EP1824752B1 - Stopper for a bottle - Google Patents

Stopper for a bottle Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1824752B1
EP1824752B1 EP05818934A EP05818934A EP1824752B1 EP 1824752 B1 EP1824752 B1 EP 1824752B1 EP 05818934 A EP05818934 A EP 05818934A EP 05818934 A EP05818934 A EP 05818934A EP 1824752 B1 EP1824752 B1 EP 1824752B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cylindrical body
plug according
bottle
cylindrical
channels
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.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP05818934A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1824752A1 (en
Inventor
Patrice Marsollier
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Bonnin Meca-Spe
BONNIN MECA SPE
Original Assignee
Bonnin Meca-Spe
BONNIN MECA SPE
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Publication of EP1824752A1 publication Critical patent/EP1824752A1/en
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Publication of EP1824752B1 publication Critical patent/EP1824752B1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D39/00—Closures arranged within necks or pouring openings or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers
    • B65D39/0005—Closures arranged within necks or pouring openings or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers made in one piece
    • B65D39/0029—Plastic closures other than those covered by groups B65D39/0011 - B65D39/0023
    • 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
    • B65D39/00—Closures arranged within necks or pouring openings or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers
    • B65D39/0052—Closures arranged within necks or pouring openings or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers made in more than one piece
    • B65D39/0076—Plastic closures other than those covered by groups B65D39/0058 - B65D39/007

