EP0937207A1

EP0937207A1 - Assembly system and method, and devices provided with this system

Info

Publication number: EP0937207A1
Application number: EP97945910A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Emmanuel Chene
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Elyce Innovation
Priority date: 1996-11-12
Filing date: 1997-11-12
Publication date: 1999-08-25
Also published as: JP2001504569A; US20010036386A1; WO1998021491A1; EP1150022A2; US6406214B1; AU5124598A; EP1150022A3

Abstract

The invention concerns a system for assembling the first and second parts of a device, comprising first and second coupling elements respectively associated with the first and second parts of the device. The coupling elements each comprise one or several contact zones arranged for spatially guiding the first and second parts during their relative displacement. These contact zones can consist in one or several sloping ramps arranged in circular manner on the internal face of the first or second corresponding part. The first and second coupling means can be made without undercut and arranged to be subjected to a deformation during gradual clamping so as to provide a substantially normal resistance at the interface zone. The invention is particularly applicable to the fields of cosmetics, perfume, foodstuffs and consumer goods, in particular for audio or CD-ROM compact discs.

Description

"ASSEMBLY SYSTEM AND METHOD, AND DEVICES PROVIDED

OF THIS SYSTEM!

The present invention relates to an assembly system. It also relates to a method implemented in this system, as well as to devices, in particular container devices such as boxes or cases, provided with this system.

In many fields, such as those of cosmetics, perfumery, agri-food and consumer goods, products or articles are sold in rigid boxes or boxes. These boxes or boxes generally comprise a main part intended to contain the product or the article, and a removable part, for example a cover or a stopper, with which an assembly system is associated.

Reversible assembly systems are known, for example, operating by screwing, by clipping, by force insertion, or even by hinge. Current assembly systems, however, have the drawbacks of using them, in particular of being difficult and even tedious to handle when it is necessary to carry out several tightening turns, or even of being fragile when they are subjected to intensive use as may be the case for compact disc boxes or compacts in perfumery. Current assembly systems are expensive to manufacture. They require different male and female parts and imply very expensive tools for their production, whose rate is reduced by the internal kinematics.

Tubular assembly systems are known, in particular from document O94 / 07038, implementing tightening effects by radial wedging obtained by rotation of a male tubular part in a female tubular part, these tubular parts having suitable shapes, for example cam-shaped. In these tubular assembly systems, the problems of gripping and ergonomics do not arise.

However, it is not the same in most of the aforementioned applications, in which consumers aspire to boxes or boxes offering easier and faster access to the products or articles contained in these boxes or boxes.

The purpose of the present invention is to satisfy these aspirations both on the consumer side and on the manufacturer side and to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a rapid assembly system which combines greater ease of use and better solidity and requiring simple tools, allowing high rates and no need for internal kinematics.

It is a system for assembling a first and a second part of a device, comprising first and second coupling means located respectively on the first and second parts, these first and second cooperating coupling means for providing, by relative displacement of one part with respect to the other, progressive tightening by generation of forces substantially normal to displacement.

According to the invention, the first and second coupling means can be produced without undercut and each comprise one or more contact zones arranged to spatially guide the first and second parts during their relative movement.

There is thus obtained, due to the absence of undercut, a minimization of tooling costs and an improvement in production rates.

Thus, the assembly system according to the invention provides better ergonomics of use than previous assembly systems. Indeed, the assembly or disassembly manipulation carried out by a user is assisted by spatial guidance of the two parts of the system.

In a first version of a system according to the invention which is particularly suitable when slightly deformable materials are used for the production of the assembly parts, the first and second coupling means each comprise one or more ramps arranged circularly on a inner face of the first or second corresponding part, and the ramps of the first coupling means cooperate with the ramps of the second coupling means to provide, by an external action of rotation of one part relative to the other carried out on a fraction of a turn, a closing then a coupling by progressive radial tightening or a decoupling by uncoiling of the first and second parts according to the direction of rotation and a separation of the two parts.

Thus, the assembly functions can be obtained without the outside of the part having a protruding or directly gripping part. The opening action is done by the combination of pressure and rotation of one part with respect to the other. Indeed, by exerting a rotation on one part, the other tends to move in a translational movement., Which has the effect of separating the two parts thus allowing them to be dissociated or uncoupled by grabbing one of them. 'they.

The lower part and the upper part being able to be identical at the level of the ramps, the first and second coupling means can perfectly be hermaphrodite, which has in particular the major advantage of requiring only one imprint for the manufacture of the two parts by injection of molded plastic for example. The coupling means are jammed by providing protruding parts and recessed parts on the ramps, the protruding parts of the ramps of one part being received in the hollow parts of the ramps of the other part. As the width of the recessed portions narrows as the operator rotates clockwise, the emerging portions are trapped inside the recessed portions. The adjustment, positive at the start, gradually becomes negative. The two assembled parts can undergo an opening stress normal to their assembly plane all the more important as these two parts will have been tightened against each other by a strong stress in rotation clockwise. Regarding information carrier discs, we know, from WO9414160, a box comprising two flaps articulated around a hinge axis, in which the disc is held by the center by a retaining piece which is secured to one of the flaps . It is frequent that the elements of the box carrying out the pivot connection and the maintenance in position of the disc weaken, deteriorate and break, due in particular to shocks.

