EP1495986B1 - Plastic container - Google Patents

Abstract

The package has a container with an opening delimited by a peripheral flange. The container is closed by a cover that includes a peripheral flange (3), a sealing disk (4) with a holding part (5) positioned at its periphery, and a line of least resistance (10). The line has a discontinuity at a level of which it extends locally in a direction of centre of the sealing disk near the holding part.

Description

The invention relates to packaging packaging, especially food products, made of plastic according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such a package is described in US-5,511,680.

Such plastic packages are widely known, especially for the packaging of food products. Among these, there may be mentioned a package described in document FR-A-2 707 951.

This package consists of a rigid tray, which has an opening defined by an inverted U-shaped peripheral rim, and intended to receive a lid having a peripheral rim, of complementary shape, thus also inverted U-shaped, intended for be nested on the peripheral edge of the tray.

The seal between the tray and the lid is provided by means of two annular bands, extending the respective peripheral edges of the tray and lid, welded together over the entire outer peripheral edge, and having a tear notch, to allow posterior opening of the lid, during the first use.

However, such a lid does not satisfactorily ensure the closure of the container after first use.

Document FR-A-2 471 925 also discloses a packaging, also made of plastics material, comprising a receptacle proper, closed off by a lid, with, as in the preceding example, joining by welding of the flanges extension and presence of a zone of least resistance of the lid. In this way, and during the first use, the cover is detached from its peripheral rim, and can be closed by nesting thereof, within the container, having for this purpose a shoulder cooperating with a shoulder which is also provided lid.

In addition to the fact that the tool for manufacturing such a cover is relatively expensive, because of the complexity of its architecture, said cover, after first use becomes independent of the container, which is inconvenient to use.

The invention proposes a packaging of the type in question, allowing first of all to optimize its tightness before use, in particular with gas, so as to be able to increase the conservation deadline significantly. As a corollary, the packaging according to the invention aims to optimize the inviolability, quite clearly, and moreover, allows to be molded in a single step.

This objective is achieved by separating the functions of sealing and opening proper.

• le récipient présente une ouverture délimitée par un rebord périphérique à section en forme de U inversé, formé de deux branches respectivement interne prolongeant la paroi latérale du récipient, et externe ;
• le couvercle comporte :
  • . un rebord périphérique, également à section en forme de U, de forme complémentaire au rebord périphérique du récipient, destiné à être emboîté sur le rebord dudit récipient, et à être solidarisé à celui-ci par collage ou soudage ;
  • . un disque formant couvercle proprement dit, muni d'un organe de préhension positionné sensiblement à sa périphérie ;
  • . une ligne de moindre résistance, s'étendant au niveau du rebord périphérique du couvercle.

Il se caractérise, en ce que la ligne de moindre résistance présente une discontinuité au niveau de laquelle elle s'étend localement en direction du centre du disque au voisinage de l'organe de préhension.This packaging of plastics material, consisting of a container closed by a lid, in which:

• the container has an opening defined by an inverted U-shaped peripheral rim, formed of two respectively internal branches extending the side wall of the container, and external;
• the lid comprises:
  • . a peripheral rim, also of U-shaped section, of complementary shape to the peripheral rim of the container, intended to be fitted on the rim of said container, and to be secured thereto by gluing or welding;
  • . a lid disc proper, provided with a gripping member positioned substantially at its periphery;
  • . a line of weakness, extending at the peripheral edge of the cover.

It is characterized in that the line of least resistance has a discontinuity at which it extends locally towards the center of the disc in the vicinity of the gripping member.

In addition, according to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the peripheral edge of the disc is provided with a radial rib extending between the location of implantation of the gripping member and the peripheral rim of the cover.

The implementation of such a configuration, further doubled by the presence of the radial rib makes it possible to concentrate the force transmitted by the gripping member, during the first opening, in a specific and focused location of the line of lesser resistance, thus making it possible to provide such a line of least resistance of greater thickness, and consequently, to have a high tolerance, favoring the manufacture of the lid.

In addition, due to the greater thickness of the line of least resistance, there is a hinge effect, which can be located in a diametrically opposite manner with respect to the location of the gripping member, allowing multiple reuse of the disc acting lid, and thus longer preserve the food contained in the container.

