EP0274285A1 - Valve assembly for a vacuum package - Google Patents

Valve assembly for a vacuum package Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0274285A1
EP0274285A1 EP87400040A EP87400040A EP0274285A1 EP 0274285 A1 EP0274285 A1 EP 0274285A1 EP 87400040 A EP87400040 A EP 87400040A EP 87400040 A EP87400040 A EP 87400040A EP 0274285 A1 EP0274285 A1 EP 0274285A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
base
orifice
container
valve
valve according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP87400040A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0274285B1 (en
Inventor
Gino Beghini
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Vacu-O-Leader International Sal Droit Libanais Ste
Original Assignee
Vacu-O-Leader International Sal Droit Libanais Ste
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Vacu-O-Leader International Sal Droit Libanais Ste filed Critical Vacu-O-Leader International Sal Droit Libanais Ste
Priority to EP87400040A priority Critical patent/EP0274285B1/en
Priority to DE8787400040T priority patent/DE3771195D1/en
Priority to ES87400040T priority patent/ES2022903B3/en
Priority to AT87400040T priority patent/ATE64914T1/en
Publication of EP0274285A1 publication Critical patent/EP0274285A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0274285B1 publication Critical patent/EP0274285B1/en
Priority to GR91400486T priority patent/GR3002248T3/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D79/00—Kinds or details of packages, not otherwise provided for
    • B65D79/02—Arrangements or devices for indicating incorrect storage or transport
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D79/00—Kinds or details of packages, not otherwise provided for
    • B65D79/005—Packages having deformable parts for indicating or neutralizing internal pressure-variations by other means than venting
    • B65D79/0087—Packages having deformable parts for indicating or neutralizing internal pressure-variations by other means than venting the deformable part being located in a closure, e.g. in caps or lids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
    • B65D47/06—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
    • B65D47/08—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures
    • B65D47/0804—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures integrally formed with the base element provided with the spout or discharge passage
    • B65D47/0833—Hinges without elastic bias
    • B65D47/0838—Hinges without elastic bias located at an edge of the base element
    • B65D47/0842—Hinges without elastic bias located at an edge of the base element consisting of a strap of flexible material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D81/18—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient
    • B65D81/20—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas
    • B65D81/2007—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas under vacuum
    • B65D81/2038—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas under vacuum with means for establishing or improving vacuum
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
    • B65D2251/10—Details of hinged closures
    • B65D2251/1016—Means for locking the closure in closed position
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
    • B65D2251/20—Sealing means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a valve intended to be mounted on a vacuum container, for example for the conditioning of objects or materials contained in said container.
  • a container or container can be both in rigid form (barrel, bucket, etc.) and in flexible form (bag, sachet, etc.).
  • a vacuum valve comprising on the one hand, a base delimiting an orifice and, on the other hand, a shutter, of generally frustoconical shape, intended to close said orifice and secured to said base by a connecting tab linked to the periphery of said base.
  • the valve further comprises fixing means, diametrically opposite to said connecting tongue, making it possible to hold said obturator in position in said orifice, said connecting tongue then being folded back on said base.
  • Such a valve is particularly advantageous both in terms of its manufacture and its use. Indeed, such a valve can be molded in one piece of plastic. Furthermore, when it is mounted on a container, the shutter can already be placed in the orifice of the base and be held there by said fixing means, which facilitates the automation of such an assembly. In this mounting operation, the shutter does not seal said orifice, but is simply held loosely therein. As a result, it is possible to create a vacuum in said container through said valve orifice, the shutter being applied in leaktight manner against the wall of said orifice only when the vacuum is achieved. It is moreover the vacuum inside the container which ensures the pressure of the obturator against the orifice of the valve, and, consequently, the sealing of the valve.
  • valve in the form of a cover for the container and the base of said valve is provided with means capable of sealingly covering the edge of an opening of said container.
  • the object of the present invention is to remedy this drawback and to allow the valve of US-A-3,854,618 to be welded to the wall of a container.
  • the vacuum valve for container made in a single piece of plastic material and comprising a base delimiting an orifice and a shutter intended to close said orifice and integral with said base by a linked connecting flap at the periphery of said base, is remarkable in that said base has a peripheral zone intended to be welded to said container and in that the part of said peripheral zone, covered by said connecting tab folded back when the shutter is housed in said orifice, has a recess making it possible to house therein at least partially the corresponding part of said connecting tab.
  • the welding of the valve on the container can be optimal, since any excess thickness is eliminated.
  • said base has the shape of a disc bordered by a peripheral weld ring and said peripheral ring has a radial recess whose depth and width correspond respectively to the thickness and to the width of said corresponding tongue part. .
  • said orifice is frustoconical
  • its frustoconical wall is closed by a bottom pierced with holes and extended by a skirt provided with lateral notches.
  • said skirt can serve as a receptacle for a filter pad, so that no dust of said product is sucked up by the vacuum device.
  • said valve comprises fixing means for temporarily holding the shutter in said orifice during the welding and vacuuming operations, it is advantageous that the part of said fixing means integral with said base is inside said peripheral weld zone.
  • said shutter and said base can be provided with cooperating tamper-evident means, welded to each other after the container has been evacuated.
  • the part of said tamper-evident means carried by said base is inside said peripheral weld zone.
  • the valve in accordance with the present invention and shown in these figures, comprises a base 1 delimiting a central orifice 2 and a shutter 3, of generally frustoconical shape, intended to close said orifice 2 and integral with said base 1 by a connecting tab 4.
  • the base 1 comprises a peripheral annular crown 5, partially hatched in FIG. 1, surrounding a central flat part 6 in which the orifice 2 is made. This is extended, on the side opposite the shutter 3, by a wall substantially frustoconical 7 integral with said central flat portion 6.
  • the frustoconical wall 7 is closed by a bottom 8, pierced with holes 9.
  • the bottom 8 is itself extended, on the side opposite to the frustoconical wall 7, by a frustoconical jacket 10, provided with notches lateral 11.
  • At the interior of the frustoconical wall 7 is provided at least one sealing lip 12, capable of cooperating with the external face of the frustoconical wall 13 of the shutter 3, closed by a bottom 14.
  • This extension 15 comprises a latching stud 16, capable of cooperating with a retaining recess 17, formed in the middle part 6 of the base 1.
  • the shutter 3 is provided with at least one protrusion 18, capable of coming to bear on a stud 19 carried by said base 1.
  • the different elements 1 to 19 came from molding and the valve forms a single piece of plastic. Inside the frustoconical jacket 10 can be placed a filter pad 20, for example of expanded foam. This filter pad 20 is not shown in Figures 1 and 2 which show the valve according to the invention, as it comes out of the mold.
  • the shutter 3 After demoulding the valve, the shutter 3 is loosely introduced into the orifice 2, by folding the connecting tab 4. In this position, which is illustrated in FIG. 3, the latching stud 16 can be introduced into the retaining recess 17 and the protuberance or protrusions 18 are substantially perpendicular to the associated stud 19.
  • the connecting tab 4 forms a fairly wide loop, because of the rigidity and the elasticity of the plastic used.
  • the shutter 3 is more engaged in the orifice 2 on the side of the fixing means 16,17, than on the side of the connecting tab 4, which exerts a slight traction tending to lift said shutter away from said orifice.
  • the valve After having possibly been provided with a filter pad 20 introduced into the jacket 10, is brought into the orifice 21 of a wall 22 of the container, the frustoconical skirt 7 and the jacket 10 passing through said orifice 21, while at least the peripheral annular ring 5 comes to bear on the periphery of the orifice 21.
  • the peripheral annular ring 5 is made integral with said wall 22.
  • the part of the peripheral annular crown 5 on which the part 4A of the connecting tongue 4 folds includes a recess 24, in which is housed, at least partially said part 4A of the tongue 4.
  • the depth p and the width L of said recess 24 correspond respectively to the thickness e and to the width l of the tongue part 40.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates the position of the valve according to the invention after welding.
  • the loop of the tongue 4 has been flattened, so that the shutter 3 is then less inclined in the orifice 2, as shown in Figure 3.
  • the shutter does not close port 2 tightly.
  • a vacuum nozzle to the valve so as to create a vacuum in the container, through said valve.
  • the atmosphere of said container is sucked through the notches 11, the filter pad 20 and the holes 9, so that the material of said container is not sucked.
  • the shutter 3 is applied fully against the inner face of the frustoconical wall 7 (in particular against the lip 12) and penetrates as much as possible into port 2 (see Figure 5).
  • the bottom 14 of the shutter 3 deforms and can be applied against the bottom 8 of the frustoconical wall 7.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Catching Or Destruction (AREA)
  • Vacuum Packaging (AREA)