To overcome these drawbacks, it is proposed in the context of the present invention a compact disc box provided with an assembly system according to the invention arranged centrally.

In addition, it can advantageously be provided that at least one of the two removable parts is designed to provide optical magnification of information and / or graphics arranged on at least one of the faces of a disc or of a booklet. contained in this box.

You can also insert between the two removable parts of the cabinet a suspension jacket or a booklet of dimensions larger than that of said box which is then sealed in a plastic film.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a frame for receiving a box according to the invention. The external dimensions of this frame can also correspond to those of a standard compact disc box, thus making it possible to use the current storage and distribution bins. One can also consider the manufacture of this frame directly with one of the parts of the box. The frame can for example be in the shape of an eye and be designed to be able to hold vertically in a stable position and be placed in a second version allowing consultation. As currently described, the normal resistance to tearing is directly linked on the one hand to the clamping force exerted on the assembly system, on the other hand to the coefficient of friction between the materials constituting the two parts, and at the tightening or wedging angle. Furthermore, the absence of forced plating from one part to the other, other than by the pressure exerted by the operator, makes it very difficult to produce the seal on the plane parallel to the interface zone. It is also a question of proposing an assembly system remedying the aforementioned drawbacks while retaining the economic advantage of a manufacture without undercut.

This other version of the invention is particularly suitable for assembly systems produced from highly or easily deformable materials. This relates in particular to specific technical applications and sectors, for example in the food or cosmetic industry, which require resistance to tearing (retention axial or normal to the interface zone) as well as a tightness of the container or of the packaging equipped with this system. In addition, we generally look for resealability for these products guaranteeing conservation and hygiene, especially when it comes to products not consumed all at once, in the food industry or in pharmacology. More generally, the problem of normal or axial retention arises when the container exerts pressure inside the enclosure (carbonated drinks, spray, etc.) or when it is desired that the assembly can be grasped by lid .

Several definitions of concepts used below are given below: By displacement, we mean any translation, rotation, and combination of translations and rotations.

By interface zone is meant any plane of junction or joint between two parts of an opening / closing or assembly system. The term “sliding zone” means any zone for approaching one part of an assembly system on the other part of this system.

In terms of retention effort, the expression normal force will be used in the case of a translation, and the expression of axial force in the case of a rotation.

In terms of clamping force, the expression of force perpendicular to the displacement will be used in the case of a translation, and the expression of radial force in the case of a rotation.

By thin wall is meant any wall made from materials (plastic or metallic):

- in sheets, formed in particular by thermoforming, stamping or any other equivalent technique, - transformed by rotational molding, injection, blowing, etc.

This complementary objective is achieved with a system for assembling first and second parts of a device, comprising first and second coupling means located respectively on the first and second parts and defining in the closed position. an interface zone, these first and second coupling means cooperating to provide, by a displacement of one part relative to the other substantially tangential to the interface zone, an assembly of said first and second parts and a tightening progressive by generation of forces substantially normal to this movement, in which the first and second coupling means are produced without undercut and are arranged to undergo deformation during said progressive tightening so as to provide by creation of a counter -removes a retention substantially normal to the interface zone. The assembly system according to this version of the invention preferably aims, but is not limited to, devices provided with thin walls.

It should be noted that the method according to the invention also admits a greater difference in tolerance than with the previous methods, and thus provides an additional advantage in terms of tool life, backlash, and assembly of different materials with different manufacturing tolerances, for example, plastic-glass, plastic-wood assemblies.

In the case of a rotation, the action is compensated for by reactions which have radial but also axial components. The axial retention is obtained during the clamping force thanks to a deformation of the material. Deformations judiciously exploited allow to create an undercut in use when this undercut did not exist in manufacturing. This makes it possible to obtain retention close to a screw-nut, quarter-turn or dovetail system, while retaining the advantages and originality of a system based on manufacturing without undercut, therefore easier. , cheaper and faster.

For sealing, this makes it possible in particular to place a cover on a base in order to ensure direct horizontal sealing or else produced by an attached seal, crushed between the cover and the base. In the following description, the terms cover and base should be considered in a broad sense.

An embodiment can advantageously be provided in which a slope in the plane normal to the interface zone and substantially tangential to the displacement is produced. In the case of a rotation, it reproduces the effect of a screw thread. In this way, after being pinched, the cover tends to be attracted to the base, with retention and tightening of the cover of the radial but also axial type.

The assembly system according to the two versions of the invention can be applied for any radius of curvature and in particular in translation with infinite radius of curvature, as well as on complex curves.

As regards the deformation of the materials used in the assembly system according to this second version of the invention, it may or may not be expected to remain within the elastic limit of the materials, implying a residual deformation or not. The reuse of the assembly can condition the initial residual deformation or not.