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a novel bottle cap structure.
  • plastic plugs in particular molded or extruded plastics
  • the synthetic plugs shown in these documents comprise a honeycomb structure whose channels have circular or oblong sections that deform upon depression in the neck of a bottle.
  • the visual appearance of the compressed plugs is then not optimal, as are their characteristics of strength, elasticity and tightness.
  • these synthetic stoppers generally do not allow to optimize the conservation or evolution of the packaged liquid, especially when it comes to wine.
  • the present invention aims to provide a new effective cap, that is to say providing an exemplary seal, having good characteristics of radial compressibility, relatively simple structure and inexpensive cost.
  • the stopper according to the present invention is in the form of a cylindrical body delimited by a so-called upper end and a so-called lower end, the latter being intended to be engaged first in the neck of the bottle;
  • this cylindrical body comprises a cylindrical wall made of molded plastic material, within which are provided - a sealing structure at least liquid-tight, and - a honeycomb stiffening structure, also made of molded plastic, obtained in one piece with said cylindrical wall;
  • this honeycomb structure consists of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels, which extend from said closure structure to at least one of the upper and / or lower ends of the cylindrical body, at which they open, and it is in the form of a honeycomb structure, constituted channels, at least the majority of which has a hexagonal or substantially hexagonal cross section.
  • honeycomb structure gives this plug an excellent resistance to axial compression, as well as a relative radial flexibility, optimizing its intrinsic qualities of resistance and sealing capacity.
  • its radial compression is homogeneously during its insertion into the neck of the bottle.
  • the honeycomb structure does not appear to be deformed, which makes it possible to obtain good sealing characteristics, which are durable over time, and which makes it possible to maintain an optimal visual appearance.
  • this honeycomb structure allows the depression of any type of corkscrew, then the extraction of the cap without any problem.
  • the shutter structure is provided at the lower end of the cylindrical body.
  • the closure structure is provided at an intermediate position along the length of the cylindrical body, between the upper and lower ends.
  • the honeycomb stiffening structure consisting of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels, is provided in two parts which extend on each side of the closure structure.
  • the closure structure consists of a one-piece pellet of plastics material.
  • the closure structure of the cylindrical body comprises an overmoulded insert made of a material of a nature adapted to optimize the preservation and / or the evolution of the conditioned liquid in the bottle; this overmoulded insert is advantageously provided in cork (preferably of high quality) or in wood, of a suitable nature.
  • the overmolded insert is provided at the lower end of the cylindrical body, and is in the form of a circular pellet whose axis is coaxial with the cylindrical body of the plug ; this circular pellet is wrapped and held by the over-molding material - by means of a tubular extension at its cylindrical peripheral wall, - by means of two annular flanges at the outer crowns of its upper and lower faces, and - at average of the channel wall the honeycomb structure at its upper face accessible through the opening defined by said upper annular flange.
  • the cylindrical wall of the plug has an average thickness of between 1 and 3 mm;
  • the honeycomb structure consists of channels whose ratio between the average diameter and the average wall thickness is between 1 and 8, preferably between 2 and 6;
  • the honeycomb structure consists of a juxtaposition of longitudinal channels, in number between 10 and 50, preferably between 15 and 40.
  • one of the channels of the honeycomb structure is disposed on the axis of the cylindrical body.
  • the cylindrical wall of the cap comprises a juxtaposition of external annular protuberances, over at least part of its height, to optimize its sealing capacity of the neck of the bottle.
  • the lower portion of the cylindrical plug body has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the upper portion of said cylindrical body, in particular to facilitate its positioning on the neck of the bottle.
  • the upper part of the skirt which is located just under the separation tab cylindrical body / skirt, is shaped to be slightly spaced from the outer face of the neck of the bottle, once the whole correctly positioned on said bottle neck, to form a small annular reservoir for receiving any liquid run-off at the time of service.
  • the plug 1, shown on Figures 1 to 4 is in the form of a generally cylindrical body of central axis 2, made in one piece of a molded synthetic material, plastic type food contact such as polypropylene for example.
  • the cylindrical body 1 is mainly delimited - by a peripheral surface 3, and by - two ends, one upper 4 and the other lower 5.
  • the cylindrical body 1 comprises a cylindrical or tubular wall 6, inside which is arranged a honeycomb stiffening structure 7, obtained in one piece with said cylindrical wall 6 during the molding operation.
  • the corresponding cylindrical wall 6 extends over the entire length of the cylindrical body 1; it has an average thickness of between 1 and 3 mm. Its outer surface comprises a plurality of parallel annular protuberances 8 participating in the qualities of resistance and sealing of the plug. These protuberances 8 extend perpendicular to the axis 2 of the plug; in this case, a first annular protuberance 8 'is arranged at the upper end 4 of the body cylindrical 1, and a juxtaposition of protuberances 8 "are arranged on a little more than the lower half of the wall 6.
  • a smooth surface portion 9 separates the upper protuberance 8 'of the group of protuberances 8".
  • the cellular stiffening structure 7 consists of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels 10, here in this case 19 in number. These channels 10 have a hexagonal cross-section thus forming a general structure of honeycomb ( it will be noted that some of these channels, located on the periphery of the cellular structure 7, have a truncated hexagonal section, to maintain the thickness of the cylindrical wall 6 at a substantially constant value).
  • these channels 10 extend parallel to each other, and also parallel to the axis 2 of the plug, from the upper end 4 of the cylindrical body 1 at which they each open through an opening 11; these channels 10 extend to the lower end 5 of the cylindrical body 1, at which there is provided a closure structure 12 in the form of one-piece pellet of plastic.
  • one of the channels 10 ' is arranged coaxially with the axis 2 of the cylindrical body 1; the other channels 10 are distributed on circular and concentric lines around this central channel 10 '.
  • the walls of the channels 10 are relatively thin with respect to their average diameter; in particular, the ratio between the average diameter of the channels 10, and the average thickness of their wall, is between 1 and 8, and more preferably between 2 and 6. As a result, the volume occupied by the channels 10 is very small. much higher than the volume occupied by the plastic material.
  • the channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7 are distributed homogeneously over the entire section of the plug, inside the cylindrical wall 6.
  • a light plug is thus obtained, requiring little molding material but nevertheless having excellent resistance to longitudinal or axial compression, as well as relative transverse or radial flexibility.
  • the sealing of a bottle previously filled with a liquid of interest is achieved by suitably forcing the stopper 1 into the opening 15 of the neck 16, as illustrated in FIG. figure 4 .
  • the upper end 4 of the cap 1 is oriented towards the outside of the bottle, so that its channels 10 also open outwards; the lower end 5 of the plug, provided with the sealing pellet 12, is in turn positioned on the inner side of the bottle.
  • the radial flexibility of this plug linked to the internal honeycomb structure 7, associated with the action of the annular protuberances 8 (8 ', 8 ") makes it possible to obtain good sealing properties. not deformed or hardly not after insertion of the stopper into the neck of the bottle.
  • the extraction of the cap can be carried out by means of a conventional corkscrew equipped with a spiral screw.
  • the central channel 10 'facilitates the correct positioning of the end of the screw of the corkscrew; and the honeycomb stiffening structure 7 allows a proper depression of the screw, and effective traction for the extraction of the plug.
  • the upper part of the honeycomb structure 7 can serve as a receiving surface for any advertising or informative organ, for example for a protective tablet provided with a tax stamp necessary for the marketing of wines in particular.
  • the section of the channels 10, 10 'of the honeycomb structure 7 is advantageously slightly decreasing from the upper end 4 to the lower end 5. This feature is related to the necessary presence of a draft on the molding pins, to allow or at least facilitate demolding.
  • a plug 1 in the general shape of a cylindrical body, comprising a cylindrical wall 6 provided on its periphery with a plurality of juxtaposed annular protuberances 8 ', 8 ".Furthermore, the cellular stiffening structure 7, produced in one piece plastic molded with the cylindrical wall 6, and consisting of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels 10 forming a honeycomb structure (here the channels are 37 in number), these channels 10 extend from the upper end 4 where they open outwards, to the closure structure 20 provided with the molded insert 21.
  • the shutter structure 20 in question, containing the insert 21, is visible in detail on the figure 6 .
  • the corresponding insert 21 consists of a cylindrical pellet, made of a material adapted to optimize the preservation and / or evolution of the conditioned liquid in the equipped bottle.
  • the type of insert used is chosen according to the conditioned liquid in the bottle, and according to the desired conservation and / or evolution parameters.
  • this insert is preferably made of cork, preferably of high quality; this allows to propose a cap "traditional type" of high quality but at an acceptable cost because of the small amounts of cork used.
  • the insert in question can also be made of wood, adapted nature.
  • the insert 21 is held within the lower closure structure 20 by the overmoulding plastic, so that its upper part 22 is in relation with the outside through at least some of the channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7, and secondly, that its lower part 23 is in relation with the internal environment of the bottle, once the cap 1 properly put in place.
  • the insert 21 is in the form of a circular pellet arranged coaxially with the axis 2 of the plug. It is maintained by the overmoulding material at its cylindrical peripheral wall, by means of a tubular extension 24, and at the level of the outer rings of its upper and lower faces 23, by means of two annular flanges, respectively 25 and 26.
  • the flanges 25 and 26 respectively respectively define an opening 27 and 28, through which the upper faces 22 and lower 23 of the insert are connected to the outside; the upper face 22 of the insert 21, accessible through the opening 27, is still maintained by the walls of the channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7.
  • the insert 21 may have a diameter of between 3 and 16 mm and a thickness of between 3 and 20 mm.
  • the lower opening 28, delimited by the overmolding flange 26 is centered on the axis 2 and may have a diameter of between 2 and 15 mm.
  • the upper opening 27, also centered on the axis 2, may have the same caliber.
  • the upper overmolding collar 25 which delimits the upper opening 27, and the cellular stiffening structure 7, together define mechanical support means capable of avoiding, or at least greatly limiting, the deformations or alterations of the insert. 21 when placing the stopper on the receiving bottle (in particular for the inserts of relatively soft material such as cork). Indeed, during the establishment of plugs on the bottles, in particular by conventional mechanized means, the axial pressures supported are sometimes very high.
  • the honeycomb structure 7 serves a function of protecting the integrity of the insert 21 by blocking the accidental introduction of external objects; in addition, if an insert 21 of microporous type is used, it promotes exchanges between the conditioned liquid and the outside.
  • the lower end 5 of the plug 1 has a diameter slightly smaller than the rest of the cylindrical body. This feature facilitates the positioning and insertion of the cap on the neck of the bottle.
  • the portion of slightly smaller diameter is devoid of annular protuberance and corresponds here to the thickness of the closure structure 20.
  • the corresponding diameter reduction can be obtained in the context of the plug manufacturing process, and in particular in a natural way due to the compression of the insert due to the high pressures used.
  • the corresponding compression is obtained in particular for cork inserts; this compression also has the effect of improving the sealing characteristics between the materials after molding.
  • the third embodiment of plug illustrated by the Figures 7 to 10 , has a general structure identical to the embodiment described above in relation to the Figures 5 and 6 and further comprises a peripheral monobloc skirt intended to cover the outer face of the neck of the receiving bottle.
  • a cap in the general shape of cylindrical body 1 comprising a cylindrical wall 6, in which is arranged a honeycomb structure 7 consisting of a juxtaposition of longitudinal channels 10, organized in the general shape of honeycomb; these channels extend from the upper end 4 of the plug where they open, to the lower end 5 where they are closed by the closure structure 20 provided with the insert 21 adapted.
  • the corresponding ring 30 is structured to form a sort of tongue easy to remove manually or by means of a suitable tool, so as to separate the portion "plug” 1 itself and the part “skirt” 31, to allow the extraction of the "cork” 1 by the consumer.
  • the ring 30 is delimited by two parallel annular lines 32 and 33, where the material is thinned to form sorts of precut lines; these lines constitute for one 32, the connecting line with the upper end 4 of the cylindrical body 1, and for the other 33, the connecting line with the skirt 31.
  • this ring 30 is further provided with a thin line of material 34, extending between the two lines of links 32 and 33 above; this line of thinned material 34, here shaped in a slightly rounded manner, facilitates the gripping of one end of the crown / tongue 30, and its removal by traction in a movement of revolution around the neck 16 of the bottle.
  • the upper end 35 of the skirt 31 is slightly flared so as to deviate a few millimeters from the outer face of the neck of the bottle.
  • This particular conformation makes it possible to form a kind of small annular reservoir 36 around the perimeter of the neck, once the tongue 30 has been removed.
  • This small peripheral reservoir 36 is adapted to collect any liquid run-off at the time of service.
  • This plug structure is adapted so that the monobloc skirt 31 envelops at best the neck of the bottle when the cap portion is correctly positioned in the neck.
  • the corresponding implementation is carried out by any suitable mechanical means, or manually.
  • the cap with its one-piece skirt may be devoid of annular reservoir 36.
  • the one-piece skirt 31, with or without an annular reservoir 36 may be envisaged in the extension of the upper part of a plastic plug which does not comprise the cellular stiffening structure 7 defined below. above, or possibly the insert 21 cork or wood. It is even conceivable to make such a skirt 31 with the annular reservoir 36 and without associated plug structure, the upper part of this skirt being simply provided with a one-piece circular pellet belted by the tongue 30.
  • FIG 11 Another possible embodiment of the plug according to the present invention, illustrated on the figure 11 , stands out structurally from the cap described above in relation to the Figures 5 to 10 , because its overmolded insert is provided in an intermediate position along the length of the cylindrical body, between two parts of honeycomb structure allowing its relationship with the outside.
  • FIG. 11 there is a cap in the general shape of cylindrical body 1 comprising a cylindrical wall 6 surrounding the molded insert 21 in the form of a circular pellet of cork or wood type, arranged coaxially with the axis 2 of the plug.
  • the insert 21 is located centrally along the length of the plug, and the cellular stiffening structure is made in two parts 7 'and 7 ", identical or at least similar, arranged on the one hand and other of said insert 21.
  • These two parts of cellular structure 7 'and 7 consistist of a juxtaposition of longitudinal channels 10, in the general shape of honeycomb, and are identical to those described above in relation to the Figures 1 to 10 .
  • the channels 10 extend from the insert 21 to the ends 4 and 5 of the plug at which they open
  • a symmetrical plug is obtained that can be positioned in any direction on the neck of a bottle.
  • the molded insert of the figure 11 can be replaced by a one-piece plastic closure structure similar to that previously described in connection with the Figures 1 to 4 .