Abstract

- A vacuum valve for a container, produced as a single piece of plastic material and comprising a base (1) delimiting an orifice (2) and a stopper (3) intended to close the said orifice (2) and attached to the said base by means of a connection tongue (4) joined to the periphery of the said base. - This valve is characterised in that the said base (1) comprises a peripheral zone (5) which is provided in order to be welded onto the said package, and in that that part of the said peripheral zone (5) which is covered by the said connection tongue, folded over when the stopper is housed in the said orifice (2), comprises a recess (24) enabling the corresponding part (4A) of the said connection tongue (4) to be received at least partially therein. - Production of a weldable valve which is simple and easy to manufacture. <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne une soupape destinée à être montée sur un récipient mis sous vide, par exemple pour le conditionnement des objets ou matières contenus dans ledit récipient. Un tel récipient ou conteneur peut aussi bien se présenter sous forme rigide (fût, seau, etc...) que sous forme souple (sac, sachet, etc...).The present invention relates to a valve intended to be mounted on a vacuum container, for example for the conditioning of objects or materials contained in said container. Such a container or container can be both in rigid form (barrel, bucket, etc.) and in flexible form (bag, sachet, etc.).

Par le brevet US-A-3 854 618, on connaît déjà une soupape à vide comportant d'une part, une base délimitant un orifice et, d'autre part, un obturateur, de forme générale tronconique, destiné à fermer ledit orifice et solidaire de ladite base par une languette de liaison liée à la périphé­rie de ladite base. La soupape comporte de plus des moyens de fixation, diamétralement opposés à ladite languette de liaison, permettant de maintenir en position ledit obturateur dans ledit orifice, ladite languette de liaison étant alors repliée sur ladite base.By patent US-A-3 854 618, a vacuum valve is already known comprising on the one hand, a base delimiting an orifice and, on the other hand, a shutter, of generally frustoconical shape, intended to close said orifice and secured to said base by a connecting tab linked to the periphery of said base. The valve further comprises fixing means, diametrically opposite to said connecting tongue, making it possible to hold said obturator in position in said orifice, said connecting tongue then being folded back on said base.

