EP1254850A1 - Automatic closure device using hotmelt material - Google Patents

Automatic closure device using hotmelt material Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1254850A1
EP1254850A1 EP01110740A EP01110740A EP1254850A1 EP 1254850 A1 EP1254850 A1 EP 1254850A1 EP 01110740 A EP01110740 A EP 01110740A EP 01110740 A EP01110740 A EP 01110740A EP 1254850 A1 EP1254850 A1 EP 1254850A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
valve
conduit
chamber
packaging
seat
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
EP01110740A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1254850B1 (en
Inventor
James Gabriel Maurice Coupe
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BK SC
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BK SC
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Publication date
Application filed by BK SC filed Critical BK SC
Priority to DE60107537T priority Critical patent/DE60107537T2/en
Priority to AT01110740T priority patent/ATE283806T1/en
Priority to EP01110740A priority patent/EP1254850B1/en
Publication of EP1254850A1 publication Critical patent/EP1254850A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1254850B1 publication Critical patent/EP1254850B1/en
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    • 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
    • B65D81/34—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 for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within the package
    • 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
    • B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
    • B65D77/22—Details
    • B65D77/225—Pressure relief-valves incorporated in a container wall, e.g. valves comprising at least one elastic element
    • 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
    • B65D2205/00—Venting means

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an automatic closing device intended to be fixed so sealed through a wall of a packaging for food products to be cooked at least in part in situ, ie in such packaging.
  • the invention also relates to all packaging for food product equipped with such an automatic closing device and all food preparation packaged in such packaging.
  • French patent application No. 2 129 060 describes an automatic shutter system equipping the packaging in which food can be cooked.
  • This device includes a simple valve allowing steam and gases produced during cooking to escape freely during this cooking.
  • the device in principle prevents outside air from entering in the packaging upon cooling. Indeed, during cooling the condensation of the vapor in the bag creates a depression which causes the closure of the valve.
  • the device is however too rudimentary and does not allow to reach a reliability sufficient for industrial operation.
  • the valve may open during of the storage period, making the packaging lose its quality as a sterile container. So, a significant proportion of production risks losing the benefit of in situ pasteurization and certain food preparations may be unfit for consumption at the time of opening the package.
  • French patent application No 2 719 028 describes a packaging for a product food capable of receiving food to be cooked at least partly in situ. It is provided with a more reliable automatic closing device than that mentioned above because it contains a thermofusible product capable of engaging, when melted, in a channel of small section opening directly into the packaging. When this channel is closed by the hot-melt material during the cooling which follows the cooking of the food, (in because of the condensation and the vacuum that is created inside the packaging, attracting the hot melt material in said small section channel) the interior of the package is isolated after pasteurization, allowing a durable and quality conservation of the products conditioned this way.
  • the invention proposes a modified structure of such an automatic closing device, avoiding the aforementioned drawback and therefore increasing the reliability of the packaging process.
  • the invention relates to an automatic closing device intended to be tightly fixed through a wall of a package for cooking food products at least partly in situ, comprising a housing enclosing a chamber containing a block of hot-melt material, a valve movable relative to a seat arranged around the orifice of a conduit and a closable channel capable of being blocked by a displacement of said material hot melt melted then cooled, characterized in that said chamber and said conduit communicate with the outside of said housing and in that said closable channel is arranged between said chamber and a clearance space of said valve.
  • the chamber, the channel, the seat and the conduit are arranged coaxially with each other. around others.
  • the room communicates with the outside of the case by at least a small relatively small section duct, which in particular prevents material hot melt is entrained outside and lost during cooking by being expelled by hot gases escaping at this time.
  • the device is very simple, its housing consists of an assembly of only two pieces fitting coaxially into each other and welded to each other.
  • a first part has the shape of a cup with a circular outline comprising a central chimney made of material and in which said duct and said seat are defined.
  • a second part has the form of a cover closing said cup. This cover is extended by an axial tubular partition made of material. Said closable channel is defined between the inner wall of said tubular partition and the outer wall of said chimney Central.
  • This self-closing device is in the form of a small material insert rigid plastic and can be adapted to any type of packaging known in flexible plastic or rigid, for example, bags or trays.
  • filling a food preparation can be carried out at atmospheric pressure and at any temperature, with raw, cooked or pre-processed food.
  • Cooking or the final phase of cooking takes place in the packaging but the valve remains open and the food is not isolated from the cooker in the cooking cycle.
  • air, water vapor and gaseous products released by the food itself during cooking can escape freely from the packaging so that the food is cooked exactly as if it were arranged in loose in the cooker.
  • the hot-melt material solidifies in said channel closable.
  • the valve not only has the function of preventing the air intake after cooking but also that of limiting and stopping the progression of the material hot melt in the closable channel and therefore prevent its aspiration into the packaging itself. It is ensured that the hot-melt material solidifies well in said closable channel.
  • the invention also relates to any packaging for food products suitable for receiving food to be cooked at least partly in situ, characterized in that it comprises a container and a automatic closing device as defined above, tightly fixed to the through a wall of said container so that the aforementioned conduit opens into the interior of said container.
  • the invention also relates to any conditioned food preparation, precooked in a packaging, the latter being hermetically sealed at the end of cooking, comprising, fixed sealingly through a wall thereof, an automatic closing device according to the above definition whose aforementioned closable channel is blocked by material hot melt in solid state.
  • the hot-melt material may consist of a paraffin "doped" with a synthetic product with polyethylene base, known per se.
  • FIG 1 there is shown a food preparation 11 packaged for a deferred consumption.
  • the packaging was carried out in a packaging consisting here of a bag 12 of flexible plastic material, itself formed from two sheets of plastic material heat-sealed to each other to include food.
  • a peripheral heat seal imprint 13 materializing the bag.
  • This guy packaging can easily consist of an automated packaging machine in which the food is deposited between two films of thermoplastic materials, at the atmospheric pressure, before the bags are identified by the operation of heat welding.
  • One of the walls of the bag 12 is provided with an automatic closing device 15 fixed sealingly (for example by heat sealing also) through said wall. This device makes it possible to at least partially cook the food in the bag 12, that is to say after the conditioning operation leading to the formation of the weld 13.
  • FIGs 2 to 5 illustrate in detail the structure of the closure device automatic 15.
  • This comes in the general form of a plastic insert rigid mounted through a hole 16 in a wall 12a of the bag 12. It is provided with a flange annular 17 hermetically welded to this wall 12a.
  • the housing 18 of the device automatic closing consists of the assembly of two parts 19 and 20 fitting together coaxially one inside the other. These two parts are welded peripherally after their slipcase.
  • the housing 18 contains a chamber 22 containing a block of hot-melt material 24.
  • This chamber communicates with the outside of the case and in this case also with the outside of packaging by at least one small conduit 26.
  • several parallel conduits 26, small section are practiced in part 20 of the housing.
  • a central duct 27 is arranged axially in the housing 18. It communicates with the exterior of the housing but, in the occurrence, when the insert is fixed to the wall 12a of the packaging, this conduit 27 opens out inside said package.
  • a valve 29 movable relative to a seat 30 arranged around the orifice adjacent to said duct 27.
  • a closable channel 32 is arranged between said chamber 22 and a clearance space 34 of said valve. This channel closable is liable to be blocked by displacement of the hot-melt material 24 contained in the chamber when it is melted and then cooled.
  • the chamber 22, said channel 32, said seat 30 and said conduit 27 are arranged coaxially around each other. More specifically, we successively finds the chamber radially from the outside towards the inside, the closable channel and drives it. Chamber 22 and closable channel 32 communicate by an annular passage 36. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the internal orifice of each small duct 26 which opens out in chamber 22 and the annular passage 36 for communication between this chamber and the closable channel, are located at two opposite ends of said chamber.
  • the valve 29 is constituted by a washer of elastomeric material confined in said clearance 34 opposite said seat 30. The latter is hollowed out in a stepped bowl. The internal orifice of the conduit 27 opens out in the center of this bowl.
  • the housing 18 consists of only two parts 19, 20.
  • a first part 19 in the form of a cup with circular outline provided with a hollow shoulder along its opening.
  • the second part 20 has the shape of a cover closing off said cup in fitting onto the shoulder thereof.
  • Said second part comprises a part in the form of disc extended by a coaxial tubular partition 38, integral. Small ducts 26 of small section are formed through the disc-shaped part.
  • said first part 19 has a central chimney 40, integrally formed, extending over the much of the height of the cup.
  • the duct 27 and the seat 30 are defined in this central fireplace.
  • the closable channel 32 is defined between the inner wall of said tubular partition 38 and the outer wall of said chimney central 40 when the two parts are assembled.
  • the annular passage 36 between the chamber and the closable channel is defined between the bottom of the cup and the end of the partition tubular 38.
  • the cup comprises a base 44 made up externally of radial fins 45 which converge towards the external orifice of the duct 27. The presence of these fins allows avoid the duct being blocked by food products or the wall of the packaging when a vacuum is created in it.
  • the central chimney 40 is provided with ribs longitudinal 46, outside, which come to bear against the inner wall of the tubular partition.
  • This valve is particularly remarkable in that it comprises a frustoconical portion 50 Cooperating with the seat 30.
  • the frustoconical portion 50 is extended by a boss 52, central, substantially cylindrical, the diameter of which corresponds to that of the duct 27.
  • the boss is capable of engaging in the end part of the conduit 27.
  • the wall of the frustoconical portion is of substantially constant thickness so that the frustoconical portion 50 has a recess 54, for example conical.
  • the valve is also provided with a softening groove 56, circular, extending in this recess.
  • he also includes a substantially annular coping 58 extending externally the portion truncated. This coping may include notches 59 regularly spaced circumferentially, for example four, as shown.
  • the automatic closing device is shown before use, it is say that the block of hot-melt material 24 is entirely contained in the chamber 22.
  • this block of hot-melt material has lost its initial shape and said material is engaged in said closable duct 32 under the effect of the condensation of vapor in the packaging, at the cooling.
  • Food preparations packaged as shown in Figure 1 are subject to a cooking operation.
  • the packaging has been filled atmospheric pressure and are introduced into a steam cooker operating in depression. From the start of cooking, communication is possible between the interior of the the packaging and the outside of it so that gases escape by pushing the valve 29 and preventing it from coming to apply on the seat.
  • the vapor remaining in the package begins to condense. This condensation has the effect of attracting the valve 29 towards the seat but this displacement of the valve made with a small delay which allows the hot melt material to be drawn into said channel lockable 32.
  • the stepped seat 30 makes it possible to guarantee this delay in closing the valve which guarantees movement and aspiration of the hot-melt material. Indeed, the stepped seat allows a adaptation of the valve sealing surface to the value of the vacuum. If material hot-melt reaches the clearance space of the valve, it confirms closing definitive of it. After cooling, the packaging is definitively and hermetically closed and contains a perfectly pasteurized food preparation.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Adhesives Or Adhesive Processes (AREA)
  • Control And Other Processes For Unpacking Of Materials (AREA)