Thus, the invention aims to divide the fixing functions, by welding or gluing, the lid on the container, and opening said container. Indeed, it is not strictly speaking the lid that is open, insofar as its peripheral rim remains permanently glued or welded on the peripheral rim of the container, but the central obturating disk which is likely to be open. In doing so, the sealing of the contents of said container is particularly optimized, particularly with respect to the containers of the prior art. In addition, there is a single piece, wherein said disc is not detached from the lid and container assembly.

In a first embodiment of the invention, this line of least resistance is quasi-continuous and has interruptions capable of constituting articulation hinges of the disc on the peripheral rim of the cover.

In another embodiment of the invention, this line of least resistance is in fact constituted by a succession of attachment points or pins, solidarisant at regular intervals the two parts of the flat portion of the peripheral rim of the cover, the zones said flat portion of the cover extending between the attachment points or pins being free of any material.

• La figure 1 est une représentation schématique en perspective d'un emballage de conditionnement conforme à l'invention, présenté en configuration fermée.
• La figure 2 est une vue analogue à la figure 1, représentée en configuration ouverte.
• La figure 3 est une vue du dessus du couvercle, selon une première forme de réalisation de l'invention, dont la figure 4 est une vue en perspective, et dont la figure 5 est une représentation schématique en section, et la figure 6 une vue en détail du rebord périphérique du couvercle, au voisinage de la nervure caractéristique de l'invention.
• Les figures 7 à 10 sont des représentations analogues aux figures 4 à 7 d'une seconde forme de réalisation de l'invention.
• La figure 11 est une représentation schématique en perspective en détail de la variante de l'invention.
• La figure 12 représente l'emboîtement des rebords périphériques respectifs du couvercle sur le récipient selon la première forme de réalisation, et la figure 13 une vue analogue de la seconde forme de réalisation de l'invention.
• La figure 14 est une représentation schématique en perspective d'une variante de l'anneau de préhension de l'invention en position refermé sur le récipient, que la figure 15 illustre en position d'empilage, et la figure 16 en position de soudure.

The manner in which the invention may be implemented and the advantages which result therefrom will emerge more clearly from the following exemplary embodiments, given by way of non-limiting indication in support of the appended figures.

• Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a packaging package according to the invention, presented in closed configuration.
• Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1, shown in open configuration.
• FIG. 3 is a view from above of the lid, according to a first embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4 is a perspective view, and FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic representation in section, and FIG. in detail of the peripheral rim of the cover, in the vicinity of the characteristic rib of the invention.
• Figures 7 to 10 are representations similar to Figures 4 to 7 of a second embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view in detail of the variant of the invention.
• Figure 12 shows the interlocking of the respective peripheral rims of the lid on the container according to the first embodiment, and Figure 13 is a similar view of the second embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 14 is a schematic perspective representation of a variant of the gripping ring of the invention in the closed position on the container, which Figure 15 illustrates in the stacking position, and Figure 16 in the welding position.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of the packaging package according to the invention.

In the following description, this package is more particularly intended to receive a fresh food product, salad type etc ...

Basically, it comprises a rounded container (1), in the example described, of symmetry of revolution, having an upper opening (6) intended to be closed by a cover (2).

The upper rim of the container (1) has an inverted U-shaped section, as can be seen in Figures 12 and 13.

More specifically, this particular arrangement comprises an inner branch (7), an outer branch (8), the two branches being interconnected by a substantially horizontal portion (9).

The inner branch (7) in fact extends the side wall of the container (1), the assembly being derived from the molding, in particular by injection.

The lid (2) consists of a peripheral flange (3) designed to fit on the peripheral rim of the container (1), and further comprises a disc (4) closing the opening (6) of the container (1). The disc (2) is provided, in the vicinity of its periphery, with a gripping member (5), constituted in this particular case by a substantially circular ring, the two ends of which are secured to the base of the disc. closing (4) in the vicinity of the peripheral edge (3) of the cover (2).
According to this embodiment, the gripping ring is systematically oriented in a plane parallel to the disk (4), except during the opening phases. It returns after such phases to its natural position in said plane parallel to the disc (4), due to the elastic effect of the plastic material that constitutes it.