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Casting Or Compression Moulding Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Centrifugal Separators (AREA)
  • Control And Other Processes For Unpacking Of Materials (AREA)

Abstract

An improvement to the plugs of bottles generally cylindrical in shape, delineated by a so-called upper end ( 4 ) and a so-called lower end ( 5 ). The cylindrical body ( 1 ) of the plug includes a cylindrical wall ( 6 ) made of moulded plastic material, inside which are provided-a sealing structure ( 20 ) at least liquid-proof, and-a stiffening honeycomb structure ( 7 ), also made of moulded plastic material, provided as single block with the cylindrical wall; the honeycomb structure ( 7 ) is formed of a plurality of longitudinal channels ( 10 ) juxtaposed, which channels ( 10 ) extend from the sealing structure ( 20 ) up to at least one of the upper ( 4 ) and/or lower ( 5 ) ends of the cylindrical body ( 1 ), at which they emerge, and it is in the form of a beehive structure, formed of channels, whereof at least the greater portion exhibits transversal hexagonal or substantially hexagonal section. The sealing structure ( 20 ) includes advantageously of a compound-filled insert ( 21 ) whose nature is appropriate for optimising the preservation and/or the evolution of the liquid packed in the bottle.

Description

La présente invention concerne une nouvelle structure de bouchon pour bouteille.The present invention relates to a novel bottle cap structure.

On connaît de très nombreux types différents de bouchons, adaptés pour assurer l'étanchéité au niveau de l'ouverture du goulot des bouteilles équipées.Many different types of plugs are known, adapted to ensure tightness at the opening of the neck of the equipped bottles.