Abstract

The closure for a package in which food is cooked comprises a housing (18) with a cavity (22) which contains a heat-fusible component (24) and a central channel (27) which has a valve (29) at the top. A second channel (32) connects the cavity with the space (34) into which the valve opens. This can be blocked by material from the heat-fusible component which has melted and resolidified. Independent claims are included for: (a) a package fitted with the closure; and (b) a food product in a package fitted with the closure.

Description

L'invention se rapporte à un dispositif de fermeture automatique destiné à être fixé de façon étanche au travers d'une paroi d'un emballage pour produits alimentaires à cuire au moins en partie in situ, c'est à dire dans un tel emballage. L'invention concerne également tout emballage pour produit alimentaire équipé d'un tel dispositif de fermeture automatique et toute préparation alimentaire conditionnée dans un tel emballage.The invention relates to an automatic closing device intended to be fixed so sealed through a wall of a packaging for food products to be cooked at least in part in situ, ie in such packaging. The invention also relates to all packaging for food product equipped with such an automatic closing device and all food preparation packaged in such packaging.

Les aliments ou préparations alimentaires précuits sont l'objet d'une demande croissante. La réalisation de tels conditionnements pose des problèmes notamment à l'échelle industrielle.Pre-cooked foods or food preparations are in increasing demand. The production of such packaging poses problems in particular on an industrial scale.