Une telle soupape est particulièrement avantageuse aussi bien en ce qui concerne sa fabrication que son utilisation. En effet, une telle soupape peut être moulée d'une seule pièce en matière plastique. Par ailleurs, lors de son montage sur un récipient, l'obturateur peut déjà être mis en place dans l'orifice de la base et y être maintenu par lesdits moyens de fixation, ce qui facilite l'automatisa­tion d'un tel montage. Dans cette opération de montage, l'obturateur ne ferme pas de façon étanche ledit orifice, mais est simplement maintenu de façon lâche dans ce dernier. Par suite, il est possible de faire le vide dans ledit récipient à travers ledit orifice de la soupape, l'obturateur ne s'appliquant de façon étanche contre la paroi dudit orifice que lorsque le vide est réalisé. C'est d'ailleurs le vide à l'intérieur du récipient qui assure la pression de l'obturateur contre l'orifice de la soupape, et, par suite, l'étanchéité de la soupape.Such a valve is particularly advantageous both in terms of its manufacture and its use. Indeed, such a valve can be molded in one piece of plastic. Furthermore, when it is mounted on a container, the shutter can already be placed in the orifice of the base and be held there by said fixing means, which facilitates the automation of such an assembly. In this mounting operation, the shutter does not seal said orifice, but is simply held loosely therein. As a result, it is possible to create a vacuum in said container through said valve orifice, the shutter being applied in leaktight manner against the wall of said orifice only when the vacuum is achieved. It is moreover the vacuum inside the container which ensures the pressure of the obturator against the orifice of the valve, and, consequently, the sealing of the valve.

Dans le document US-A-3 854 618, la soupape se présente sous la forme d'un couvercle pour le récipient et la base de ladite soupape est pourvue de moyens susceptibles de coiffer de façon étanche le bord d'une ouverture dudit récipient.In document US-A-3 854 618, the valve is in the form of a cover for the container and the base of said valve is provided with means capable of sealingly covering the edge of an opening of said container.

Par ailleurs, par le brevet US-A-2 638 263, on connaît déjà une soupape qui est destinée à être soudée sur un récipient à vide. Cette soupape connue est de construction complexe et il serait avantageux de pouvoir la remplacer par la soupape du brevet US-A-3 854 618.Furthermore, from US-A-2,638,263, a valve is already known which is intended to be welded to a vacuum container. This known valve is of complex construction and it would be advantageous to be able to replace it with the valve of US-A-3,854,618.

Cependant, si, au lieu de conformer la soupape de ce dernier document en couvercle encliquetable sur un récipient, on désirait la souder, notamment par ultra-sons, sur la paroi du récipient, on se heurterait à une diffi­culté provenant du fait que ladite languette de liaison, réunissant l'obturateur à la base, est alors replieé sur ladite base. Il en résulterait une surépaisseur qui nuierait à la qualité de la soudure et pourrait même l'empêcher.However, if, instead of conforming the valve of the latter document to a snap-on lid on a container, it was desired to weld it, in particular by ultrasound, to the wall of the container, one would come up against a difficulty due to the fact that said tab connecting, joining the shutter to the base, is then folded over said base. This would result in an excess thickness which would adversely affect the quality of the weld and could even prevent it.

La présente invention a pour objet de remédier à cet inconvénient et de permettre la soudure de la soupape du brevet US-A-3 854 618 sur la paroi d'un récipient.The object of the present invention is to remedy this drawback and to allow the valve of US-A-3,854,618 to be welded to the wall of a container.

A cette fin, selon l'invention, la soupape à vide pour récipient, réalisée en une seule pièce de matière plastique et comportant une base délimitant un orifice et un obturateur destiné à fermer ledit orifice et solidaire de ladite base par une laguette de liaison liée à la périphérie de ladite base, est remarquable en ce que ladite base comporte une zone périphérique prévue pour être soudée sur ledit récipient et en ce que la partie de ladite zone périphérique, recouverte par ladite languette de liaison repliée lorsque l'obturateur est logé dans ledit orifice, comporte un évidement permettant d'y loger au moins partiellement la partie correspondante de ladite languette de liaison.To this end, according to the invention, the vacuum valve for container, made in a single piece of plastic material and comprising a base delimiting an orifice and a shutter intended to close said orifice and integral with said base by a linked connecting flap at the periphery of said base, is remarkable in that said base has a peripheral zone intended to be welded to said container and in that the part of said peripheral zone, covered by said connecting tab folded back when the shutter is housed in said orifice, has a recess making it possible to house therein at least partially the corresponding part of said connecting tab.

Ainsi, malgré la présence de la languette de liaison repliée, la soudure de la soupape sur le récipient peut être optimale, puisque toute surépaisseur est éliminée.Thus, despite the presence of the folded connecting tab, the welding of the valve on the container can be optimal, since any excess thickness is eliminated.