One can also provide a device consisting of a stack of several pieces of sizes and shapes different, provided with assembly systems according to the invention, in order to achieve modularity of the volumes.

Furthermore, several assembly subsystems can be distributed at several points of a device provided with a system according to the invention.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an assembly method implemented in a system according to this second version of the invention fitted to a device in two removable parts, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: bringing the two removable parts of the device provided with this system into contact, these removable parts comprising complementary coupling forms, displacement of one part relative to the other in a sliding zone, assembly by progressive tightening until deformation of surfaces substantially normal to the interface zone.

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear in the description below. In the appended drawings given by way of nonlimiting examples:

- Figure 1A is a sectional view of the two separate parts of a compact disc case according to the invention; - Figure 1B is a sectional view of the box of Figure 1A in the closed state;

- Figure 2 is a schematic view of an assembly system according to the invention;

- Figure 3 is an open view of a cabinet according to the invention designed to contain two discs or a disc and a sheet;

- Figure 4 is a sectional view of another embodiment of a compact disc box; - Figure 5 illustrates the kinematics of an assembly system according to the invention, of the hermaphrodite type with three slopes;

- Figure 6 illustrates several modes of use of a box according to the invention between the two parts of which is inserted a jacket or a booklet;

- Figure 7 shows a first embodiment of an assembly system according to the invention;

- Figure 8 shows a second embodiment of an assembly system according to the invention;

- Figure 9 shows a third embodiment of an assembly system according to

The invention;

- Figures 10A, 10B and 10C respectively show an open view of a box according to the invention in the form of an eye, a top view of this box provided with a frame, and a sectional view of the closed box;

- Figure 10D illustrates an example of storage boxes according to the invention in the form of an eye;

- Figure 10E illustrates a stack of boxes according to the invention in the form of an eye;

- Figure 11 shows an assembly system by fitting conical elements according to the invention;

- Figure 12 shows a fixing device or assembly game using an assembly system according to the invention;

- Figure 13 shows a container type "shaker" provided with an assembly system according to the invention, in different situations; and

- Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of a tray with removable elements suitable for public transport and using assembly systems according to the invention.

- Figure 15 is a sectional view of the two parts of an assembly system according to the invention ion produced without undercut, at the manufacturing stage;

- Figure 16 is a sectional view of the system shown in Figure 15, in use;

- Figure 17A is a side view of two parts of an assembly system implementing a linear profile of the type "double with slope", at the manufacturing stage;

- Figure 17B is a sectional front view of the two parts shown in Figure 17A;

- Figure 18 is a top view of one of the parts shown in Figures 17A;

- Figure 19A illustrates the interaction of the two parts of the system shown in Figure 18A, at the stage of use;

- Figure 19B is a sectional front view of the system shown in Figure 19A;

- Figures 20A, 20B and 20C respectively represent a cover, a container and their assembly, for a tray including assembly systems as shown in Figures 18A to 19B;

- Figure 21A is a side view of two parts of an assembly system implementing a linear profile of the type "simple with slope", at the manufacturing stage; - Figure 21B is a sectional front view of the two parts shown in Figure 21A;

- Figure 21C is a top view of the system shown in Figure 2LA; - Figure 22A illustrates the interaction of the two parts of the system shown in Figure 21A, at the stage of use;

- Figure 22B is a sectional front view of the system shown in Figure 22A, when the cover is just placed;

- Figure 22C is a front sectional view of the system shown in Figure 22A, in use;

- Figures 23A, 23B and 23C respectively represent a cover, a container and their assembly, for a tray including assembly systems as shown in Figures 21A to 22C;

- Figure 24A shows a movable part of an assembly system according to the invention designed for fastenings in hollow walls;

- Figure 24B shows the movable part and the fixed part of the assembly system of Figure 24A, before coupling; - Figure 24C shows the assembly system of Figures 24A and 24B, in the locked position;

- Figures 25A and 25B are sectional views of the assembly system of Figures 24A to 24C, respectively before coupling and in the locked position;

- Figure 26 illustrates a bottle with a stopper implementing a system according to the invention in a multi-level configuration;

- Figure 27 shows a pot, usable for example in the food or cosmetic field, and provided with an assembly system according to the invention;

- Figure 28 shows a particular embodiment of an assembly system according to the invention, of non-reversible type; - Figure 29 shows another particular embodiment of an assembly system according to the invention, of non-reversible type;

- Figure 30A shows the two parts of an assembly system according to the invention provided with complementary means for ensuring the tightness of the closure; and

- Figure 30B shows the assembly system of Figure 30A, in the closed position. - Figures 31A, 31B and 31C show a first example of implementation of an assembly system according to the invention, for a container of revolution such as a drink can;

- Figures 32A, 32B and 32C shows a second example of implementation of an assembly system according to the invention, for a container of revolution such as a paint can;

- Figure 33 illustrates an embodiment of an assembly system according to the invention to allow fixing in a hollow wall; and

- Figure 34 is a sectional view of the assembly system in two characteristic situations.

