrated release aid should preferably be designed such that the cleanability and the refillability of the container according to the invention are not impaired. I.e. it should also not have undercuts or edges which would allow liquid to accumulate therein. Accordingly, an integrated release aid can also be provided for releasing the magnetic connection between the cover opening and the insert.

In a preferred embodiment, the integrated release aid comprises at least one inclined ramp (analaframpe) which is shaped and arranged such that it allows the magnetic connection to gradually diverge perpendicular to the plane of movement with a gradual relative rotational movement upon a relative rotational movement of the components in engagement.

At least one inclined ramp may be provided on the assembly, for example on the lower part of the lid, so that the ramp can contact an opposite face, for example the face of the upper part of the base body. In this case, when the lid is in the closed state, the ramp or ramps can be received in a corresponding recess in the upper base part, so that the lower lid part and the upper base part are contained (hegen) on top of one another and are in contact with one another. In this state, the cover is then firmly connected to the base body by means of a magnetic connection. If the cover is now rotated, the inclined ramp can be moved out of the depression, so that the cover is simultaneously moved perpendicular to the base surface by rotation. The cover can thus be lifted from the base body during rotation. The air gap thus created between the magnetic connections causes the magnetic attraction to drop exponentially and the cover can therefore be removed from the base body without any difficulty. In a similar manner of operation, one or more integrated ramps may also be provided for releasing the magnetic connection between the cover opening and the insert. The particular number and arrangement of ramps and corresponding depressions is not limited to the above-described examples, but can be provided in suitable numbers and forms on the components of the container in order to achieve a magnetic decoupling, for example by a rotational movement. The integrated release aid can also be configured to apply a corresponding shear force by a translational movement or a combination of a rotational and a translational movement.

In a preferred embodiment, the insert is shaped as at least one of:

a. closing the adapter so as to be able to close the lid opening; and/or

b. A drinking adapter to enable drinking of the liquid contained in the container; and/or

c. A quick-Bottle Adapter (Speed-Bottle-Adapter) to enable the metered output of the liquid contained in the container.

According to the invention, the closure adapter enables a full seal and thus also allows a long distance transport of the liquid-filled container according to the invention. It also prevents air from entering and therefore also extends the shelf life of the perishable item when necessary. The drinking adapter may be sized and shaped to allow liquid in the drinking container. For this purpose, the closing adapter can be replaced, for example, by a drinking adapter. For example, the drinking adapter may be provided with additional air openings, which will prevent the formation of negative pressure in the container during drinking and thus allow comfortable drinking directly from the container. So-called quick bottle adapters (or metered output containers) are used in professional cooking environments and allow direct metering when dispensing liquid from the container. By using a quick bottle adapter, the container according to the invention can also fulfill this function in a comfortable, simple manner. Even in the connection between the aforementioned insert and the cover opening, the aforementioned magnetic connection and release aid can be provided accordingly, so that a corresponding connection and release of the insert can be achieved. The foregoing advantages and considerations with respect to providing a magnetic connection in accordance with the present invention apply accordingly.

In a preferred embodiment, the container is made of at least one, preferably at least partially transparent polymer.

One or more components of a container according to the present invention may be made of a polymer. This includes all common polymers known to those skilled in the art, such as PE and PET. This will allow the container to be repeatedly cleaned and reused. Suitable polymers may be determined according to the use of the container, for example according to the liquid to be contained in the container. For example, in the case of food products, polymers suitable for storing food products may be used. Furthermore, the use of polymers will allow the manufacture of containers in a rather wide range of shapes and sizes, as such shapes and sizes may be almost arbitrarily adapted to the specific use depending on the intended use. Likewise, suitable polymers also enable the entire container to be easily and completely recycled. Furthermore, the use of a transparent polymer may allow for easy detection of the filler level. The same or different polymers may also be used for different components of the container according to the invention, such as the lid and the base, in order to achieve the desired rigidity or flexibility. The substrate can also be optionally patterned using the so-called in-mold Foil technology (Inmould-Foil-technology).

In a preferred embodiment, at least one, preferably all, of the magnetic connections are arranged in the polymer, preferably completely surrounded by the polymer.