De préférence, ladite base présente la forme d'un disque bordé d'une couronne périphérique de soudure et ladite couronne périphérique comporte un évidement radial dont la profondeur et la largeur correspondent respectivement à l'épaisseur et à la largeur de ladite partie de languette correspondante.Preferably, said base has the shape of a disc bordered by a peripheral weld ring and said peripheral ring has a radial recess whose depth and width correspond respectively to the thickness and to the width of said corresponding tongue part. .

Avantageusement, dans le cas où ledit orifice est tronconique, sa paroi tronconique est obturée par un fond percé de trous et prolongée par une jupe pourvue d'encoches latérales. Ainsi, le produit contenu dans le récipient ne peut colmater lesdits trous, lors de la mise sous vide. De plus, ladite jupe peut servir de réceptacle à un tampon filtrant, de sorte qu'aucune poussière dudit produit n'est aspirée par le dispositif de mise sous vide.Advantageously, in the case where said orifice is frustoconical, its frustoconical wall is closed by a bottom pierced with holes and extended by a skirt provided with lateral notches. Thus, the product contained in the container can not seal said holes during vacuuming. In addition, said skirt can serve as a receptacle for a filter pad, so that no dust of said product is sucked up by the vacuum device.

Lorsque, de façon connue, ladite soupape comporte des moyens de fixation pour maintenir provisoirement l'obtura­teur dans ledit orifice pendant les opérations de soudure et de mise sous vide, il est avantageux que la partie desdits moyens de fixation solidaires de ladite base soit intérieure à ladite zone périphérique de soudure.When, in known manner, said valve comprises fixing means for temporarily holding the shutter in said orifice during the welding and vacuuming operations, it is advantageous that the part of said fixing means integral with said base is inside said peripheral weld zone.

De plus, ledit obturateur et ladite base peuvent être pourvus de moyens d'inviolabilité coopérants, soudés les uns aux autres après mise sous vide du récipient. Dans ce cas, avantageusement, la partie desdits moyens d'inviolabi­lité portée par ladite base est intérieure à ladite zone périphérique de soudure.In addition, said shutter and said base can be provided with cooperating tamper-evident means, welded to each other after the container has been evacuated. In this case, advantageously, the part of said tamper-evident means carried by said base is inside said peripheral weld zone.

Les figures du dessin annexé feront bien comprendre comment l'invention peut être réalisée. Sur ces figures, des références identiques désignent des éléments identiques.

  • La figure 1 est une vue de dessus de la soupape selon l'invention, dans la position où elle est fabriquée.
  • La figure 2 est une coupe longitudinale axiale selon la ligne II-II de la figure 1.
  • La figure 3 est une vue en coupe axiale de la soupape lors de sa pose sur un récipient.
  • La figure 4 montre, en coupe axiale, ladite soupape selon l'invention au moment de son soudage sur un récipient.
  • La figure 5 illustre, toujours en coupe axiale, la soupape selon l'invention après mise sous vide du récipient sur lequel elle a été soudée.
The figures of the appended drawing will make it clear how the invention can be implemented. In these figures, identical references designate identical elements.
  • Figure 1 is a top view of the valve according to the invention, in the position where it is manufactured.
  • FIG. 2 is an axial longitudinal section along the line II-II of FIG. 1.
  • Figure 3 is an axial sectional view of the valve when placed on a container.
  • FIG. 4 shows, in axial section, said valve according to the invention at the time of its welding on a container.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates, still in axial section, the valve according to the invention after evacuating the container onto which it has been welded.

La soupape, conforme à la présente invention et montrée sur ces figures, comporte une base 1 délimitant un orifice central 2 et un obturateur 3, de forme générale tronconi­que, destiné à fermer ledit orifice 2 et solidaire de ladite base 1 par une languette de liaison 4.The valve, in accordance with the present invention and shown in these figures, comprises a base 1 delimiting a central orifice 2 and a shutter 3, of generally frustoconical shape, intended to close said orifice 2 and integral with said base 1 by a connecting tab 4.

La base 1 comporte une couronne annulaire périphérique 5, hachurée partiellement sur la figure 1, entourant une partie plane médiane 6 dans laquelle est pratiqué l'orifice 2. Celui-ci est prolongé, du côté opposé à l'obturateur 3, par une paroi sensiblement tronconique 7 solidaire de ladite partie plane médiane 6. La paroi tronconique 7 est obturée par un fond 8, percé de trous 9. Le fond 8 est lui-même prolongé, du côté opposé à la paroi tronconique 7, par une chemise tronconique 10, pourvue d'encoches latérale 11.The base 1 comprises a peripheral annular crown 5, partially hatched in FIG. 1, surrounding a central flat part 6 in which the orifice 2 is made. This is extended, on the side opposite the shutter 3, by a wall substantially frustoconical 7 integral with said central flat portion 6. The frustoconical wall 7 is closed by a bottom 8, pierced with holes 9. The bottom 8 is itself extended, on the side opposite to the frustoconical wall 7, by a frustoconical jacket 10, provided with notches lateral 11.

A l'intérieur de la paroi tronconique 7 est prévue au moins une lèvre d'étanchéite 12, susceptible de coopérer avec la face extérieure de la paroi tronconique 13 de l'obturateur 3, fermée par un fond 14.At the interior of the frustoconical wall 7 is provided at least one sealing lip 12, capable of cooperating with the external face of the frustoconical wall 13 of the shutter 3, closed by a bottom 14.