With reference to FIGS. 3 to 6, a first embodiment of the lid (2) according to the invention has been described. The lid, according to this first embodiment, therefore has a flange (3) projecting from the general plane of the disc (4) (see Figures 4 and 5).

The peripheral rim (3) of the lid (2) is also in inverted U-shaped section, so that it can fit on the peripheral rim of the container (1), as can be seen on the Figures 12 and 13.

• . d'une branche interne (15), s'étendant à partir du disque (4) et destinée à venir en contact avec la branche interne (7) du rebord périphérique du récipient (1),
• . d'une branche externe (16) destinée à venir coopérer avec la branche externe (8) du récipient (1),
• . et d'une partie plane (17) reliant de manière continue ou discontinue, lesdites branches interne et externe (15) et (16).

It consists :

• . an inner branch (15) extending from the disc (4) and intended to come into contact with the inner branch (7) of the peripheral rim of the container (1),
• . an external branch (16) intended to cooperate with the outer branch (8) of the container (1),
• . and a flat portion (17) connecting in a continuous or discontinuous manner, said inner and outer legs (15) and (16).

Advantageously, the outer branch (16) of the peripheral rim (3) of the cover (2) is provided with an inwardly directed projection (18) intended to promote cooperation between the outer branch (16) of the cover (2). ) and the lower end of the outer leg (8) of the container (1).

According to the invention, the flat portion (17) of the peripheral rim (3) of the cover (2) has a zone of least resistance (10), substantially circular.

This zone of least resistance is obtained by reducing the quantity of material at this level, as can be clearly seen, particularly in FIG. 6 or FIG.

This line of least resistance (10) is substantially continuous, except at two zones (11), substantially diametrically opposite the implantation zone of the gripping ring (5).

These zones (11) are intended to form hinges during the opening of the disk (4).

As a corollary and according to the invention, the area of the peripheral rim located vertically above the gripping ring (5) has a discontinuity consisting of a spout (12) oriented towards the center of the disc (4), and intended to promote the initiation of breakage of the line of least resistance (10).

In addition and according to a characteristic of the invention, the peripheral rim extends at the spout (12) by a rib (13), radial, extending substantially over the entire height of the peripheral rim, so that Observe, particularly Figures 5 and 6. This rib is a kind of extension of the beak (12).

In doing so, the rib ends substantially on the disk between the two zones of implantation of the ends of the gripping ring (5) on the disk (4) (see FIGS. 5 and 11).

This rib is intended to concentrate the tensile force exerted by the gripping ring (5) at the nozzle (12), and thereby promote the breaking of the line of weakness (10).

By concentrating the tensile force, it becomes possible to increase the effective thickness of the line of least resistance (10), resulting in a double effect.

Firstly, the hinge effect is increased by optimizing the mechanical resistance of pulling the disc out of the peripheral rim. It is not uncommon indeed that excessive traction exerted by the user causes the total tearing of the disc.

In addition, it allows to achieve greater cooperation between the inner wall (15) of the peripheral rim (3) of the lid with the inner wall (7) of the rim of the container, optimizing the conditions of conservation of the contents of the container. container, after first opening, by the relative sealing born of this cooperation.

In another embodiment shown in connection with FIGS. 7 to 10, the line of least resistance (10) is replaced by the absence of any material at this level.
Only pins (19) solidarize at regular intervals the portions of the flat portion (17) the peripheral rim of the lid (2). The hinge effect is maintained here by pins, in appropriate places, always in substantially diametrically opposite position with respect to the gripping ring (5), and the principle of the rib also remains the same.

While the first embodiment is more particularly suitable in the context of a welding attachment of the peripheral rim (3) of the cover (2) on the peripheral rim of the container (1), the second embodiment is particularly suitable. implemented in the context of a joining by bonding.

In the first case, the ultrasonic welding in particular, occurs substantially in an annular portion (20) external to the portion respectively (9) and (17) peripheral rims of the container (1) and the lid (2).

On the other hand, the bonding (21) takes place substantially over the entire flat part, as can be seen in FIG. 13.

This method of joining allows to confer the contents of the container a perfect seal, including gas, for a period determined, which is one of the aims of the present invention.

According to the invention, the assembly consisting of the cover (2), the sealing disc (4) and the gripping member (5) is monobloc and directly obtained by injection molding.