The arrangement of the magnetic connections in the individual components of the container, i.e. the base body, the lid or the insert, can take place during the manufacturing process, for example during the casting of the components. The magnetic connections can also be introduced into the individual components later on, for example by providing corresponding recesses in which the magnetic connections can be arranged. Encapsulation of the magnetic connector can be achieved by injection (Eingie β en) during the manufacturing process of the assembly. In this case, the arrangement of the magnetic means in the polymer can preferably be carried out such that no contact of the liquid stored in the container with the magnetic connection is possible. This prevents contact between the magnetic connection and the contained liquid, so that on the one hand contamination of e.g. food products by the magnetic connection is prevented and on the other hand negative effects of the liquid on the magnetic connection, e.g. by accelerated corrosion, are also avoided.

Furthermore, the container can have at least one electronic identification device, for example an RFID chip. The electronic identification means may be integrated in one or more components of the container. This can be done, for example, during injection molding in order to achieve complete encapsulation of the identification device and thus protect the identification device from possible damage during a cleaning process or other mechanical processes. By means of this identification device, it is also possible to identify the correspondingly equipped filling device of the container according to the invention without contact if necessary. The provision of such identification means also enables the integration of digital processes. For example, the content stored on the freely programmable RFID chip may be changed and adjusted according to the respective application. For example, it may be a serial number to be defined. Thus, the container according to the invention can be digitally detected and can be further processed without personally relevant data, for example in various services and marketing processes.

4. Description of the drawings

For a better understanding of the present invention and to illustrate its practical applicability, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that these drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention in any way.

Fig. 1 shows a container for liquids according to the invention in different views.

Fig. 2 shows a base body of a container for liquids according to the invention in different views.

Fig. 3 shows a cap for a container for liquids according to the invention in different views.

Fig. 4 shows a container for liquids according to the invention in different views.

Fig. 5 shows an insert of a cap for a container for liquids according to the invention in different views.

Fig. 6 shows an insert of a cap for a container for liquids according to the invention in different views.

Fig. 7 shows an insert of a cap for a container for liquids according to the invention in different views.

5. Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The invention may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments should be directed to those skilled in the art to illustrate the scope of the invention. In the drawings described below, like reference numerals denote like elements. If an element is not provided with a reference numeral in a different view, this is done merely to clearly illustrate the view. The arrangement and implementation of the corresponding elements will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the different views.

Fig. 1 shows a container 1 for liquids according to the invention in different views. The container 1 here shows different views from the outside, namely a) a bottom view, b) to d) a side view, and e) a top view. Here and in the following, the viewing direction is always understood with respect to the longitudinal direction 100 in which the container 1 extends. The container 1 is formed by a base body 3 and an upper cover 25, which is closed in a form-fitting manner to the outer contour of the base body 3. The base body 3 has four rectangular outer surfaces 27 which are connected at their longitudinal edges 29 and form lateral surfaces 31 in the form of cuboids. The base body 3 is closed at the bottom and open at the top. In the lower part of the base body 3, on the outer face 33 at the end side, a recess 53 is provided which is adapted to an insert 47, which is shown here in the form of a closure adapter 47A, which is provided on the upper part 37 of the lid 25, so that the closure adapter 47A of the other container 1 can be correspondingly engaged in the recess 53. The upper part of the base body 3 has an opening (not shown) which is closed by a cover 25. In the cover 25, a grip 51 in the form of a recess is provided, which the user can grip in order to grip and turn the cover 25 more easily. Furthermore, on the edges of the cuboid lateral outer surface 31, for example on the longitudinal right edge 29, gripping profiles are provided which facilitate gripping and holding of the container 1, as shown in fig. 1 d.

Fig. 2 shows the base body 3 of the container 1 for liquids according to the invention in different views. The base body 3 is shown here without the cover 25. Fig. 2a shows a bottom view as shown in fig. 1 a. Fig. 2d corresponds to the front view of fig. lc, wherein the cover 25 is not provided in the upper part. Fig. 2e shows a top view of the base body 3.