La demande de brevet français No 2 129 060 décrit un système d'obturation automatique équipant l'emballage dans lequel les aliments peuvent être cuits. Ce dispositif comporte un simple clapet permettant à la vapeur et aux gaz produits pendant la cuisson de se dégager librement au cours de cette cuisson. Le dispositif évite en principe que l'air extérieur pénètre dans l'emballage au moment du refroidissement. En effet, pendant le refroidissement la condensation de la vapeur dans le sachet crée une dépression qui entraíne la fermeture du clapet. Le dispositif est cependant trop rudimentaire et ne permet pas d'atteindre une fiabilité suffisante pour une exploitation industrielle. Notamment le clapet risque de s'ouvrir au cours de la période de stockage, faisant perdre à l'emballage sa qualité de conteneur stérile. Ainsi, une proportion notable de la production risque de perdre le bénéfice de la pasteurisation in situ et certaines préparations alimentaires peuvent être impropres à la consommation au moment de l'ouverture de l'emballage.French patent application No. 2 129 060 describes an automatic shutter system equipping the packaging in which food can be cooked. This device includes a simple valve allowing steam and gases produced during cooking to escape freely during this cooking. The device in principle prevents outside air from entering in the packaging upon cooling. Indeed, during cooling the condensation of the vapor in the bag creates a depression which causes the closure of the valve. The device is however too rudimentary and does not allow to reach a reliability sufficient for industrial operation. In particular, the valve may open during of the storage period, making the packaging lose its quality as a sterile container. So, a significant proportion of production risks losing the benefit of in situ pasteurization and certain food preparations may be unfit for consumption at the time of opening the package.

Par ailleurs, la demande de brevet français No 2 719 028 décrit un emballage pour produit alimentaire apte à recevoir des aliments à cuire au moins en partie in situ. Il est pourvu d'un dispositif de fermeture automatique plus fiable que celui mentionné ci-dessus du fait qu'il renferme un produit termofusible susceptible de s'engager, lorsqu'il est fondu, dans un canal de faible section débouchant directement à l'intérieur de l'emballage. Lorsque ce canal est obturé par le matériau thermofusible pendant le refroidissement qui suit la cuisson des aliments, (en raison de la condensation et du vide qui se crée à l'intérieur de l'emballage, en attirant le matériau thermofusible dans ledit canal de faible section) l'intérieur de l'emballage se trouve isolé après pasteurisation, permettant une conservation durable et de qualité, des produits conditionnés de cette façon. Cependant, des conditions exceptionnelles de cuisson, notamment lorsque le vide créé par la condensation de la vapeur au moment du refroidissement est trop important et/ou survient trop brutalement, une partie du matériau thermofusible peut être aspirée à l'intérieur de l'emballage et ledit matériau thermofusible peut se trouver en quantité insuffisante dans le canal de faible section pour l'obturer convenablement.In addition, French patent application No 2 719 028 describes a packaging for a product food capable of receiving food to be cooked at least partly in situ. It is provided with a more reliable automatic closing device than that mentioned above because it contains a thermofusible product capable of engaging, when melted, in a channel of small section opening directly into the packaging. When this channel is closed by the hot-melt material during the cooling which follows the cooking of the food, (in because of the condensation and the vacuum that is created inside the packaging, attracting the hot melt material in said small section channel) the interior of the package is isolated after pasteurization, allowing a durable and quality conservation of the products conditioned this way. However, exceptional cooking conditions, in particular when the vacuum created by the condensation of the vapor at the time of cooling is too important and / or occurs too suddenly, part of the hot-melt material can be sucked inside the package and said hot melt material may be in quantity insufficient in the small section channel to close it properly.

L'invention propose une structure modifiée d'un tel dispositif de fermeture automatique, permettant d'éviter l'inconvénient mentionné ci-dessus et par conséquent d'augmenter la fiabilité du processus de conditionnement.The invention proposes a modified structure of such an automatic closing device, avoiding the aforementioned drawback and therefore increasing the reliability of the packaging process.

Plus précisément, l'invention concerne un dispositif de fermeture automatique destiné à être fixé de façon étanche au travers d'une paroi d'un emballage pour produits alimentaires à cuire au moins en partie in situ, comprenant un boítier renfermant une chambre contenant un bloc de matériau thermofusible, un clapet mobile par rapport à un siège agencé autour de l'orifice d'un conduit et un canal obturable susceptible d'être bouché par un déplacement dudit matériau thermofusible fondu puis refroidi, caractérisé en ce que ladite chambre et ledit conduit communiquent avec l'extérieur dudit boítier et en ce que ledit canal obturable est agencé entre ladite chambre et un espace de débattement dudit clapet.More specifically, the invention relates to an automatic closing device intended to be tightly fixed through a wall of a package for cooking food products at least partly in situ, comprising a housing enclosing a chamber containing a block of hot-melt material, a valve movable relative to a seat arranged around the orifice of a conduit and a closable channel capable of being blocked by a displacement of said material hot melt melted then cooled, characterized in that said chamber and said conduit communicate with the outside of said housing and in that said closable channel is arranged between said chamber and a clearance space of said valve.

De préférence, la chambre, le canal, le siège et le conduit sont agencés coaxialement les uns autour des autres. La chambre communique avec l'extérieur du boítier par au moins un petit conduit de relativement faible section, ce qui permet notamment d'éviter que du matériau thermofusible soit entraíné à l'extérieur et perdu au moment de la cuisson en étant expulsé par des gaz chauds qui s'échappent à ce moment.Preferably, the chamber, the channel, the seat and the conduit are arranged coaxially with each other. around others. The room communicates with the outside of the case by at least a small relatively small section duct, which in particular prevents material hot melt is entrained outside and lost during cooking by being expelled by hot gases escaping at this time.

Structurellement, le dispositif est très simple, son boítier est constitué d'un assemblage de seulement deux pièces s'emboítant coaxialement l'une dans l'autre et soudées l'une à l'autre.Structurally, the device is very simple, its housing consists of an assembly of only two pieces fitting coaxially into each other and welded to each other.