De plus, on prévoit, du côté de l'obturateur 3 opposé à la base 1, un prolongement 15 de la languette 4. Ce prolonge­ment 15 comporte un téton d'encliquetage 16, susceptible de coopérer avec un évidement de retenue 17, ménagé dans la partie médiane 6 de la base 1.In addition, provision is made, on the side of the shutter 3 opposite the base 1, for an extension 15 of the tongue 4. This extension 15 comprises a latching stud 16, capable of cooperating with a retaining recess 17, formed in the middle part 6 of the base 1.

Par ailleurs, l'obturateur 3 est pourvu d'au moins une excroissance 18, susceptible de venir en appui sur un plot 19 porté par ladite base 1.Furthermore, the shutter 3 is provided with at least one protrusion 18, capable of coming to bear on a stud 19 carried by said base 1.

Les différents éléments 1 à 19 sont venus de moulage et la soupape forme une seule pièce de matière plastique. A l'intérieur de la chemise tronconique 10 peut être mis en place un tampon filtrant 20, par exemple en mousse expansée. Ce tampon filtrant 20 n'est pas représenté sur les figures 1 et 2 qui montrent la soupape selon l'inven­tion, telle qu'elle sort du moule.The different elements 1 to 19 came from molding and the valve forms a single piece of plastic. Inside the frustoconical jacket 10 can be placed a filter pad 20, for example of expanded foam. This filter pad 20 is not shown in Figures 1 and 2 which show the valve according to the invention, as it comes out of the mold.

Après démoulage de la soupape, l'obturateur 3 est introduit de façon lâche dans l'orifice 2, par repliement de la languette de liaison 4. Dans cette position, qui est illustrée par la figure 3, le téton d'encliquetage 16 peut être introduit dans l'évidement de retenue 17 et la ou les excroissances 18 se trouvent sensiblement à l'aplomb du plot 19 associé.After demoulding the valve, the shutter 3 is loosely introduced into the orifice 2, by folding the connecting tab 4. In this position, which is illustrated in FIG. 3, the latching stud 16 can be introduced into the retaining recess 17 and the protuberance or protrusions 18 are substantially perpendicular to the associated stud 19.

On remarquera que, dans cette position montrée par la figure 3, la languette de liaison 4 forme une boucle assez large, à cause de la rigidité et de l'élasticité de la matière plastique utilisée. Par suite, l'obturateur 3 est plus engagé dans l'orifice 2 du côté des moyens de fixation 16,17, que du côté de la languette de liaison 4, qui exerce une légère traction tendant à soulever ledit obturateur en l'éloignant dudit orifice.It will be noted that, in this position shown in FIG. 3, the connecting tab 4 forms a fairly wide loop, because of the rigidity and the elasticity of the plastic used. As a result, the shutter 3 is more engaged in the orifice 2 on the side of the fixing means 16,17, than on the side of the connecting tab 4, which exerts a slight traction tending to lift said shutter away from said orifice.

Dans cette position de la figure 3, la soupape, après avoir éventuellement été munie d'un tampon filtrant 20 introduit dans la chemise 10, est amenée dans l'orifice 21 d'une paroi 22 de récipient, la jupe tronconique 7 et la chemise 10 passant à travers ledit orifice 21, alors que au moins la couronne annulaire périphérique 5 vient en appui sur la périphérie de l'orifice 21.In this position of FIG. 3, the valve, after having possibly been provided with a filter pad 20 introduced into the jacket 10, is brought into the orifice 21 of a wall 22 of the container, the frustoconical skirt 7 and the jacket 10 passing through said orifice 21, while at least the peripheral annular ring 5 comes to bear on the periphery of the orifice 21.

Ensuite, par exemple au moyen d'une tête de soudage par ultra-sons 23, la couronne annulaire périphérique 5 est rendue solidaire de ladite paroi 22.Then, for example by means of an ultrasonic welding head 23, the peripheral annular ring 5 is made integral with said wall 22.

On remarquera que, au cours de cette opération de soudure, la partie 4A de la languette de liaison 4, proche de la couronne annulaire périphérique 5, se trouve interposée entre ladite tête de soudage 23 et ladite couronne annulaire périphérique 5. Par suite, à l'emplacement de cette partie 4A, il existe une surépaisseur. Il en résulte donc que :
- si la tête de soudage est réglée pour obtenir, à l'extérieur de la partie 4A un soudage correct de la couronne annulaire périphérique 5 sur la paroi 22, le soudage de cette couronne annulaire 5 sur la paroi 22 ne peut être correct à l'emplacement de ladite partie 4A et l'étanchéité ne peut être obtenue à cet emplacement ;
- ou si la tête de soudage est réglée pour obtenir, à l'emplacement de la partie 4A, un soudage correct de la couronne annulaire périphérique 5 sur la paroi 22, ce réglage est trop puissant pour les parties de la couronne 5 extérieures à la partie de languette 4A, de sorte que là l'étanchéité ne peut être assurée à l'extérieur de cette partie 4A et qu'il peut en résulter la destruction partielle de la paroi 22.It will be noted that, during this welding operation, the part 4A of the connecting tab 4, close to the peripheral annular crown 5, is interposed between said welding head 23 and said peripheral annular crown 5. As a result, at the location of this part 4A, there is an allowance. It therefore follows that:
- If the welding head is adjusted to obtain, outside of part 4A a correct welding of the peripheral annular ring 5 on the wall 22, the welding of this annular ring 5 on the wall 22 cannot be correct at the location of said part 4A and sealing cannot be obtained at this location;
- or if the welding head is adjusted to obtain, at the location of part 4A, correct welding of the peripheral annular crown 5 on the wall 22, this adjustment is too powerful for the parts of the crown 5 external to the tongue part 4A, so that sealing cannot be ensured outside this part 4A and qu 'This may result in the partial destruction of the wall 22.