It is evident here that the basic body 3 forms a cylindrical cavity 5. Viewed from above, a circular opening 23 is provided in the end face 7 of the base body 3, which opening allows access from the outside to the cylindrical cavity 5 of the base body 3. On the bottom of the cylindrical cavity 5 formed by the end-side inner walls 35 of the opposite end faces 9 of the base body 3, a recess 53 is shown, which projects into the cylindrical cavity 5 in a manner corresponding to a projection. Furthermore, two release aids 49 in the form of recesses 49B are shown on the end face 7. Fig. 2f shows a view corresponding to fig. 2 e. Fig. 2b and 2c show respective cross-sectional views along the section line G-G or F-F of fig. 2F. The lateral surface 11 of the cylindrical cavity 5 is formed by the lateral inner wall 13 and the end face 9 of the cylindrical cavity 5 is formed by the end-side inner wall 35 of the base body 3. An example of the angle 43 of the cylindrical cavity 5 is depicted in fig. 2 c. For the sake of clarity, the other corners 43 of the cylindrical cavity 5 are not shown separately, but are also correspondingly formed as the corners 43 shown in the figures. Fig. 2c also shows a first magnetic connection 15, which is arranged in the wall of the base body 3 on the upper end face 7. The first magnetic connection 15 is completely surrounded by the walls of the base body 3. In fig. 2b, the lateral inner wall 13 is also shown in the upper part of the base body 3 inclined at an angle α. Which is inclined from the longitudinal extension 100 of the wall towards the inner space of the cylindrical cavity 5.

Fig. 3 shows a cap 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the invention in a different view. Fig. 3d and 3g show plan views. Fig. 3b shows a bottom view. Fig. 3c and 3e show side views of the cover 25. Fig. 3f shows a view from obliquely above, and fig. 3h shows a view from obliquely below. Fig. 3a shows a cross-sectional view along the line E-E in fig. 3 g. Here, a cover opening 45 is shown in the cover 25, which extends from the lower part 39 of the cover 25 to the upper part 37 of the cover 25 and allows access to the cylindrical cavity 5 from the outside. Furthermore, two fourth magnetic connections 21 are shown, which are arranged outside the cover 25 and are arranged completely enclosed in the cover 25. Fig. 2b shows a bottom view of the cover 25. Here, two release aids 49 in the form of inclined ramps 49A are shown, which are arranged on the circumferential side of the base 41 of the cover 25. The inclined ramp surface 49A is configured to fit properly into the recess 49B, as shown in fig. 2 e. Since the circular base 41 is appropriately engaged in the opening 23 of the base body 3, the cover 25 can be rotated out of the closed position by means of the grip 51, which causes the inclined ramp 49A to move out of the depression 49B, thereby causing the cover 25 to be lifted. Also shown in fig. 3d is a corresponding recess 49B, which is provided on the circumferential side of the lid opening 45. To close the cover 25, the base 41 can be inserted into the opening of the base 23 and then rotated in the respective opposite direction until the inclined ramp 49A is fully received in the recess 49B. The outer contour of the cover 25 has rounded corners as shown in fig. 3 g. As shown in particular in fig. 3a, 3c and 3e, the cover 25 has a circumferential notch in its lower portion 39, which is adapted to receive a sealing O-ring. Thus, the cover 25 can close the opening 23 of the base 3 in a leak-proof manner.

Fig. 4 shows a container 1 for liquids according to the invention in different views. In the embodiment shown, the cover 25 is connected to the base body 3, as shown in particular in fig. 4 e. Further, the closing adapter 47A is connected to the cover 25. The closure adapter 47A closes the lid opening 45. Fig. 4f showsbase:Sub>A top view and shows section linesbase:Sub>A-base:Sub>A to D-D for the respective cross-sectional views of fig. 4A to 4D. Fig. 4a in particular shows the inclination angle α of the lateral inner wall 13, which differs from the inclination angle α of the lateral inner wall 13 shown in fig. 4 b. As shown in particular in fig. 4c, two first magnetic connections 15 are arranged in the wall in the upper part of the base body 3 and two opposite second magnetic connections 17 are arranged in the cover 25, which provide a magnetic connection to hold the cover 25 on the base body 3. Further shown in fig. 4 c: two third magnetic connections 19 are provided in the cover 25 on the outer circumference side of the cover opening 45 and two opposite fourth magnetic connections 21 are provided in the closure adapter 47A, which provide a magnetic connection, so that the closure adapter 47A is held on the cover 25. A completely closed state is achieved when the respective magnetic closing members are exactly opposite, i.e. when the maximum possible magnetic connection strength is present.