Plus précisément, une première pièce a la forme d'une coupelle à contour circulaire comportant une cheminée centrale venue de matière et dans laquelle sont définis ledit conduit et ledit siège. Une seconde pièce a la forme d'un couvercle venant refermer ladite coupelle. Ce couvercle est prolongé par une cloison tubulaire axiale venue de matière. Ledit canal obturable est défini entre la paroi intérieure de ladite cloison tubulaire et la paroi extérieure de ladite cheminée centrale.More specifically, a first part has the shape of a cup with a circular outline comprising a central chimney made of material and in which said duct and said seat are defined. A second part has the form of a cover closing said cup. This cover is extended by an axial tubular partition made of material. Said closable channel is defined between the inner wall of said tubular partition and the outer wall of said chimney Central.

Ce dispositif à fermeture automatique se présente sous la forme d'un petit insert en matière plastique rigide et peut être adapté à tout type d'emballage connu en matière plastique souple ou rigide, par exemple, des sacs ou des barquettes. En conséquence, le remplissage d'une préparation alimentaire peut être effectué à la pression atmosphérique et à n'importe quelle température, avec des aliments crus, cuits ou pré-traités. La cuisson ou la phase finale de la cuisson s'effectue dans l'emballage mais le clapet reste ouvert et les aliments ne sont pas isolés du cuiseur dans le cycle de cuisson. De ce fait, l'air, la vapeur d'eau et les produits gazeux dégagés par les aliments eux-mêmes pendant la cuisson peuvent s'échapper librement de l'emballage de sorte que les aliments sont cuits exactement comme s'ils étaient disposés en vrac dans le cuiseur. Au refroidissement, le matériau thermosfusible se solidifie dans ledit canal obturable. De par son emplacement, le clapet a non seulement pour fonction d'empêcher l'entrée d'air après la cuisson mais aussi celle de limiter et stopper la progression du matériau thermofusible dans le canal obturable et par conséquent d'empêcher son aspiration dans l'emballage lui-même. On est assuré que le matériau thermofusible se solidifie bien dans ledit canal obturable.This self-closing device is in the form of a small material insert rigid plastic and can be adapted to any type of packaging known in flexible plastic or rigid, for example, bags or trays. As a result, filling a food preparation can be carried out at atmospheric pressure and at any temperature, with raw, cooked or pre-processed food. Cooking or the final phase of cooking takes place in the packaging but the valve remains open and the food is not isolated from the cooker in the cooking cycle. As a result, air, water vapor and gaseous products released by the food itself during cooking can escape freely from the packaging so that the food is cooked exactly as if it were arranged in loose in the cooker. Upon cooling, the hot-melt material solidifies in said channel closable. Because of its location, the valve not only has the function of preventing the air intake after cooking but also that of limiting and stopping the progression of the material hot melt in the closable channel and therefore prevent its aspiration into the packaging itself. It is ensured that the hot-melt material solidifies well in said closable channel.

L'invention concerne également tout emballage pour produits alimentaires aptes à recevoir des aliments à cuire au moins en partie in situ, caractérisé en qu'il comporte un conteneur et un dispositif de fermeture automatique selon la définition qui précède, fixé de façon étanche au travers d'une paroi dudit conteneur de façon que le conduit précité débouche à l'intérieur dudit conteneur.The invention also relates to any packaging for food products suitable for receiving food to be cooked at least partly in situ, characterized in that it comprises a container and a automatic closing device as defined above, tightly fixed to the through a wall of said container so that the aforementioned conduit opens into the interior of said container.

L'invention concerne également toute préparation alimentaire conditionnée, précuite dans un emballage, ce dernier étant hermétiquement clos à la fin de la cuisson, comportant, fixé de façon étanche au travers d'une paroi de celui-ci, un dispositif de fermeture automatique selon la définition qui précède dont le canal obturable précité est bouché par du matériau thermofusible à l'état solide.The invention also relates to any conditioned food preparation, precooked in a packaging, the latter being hermetically sealed at the end of cooking, comprising, fixed sealingly through a wall thereof, an automatic closing device according to the above definition whose aforementioned closable channel is blocked by material hot melt in solid state.

Il est à noter que ce type d'emballage est particulièrement adapté à la cuisson dans un cuiseur à vapeur en dépression, du type décrit, par exemple dans le brevet français No 2 674 116.It should be noted that this type of packaging is particularly suitable for cooking in a pressure cooker. vapor in depression, of the type described, for example in French patent No. 2,674,116.

Le matériau thermofusible peut consister en une paraffine «dopée» par un produit synthétique à base de polyéthylène, connu en soi.The hot-melt material may consist of a paraffin "doped" with a synthetic product with polyethylene base, known per se.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lumière de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • La figure 1 illustre schématiquement une préparation alimentaire conditionnée, renfermée dans un emballage muni d'un dispositif de fermeture automatique conforme à l'invention, ladite préparation alimentaire ayant été cuite au moins en partie dans cet emballage ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue en élévation en coupe et à grande échelle du dispositif de fermeture automatique équipant l'emballage de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue en perspective d'une pièce en matière plastique moulée constituant une partie du dispositif de fermeture automatique ;
  • la figure 4 est une demi-coupe en perspective de la même pièce ;
  • la figure 5 est encore une vue en perspective de cette pièce représentée suivant un autre point de vue ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue en élévation et à plus grande échelle d'un mode de réalisation préféré du clapet du dispositif de la figure 2 ;
  • la figure 7 est une coupe diamétrale VII-VII de ce clapet, et,
  • la figure 8 est une vue selon la flèche VIII de la figure 6
The invention will be better understood in the light of the description which follows, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a conditioned food preparation, enclosed in a packaging provided with an automatic closing device according to the invention, said food preparation having been cooked at least partially in this packaging;
  • Figure 2 is a sectional elevation view on a large scale of the automatic closing device fitted to the packaging of Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of a molded plastic part constituting a part of the automatic closing device;
  • Figure 4 is a perspective half-section of the same part;
  • Figure 5 is still a perspective view of this part shown from another point of view;
  • Figure 6 is an elevational view on a larger scale of a preferred embodiment of the valve of the device of Figure 2;
  • FIG. 7 is a diametrical section VII-VII of this valve, and,
  • Figure 8 is a view along arrow VIII of Figure 6

Sur la figure 1, on a représenté une préparation alimentaire 11 conditionnée pour une consommation différée. Le conditionnement a été opéré dans un emballage constitué ici d'un sac 12 en matière plastique souple, lui-même formé de deux feuilles de matière plastique thermosoudées l'une à l'autre de façon à englober les produits alimentaires. On distingue sur la figure 1, une empreinte de thermosoudure 13 périphérique, matérialisant le sac. Ce type d'emballage peut aisément être constitué par une machine de conditionnement automatisée dans laquelle les aliments sont déposés entre deux films de matériaux thermoplastiques, à la pression atmosphérique, avant que les sacs soient individualisés par l'opération de thermosoudure.In Figure 1, there is shown a food preparation 11 packaged for a deferred consumption. The packaging was carried out in a packaging consisting here of a bag 12 of flexible plastic material, itself formed from two sheets of plastic material heat-sealed to each other to include food. On the Figure 1, a peripheral heat seal imprint 13, materializing the bag. This guy packaging can easily consist of an automated packaging machine in which the food is deposited between two films of thermoplastic materials, at the atmospheric pressure, before the bags are identified by the operation of heat welding.