Pour remédier à ces inconvénients, selon l'invention, la partie de courone annulaire périphérique 5 sur laquelle se replie la partie 4A de la languette de liaison 4 comporte un évidement 24, dans lequel vient se loger, au moins partiellement ladite partie 4A de la languette 4. A cet effet, la profondeur p et la largeur L dudit évidement 24 correspondent respectivement à l'épaisseur e et à la largeur l de la partie de languette 40. Ainsi, l'épaisseur de matière à souder peut être au moins sensiblement constante sur toute la périphérie de la base 1, de sorte que le réglage de la tête 23 peut être optimal en tout point de la couronne annulaire 5.To overcome these drawbacks, according to the invention, the part of the peripheral annular crown 5 on which the part 4A of the connecting tongue 4 folds includes a recess 24, in which is housed, at least partially said part 4A of the tongue 4. For this purpose, the depth p and the width L of said recess 24 correspond respectively to the thickness e and to the width l of the tongue part 40. Thus, the thickness of material to be welded can be at least substantially constant over the entire periphery of the base 1, so that the adjustment of the head 23 can be optimal at any point of the annular crown 5.

La figure 4 illustre la position de la soupape selon l'invention après soudage. La boucle de la languette 4 a été aplatie, de sorte qu'alors l'obturateur 3 est moins incliné dans l'orifice 2, que cela est représenté sur la figure 3. Toutefois, dans la position de la figure 4, l'obturateur ne ferme pas l'orifice 2 de façon étanche.FIG. 4 illustrates the position of the valve according to the invention after welding. The loop of the tongue 4 has been flattened, so that the shutter 3 is then less inclined in the orifice 2, as shown in Figure 3. However, in the position of Figure 4, the shutter does not close port 2 tightly.

Aussi, il est alors possible d'appliquer sur la soupape un embout à vide de façon à faire le vide dans le récipient, à travers ladite soupape. L'atmosphère dudit récipient est aspirée à travers les encoches 11, le tampon filtrant 20 et les trous 9, de sorte que la matière dudit récipient n'est pas aspirée. Lorsque le vide est suffisant, l'obturateur 3 s'applique à fond contre la face intérieure de la paroi tronconique 7 (notamment contre la lèvre 12) et pénètre au maximum dans l'orifice 2 (voir la figure 5). De plus, le fond 14 de l'obturateur 3 se déforme et peut venir s'appliquer contre le fond 8 de la paroi tronconique 7.Also, it is then possible to apply a vacuum nozzle to the valve so as to create a vacuum in the container, through said valve. The atmosphere of said container is sucked through the notches 11, the filter pad 20 and the holes 9, so that the material of said container is not sucked. When the vacuum is sufficient, the shutter 3 is applied fully against the inner face of the frustoconical wall 7 (in particular against the lip 12) and penetrates as much as possible into port 2 (see Figure 5). In addition, the bottom 14 of the shutter 3 deforms and can be applied against the bottom 8 of the frustoconical wall 7.

Il est ensuite possible de souder les excroissances 18 sur les plots 19 pour obtenir l'inviolabilité de la soupape.It is then possible to weld the protuberances 18 on the studs 19 to obtain the inviolability of the valve.

Claims (7)