We will now describe several embodiments of an assembly system according to the invention, as well as examples of boxes and devices provided with this system, together with the assembly process implemented in the system according to the invention. The common elements of the various embodiments described will be designated by common references.

The first part of this description is devoted to exemplary embodiments of assembly systems according to the first version of the invention corresponding to the use of slightly deformable or hard materials. We will first describe a exemplary embodiment of a compact disc box according to the invention, with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

A box 10 according to the invention comprises, with reference to FIG. 1, two parts 1, 2 of substantially lenticular shape, each comprising an internal recess 11, 21 defining, when the two parts are coupled, an internal housing adapted to receive at least a disc, and a central coupling device 100 consisting of a first coupling element 4 secured to the first part 1 and a second coupling element 3 secured to the second part 2. The box 10 can advantageously be arranged in a receiving frame 5, as illustrated in FIG. 3, this frame having for example an internal shoulder of a shape adapted to receive the outer periphery of the box, and an outer periphery of any shape, for example of square shape identical to that current compact disc, or eye-shaped boxes. Parts 1 and 2 can be made of any material, for example transparent injected plastic, and can provide, on all or part of their respective surfaces, an optical magnification function. Their lenticular shape contributes to this magnification function which can be more or less accentuated by using materials with suitable optical indices.

The coupling device 100 is of helical type, as illustrated in FIG. 2. The first coupling element 4, located at the center of the interior face of the first part 1, comprises, by way of nonlimiting example, three teeth 41, 42, 43 arranged radially and each provided with a ramp 410, 420, 430, and a central recess 44. The second coupling element 3 comprises a central recess 34 and three teeth 31, 32, 33 arranged radially and each provided with a ramp 310, 320, 330. The first element 4 and the second element 3 are designed to be coupled so that in the closed position, the respective teeth 41, 42 , 43; 31, 32, 33 are respectively in tangential contact. The respective ramps 410, 420, 430; 310,

320, 330 of each coupling element 4, 3 are designed to be complementary in the closed position and to ensure a helical movement of the teeth 41, 42, 43; 31, 32, 33 in the opening and closing sequences of the box 10, as will be described below. It should be noted that in this coupling mode, it is advantageously possible to provide that the two coupling elements are of the hermaphrodite type, the maintenance of the two parts in the closed position then being ensured by a specific conformation of the teeth allowing their nesting in position. closed.

It is possible to design a box 50 according to the invention of the type which has just been described but designed to contain two discs Dl, Dl, or even a disc and a sheet, as illustrated in FIG. 3.

A box according to the invention can thus be designed to receive one or more discs as required. In the case of a box designed for a single disc, this disc can be held in position on any of the parts of the box by holding means conventionally used in boxes for compact disc. In the case of a box designed to receive several discs, these discs can be stacked on a central axis provided on one of the parts of the box, or else be distributed in one and the other parts. A booklet can advantageously replace one of the compact discs.

In another exemplary embodiment illustrated by FIG. 4, the box 30 is provided with a device central coupling 100 'comprising a central female element 4' integral with the first part 1 and a central male element 3 'integral with the second part 2.

The central element 3 ′ may comprise, by way of nonlimiting example, a centering element 6 at three points and three deformable elements arranged around the periphery of the centering element equilaterally. This male element 3 'is thus designed to be inserted and held by clamping in the female element 4'. In an example C of kinematics of a system according to the invention, of the hermaphrodite type with three slopes (FIG. 5), a helical opening O is obtained by a rotation of a fraction of a turn anti-clockwise causing a rise on the three inclined ramps. The closing F of the system is obtained by a rotation of a fraction of a turn clockwise causing a descent along the three inclined ramps RI. When the projecting parts reach the bottom bearings PB of the hollow parts, one then enters a phase SP of progressive tightening allowing in particular a catching up of the wear of the parts. This progressive tightening function is obtained by the fact that the profile of the bottom bearing has a curvature of center 02 and of radius RD off-center with respect to the main center 01 of the system. This leads to a narrowing of the bottom bearing PB which is thus used to ensure the jamming of the parts.

We will now continue to describe, by way of nonlimiting examples, three embodiments of a plug-type device implementing an assembly system according to the invention, with reference to FIGS. 7, 8 and 9. In a first embodiment corresponding to a strong hold option (FIG. 7), the first and second parts 71, 72 of the assembly system 70 according to the invention are provided with coupling parts 73, 74 comprising a set of inclined ramps arranged of the way which has just been described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 5. In this first embodiment, the opening 0 is obtained by a rotation of a fraction of a turn in a determined direction, for example anti-clockwise, while closing F is obtained by rotation of a fraction of a turn in the opposite direction.