L'une des parois du sac 12 est pourvu d'un dispositif de fermeture automatique 15 fixé de façon étanche (par exemple par thermosoudure également) au travers de ladite paroi. Ce dispositif permet de cuire au moins en partie les aliments dans le sac 12, c'est-à-dire après l'opération de conditionnement aboutissant à la formation de la soudure 13.One of the walls of the bag 12 is provided with an automatic closing device 15 fixed sealingly (for example by heat sealing also) through said wall. This device makes it possible to at least partially cook the food in the bag 12, that is to say after the conditioning operation leading to the formation of the weld 13.

Les figures 2 à 5 illustrent de façon détaillées la structure du dispositif de fermeture automatique 15. Celui-ci se présente sous la forme générale d'un insert en matière plastique rigide monté au travers d'un trou 16 d'une paroi 12a du sac 12. Il est muni d'une collerette annulaire 17 soudée de façon hermétique à cette paroi 12a. Le boítier 18 du dispositif de fermeture automatique est constitué de l'assemblage de deux pièces 19 et 20 s'emboítant coaxialement l'une dans l'autre. Ces deux pièces sont soudées périphériquement après leur emboítage.Figures 2 to 5 illustrate in detail the structure of the closure device automatic 15. This comes in the general form of a plastic insert rigid mounted through a hole 16 in a wall 12a of the bag 12. It is provided with a flange annular 17 hermetically welded to this wall 12a. The housing 18 of the device automatic closing consists of the assembly of two parts 19 and 20 fitting together coaxially one inside the other. These two parts are welded peripherally after their slipcase.

Le boítier 18 renferme une chambre 22 contenant un bloc de matériau thermofusible 24. Cette chambre communique avec l'extérieur du boítier et en l'occurrence aussi avec l'extérieur de l'emballage par au moins un petit conduit 26. Dans l'exemple, plusieurs conduits 26 parallèles, de faible section, sont pratiqués dans la pièce 20 du boítier. D'autre part, un conduit central 27 est agencé axialement dans le boítier 18. Il communique avec l'extérieur du boítier mais, en l'occurrence, lorsque l'insert est fixé à la paroi 12a de l'emballage, ce conduit 27 débouche à l'intérieur dudit emballage. A son autre extrémité se trouve un clapet 29 mobile par rapport à un siège 30 agencé autour de l'orifice voisin dudit conduit 27. En outre, un canal obturable 32 est agencé entre ladite chambre 22 et un espace de débattement 34 dudit clapet. Ce canal obturable est susceptible d'être bouché par déplacement du matériau thermofusible 24 contenu dans la chambre lorsque celui-ci est fondu puis refroidi.The housing 18 contains a chamber 22 containing a block of hot-melt material 24. This chamber communicates with the outside of the case and in this case also with the outside of packaging by at least one small conduit 26. In the example, several parallel conduits 26, small section, are practiced in part 20 of the housing. On the other hand, a central duct 27 is arranged axially in the housing 18. It communicates with the exterior of the housing but, in the occurrence, when the insert is fixed to the wall 12a of the packaging, this conduit 27 opens out inside said package. At its other end is a valve 29 movable relative to a seat 30 arranged around the orifice adjacent to said duct 27. In addition, a closable channel 32 is arranged between said chamber 22 and a clearance space 34 of said valve. This channel closable is liable to be blocked by displacement of the hot-melt material 24 contained in the chamber when it is melted and then cooled.

Comme cela apparaít clairement sur la figure 2, la chambre 22, ledit canal 32, ledit siège 30 et ledit conduit 27 sont agencés coaxialement les uns autour des autres. Plus précisément, on trouve successivement radialement de l'extérieur vers l'intérieur la chambre, le canal obturable et le conduit. La chambre 22 et le canal obturable 32 communiquent par un passage annulaire 36. Comme on le voit sur la figure 2, l'orifice interne de chaque petit conduit 26 qui débouche dans la chambre 22 et le passage annulaire 36 de communication entre cette chambre et le canal obturable, se situent à deux extrémités opposées de ladite chambre. Dans l'exemple de la figure 2, le clapet 29 est constitué par une rondelle de matériau élastomère confinée dans ledit espace de débattement 34 en regard dudit siège 30. Ce dernier est creusé en cuvette étagée. L'orifice interne du conduit 27 débouche au centre de cette cuvette.As clearly appears in Figure 2, the chamber 22, said channel 32, said seat 30 and said conduit 27 are arranged coaxially around each other. More specifically, we successively finds the chamber radially from the outside towards the inside, the closable channel and drives it. Chamber 22 and closable channel 32 communicate by an annular passage 36. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the internal orifice of each small duct 26 which opens out in chamber 22 and the annular passage 36 for communication between this chamber and the closable channel, are located at two opposite ends of said chamber. In the example of the Figure 2, the valve 29 is constituted by a washer of elastomeric material confined in said clearance 34 opposite said seat 30. The latter is hollowed out in a stepped bowl. The internal orifice of the conduit 27 opens out in the center of this bowl.