Depuis plusieurs siècles, on utilise des bouchons de forme générale cylindrique en liège. Mais le liège est de plus en plus critiqué du fait de son prix élevé dans les hautes qualités, ou du fait des qualités inconstantes, voire médiocres, dans les gammes de prix raisonnables.For centuries, cork-shaped caps have been used. But the cork is more and more criticized because of its high price in the high qualities, or because of the inconstant qualities, even mediocre, in the reasonable price ranges.

En conséquence, les utilisateurs se tournent de plus en plus vers les bouchons en matière synthétique, en particulier en matière plastique moulée ou extrudée (voir notamment les bouchons décrits dans les documents GB-1 030 775 , CH-307 930 ou encore FR-1 078 273 ). Mais les bouchons synthétiques présentés dans ces documents comportent une structure alvéolaire dont les canaux ont des sections circulaires ou oblongues qui se déforment lors de l'enfoncement dans le goulot d'une bouteille. L'aspect visuel des bouchons comprimés n'est alors pas optimal, tout comme leurs caractéristiques de résistance, d'élasticité et d'étanchéité.
D'autre part, ces bouchons synthétiques ne permettent généralement pas d'optimiser la conservation ou l'évolution du liquide conditionné, en particulier lorsqu'il s'agit de vin.As a result, users are turning more and more towards plastic plugs, in particular molded or extruded plastics (see in particular the plugs described in the documents GB-1,030,775 , CH-307 930 or FR-1 078 273 ). But the synthetic plugs shown in these documents comprise a honeycomb structure whose channels have circular or oblong sections that deform upon depression in the neck of a bottle. The visual appearance of the compressed plugs is then not optimal, as are their characteristics of strength, elasticity and tightness.
On the other hand, these synthetic stoppers generally do not allow to optimize the conservation or evolution of the packaged liquid, especially when it comes to wine.

La présente invention a pour but de proposer un nouveau bouchon efficace, c'est-à-dire procurant une étanchéité exemplaire, présentant de bonnes caractéristiques de compressibilité radiale, de structure relativement simple et d'un coût de revient peu onéreux.The present invention aims to provide a new effective cap, that is to say providing an exemplary seal, having good characteristics of radial compressibility, relatively simple structure and inexpensive cost.

A cet effet, le bouchon conforme à la présente invention est en forme de corps cylindrique, délimité par une extrémité dite supérieure et par une extrémité dite inférieure, cette dernière étant destinée à être engagée la première dans le goulot de la bouteille ; ce corps cylindrique comprend une paroi cylindrique réalisée en matière plastique moulée, à l'intérieure de laquelle sont prévues - une structure d'obturation au moins étanche aux liquides, et - une structure alvéolaire de rigidification, également en matière plastique moulée, obtenue monobloc avec ladite paroi cylindrique ; cette structure alvéolaire est constituée d'une pluralité de canaux longitudinaux juxtaposés, qui s'étendent depuis ladite structure d'obturation jusqu'à l'une au moins des extrémités supérieure et/ou inférieure du corps cylindrique, au niveau de laquelle ou desquelles ils débouchent, et elle est en forme de structure nid d'abeilles, constituée de canaux dont au moins la majorité présente une section transversale hexagonale ou sensiblement hexagonale.
La structure alvéolaire correspondante confère à ce bouchon une excellente résistance à la compression axiale, ainsi qu'une relative flexibilité radiale, optimisant ses qualités intrinsèques de résistance et de capacité d'étanchement. En particulier, sa compression radiale s'effectue de manière homogène lors de son enfoncement dans le goulot de la bouteille. Une fois logé dans son goulot de réception, la structure nid d'abeilles n'apparaît pratiquement pas déformée, ce qui permet d'obtenir de bonnes caractéristiques d'étanchéité, durables dans le temps, et ce qui permet de conserver un aspect visuel optimal.
En outre, cette structure alvéolaire permet l'enfoncement de tout type de tire-bouchon, puis l'extraction du bouchon sans aucun problème.For this purpose, the stopper according to the present invention is in the form of a cylindrical body delimited by a so-called upper end and a so-called lower end, the latter being intended to be engaged first in the neck of the bottle; this cylindrical body comprises a cylindrical wall made of molded plastic material, within which are provided - a sealing structure at least liquid-tight, and - a honeycomb stiffening structure, also made of molded plastic, obtained in one piece with said cylindrical wall; this honeycomb structure consists of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels, which extend from said closure structure to at least one of the upper and / or lower ends of the cylindrical body, at which they open, and it is in the form of a honeycomb structure, constituted channels, at least the majority of which has a hexagonal or substantially hexagonal cross section.
The corresponding honeycomb structure gives this plug an excellent resistance to axial compression, as well as a relative radial flexibility, optimizing its intrinsic qualities of resistance and sealing capacity. In particular, its radial compression is homogeneously during its insertion into the neck of the bottle. Once housed in its receiving neck, the honeycomb structure does not appear to be deformed, which makes it possible to obtain good sealing characteristics, which are durable over time, and which makes it possible to maintain an optimal visual appearance. .
In addition, this honeycomb structure allows the depression of any type of corkscrew, then the extraction of the cap without any problem.

Dans une première forme de réalisation intéressante, la structure d'obturation est prévue au niveau de l'extrémité inférieure du corps cylindrique.In a first interesting embodiment, the shutter structure is provided at the lower end of the cylindrical body.

Dans une seconde forme de réalisation possible, la structure d'obturation est prévue au niveau d'une position intermédiaire sur la longueur du corps cylindrique, entre les extrémités supérieure et inférieure.
Dans ce cas, la structure alvéolaire de rigidification, constituée d'une pluralité de canaux longitudinaux juxtaposés, est prévue en deux parties qui s'étendent de chaque côté de la structure d'obturation.In a second possible embodiment, the closure structure is provided at an intermediate position along the length of the cylindrical body, between the upper and lower ends.
In this case, the honeycomb stiffening structure, consisting of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels, is provided in two parts which extend on each side of the closure structure.