In a second embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the first and second removable parts 81, 82 of the system 80 according to the invention are provided with coupling parts 83, 84 each comprising a set of projecting elements 84 of substantially rounded shape arranged to enter in the closed position in recesses formed between the projecting elements of the opposite removable part. This embodiment allows opening and closing in both directions. In the third embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the two removable parts 91, 92 of the system 90 according to the invention each have an interface edge 93, 94 of irregular profile, unlike the other two embodiments in which the interface edges have a regular or smooth external appearance in the closed position. This third embodiment can be chosen when it is desired, for example, to provide the user of the system with external visibility of this system.

We will now describe several examples of application of assembly systems according to the invention, in particular in the fields of cosmetics (FIGS. 10A to 10C), food services (FIGS. 11, 13 and 14), and of fixing ( figure 12).

In the field of cosmetics and perfumery, boxes according to the invention can be designed to act as a compact, makeup palette, or even to contain creams and any cosmetic product, in particular caps and clasps. We can thus conceive, with reference to the figures

10A, 10B and 10C, a compact 110 comprising two removable parts 112, 111 each comprising at their contact periphery coupling elements 114 operating according to previously described modes, in particular with reference to FIG. 5. The upper part 112 can advantageously be made of a transparent material and have a lenticular shape providing an optical magnification effect, while the lower part 111 can also be provided with a lower part which is also removable (not shown) to provide for example a mirror or a palette of makeup. The coupling elements 114a-d preferably have an asymmetrical shape and have a narrowing to ensure the progressive tightening function described above, this narrowing corresponding for example to an offset of the radii of curvature of the lower bearings of the coupling elements. Furthermore, provision may be made for the lower part 111 of the compact 110 to be provided in a frame or presentation box 115.

In the field of agrifood, boxes can be designed according to the invention to contain food products in the form of liquids, pasta, creams, yogurt, sand iches or in bulk. One can in particular provide a box designed to receive a hamburger. It is also possible to design a bowl of a household robot provided with a first assembly system for its lid, and with a second assembly system for ensuring its locking on the basis of a household robot. One can also provide a container 130 of the “shaker” type for producing emulsions and mixtures, as illustrated in FIG. 13. In the closed position, the two removable parts 131, 132 are fitted. 1 tightness of the device 130 can be ensured by conventional welding techniques. The two parts removable from a container of this type can be used as bowls for consumption. Another particularly advantageous example of application of assembly systems according to the invention consists in proposing meal trays 140 comprising on their upper face slots provided with a set of coupling elements 142 and designed to receive parts. removable such as a plate 241 or glasses or goblets 141a-c provided with hollow coupling elements 143, 243 cooperating with the coupling elements 142 of the plate 140, but can also be placed on a table having no of coupling system. It is thus possible to provide customers of collective transport (plane, boat, because, for example) meal trays with great stability, without breaking with the habits of use.

In the field of consumer goods, boxes according to the invention can be used to contain discs, DIY articles, decoration items, jewelry and many other objects. Mention may be made, by way of nonlimiting example, of a fixing system 120 (FIG. 12) implementing an assembly system according to the invention. This system consists on the one hand of a first coupling element 124 disposed at the end of a screw 121 and on the other hand, of a second coupling element disposed within a hole 122 formed in a frame 125. Such a fixing system allows for example the fixing of a part 126 by rotation of the screw 121 on a fraction of a turn. Such a system can find applications for games, or in the DIY sector or industrial fasteners.

We will now describe, in the context of a second part of the description, several exemplary embodiments of assembly systems without counter draft according to the second version of the present invention, together with the associated production method, with reference to Figures 15 to 32C.

It is, firstly, to achieve an assembly system using thin walls, for example sheet materials, for example from plastic or metal sheets. In the manufacturing phase (F) illustrated very schematically in FIG. 15, two sheets 152, 153 are considered from which shapes are produced which are manufactured without undercuts, hence a low tooling cost and large production rates. After manufacture, there is available from two sheets 152, 153 of an assembly system having for example a shape of rectangular section with respective blanks 521, 523; 531, 533 and a bottom 522, 532 and substantially flat edges 520, 530. At the stage of use (U) illustrated in FIG. 16, the relative displacements (Dl e 153, D2 e 152) and the deformation of the parts 152 , 153 contribute to the creation or increase of forces normal to the interface zone. This leads to an "undercut" effect which provides retention (F1 / F2) of normal axis to the interface zone.

During the manufacture of packaging, the sheet materials are deformed by shape and / or counter shape, for example in the case of plastic thermoforming, metal stamping, or even by suction (depression) or by blowing (overpressure). There is usually a decrease in thickness which is substantially normal to the manufacturing plane by natural stretching. Thus, the normal thickness of a sheet is much greater than the thickness of this same sheet in the area of natural stretching caused by stamping. This often disabling reality - finds all its interest here because it allows an easy deformation of surfaces substantially normal to the interface zone, due to a weak bending moment. Conversely, the surfaces parallel to the interface zone retain their initial thickness here providing a favorable moment of inertia to retain the pressure.

A natural consequence is a deformation of the parts during tightening. The more we tighten, the more the materials deform, advantageously reinforcing:

- the retention FI, F2 normal to the interface zone;

- the seal between the two surfaces.