Comme mentionné, le boítier 18 n'est constitué que de deux pièces 19, 20. Une première pièce 19 à la forme d'une coupelle à contour circulaire munie d'un épaulement creux le long de son ouverture. La seconde pièce 20 a la forme d'un couvercle venant obturer ladite coupelle en s'emboítant sur l'épaulement de celle-ci. Ladite seconde pièce comporte une partie en forme de disque prolongée par une cloison tubulaire 38 coaxiale, venue de matière. Les petits conduits 26 de faible section sont pratiqués au travers de la partie en forme de disque. Par ailleurs, ladite première pièce 19 comporte une cheminée centrale 40, venue de matière, s'étendant sur la plus grande partie de la hauteur de la coupelle. Le conduit 27 et le siège 30 sont définis dans cette cheminée centrale. Lorsque les deux pièces sont assemblées, l'espace de débattement 34 du clapet est défini entre la partie centrale intérieure de ladite seconde pièce et l'extrémité de ladite cheminée où se trouve défini ledit siège. Par ailleurs, le canal obturable 32 est défini entre la paroi intérieure de ladite cloison tubulaire 38 et la paroi extérieure de ladite cheminée centrale 40 lorsque les deux pièces sont assemblées. De même, le passage annulaire 36 entre la chambre et le canal obturable est défini entre le fond de la coupelle et l'extrémité de la cloison tubulaire 38. La coupelle comporte un socle 44 constitué extérieurement d'ailettes radiales 45 qui convergent vers l'orifice extérieur du conduit 27. La présence de ces ailettes permet d'éviter que le conduit soit obturé par des produits alimentaires ou la paroi de l'emballage lorsque le vide se crée dans celui-ci. La cheminée centrale 40 est munie de nervures longitudinales 46, à l'extérieur, qui viennent prendre appui contre la paroi intérieure de la cloison tubulaire.As mentioned, the housing 18 consists of only two parts 19, 20. A first part 19 in the form of a cup with circular outline provided with a hollow shoulder along its opening. The second part 20 has the shape of a cover closing off said cup in fitting onto the shoulder thereof. Said second part comprises a part in the form of disc extended by a coaxial tubular partition 38, integral. Small ducts 26 of small section are formed through the disc-shaped part. Furthermore, said first part 19 has a central chimney 40, integrally formed, extending over the much of the height of the cup. The duct 27 and the seat 30 are defined in this central fireplace. When the two parts are assembled, the clearance space 34 of the valve is defined between the inner central part of said second part and the end of said chimney where said seat is defined. Furthermore, the closable channel 32 is defined between the inner wall of said tubular partition 38 and the outer wall of said chimney central 40 when the two parts are assembled. Similarly, the annular passage 36 between the chamber and the closable channel is defined between the bottom of the cup and the end of the partition tubular 38. The cup comprises a base 44 made up externally of radial fins 45 which converge towards the external orifice of the duct 27. The presence of these fins allows avoid the duct being blocked by food products or the wall of the packaging when a vacuum is created in it. The central chimney 40 is provided with ribs longitudinal 46, outside, which come to bear against the inner wall of the tubular partition.

Les figures 6 à 8 illustrent un mode de réalisation préféré d'un clapet 29A destiné à remplacer le clapet 29 de la figure 2. Il s'agit d'une pièce de matériau élastomère, relativement souple, de préférence moulée par injection. Un matériau possédant les propriétés mécaniques suivantes a donné de bons résultats

  • Dureté : 45 shore A
  • Masse volumique 0,91 g/cm3
  • Allongement à la rupture 200 %
    • Figures 6 to 8 illustrate a preferred embodiment of a valve 29A intended to replace the valve 29 of Figure 2. It is a piece of elastomeric material, relatively flexible, preferably injection molded. A material having the following mechanical properties has given good results
  • Hardness: 45 shore A
  • Density 0.91 g / cm3
  • Elongation at break 200%

    • Ce clapet est notamment remarquable en ce qu'il comporte une portion tronconique 50 coopérant avec le siège 30. Avantageusement, la portion tronconique 50 est prolongée par un bossage 52, central, sensiblement cylindrique, dont le diamètre correspond à celui du conduit 27. Ainsi, le bossage est susceptible de s'engager dans la partie d'extrémité du conduit 27.This valve is particularly remarkable in that it comprises a frustoconical portion 50 Cooperating with the seat 30. Advantageously, the frustoconical portion 50 is extended by a boss 52, central, substantially cylindrical, the diameter of which corresponds to that of the duct 27. Thus, the boss is capable of engaging in the end part of the conduit 27.

    La paroi de la portion tronconique est d'épaisseur sensiblement constante de sorte que la portion tronconique 50 comporte une creusure 54, par exemple conique. Le clapet est en outre pourvu d'une rainure d'assouplissement 56, circulaire, s'étendant dans cette creusure. Il comporte aussi une margelle 58 sensiblement annulaire prolongeant extérieurement la portion tronconique. Cette margelle peut comporter des échancrures 59 régulièrement espacées circonférenciellement, par exemple quatre, comme représenté.The wall of the frustoconical portion is of substantially constant thickness so that the frustoconical portion 50 has a recess 54, for example conical. The valve is also provided with a softening groove 56, circular, extending in this recess. he also includes a substantially annular coping 58 extending externally the portion truncated. This coping may include notches 59 regularly spaced circumferentially, for example four, as shown.

    Sur la figure 2, le dispositif de fermeture automatique est représenté avant utilisation, c'est à dire que le bloc de matériau thermofusible 24 se trouve entièrement contenu dans la chambre 22. Lorsque l'emballage contient une préparation alimentaire qui a été cuite in situ, ce bloc de matériau thermofusible a perdu sa forme initiale et ledit matériau se trouve engagé dans ledit conduit obturable 32 sous l'effet de la condensation de vapeur dans l'emballage, au refroidissement.In Figure 2, the automatic closing device is shown before use, it is say that the block of hot-melt material 24 is entirely contained in the chamber 22. When the packaging contains a food preparation which has been cooked in situ, this block of hot-melt material has lost its initial shape and said material is engaged in said closable duct 32 under the effect of the condensation of vapor in the packaging, at the cooling.