Fig. 5 shows an insert of a cap 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the invention in a different view. The insert 47 is here configured in the form of a closing adapter 47A. Here, fig. 5a shows a bottom view of the closing adapter 47A, fig. 5b shows a side view, fig. 5c and 5e show a top view, fig. 5d shows a cross-sectional view along the line H-H of fig. 5c, and fig. 5f shows a bottom oblique view. In particular, an inclined ramp 49A arranged on the lower part of the closing adapter 47A is shown. These ramps are suitably shaped to be received by the recesses 49B on the upper portion 37 of the cover 25. The closing adapter 47A can be rotated, which causes the inclined ramp 49A to move out of the recess 49B when rotated in the opening direction and thus lifts the closing adapter 47A. To close the insert 47, the base-shaped lower portion of the insert 47 may be inserted into the lid opening 45 and then rotated in the opposite direction until the sloping ramp 49A is fully received in the recess 49B. On the lower part of the closing adapter 47A circumferential notch is provided, which allows to accommodate a sealing O-ring. Thus, the closure adapter 47A can sealingly close the lid opening 45.

Fig. 6 shows an insert 47 of a cap 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the invention in a different view. The insert 47 is here configured in the form of a quick-action bottle adapter 47B. In this case, a channel 55 is arranged in the quick-action bottle adapter, which channel provides access to the cylindrical cavity 5 via the cover opening 45, so that a user can dispense the liquid contained in the cylindrical cavity 5. A circumferential notch is provided in the lower portion of the quick bottle adapter 47B that allows for the accommodation of an O-ring. Thus, the quick-action vial adapter 47B may close the cap opening 45 so that liquid can only flow out of the cylindrical cavity 5 through the passage 55. All the release and connection elements described above in relation to the insert 47 or the closure adapter 47A can be provided analogously. Here, the quick-action bottle adapter can have an extended discharge tube to facilitate pouring. Furthermore, the quick-action bottle adapter may comprise two components made of different materials, for example a plastic base and a discharge tube made of stainless steel.

Fig. 7 shows an insert 47 of a cap 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the invention in a different view. The insert 47 is here configured in the form of a drinking adapter 47C. Here, a channel 55 is arranged in the drinking adapter, which channel provides access to the cylindrical cavity 5 through the lid opening 45, so that a user can drink the liquid contained in the cylindrical cavity 5. A circumferential notch is provided in the lower portion of the drinking adaptor 47C, which allows for the accommodation of an O-ring. Thus, the drinking adapter 47C can close the lid opening 45 so that liquid can only flow out of the cylindrical cavity 5 through the passage 55. All the release and connection elements described above in relation to the insert 47 or the closure adapter 47A can be provided analogously. The drinking adapter may preferably have a vent hole that allows venting of the cavity during drinking, so that negative pressure is avoided.

List of reference numerals

Container 1

Base body 3

Cylindrical cavity 5

End face 7

End face 9

Lateral surface 11

Lateral inner wall 13

First magnetic connector 15

Second magnetic connector 17

Third magnetic connector 19

Fourth magnetic connector 21

Opening 23 of the base body

Cover 25

Outer surface 27

Edge 29 of the rectangular outer surface

Cuboid lateral outer surface 31

End side outer surface 33

End side inner wall 35

Upper part 37 of the cover

Lower part 39 of the cover

Base 41

Corner 43 of the inner wall

Cover opening 45

Insert 47

Closure adaptor 47A

Quick bottle adapter 47B

Drinking adapter 47C

Release aid 49

Inclined ramp surface 49A

Recess 49B

Grasping portion 51

Leaving a space 53

Channel 55

Longitudinal direction 100

The angle of inclination α.

Claims

1. A container (1) for liquids, comprising:

a) -a base body (3) having at least one substantially cylindrical cavity (5) for containing a liquid, wherein the cylindrical cavity (5) comprises two opposing end faces (7,9) and a circumferential lateral surface (11), wherein the lateral surface (11) extends substantially along a longitudinal direction (100) between the two end faces (7,9), and wherein at least one of the end faces (7,9) defines at least one opening (23) in the base body (3) to provide access from the outside to the cavity (5), wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening (23) is at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5), and wherein the base body (3) has at least one first magnetic connection (15);

b) At least one cover (25) adapted to close the opening (23), wherein the cover (25) has at least one second magnetic connection (17), wherein the cover (25) is releasably engageable with the base body (3) by a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connection (15) and the second magnetic connection (17).