This principle of deformation at the base of the present can for example be applied for the production of packages having a linear developed profile of the "double with slope" type, with reference to FIGS. 17A, 17B, 18, 19A and 19B. We therefore consider, at the manufacturing stage, a sheet 923 acting as a cover and another sheet 922 acting as a base. The cover 923 has a specific shape with flanges 230, side blanks 231, 233 and a bottom 232, while the base 922 has a well shape with blanks 221, 223 and a bottom 222.

At the stage of use, illustrated by FIGS. 19A and 19B, with a displacement Dl of the cover 923 against the base 922, an efficient assembly is obtained by deformation of the contact surfaces of the two forms, which gives normal retention to the ¹ interface area. It is also possible to obtain a straight stop or a snap-fastening by appropriately dimensioning the materials which then provide a useful blocking for the normal retention at the interface zone. This possibility of frank stop is obtained thanks to the dimensioning of the deformable materials which act at this moment as a take-up of the manufacturing games, this which could not be obtained with previous assembly processes.

This principle of assembly by profile can be implemented for example for trays, as illustrated in FIGS. 20A to 20C. In the assembly system designed for the tray 240 represented by FIGS. 20A to

20C, four assembly zones 2430; 2432 arranged on the cover 243 and on the box 242 are provided with possibilities of local deformation. It is also possible to envisage an exemplary embodiment of a reversible assembly system according to the invention having a profile in linear development of the "simple with slope" type, with reference to FIGS. 21A to 21C and 22A to 22C. This type of embodiment is particularly suitable for trays 270 (FIGS. 23A to 23C) requiring only an average level of retention normal to the interface zone. At the manufacturing stage, the upper part 253 of the assembly system according to the invention, corresponding to the cover of the tray, comprises a contact zone 2530 and a deformable wall 2531, while the lower part 252 comprises a contact zone 520, a deformable wall 2521 and a base zone 2522 to which a peelable cover 2524 is fixed.

In use, the deformable parts 2521, 2531 of the upper and lower parts 253, 252 come into contact at what constitutes an interface zone. Their deformation has the effect of producing an undercut which contributes to the normal retention of the system. The implementation of the assembly system can for example take place after removal of the peelable cap 2524.

Double-profile or single-profile slope-less joining systems can also be designed within the framework of the present invention. The principle of normal retention by tightening and deformation at the base of the present invention can also be implemented for the closure of containers of revolution, metal cans, cans of paint, cans of baby, etc., such as illustrate Figures 31A to 31C and 32A to 32C.

We thus consider a can 380 provided with a first assembly part 382 with progressive tightening, and a cover 383 provided with a second assembly part 384. This can 380 can also be provided with a ring inviolability 386 (Figure 31C). A similar arrangement of the system according to the invention can also be provided for closing a can of paint 3110, with reference to FIGS. 32A to 32C, this can being provided with a first assembly part 3112 cooperating with a second part assembly 3114 provided on a cover 3113. The covers 383, 3113 respectively equipping the can 380 and the pot 3110 are advantageously provided on their upper parts with a radial piece 385, 3115 allowing a user to easily carry out a movement of rotation of these covers to open or close them.

It should be noted that advantage can be taken of the pressure inside a can provided with an assembly system according to the invention to ensure the tightness of this system.

Reversible assembly systems according to the invention can advantageously be applied in order to obtain a locking in position of equipment comprising moving parts, such as projector supports, telescopic fishing rods or even quick-setting elements which can be used. for example in a truck or in the hold of a ship or plane. In this type of application, the progressive tightening and deformation retention functions are used. provided by the invention. It is also possible to design assembly systems intended to make fastenings in hollow walls, such as the system represented by FIGS. 24A-C, 25A-B or the system represented by FIGS. 33 and 34.

Another interesting application of the invention relates to shanks of conical tubular elements

(Figure 11), which can for example be used to make signaling devices. Assembly systems according to the invention can be implemented in many other applications. There may be mentioned, by way of nonlimiting examples, stoppers 2182 of the multi-level type for bottles 18 (FIG. 26), closure systems for shakers 19 or even closure systems 2250 for jars usable in agro -food or cosmetics (Figure 27).

It should be noted that the present invention also relates to assembly systems with progressive tightening and normal retention having a non-reversible character. For example, one can design a 2400 assembly system of the type shown in Figure 28 with cold mounting. A first part 2401 comprising a series of teeth 2403 having a specific profile can be coupled with a second part 2402 itself comprising an internal profile adapted to receive the teeth of the first part. One can also provide, with reference to FIG. 29, an assembly system 2420, corresponding in particular to a hot mounting, in which two parts 2421, 2422 are intimately coupled after deformation.

When it is necessary to ensure a high level of tightness of an enclosure provided with an assembly system according to the invention, it is advantageous to associate with this system 2440 a device allowing to exert permanent pressure from the upper

441 on the lower part 2442 of this system, as illustrated in FIGS. 30A and 30B. In this particular embodiment, the upper part 2441 comprises a coupling part 2447 and, on its peripheral zones, double bosses 2445, 2443 while the lower part comprises a coupling part

2448 and, on its peripheral zones, single bosses 2446, 2444 arranged substantially opposite the double bosses of the upper part 2441.