1 - Soupape à vide pour récipient, réalisée en une seule pièce de matière plastique et comportant une base (1) délimitant un orifice (2) et un obturateur (3) destiné à fermer ledit orifice (2) et solidaire de ladite base par une languette de liaison (4) liée à la périphérie de ladite base,
caractérisée en ce que ladite base comporte une zone périphérique (5) prévue pour être soudée sur ledit récipient et en ce que la partie de ladite zone périphéri­que (5), recouverte par ladite languette de liaison repliée lorsque l'obturateur est logé dans ledit orifice (2), comporte un évidement (24) permettant d'y loger au moins partiellement la partie correspondante (4A) de ladite languette de liaison (4).1 - Vacuum valve for container, made in a single piece of plastic material and comprising a base (1) delimiting an orifice (2) and a shutter (3) intended to close said orifice (2) and integral with said base by a connecting tongue (4) linked to the periphery of said base,
characterized in that said base comprises a peripheral zone (5) intended to be welded to said container and in that the part of said peripheral zone (5), covered by said connecting tab folded back when the obturator is housed in said orifice (2), comprises a recess (24) making it possible to house therein at least partially the corresponding part (4A) of said connecting tongue (4). 2 - Soupape selon la revendication 1,
caractérisée en ce que ladite base présente la forme d'un disque bordé d'une couronne périphérique de soudure et en ce que ladite couronne périphérique comporte un évidement radial dont la profondeur et la largeur correspondent respectivement à l'épaisseur et à la largeur de ladite partie (4A) de languette correspondante.2 - valve according to claim 1,
characterized in that said base has the shape of a disc bordered by a peripheral weld ring and in that said peripheral ring has a radial recess whose depth and width correspond respectively to the thickness and to the width of said corresponding tab part (4A). 3 - Soupape selon la revendication 2, dans laquelle ledit orifice (2) est tronconique,
caractérisée en ce que la paroi tronconique (7) de l'orifice (2) est obturée par un fond percé de trous et prolongée par une jupe (10) pourvue d'encoches latérales (11).3 - valve according to claim 2, wherein said orifice (2) is frustoconical,
characterized in that the frustoconical wall (7) of the orifice (2) is closed by a bottom pierced with holes and extended by a skirt (10) provided with lateral notches (11). 4 - Soupape selon la revendication 3,
caractérisée en ce qu'un tampon filtrant (20) est disposé dans ladite jupe (10).4 - valve according to claim 3,
characterized in that a filter pad (20) is disposed in said skirt (10). 5 - Soupape selon l'une des revendications 1 à 4, comportant des moyens de fixation (16,17) pour maintenir provisoirement l'obturateur (3) dans ledit orifice (2) pendant les opérations de soudure et de mise sous vide du récipient,
caractérisée en ce que la partie (17) desdits moyens de fixation solidaires de ladite base est intérieure à ladite zone périphérique (5) de soudure.5 - Valve according to one of claims 1 to 4, comprising fixing means (16,17) for temporarily holding the shutter (3) in said orifice (2) during the welding and vacuuming operations of the container ,
characterized in that the part (17) of said fixing means integral with said base is internal to said peripheral weld zone (5). 6 - Soupape selon l'une des revendications 1 à 5,
caractérisée en ce que ledit obturateur et ladite base sont pouvus de moyens d'inviolabilité coopérants (18,19), soudés les uns aux autres après mise sous vide du récipient.6 - Valve according to one of claims 1 to 5,
characterized in that said shutter and said base are capable of cooperating tamper-evident means (18,19), welded to each other after the container has been evacuated. 7 - Soupape selon la revendication 6,
caractérisée en ce que la partie (19) desdits moyens d'inviolabilité portée par ladite base (1) est intérieure à ladite zone périphérique (5) de soudure.7 - valve according to claim 6,
characterized in that the part (19) of said tamper-evident means carried by said base (1) is internal to said peripheral weld zone (5).
EP87400040A 1987-01-09 1987-01-09 Valve assembly for a vacuum package Expired - Lifetime EP0274285B1 (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP87400040A EP0274285B1 (en) 1987-01-09 1987-01-09 Valve assembly for a vacuum package
DE8787400040T DE3771195D1 (en) 1987-01-09 1987-01-09 VALVE FOR A VACUUM PACKING.
ES87400040T ES2022903B3 (en) 1987-01-09 1987-01-09 VALVE FOR VACUUM CONTAINER
AT87400040T ATE64914T1 (en) 1987-01-09 1987-01-09 VALVE FOR A VACUUM PACKAGING.
GR91400486T GR3002248T3 (en) 1987-01-09 1991-07-04 Valve assembly for a vacuum package

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP87400040A EP0274285B1 (en) 1987-01-09 1987-01-09 Valve assembly for a vacuum package

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0274285A1 true EP0274285A1 (en) 1988-07-13
EP0274285B1 EP0274285B1 (en) 1991-07-03

Family

ID=8198178

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP87400040A Expired - Lifetime EP0274285B1 (en) 1987-01-09 1987-01-09 Valve assembly for a vacuum package

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0274285B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE64914T1 (en)
DE (1) DE3771195D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2022903B3 (en)
GR (1) GR3002248T3 (en)

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1991008151A1 (en) * 1989-11-24 1991-06-13 Vacu-O-Leader International S.A.L. A bidirectional or two-way air and gas flow control device for product packaging and a method therefor
WO1995016618A1 (en) * 1993-12-13 1995-06-22 Dr. Fischer Aktiengesellschaft Valve for containers that may be evacuated
GB2375531A (en) * 2001-05-17 2002-11-20 Insulpak Ltd Container lid
EP1323643A1 (en) * 2001-12-28 2003-07-02 Korea Alphaline Co. Ltd. Combined vacuum valve and vacuum indicator
WO2022075837A1 (en) * 2020-10-09 2022-04-14 Winza Holding B.V. Adapter for connecting a vacuum system to a container and container therewith

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
BE551178A (en) *
US2638263A (en) * 1949-05-20 1953-05-12 Duo Vent Vacuum Closure Compan Flexible bag for vacuum sealing
GB828760A (en) * 1958-01-10 1960-02-24 Morton Salt Co Improvements in or relating to container closures
US3243071A (en) * 1965-03-03 1966-03-29 Chemagro Corp Closure member
FR1493276A (en) * 1966-09-19 1967-08-25 Cap with closable opening for bottles and other containers
US3850350A (en) * 1973-12-06 1974-11-26 Safety Packaging Corp Shaker cap
US3854618A (en) * 1973-07-25 1974-12-17 G Beghnini Vacuum packaging
US4106672A (en) * 1976-05-26 1978-08-15 Weatherchem Corporation Resealable end closure having plural openings