Selon un mode particulier de réalisation de l'invention, la structure d'obturation consiste en une pastille monobloc de matière plastique.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the closure structure consists of a one-piece pellet of plastics material.

Dans une variante de réalisation préférée, la structure d'obturation du corps cylindrique comprend un insert surmoulé réalisé en un matériau de nature adaptée pour optimiser la conservation et/ou l'évolution du liquide conditionné dans la bouteille ; cet insert surmoulé est avantageusement prévu en liège (de préférence de haute qualité) ou encore en bois, de nature adaptée.
Selon une forme préférentielle de réalisation de cette variante, l'insert surmoulé est prévu au niveau de l'extrémité inférieure du corps cylindrique, et il se présente sous la forme d'une pastille circulaire dont l'axe est coaxial au corps cylindrique du bouchon ; cette pastille circulaire est enveloppée et maintenue par le matériau de surmoulage - au moyen d'un prolongement tubulaire au niveau de sa paroi périphérique cylindrique, - au moyen de deux collerettes annulaires au niveau des couronnes externes de ses faces supérieure et inférieure, et - au moyen de la paroi des canaux de la structure alvéolaire au niveau de sa face supérieure accessible au travers de l'ouverture délimitée par ladite collerette annulaire supérieure.In a preferred embodiment variant, the closure structure of the cylindrical body comprises an overmoulded insert made of a material of a nature adapted to optimize the preservation and / or the evolution of the conditioned liquid in the bottle; this overmoulded insert is advantageously provided in cork (preferably of high quality) or in wood, of a suitable nature.
According to a preferred embodiment of this variant, the overmolded insert is provided at the lower end of the cylindrical body, and is in the form of a circular pellet whose axis is coaxial with the cylindrical body of the plug ; this circular pellet is wrapped and held by the over-molding material - by means of a tubular extension at its cylindrical peripheral wall, - by means of two annular flanges at the outer crowns of its upper and lower faces, and - at average of the channel wall the honeycomb structure at its upper face accessible through the opening defined by said upper annular flange.

Selon d'autres caractéristiques particulièrement intéressantes, la paroi cylindrique du bouchon a une épaisseur moyenne comprise entre 1 et 3 mm ; la structure alvéolaire est constituée de canaux dont le rapport entre le diamètre moyen et l'épaisseur moyenne des parois est compris entre 1 et 8, de préférence entre 2 et 6 ; la structure alvéolaire est constituée d'une juxtaposition de canaux longitudinaux, en nombre compris entre 10 et 50, de préférence entre 15 et 40.According to other particularly interesting characteristics, the cylindrical wall of the plug has an average thickness of between 1 and 3 mm; the honeycomb structure consists of channels whose ratio between the average diameter and the average wall thickness is between 1 and 8, preferably between 2 and 6; the honeycomb structure consists of a juxtaposition of longitudinal channels, in number between 10 and 50, preferably between 15 and 40.

D'autre part, en particulier pour faciliter le centrage du tire-bouchon, l'un des canaux de la structure alvéolaire est disposé sur l'axe du corps cylindrique.On the other hand, in particular to facilitate the centering of the corkscrew, one of the channels of the honeycomb structure is disposed on the axis of the cylindrical body.

Selon une autre particularité, la paroi cylindrique du bouchon comporte une juxtaposition de protubérances annulaires externes, sur au moins une partie de sa hauteur, pour optimiser sa capacité d'étanchement du goulot de la bouteille.According to another feature, the cylindrical wall of the cap comprises a juxtaposition of external annular protuberances, over at least part of its height, to optimize its sealing capacity of the neck of the bottle.

Selon encore une autre particularité, la partie inférieure du corps cylindrique de bouchon a un diamètre légèrement inférieur au diamètre de la partie supérieure dudit corps cylindrique, en particulier pour faciliter son positionnement sur le goulot de la bouteille.According to yet another feature, the lower portion of the cylindrical plug body has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the upper portion of said cylindrical body, in particular to facilitate its positioning on the neck of the bottle.

Encore selon une autre particularité, la partie supérieure du corps cylindrique se prolonge par une jupe monobloc destinée à venir recouvrir la face externe de la partie supérieure du goulot de la bouteille.
Dans ce cadre, au niveau de la partie de liaison entre le corps cylindrique et la jupe de recouvrement, le bouchon comporte avantageusement deux lignes circulaires parallèles de matière amincie, délimitant une couronne, réunies par une ligne de matière également amincie, lesdites lignes amincies constituant une languette facile à enlever manuellement ou au moyen d'un outil approprié, pour séparer la partie « bouchon » proprement dite de la partie « jupe ».According to another feature, the upper part of the cylindrical body is extended by a one-piece skirt designed to cover the outer face of the upper part of the neck of the bottle.
In this context, at the level of the connecting portion between the cylindrical body and the cover skirt, the stopper advantageously comprises two parallel circular lines of thinned material, delimiting a ring, joined by a line of material also thinned, said thin lines constituting a tab easy to remove manually or by means of a suitable tool, to separate the "plug" part itself of the "skirt" part.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique, la partie supérieure de la jupe, qui est située juste sous la languette de séparation corps cylindrique/jupe, est conformée de manière à être légèrement écartée de la face externe du goulot de la bouteille, une fois l'ensemble correctement positionné sur ledit goulot de bouteille, pour constituer un petit réservoir annulaire de réception des éventuelles coulures de liquide au moment du service.According to yet another feature, the upper part of the skirt, which is located just under the separation tab cylindrical body / skirt, is shaped to be slightly spaced from the outer face of the neck of the bottle, once the whole correctly positioned on said bottle neck, to form a small annular reservoir for receiving any liquid run-off at the time of service.