When the two coupling parts 2447, 2448 (FIG. 30B) are assembled, the bosses 2446, 2444 of the lower part come into contact with the double bosses 2445, 2443 of the upper part 2441, which results in by a click sound effect and by the creation of pressure forces at the level of the contact zone of the two parts due to the lifting of the peripheral zones of the upper part 2441. The advantages provided by the systems according to the invention are d multiple order, in particular: low manufacturing cost due to the lack of recourse to undercuts, progress in terms of hygiene due to the reclosability of the systems, safety in handling. Indeed, with regard to this last point, it should be noted that for thermoformed plastic trays, in particular for food, pharmaceutical or other purposes, the assembly systems according to the invention have rounded edges without any projecting angle, which is an advantage in terms of safety, compared to systems with sharp edges.

In current systems, the atmosphere contained in the enclosure is retained by a peelable seal separate from the resealable lid, which increases the initial cost

(material and process) and poses recycling problems.

The assembly system according to the invention can be easily industrialized in large series, in particular because it supports great flexibility in terms of tolerances and does not require complicated tools and offers great manufacturing speed.

Whereas before, a cover and a sealing film were required, now a single product performs both functions. At the factory, the cover is installed without being tightened. A peelable weld is then produced all around in order to achieve sealing and preservation, while ensuring an ad hoc bacteriological and chemical barrier. The user peels off the base cover. This cover then tightens it to close the tray.

As the assembly system according to the invention can be manufactured from a single material, its recycling is easy. In addition, we can consider reusing the products if we opt for deformation solutions without exceeding the elastic limit of the material.

For metal beverage cans, thanks to the rounded edges without any protruding angle, there is no risk of injury in consumption, for the lips or fingers. Furthermore, the assembly system according to the invention makes it possible to offer smooth surfaces which do not retain the liquid outside the container. Furthermore, the assembly system according to the invention can offer reclosability thanks to a handle designed in the cover directly during manufacture. In addition, the cover which can cover the entire upper surface prevents the deposition of dust which could mix with the liquid.

In the system according to the invention, the cover is normally tightened at the factory, thus creating the "screw thread" which would require a greater effort due to the resistance of the materials to deformation, with for example a folded and glued tab to ensure inviolability. It is also possible to roll around the periphery to retain the plug.

The assembly system according to the invention comprises, in this field of application, three parts, instead of four for current systems, which is a plus in terms of production management. Furthermore, a possibility of packaging parallel to the manufacture of the covers can be envisaged, thus allowing in particular greater flexibility thanks to a dissociation of the manufacturing and packaging units. In the case of the application of the invention for metal containers, in particular cans of paint, the assembly system according to the invention here provides increased safety in handling. Indeed, the handling of current paint cans requires the use of complementary utensils such as screwdrivers for their opening and hammers for their closing. With the system according to the invention, the opening and closing of the paint cans can be carried out without the aid of tools, which has a significant advantage.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous modifications can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, the materials used for the production of boxes or boxes can be other than plastic materials. In addition, in the particular application to compact disc boxes, the number of discs contained in a box according to the invention is limited only by the constraints of mechanical production. In addition, the dimensions of a box according to the invention are not limited to the current compact format may vary depending on the development and diversity of future disc formats.

Furthermore, there may be mentioned, by way of nonlimiting application examples, screwdrivers, telescopic fishing rods, adjustable brushes, holding pads used to maintain distances or adjust a spacing, quick setting elements intended for example for storage or handling, perfume diffusers, up / down blocking devices for spotlights or food pots provided with a complementary compartment. However, the present invention can also find numerous applications in sectors requiring rapid and easy assembly. Mention may in particular be made, by way of nonlimiting examples, of the sectors of medical emergencies, dental care, childcare, DIY and leisure.

Claims

1. System for assembling a first and a second part of a device, comprising first and second coupling means located respectively on the first and second parts, these first and second coupling means cooperating to provide by relative displacement of one part with respect to the other a progressive tightening by generation of forces substantially normal to said displacement, characterized in that said first and second coupling means can be produced without undercut and each comprise a or several contact zones arranged to spatially guide said first and second parts during their relative displacement.

2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second coupling means each comprise, as contact areas, one or more ramps inclined relative to the assembly plane and arranged on the inner faces of the first and second parts, the inclined ramps of the first and second coupling means cooperating to provide, by an external action of displacement of one part relative to the other, coupling or uncoupling of the first and second part, and having peripheral outer shapes arranged to further provide in the closed position a jamming of the assembly system normal to movement.

3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that the inclined ramps of the first and second coupling means have a hollow bottom part and a projecting upper part emerging relative to an interface region between the two first and second parts, and in that the projecting parts of the ramps of one part of the container device are arranged to be housed in the hollow parts of the ramps of the other part of said device after an operation of assembly, the protruding parts radially deforming the hollow parts achieving the holding of the assembly.