    Les préparations alimentaires conditionnées comme représentées sur la figure 1 sont soumises à une opération de cuisson. Par exemple, et de préférence, les emballages ont été remplis à la pression atmosphérique et sont introduits dans un cuiseur à la vapeur fonctionnant en dépression. Dès le début de la cuisson, une communication est possible entre l'intérieur de l'emballage et l'extérieur de celui-ci de sorte que des gaz s'échappent en repoussant le clapet 29 et en l'empêchant de venir s'appliquer sur le siège. On obtient ainsi naturellement une pasteurisation des produits alimentaires cuits dans l'emballage même. Pendant ce temps, le bloc de matériau thermofusible se ramollit mais reste à l'intérieur de la chambre. Au moment du refroidissement, la vapeur restant dans l'emballage commence à se condenser. Cette condensation a pour effet d'attirer le clapet 29 vers le siège mais ce déplacement du clapet se fait avec un faible retard qui permet au matériau thermofusible d'être aspiré dans ledit canal obturable 32. Le siège étagé 30 permet de garantir ce retard de fermeture du clapet qui garantit le déplacement et l'aspiration du matériau thermofusible. En effet, le siège étagé permet une adaptation de la surface d'étanchéité du clapet à la valeur de la dépression. Si du matériau thermofusible parvient jusqu'à l'espace de débattement du clapet, il confirme la fermeture définitive de celui-ci. Après refroidissement, l'emballage est définitivement et hermétiquement clos et renferme une préparation alimentaire parfaitement pasteurisée.Food preparations packaged as shown in Figure 1 are subject to a cooking operation. For example, and preferably, the packaging has been filled atmospheric pressure and are introduced into a steam cooker operating in depression. From the start of cooking, communication is possible between the interior of the the packaging and the outside of it so that gases escape by pushing the valve 29 and preventing it from coming to apply on the seat. We naturally obtain a pasteurization of cooked food products in the packaging itself. Meanwhile the block of hot melt material softens but stays inside the chamber. At the time of cooling, the vapor remaining in the package begins to condense. This condensation has the effect of attracting the valve 29 towards the seat but this displacement of the valve made with a small delay which allows the hot melt material to be drawn into said channel lockable 32. The stepped seat 30 makes it possible to guarantee this delay in closing the valve which guarantees movement and aspiration of the hot-melt material. Indeed, the stepped seat allows a adaptation of the valve sealing surface to the value of the vacuum. If material hot-melt reaches the clearance space of the valve, it confirms closing definitive of it. After cooling, the packaging is definitively and hermetically closed and contains a perfectly pasteurized food preparation.

    Claims (19)

    Dispositif de fermeture automatique destiné à être fixé de façon étanche au travers d'une paroi d'un emballage pour produits alimentaires à cuire au moins en partie in situ, comprenant un boítier (18) renfermant une chambre (22)contenant un bloc de matériau thermofusible (24), un clapet (29) mobile par rapport à un siège agencé autour de l'orifice d'un conduit (27) et un canal obturable (32) susceptible d'être bouché par un déplacement dudit matériau thermofusible fondu puis refroidi, caractérisé en ce que ladite chambre (22) et ledit conduit (27) communiquent avec l'extérieur dudit boítier et en ce que ledit canal obturable (32) est agencé entre ladite chambre et un espace de débattement (34) dudit clapet.Automatic closing device intended to be fixed in a sealed manner through a wall of a packaging for food products to be cooked at least partially in situ, comprising a housing (18) enclosing a chamber (22) containing a block of material hot melt (24), a valve (29) movable relative to a seat arranged around the orifice of a conduit (27) and a closable channel (32) capable of being blocked by a displacement of said melted hot material then cooled , characterized in that said chamber (22) and said conduit (27) communicate with the outside of said housing and in that said closable channel (32) is arranged between said chamber and a clearance space (34) of said valve. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que ladite chambre, ledit canal, ledit siège et ledit conduit sont agencés coaxialement les uns autour des autres.Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said chamber, the said channel, the said seat and the said conduit are arranged coaxially around one another. Dispositif selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que ladite chambre (22) communique avec l'extérieur dudit boítier par au moins un petit conduit (26)Device according to claim 2, characterized in that said chamber (22) communicates with the outside of said housing by at least one small duct (26) Dispositif selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que l'orifice dudit petit conduit débouchant dans ladite chambre et un passage de communication (36) entre ladite chambre (22) et ledit canal obturable (32) se situent à deux extrémités opposées de ladite chambre.Device according to claim 3, characterized in that the orifice of said small duct opening into said chamber and a communication passage (36) between said chamber (22) and said closable channel (32) are located at two opposite ends of said chamber . Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit siège (30) est creusé en cuvette étagée, un orifice dudit conduit (27) débouchant au centre de cette cuvette.Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said seat (30) is hollowed out in a stepped bowl, an orifice in said conduit (27) opening out in the center of this bowl. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit clapet (29A) est constitué par une pièce de matériau élastomère comportant une portion tronconique (50) coopérant avec ledit siège (30). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said valve (29A) consists of a piece of elastomeric material comprising a frustoconical portion (50) cooperating with said seat (30). Dispositif selon la revendication 6 caractérisé en ce que ladite portion tronconique (50) est prolongée par un bossage (52) sensiblement cylindrique de diamètre correspondant à celui dudit conduit (27), ledit bossage étant susceptible de s'engager dans ledit conduit.Device according to claim 6 characterized in that said frustoconical portion (50) is extended by a boss (52) substantially cylindrical with a diameter corresponding to that of said conduit (27), said boss being capable of engaging in said conduit. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 6 ou 7, caractérisé en ce que la face dudit clapet opposée à celle qui comporte ladite portion tronconique comporte une creusure (54), par exemple, conique.Device according to one of claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the face of said valve opposite to that which comprises said frustoconical portion comprises a recess (54), for example, conical. Dispositif selon la revendication 8 caractérisé en ce que ledit clapet est pourvu d'une rainure d'assouplissement (56), circulaire, s'étendant dans ladite creusure.Device according to claim 8 characterized in that said valve is provided with a softening groove (56), circular, extending in said recess. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 6 à 9 caractérisé en ce que ledit clapet comporte une margelle (58) sensiblement annulaire prolongeant extérieurement ladite portion tronconique.Device according to one of claims 6 to 9 characterized in that said valve comprises a substantially annular coping (58) extending externally said frustoconical portion. Dispositif selon la revendication 10 caractérisé en ce que ladite margelle (58) comporte des échancrures (59) régulièrement espacées circonférentiellement.Device according to claim 10 characterized in that said coping (58) has notches (59) regularly spaced circumferentially. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 6 à 11, caractérisé en ce que ledit clapet est une pièce moulée par injection.Device according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized in that said valve is an injection molded part. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que ledit clapet (29) est constitué par une rondelle de matériau élastomère confinée dans ledit espace de débattement en regard dudit siège.Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said valve (29) consists of a washer of elastomeric material confined in said clearance space opposite said seat. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit boítier est constitué de l'assemblage de deux pièces (19, 20) s'emboítant coaxialement l'une dans l'autre.Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said housing consists of the assembly of two parts (19, 20) fitting coaxially into one another. Dispositif selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce qu'une première pièce (19) a la forme d'une coupelle à contour circulaire comportant une cheminée centrale (40) venue de matière, dans laquelle sont définis ledit conduit et ledit siège, en ce qu'une seconde pièce (20) a la forme d'un couvercle venant refermer ladite coupelle, en ce que ce couvercle est prolongé par une cloison tubulaire (38) coaxiale venue de matière, ledit canal obturable (32) étant défini entre la paroi intérieure de ladite cloison tubulaire et la paroi extérieure de ladite cheminée centrale lorsque les deux pièces sont assemblées.Device according to Claim 14, characterized in that a first part (19) has the shape of a circular contour cup having a central chimney (40) formed integrally, in which are defined said conduit and said seat, in that that a second part (20) has the form of a cover closing said cup, in that this cover is extended by a tubular partition (38) coaxial made of material, said closable channel (32) being defined between the wall interior of said tubular partition and the exterior wall of said central chimney when the two parts are assembled. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 3 à 15, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte plusieurs petits conduits (26) précités définis dans ladite seconde pièce.Device according to one of claims 3 to 15, characterized in that it comprises several aforementioned small conduits (26) defined in said second part. Dispositif selon la revendication 15, caractérisé en ce que ladite coupelle comporte extérieurement des ailettes radiales (45) qui convergent vers l'orifice dudit conduit.Device according to claim 15, characterized in that said cup externally comprises radial fins (45) which converge towards the orifice of said conduit. Emballage pour produit alimentaire apte à recevoir des aliments à cuire au moins en partie in situ, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un conteneur et un dispositif de fermeture automatique (15) selon l'une des revendications précédentes, fixé de façon étanche au travers d'une paroi dudit conteneur, le conduit précité débouchant à l'intérieur dudit conteneur.Packaging for food product capable of receiving food to be cooked at least partially in situ, characterized in that it comprises a container and an automatic closing device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, fixed in leaktight manner through of a wall of said container, the aforementioned conduit opening into the interior of said container. Préparation alimentaire conditionnée, précuite dans un emballage, ce dernier étant hermétiquement clos à la fin de la cuisson, comportant, fixé de façon étanche au travers d'une paroi (12a) dudit emballage, un dispositif de fermeture automatique (15) selon l'une des revendications 1 à 17, dont le canal obturable (32) précité est bouché par du matériau thermofusible à l'état solide.Packaged food preparation, precooked in a package, the latter being hermetically sealed at the end of cooking, comprising, tightly fixed through a wall (12a) of said packaging, an automatic closing device (15) according to one of Claims 1 to 17, the aforementioned closable channel (32) of which is blocked by material hot melt in solid state.
    EP01110740A 2001-05-03 2001-05-03 Automatic closure device using hotmelt material Expired - Lifetime EP1254850B1 (en)