L'invention va maintenant être illustrée, sans être aucunement limitée, par la description suivante de plusieurs modes de réalisation particuliers, donnés uniquement à titre d'exemples, et représentés sur les dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'une première forme de réalisation possible d'un bouchon conforme à la présente invention ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue en coupe longitudinale du bouchon illustré sur la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue de dessus du bouchon des figures 1 et 2 ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue en coupe longitudinale qui montre le positionnement du bouchon des figures 1 à 3 dans le goulot d'une bouteille ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue en perspective d'une seconde forme de réalisation possible d'un bouchon conforme à la présente invention ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue en coupe longitudinale du bouchon de la figure 5 en place dans le goulot d'une bouteille ;
  • la figure 7 est une vue en perspective d'une troisième forme de réalisation possible d'un bouchon conforme à l'invention, équipé d'une jupe externe monobloc ;
  • la figure 8 est une vue de dessus du bouchon illustré sur la figure 7 ;
  • la figure 9 est une vue de côté du bouchon illustré sur les figures 7 et 8 ;
  • la figure 10 est une vue en coupe longitudinale du bouchon illustré sur les figures 7 à 9, en position dans le goulot d'une bouteille ;
  • la figure 11 est une vue en coupe longitudinale d'une quatrième forme de réalisation possible d'un bouchon conforme à l'invention, dans lequel un insert surmoulé est placé en position intermédiaire centrale, encadré par la structure alvéolaire de rigidification disposée de part et d'autre.
The invention will now be illustrated, without being limited in any way, by the following description of several particular embodiments, given solely by way of example, and represented in the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a perspective view of a first possible embodiment of a plug according to the present invention;
  • the figure 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the cap illustrated on the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 3 is a top view of the cap of Figures 1 and 2 ;
  • the figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the positioning of the plug of Figures 1 to 3 in the neck of a bottle;
  • the figure 5 is a perspective view of a second possible embodiment of a plug according to the present invention;
  • the figure 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of the cap of the figure 5 in place in the neck of a bottle;
  • the figure 7 is a perspective view of a third possible embodiment of a plug according to the invention, equipped with a one-piece outer skirt;
  • the figure 8 is a top view of the cap shown on the figure 7 ;
  • the figure 9 is a side view of the cap shown on the Figures 7 and 8 ;
  • the figure 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of the cap illustrated on the Figures 7 to 9 , in position in the neck of a bottle;
  • the figure 11 is a longitudinal sectional view of a fourth possible embodiment of a plug according to the invention, in which an overmolded insert is placed in central central position, framed by the alveolar stiffening structure arranged on either side .

Le bouchon 1, représenté sur les figures 1 à 4, se présente sous la forme d'un corps de forme générale cylindrique d'axe central 2, réalisé monobloc en un matériau synthétique moulé, de type plastique à contact alimentaire tel que le polypropylène par exemple. Le corps cylindrique 1 est principalement délimité - par une surface périphérique 3, et par - deux extrémités, l'une supérieure 4 et l'autre inférieure 5.The plug 1, shown on Figures 1 to 4 , is in the form of a generally cylindrical body of central axis 2, made in one piece of a molded synthetic material, plastic type food contact such as polypropylene for example. The cylindrical body 1 is mainly delimited - by a peripheral surface 3, and by - two ends, one upper 4 and the other lower 5.

Plus précisément, le corps cylindrique 1 comprend une paroi cylindrique ou tubulaire 6, à l'intérieur de laquelle est aménagée une structure alvéolaire de rigidification 7, obtenue monobloc avec ladite paroi cylindrique 6 lors de l'opération de moulage.More specifically, the cylindrical body 1 comprises a cylindrical or tubular wall 6, inside which is arranged a honeycomb stiffening structure 7, obtained in one piece with said cylindrical wall 6 during the molding operation.

La paroi cylindrique 6 correspondante s'étend sur toute la longueur du corps cylindrique 1 ; elle a une épaisseur moyenne comprise entre 1 et 3 mm. Sa surface externe comporte une pluralité de protubérances annulaires parallèles 8 participant aux qualités de résistance et d'étanchement du bouchon. Ces protubérances 8 s'étendent perpendiculairement à l'axe 2 du bouchon ; en l'occurrence, une première protubérance annulaire 8' est agencée au niveau de l'extrémité supérieure 4 du corps cylindrique 1, et une juxtaposition de protubérances 8" sont aménagées sur un peu plus de la moitié inférieure de la paroi 6. Un tronçon de surface lisse 9 sépare la protubérance supérieure 8' du groupe de protubérances 8".The corresponding cylindrical wall 6 extends over the entire length of the cylindrical body 1; it has an average thickness of between 1 and 3 mm. Its outer surface comprises a plurality of parallel annular protuberances 8 participating in the qualities of resistance and sealing of the plug. These protuberances 8 extend perpendicular to the axis 2 of the plug; in this case, a first annular protuberance 8 'is arranged at the upper end 4 of the body cylindrical 1, and a juxtaposition of protuberances 8 "are arranged on a little more than the lower half of the wall 6. A smooth surface portion 9 separates the upper protuberance 8 'of the group of protuberances 8".