4. System according to any one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the ramps of the first and second coupling means are arranged to provide centering of one part relative to the other in the assembly situation.

5. System according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that it comprises several opening and assembly subsystems distributed at several points of the device.

6. An assembly method implemented in an assembly system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: for closing the device, - coupling of the two removable parts by displacement of one part with respect to the other in a predetermined direction with sliding on the inclined slopes; assembly by progressive tightening normal to displacement, for opening the device, uncoupling by progressive loosening normal to displacement, opening of the device by displacement of one part relative to the other in the direction on the contrary, with sliding on inclined slopes, and separation of the removable parts.

7. Device, in particular a box or box, comprising a first and a second part that can be assembled in a reversible manner to define an interior space containing, and an assembly system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

8. Device according to claim 7, characterized in that at least one of the two parts has an outer face without direct connection.

9. Device according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that at least one of the two parts is arranged internally to provide an interior space for storing products.

10. Container device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, comprising a first and a second part having a symmetry of revolution, characterized in that the first and second coupling means are disposed respectively at the centers of the first and second parts of the device.

11. Box provided with an assembly system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

12. Box according to claim 11, characterized in that at least one of the two parts at least partially comprises an area arranged to provide an optical magnification effect.

13. Box according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that it is provided with a receiving frame.

14. Box according to claim 13, characterized in that this receiving frame has an outer contour adapted to allow a predetermined vertical storage.

15. Box according to claim 14, characterized in that this receiving frame is in the shape of an eye.

16. Box according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that this receiving frame is manufactured directly with one of the two parts of the box.

17. Box according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that it further comprises a removable element of small thickness, in particular a jacket or a booklet, inserted between the two parts of the box.

18. The system of claim 1, characterized in that the first and second coupling means are manufactured without undercut and are arranged to undergo deformation during said progressive tightening, so as to provide by creation of a counter skin, a retention substantially normal to the interface zone.

19. The system of claim 18, characterized in that the first and second parts are in the form of sheet materials or thin walls before manufacture and in that the surfaces substantially normal to the interface zone are arranged to undergo deformation during tightening.

20. System according to claim ^ 19, characterized in that the deformation undergone by the surfaces substantially normal to the interface zone is remanent.

21. System according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that the first and second coupling means each comprise one or more ramps arranged on one face of the corresponding first or second part, and in that the ramps first coupling means cooperate with the ramps of the second coupling means to provide, by an external action of displacement of one part relative to the other, a coupling or uncoupling of the first and second parts according to the direction of displacement.

22. The system as claimed in claim 21, characterized in that the ramps of the first and second coupling means have a recessed bottom part and a projecting upper part emerging relative to an interface region between the two first and second parts, and in that the projecting parts of the ramps of one part of the container device are arranged to be housed in the hollow parts of the ramps of the other part of said device after an assembly operation, the parts in hollow coming to deform the projecting parts realizing the holding of the assembly.

23. System according to any one of claims 21 or 22, characterized in that the ramps of the first and second coupling means are arranged to provide centering of one part relative to the other in the assembly situation.

24. System according to any one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the ramps of the first and second coupling means are inclined.

25. System according to any one of claims 18 to 24, characterized in that it comprises several assembly subsystems distributed at several points of the device.

26. System according to any one of claims 18 to 25, characterized in that the first and second coupling means are arranged in several levels.

27. System according to any one of claims 18 to 26, characterized in that the assembled parts containing the first and second coupling means are hermaphrodite.

28. System according to any one of claims 18 to 27, characterized in that it is associated with means for exerting in the closed or assembled position contact forces between the first and second coupling means.

29. System according to claim 28, characterized in that the force means comprise bosses disposed respectively on the peripheral zones of the first and second parts, these bosses cooperating in the closed or assembled position to deform at least one of the two parts. so as to exert contact efforts between the two parties.

30. The system of claim 29, characterized in that the respective bosses of the first and second parts are further arranged to provide a sound effect (click) when closing or assembling the two parts.

31. Thermoformed container of the tray type provided with an assembly system according to any one of claims 18 to 30.

32. A liquid container, in particular a beverage can, provided with an assembly system according to any one of claims 18 to 30.

33. Metal container, intended in particular to contain paint or an equivalent product, provided with an assembly system according to any one of claims 18 to 30.

34. Container according to one of claims 32 or 33, characterized in that it further comprises an opening handle connected to the coupling means acting as a cover.

35. Container comprising several stacked modules, characterized in that it comprises several assembly systems according to any one of claims 18 to 30 for assembling these modules.

36. System for fitting tubular elements of conical shape using a reversible assembly system according to any one of claims 18 to 30.

37. Quick setting element according to claim

32, characterized in that the assembly system is of the progressive type with multiple cam.

38. Method for manufacturing an assembly system according to any one of claims 18 to 30, characterized in that the respective forms of coupling of the two removable parts of said assembly system are previously produced in particular by stamping or thermoforming.