The fastening system used and in addition the principle of the area of least resistance further confer inviolability to the container.

Indeed, if it has been opened a first time, it appears obvious and immediate to the potential purchaser of said container.

Moreover, by the closure system implemented, the opening of the container is very easy by the user, and is carried out in a single operation.

According to a variant of the invention shown in relation to FIGS. 14 to 16, the gripping ring (5) is not secured to the base of the disc (4), but at the upper level of its peripheral rim, in a immediately adjacent to the spout (12). This embodiment avoids the implementation of the radial rib (13), and therefore simplifies the realization of the packaging of the invention.

In addition, this ring may be shaped so as to extend in two concurrent planes, as can be seen in FIGS. 15 and 16, thus allowing it to be folded onto the bottom of the disc (4). ) and, as a corollary, to favor the stacking of the packs according to the invention on top of one another.

In order to open said package, it is first necessary to pull the tongue of the ring upwards, releasing the passage of the finger with which it is provided, and then proceed to a pull, whose efforts are concentrated at spout (12).

It can be observed that by the implementation of the closure system of the invention, it avoids the establishment of any sealing system, which, although it ensures a satisfactory seal, on the other hand generates significant additional costs, both during the manufacture of the packaging and during its filling and closure.

It is conceivable in fact all the advantages of the present invention in the context of storage and preservation of food products in containers, especially for products known as "fresh".

In addition, the packaging of the invention is in one piece, fulfilling the various functions assigned to it, and in particular the sealing, and the various operations of opening and closing after consecutive first use.

Claims (8)

1. Plastic container, consisting of a receptacle (1) closed by a lid (2) in which:

   - the receptacle (1) has an opening (6) delimited by a peripheral edge with a cross section in the shape of an inverted U, formed from two branches, an internal branch (7) extending the lateral wall of the receptacle and an external branch (8), respectively;

   - the lid (2) includes:

   ■ a peripheral edge (3), also with a cross section in the shape of a U, of a shape that complements the peripheral edge of the receptacle (1), designed to be fitted over the edge of said receptacle;

   ■ a disc (4) forming the actual lid, provided with a gripping member (5) positioned substantially at its periphery;

   ■ a line (10) of least resistance, extending at the peripheral edge (3) of the lid (2);

   characterized in that the line (10) of least resistance has a discontinuity at the point where it extends locally (12) towards the centre of the closure disc (4) in the vicinity of the gripping member (5), and in that the peripheral edge (3) is secured to the peripheral edge of the receptacle (1) by means of adhesive bonding or welding.
2. Plastic container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the discontinuity of the line (10) of least resistance has the form of a snout (12) towards the centre of the disc (4), in line with the gripping member (5).
3. Plastic container according to one of Claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the periphery of the closure disc (4) is provided with a radial rib (13) extending between the place of installation of the gripping member (5) and the peripheral edge of the lid in the extension of the local extension (12) of the line (10) of least resistance.
4. Plastic container according to one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the securing of the peripheral edge of the lid (2) to the peripheral edge of the container (1) is achieved by welding, characterized in that the line (10) of least resistance is quasi-continuous and has interruptions (11) suitable for forming hinges for articulation of the closure disc (4) on the peripheral edge of the lid (2).
5. Plastic container according to one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the securing of the peripheral edge of the lid (2) on the peripheral edge of the receptacle (1) is achieved by adhesive bonding, characterized in that the line (10) of least resistance consists of a succession of attachment points or slivers (19), securing, at regular intervals, the two parts of the planar portion (17) of the peripheral edge (3) of the lid (2), the zones of said planar portion (17) of the lid (2) extending between the points of attachment or slivers (19) being free of any material.
6. Plastic container according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the gripping member (5) consists of a substantially circular ring, the two ends of which are secured to the base of the closure disc 4.
7. Plastic container according to one of Claims 1, 2, 4 and 5, characterized in that the gripping member (5) consists of a ring secured to the upper part of the peripheral edge of the lid (2), in a zone immediately adjacent to the snout (12).
8. Plastic container according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the assembly consisting of the lid (2), the closure disc 4 and the gripping member (5) is monobloc and obtained directly by means of injection-moulding.

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