La structure alvéolaire de rigidification 7 est quant à elle constituée d'une pluralité de canaux longitudinaux juxtaposés 10, en l'occurrence ici au nombre de 19. Ces canaux 10 présentent une section transversale hexagonale formant ainsi une structure générale de nid d'abeilles (on notera que certains de ces canaux, situés sur la périphérie de la structure alvéolaire 7, présentent une section hexagonale tronquée, pour maintenir l'épaisseur de la paroi cylindrique 6 à une valeur sensiblement constante).
Sur les figures 2 et 4, on observe que ces canaux 10 s'étendent parallèlement les uns aux autres, et également parallèlement à l'axe 2 du bouchon, depuis l'extrémité supérieure 4 du corps cylindrique 1 au niveau de laquelle ils débouchent chacun par une ouverture 11 ; ces canaux 10 s'étendent jusqu'à l'extrémité inférieure 5 du corps cylindrique 1, au niveau de laquelle est prévue une structure d'obturation 12 en forme de pastille monobloc de matière plastique.
Sur les figures 2 et 3, on remarque encore que l'un des canaux 10' est agencé coaxialement à l'axe 2 du corps cylindrique 1 ; les autres canaux 10 sont répartis sur des lignes circulaires, et concentriques, autour de ce canal central 10'.The cellular stiffening structure 7 consists of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels 10, here in this case 19 in number. These channels 10 have a hexagonal cross-section thus forming a general structure of honeycomb ( it will be noted that some of these channels, located on the periphery of the cellular structure 7, have a truncated hexagonal section, to maintain the thickness of the cylindrical wall 6 at a substantially constant value).
On the Figures 2 and 4 it is observed that these channels 10 extend parallel to each other, and also parallel to the axis 2 of the plug, from the upper end 4 of the cylindrical body 1 at which they each open through an opening 11; these channels 10 extend to the lower end 5 of the cylindrical body 1, at which there is provided a closure structure 12 in the form of one-piece pellet of plastic.
On the Figures 2 and 3 it is further noted that one of the channels 10 'is arranged coaxially with the axis 2 of the cylindrical body 1; the other channels 10 are distributed on circular and concentric lines around this central channel 10 '.

Les parois des canaux 10 sont relativement minces par rapport à leur diamètre moyen ; en particulier, le rapport entre le diamètre moyen des canaux 10, et l'épaisseur moyenne de leur paroi, est compris entre 1 et 8, et de préférence encore entre 2 et 6. En conséquence, le volume occupé par les canaux 10 est très largement supérieur au volume occupé par la matière plastique.The walls of the channels 10 are relatively thin with respect to their average diameter; in particular, the ratio between the average diameter of the channels 10, and the average thickness of their wall, is between 1 and 8, and more preferably between 2 and 6. As a result, the volume occupied by the channels 10 is very small. much higher than the volume occupied by the plastic material.

Les canaux 10 de la structure alvéolaire 7 sont répartis de manière homogène sur toute la section du bouchon, à l'intérieur de la paroi cylindrique 6.The channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7 are distributed homogeneously over the entire section of the plug, inside the cylindrical wall 6.

On obtient ainsi un bouchon léger, nécessitant peu de matière de moulage mais présentant néanmoins une excellente résistance à la compression longitudinale ou axiale, ainsi qu'une relative flexibilité transversale ou radiale.
De manière classique, la fermeture étanche d'une bouteille préalablement remplie par un liquide d'intérêt, est réalisée en insérant convenablement à force le bouchon 1 au sein de l'ouverture 15 du goulot 16, comme illustré sur la figure 4.
Dans cette position, l'extrémité supérieure 4 du bouchon 1 est orientée vers l'extérieur de la bouteille, de sorte que ses canaux 10 débouchent également vers l'extérieur ; l'extrémité inférieure 5 du bouchon, munie de la pastille d'obturation 12, vient quant à elle se positionner du côté intérieur de la bouteille.
La flexibilité radiale de ce bouchon, liée à la structure alvéolaire interne 7, associée à l'action des protubérances annulaires 8 (8', 8") permet d'obtenir de bonnes propriétés d'étanchéité. La structure en nid d'abeilles ne se déforme pas ou pratiquement pas après insertion du bouchon dans le goulot de la bouteille.A light plug is thus obtained, requiring little molding material but nevertheless having excellent resistance to longitudinal or axial compression, as well as relative transverse or radial flexibility.
In a conventional manner, the sealing of a bottle previously filled with a liquid of interest, is achieved by suitably forcing the stopper 1 into the opening 15 of the neck 16, as illustrated in FIG. figure 4 .
In this position, the upper end 4 of the cap 1 is oriented towards the outside of the bottle, so that its channels 10 also open outwards; the lower end 5 of the plug, provided with the sealing pellet 12, is in turn positioned on the inner side of the bottle.
The radial flexibility of this plug, linked to the internal honeycomb structure 7, associated with the action of the annular protuberances 8 (8 ', 8 ") makes it possible to obtain good sealing properties. not deformed or hardly not after insertion of the stopper into the neck of the bottle.

L'extraction du bouchon peut être réalisée au moyen d'un tire-bouchon classique équipé d'une vis spirale. Le canal central 10' facilite le positionnement correct de l'extrémité de la vis du tire-bouchon ; et la structure alvéolaire de rigidification 7 permet un enfoncement correct de cette vis, puis une traction efficace en vue de l'extraction du bouchon.The extraction of the cap can be carried out by means of a conventional corkscrew equipped with a spiral screw. The central channel 10 'facilitates the correct positioning of the end of the screw of the corkscrew; and the honeycomb stiffening structure 7 allows a proper depression of the screw, and effective traction for the extraction of the plug.

La partie supérieure de la structure alvéolaire 7 peut servir de surface de réception pour tout organe publicitaire ou informatif, par exemple pour une pastille protectrice munie d'un timbre fiscal nécessaire à la commercialisation des vins en particulier.The upper part of the honeycomb structure 7 can serve as a receiving surface for any advertising or informative organ, for example for a protective tablet provided with a tax stamp necessary for the marketing of wines in particular.

La section des canaux 10, 10' de la structure alvéolaire 7 est avantageusement légèrement décroissante de l'extrémité supérieure 4 vers l'extrémité inférieure 5. Cette particularité est liée à la présence nécessaire d'une dépouille sur les broches de moulage, pour permettre ou tout au moins faciliter le démoulage.The section of the channels 10, 10 'of the honeycomb structure 7 is advantageously slightly decreasing from the upper end 4 to the lower end 5. This feature is related to the necessary presence of a draft on the molding pins, to allow or at least facilitate demolding.

La seconde forme de réalisation du bouchon, illustrée sur les figures 5 et 6, se distingue de celle décrite ci-dessus en relation avec les figures 1 à 4, principalement par la présence d'un insert surmoulé au niveau de son extrémité inférieure 5.The second embodiment of the plug, illustrated on the Figures 5 and 6 differs from that described above in relation to the Figures 1 to 4 , mainly by the presence of an insert molded at its lower end 5.