2. Container (1) for a liquid according to the preceding claim, wherein the lateral surface (11) is formed by an inner wall of the base body (3) and defines a lateral inner wall (13), wherein the lateral inner wall (13) does not comprise a region which extends the lateral inner wall (13) with an inclination angle (a) of >70 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction (100), preferably extends with an inclination angle (a) of >55 ° with respect to the longitudinal direction (100), more preferably >40 °, more preferably >25 °, more preferably >10 °, and most preferably the lateral inner wall does not comprise a region with an inclination angle (a) with respect to the longitudinal direction (100).

3. A container (1) for a liquid according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening (23) is at least 80% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5), preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5), and most preferably at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5).

4. Container for a liquid (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (3) has four rectangular outer surfaces (27) extending substantially coaxially to the longitudinal direction (100), wherein the longitudinally extending edges (29) of the outer surfaces (27) are arranged adjacent to each other so as to define a circumferential cuboid lateral surface (31).

5. Container for liquids (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (3) further has at least one end side outer surface (33) arranged on an end side of the cuboid lateral outer surface (31), wherein the end side outer surface (33) is preferably square.

6. A container (1) for liquids according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the other end face (7,9) of the cylindrical cavity (5) is formed by an inner wall of the base body (3) and defines an end side inner wall (35), or wherein the other end face (7,9) defines at least one further opening in the base body (3) to provide access to the cylindrical cavity (5) from the outside.

7. Container for liquids (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lid (25) has an upper portion (37) and a lower portion (39), wherein the lower portion (39) has a seat (41) shaped to fit into the lateral inner wall (13) of the cylindrical cavity (5) and/or wherein the upper portion is shaped to merge flush with the outer surface (27) of the base body (3), wherein the upper portion (37) preferably has a square shape.

8. Container for liquid (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one corner (43) defined in at least one inner wall of the cylindrical cavity (5) is rounded and has a radius of 0.1 to 10mm, preferably 1 to 6mm, preferably 1 to 3mm, and most preferably 2mm,

wherein preferably all corners (43) defined in or on the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity (5) are rounded and have a radius of 0.1 to 10mm, preferably 1 to 6mm, preferably 1 to 3mm, and most preferably 2mm.

9. Container for liquids (1) according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the lid (25) has at least one third magnetic connection (19) and at least one lid opening (45),

wherein the container (1) further comprises at least one insert (47) shaped for engaging into the lid opening (45),

wherein the insert (47) has at least one fourth magnetic connection (21),

wherein the insert (47) is releasably engageable with the cover (25) by a magnetic connection between the third magnetic connection (19) and the fourth magnetic connection (21).

10. Container for liquid (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body does not comprise a mechanical connection, in particular a plug connection and/or a screw connection, for connecting with the lid.

11. Container for liquids (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the components of the container (1) that can be engaged by magnetic connections (15, 17, 19, 21), in particular the base body (3), the lid (25) and/or the insert (47), further comprise at least one integrated release aid (49) configured to allow a user to easily release the magnetic connections (15, 17, 19, 21).

12. Container for liquids (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the integrated release aid (49) comprises at least one inclined ramp shaped and arranged to allow the magnetic connection (15, 17, 19, 21) to gradually separate perpendicular to the plane of movement with a gradual relative rotational movement upon relative rotational movement of the components in engagement.

13. Container (1) for liquids according to any of the preceding claims 9 to 12, wherein the insert (47) is shaped as at least one of:

a. closing the adapter (47A), allowing the lid opening (45) to be closed, and/or

b. A drinking adapter (47B) allowing drinking of the liquid contained in the container (1); and/or

c. A quick bottle adapter (47C) allowing the metered output of the liquid contained in the container (1).

14. Container for a liquid (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container (1) is made of at least one, preferably at least partially transparent, polymer.

15. Container for liquids (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one, preferably all magnetic connections (15, 17, 19, 21) are arranged in, preferably completely surrounded by, said polymer.