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
BE551178A (en) *
US2638263A (en) * 1949-05-20 1953-05-12 Duo Vent Vacuum Closure Compan Flexible bag for vacuum sealing
GB828760A (en) * 1958-01-10 1960-02-24 Morton Salt Co Improvements in or relating to container closures
US3243071A (en) * 1965-03-03 1966-03-29 Chemagro Corp Closure member
FR1493276A (en) * 1966-09-19 1967-08-25 Cap with closable opening for bottles and other containers
US3854618A (en) * 1973-07-25 1974-12-17 G Beghnini Vacuum packaging
US3850350A (en) * 1973-12-06 1974-11-26 Safety Packaging Corp Shaker cap
US4106672A (en) * 1976-05-26 1978-08-15 Weatherchem Corporation Resealable end closure having plural openings

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1991008151A1 (en) * 1989-11-24 1991-06-13 Vacu-O-Leader International S.A.L. A bidirectional or two-way air and gas flow control device for product packaging and a method therefor
WO1995016618A1 (en) * 1993-12-13 1995-06-22 Dr. Fischer Aktiengesellschaft Valve for containers that may be evacuated
GB2375531A (en) * 2001-05-17 2002-11-20 Insulpak Ltd Container lid
EP1323643A1 (en) * 2001-12-28 2003-07-02 Korea Alphaline Co. Ltd. Combined vacuum valve and vacuum indicator
WO2022075837A1 (en) * 2020-10-09 2022-04-14 Winza Holding B.V. Adapter for connecting a vacuum system to a container and container therewith

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE64914T1 (en) 1991-07-15
ES2022903B3 (en) 1991-12-16
EP0274285B1 (en) 1991-07-03
DE3771195D1 (en) 1991-08-08
GR3002248T3 (en) 1992-12-30

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0462861B1 (en) Method for packaging a product in a container, ensuring product preservation during storage and the corresponding packaging unit
EP0187567B1 (en) Obturating device for tubes, flasks and other containers, the opening and closing of which are controlled by rotation
EP0447329B1 (en) Plastic tray cover
FR2647088A1 (en) POURING ASSEMBLY AND CAPPING CAP WITH SPRING HINGE
EP0636549B1 (en) Assembly for dispensing a liquid or pasty product without air suction, with a deformable membrane
EP0011544B1 (en) Safety valve for packages
EP0367646B1 (en) Packaging container
EP0274285B1 (en) Valve assembly for a vacuum package
FR2531038A1 (en) BOTTLE MOUTHPIECE AND ASSOCIATED CAP
EP0764590B1 (en) Conditioning and dispensing device
CH425611A (en) Device for closing a package comprising an elastic ring
FR2516899A1 (en) DEVICE FOR REMOVING PASTE SUBSTANCES IN CONTAINERS FILLED WITH PROPELLER GAS
LU88851A1 (en) Capsule for closing a container, the neck of which is fitted with a collar
EP1154864B1 (en) Fluid product dispenser with flexible bag
FR2791036A1 (en) Container for freezing or reheating foodstuffs has container with sealed lid and tabs to allow controlled ingress of air
EP2782845B1 (en) Closure device for a refillable diffuser housing and diffuser housing comprising same
FR2741131A1 (en) MULTI-PURPOSE TWO-WAY SAFETY VALVE
FR2516479A1 (en) CAPSULE FOR CLOSING A CONTAINER AND CONTAINER PROVIDED WITH SUCH A CAPSULE
FR2742734A1 (en) IMPROVEMENT IN A HANDLABLE CONTAINER IN PLASTIC MATERIAL
EP0950614A1 (en) Hermetically sealable box formed by a container and a cover
KR200318628Y1 (en) Sealing structure of container having one-touch cap
FR2511347A3 (en) Flexible vessel sealing closure - has hole in elastic disc inside sealing edge on cover
CH550703A (en) CONTAINER LID FOR VACUUM PACKAGING.
FR2477508A1 (en) CASE PARTICULARLY FOR COSMETIC PRODUCTS AND ITS CLASP
KR100833784B1 (en) Food packing container

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB GR IT LI LU NL SE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19881221

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19900917

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB GR IT LI LU NL SE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19910703

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 64914

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19910715

Kind code of ref document: T

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3771195

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19910808

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)
ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Effective date: 19920109

Ref country code: AT

Effective date: 19920109

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Effective date: 19920110

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19920110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19920131

Ref country code: LI

Effective date: 19920131

Ref country code: CH

Effective date: 19920131

Ref country code: BE

Effective date: 19920131

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: VACU-O-LEADER INTERNATIONAL S.A.L. SOC. DE DROIT

Effective date: 19920131

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Effective date: 19920801

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GR

Ref legal event code: FG4A

Free format text: 3002248

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee
NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Effective date: 19920930

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Effective date: 19921001

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GR

Ref legal event code: MM2A

Free format text: 3002248

EUG Se: european patent has lapsed

Ref document number: 87400040.9

Effective date: 19920806

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 19990301

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES;WARNING: LAPSES OF ITALIAN PATENTS WITH EFFECTIVE DATE BEFORE 2007 MAY HAVE OCCURRED AT ANY TIME BEFORE 2007. THE CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE RECORDED.

Effective date: 20050109