    Priority Applications (3)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    DE60107537T DE60107537T2 (en) 2001-05-03 2001-05-03 Automatic closure arrangement with hot melt material
    AT01110740T ATE283806T1 (en) 2001-05-03 2001-05-03 AUTOMATIC CLOSURE ARRANGEMENT USING HOT MELTED MATERIAL
    EP01110740A EP1254850B1 (en) 2001-05-03 2001-05-03 Automatic closure device using hotmelt material

    Applications Claiming Priority (1)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    EP01110740A EP1254850B1 (en) 2001-05-03 2001-05-03 Automatic closure device using hotmelt material

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    EP1254850A1 true EP1254850A1 (en) 2002-11-06
    EP1254850B1 EP1254850B1 (en) 2004-12-01

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    Citations (6)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US2997397A (en) * 1958-04-12 1961-08-22 Doulgheridis Alcibiade Michael Method of and means for sterilizing and preserving foods and other materials in containers
    FR2629060A1 (en) 1988-03-28 1989-09-29 Cook In Pack Sa Automatic non-return valve for food container lids - has double walled lid enclosing valve disc with apertures to allow escape of gases from within container
    FR2674116A1 (en) 1991-03-22 1992-09-25 Gether Sa INSTALLATION FOR COOKING FOOD WITH STEAM.
    FR2719028A1 (en) 1994-04-20 1995-10-27 Gether Sa Packaging for food products and conditioned food preparation, using such packaging.
    JPH11171257A (en) * 1997-12-15 1999-06-29 Shimomura Kogyo Kk Vacuum container
    FR2805250A1 (en) * 2000-02-17 2001-08-24 Ile Bk Soc Civ Closure for package in which food is cooked comprises housing with cavity containing heat-fusible component and central channel with valve at top, second channel connecting cavity with space into which valve opens

    Patent Citations (6)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US2997397A (en) * 1958-04-12 1961-08-22 Doulgheridis Alcibiade Michael Method of and means for sterilizing and preserving foods and other materials in containers
    FR2629060A1 (en) 1988-03-28 1989-09-29 Cook In Pack Sa Automatic non-return valve for food container lids - has double walled lid enclosing valve disc with apertures to allow escape of gases from within container
    FR2674116A1 (en) 1991-03-22 1992-09-25 Gether Sa INSTALLATION FOR COOKING FOOD WITH STEAM.
    FR2719028A1 (en) 1994-04-20 1995-10-27 Gether Sa Packaging for food products and conditioned food preparation, using such packaging.
    JPH11171257A (en) * 1997-12-15 1999-06-29 Shimomura Kogyo Kk Vacuum container
    FR2805250A1 (en) * 2000-02-17 2001-08-24 Ile Bk Soc Civ Closure for package in which food is cooked comprises housing with cavity containing heat-fusible component and central channel with valve at top, second channel connecting cavity with space into which valve opens

    Non-Patent Citations (1)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Title
    PATENT ABSTRACTS OF JAPAN vol. 1999, no. 11 30 September 1999 (1999-09-30) *

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    ATE283806T1 (en) 2004-12-15
    EP1254850B1 (en) 2004-12-01
    DE60107537D1 (en) 2005-01-05
    DE60107537T2 (en) 2005-12-15

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