Ainsi, sur ces figures 5 et 6, on retrouve un bouchon 1 en forme générale de corps cylindrique, comprenant une paroi cylindrique 6 munie sur sa périphérie d'une pluralité de protubérances annulaires juxtaposées 8', 8". On retrouve encore la structure alvéolaire de rigidification 7, réalisée monobloc en matière plastique moulée avec la paroi cylindrique 6, et constituée d'une pluralité de canaux longitudinaux 10 juxtaposés formant une structure en nid d'abeilles (les canaux 10 sont ici au nombre de 37) ; ces canaux 10 s'étendent depuis l'extrémité supérieure 4 où ils débouchent vers l'extérieur, jusqu'à la structure d'obturation 20 munie de l'insert surmoulé 21.So, on these Figures 5 and 6 , there is a plug 1 in the general shape of a cylindrical body, comprising a cylindrical wall 6 provided on its periphery with a plurality of juxtaposed annular protuberances 8 ', 8 ".Furthermore, the cellular stiffening structure 7, produced in one piece plastic molded with the cylindrical wall 6, and consisting of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels 10 forming a honeycomb structure (here the channels are 37 in number), these channels 10 extend from the upper end 4 where they open outwards, to the closure structure 20 provided with the molded insert 21.

La structure d'obturation 20 en question, contenant l'insert 21, est visible en détail sur la figure 6.
L'insert 21 correspondant consiste en une pastille cylindrique, réalisée dans un matériau adapté pour optimiser la conservation et/ou l'évolution du liquide conditionné dans la bouteille équipée. Le type d'insert utilisé est choisi selon le liquide conditionné dans la bouteille, et selon les paramètres de conservation et/ou d'évolution souhaités. Pour du vin, cet insert est de préférence réalisé en liège, avantageusement de haute qualité ; cela permet de proposer un bouchon « type traditionnel », de haute qualité mais à un coût acceptable du fait des petites quantités de liège utilisées.
L'insert en question peut aussi être réalisé en bois, de nature adaptée.The shutter structure 20 in question, containing the insert 21, is visible in detail on the figure 6 .
The corresponding insert 21 consists of a cylindrical pellet, made of a material adapted to optimize the preservation and / or evolution of the conditioned liquid in the equipped bottle. The type of insert used is chosen according to the conditioned liquid in the bottle, and according to the desired conservation and / or evolution parameters. For wine, this insert is preferably made of cork, preferably of high quality; this allows to propose a cap "traditional type" of high quality but at an acceptable cost because of the small amounts of cork used.
The insert in question can also be made of wood, adapted nature.

Pour lui permettre de remplir convenablement sa fonction, l'insert 21 est maintenu au sein de la structure d'obturation inférieure 20, par la matière plastique de surmoulage, de sorte, d'une part, que sa partie supérieure 22 soit en relation avec l'extérieur par l'intermédiaire de certains au moins des canaux 10 de la structure alvéolaire 7, et d'autre part, que sa partie inférieure 23 soit en relation avec l'environnement interne de la bouteille, une fois le bouchon 1 convenablement mis en place.To enable it to perform its function properly, the insert 21 is held within the lower closure structure 20 by the overmoulding plastic, so that its upper part 22 is in relation with the outside through at least some of the channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7, and secondly, that its lower part 23 is in relation with the internal environment of the bottle, once the cap 1 properly put in place.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré, l'insert 21 se présente sous la forme d'une pastille circulaire agencée coaxialement avec l'axe 2 du bouchon. Il est maintenu par le matériau de surmoulage au niveau de sa paroi périphérique cylindrique, au moyen d'un prolongement tubulaire 24, et au niveau des couronnes externes de ses faces supérieure 22 et inférieure 23, au moyen de deux collerettes annulaires, respectivement 25 et 26. Les collerettes 25 et 26 délimitent ainsi respectivement chacune une ouverture 27 et 28, au travers desquelles les faces supérieure 22 et inférieure 23 de l'insert sont en relation avec l'extérieur ; la face supérieure 22 de l'insert 21, accessible au travers de l'ouverture 27, est encore maintenue par les parois des canaux 10 de la structure alvéolaire 7.In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 21 is in the form of a circular pellet arranged coaxially with the axis 2 of the plug. It is maintained by the overmoulding material at its cylindrical peripheral wall, by means of a tubular extension 24, and at the level of the outer rings of its upper and lower faces 23, by means of two annular flanges, respectively 25 and 26. The flanges 25 and 26 respectively respectively define an opening 27 and 28, through which the upper faces 22 and lower 23 of the insert are connected to the outside; the upper face 22 of the insert 21, accessible through the opening 27, is still maintained by the walls of the channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7.

L'insert 21 peut avoir un diamètre compris entre 3 et 16 mm et une épaisseur comprise entre 3 et 20 mm.The insert 21 may have a diameter of between 3 and 16 mm and a thickness of between 3 and 20 mm.

L'ouverture inférieure 28, délimitée par la collerette de surmoulage 26 est centrée sur l'axe 2 et peut avoir un diamètre compris entre 2 et 15 mm. L'ouverture supérieure 27, également centrée sur l'axe 2, peut avoir le même calibre.The lower opening 28, delimited by the overmolding flange 26 is centered on the axis 2 and may have a diameter of between 2 and 15 mm. The upper opening 27, also centered on the axis 2, may have the same caliber.

La collerette de surmoulage supérieure 25 qui délimite l'ouverture supérieure 27, et la structure alvéolaire de rigidification 7, définissent ensemble des moyens de soutien mécanique capables d'éviter, ou tout au moins de fortement limiter, les déformations ou altérations de l'insert 21 lors de la mise en place du bouchon sur la bouteille de réception (en particulier pour les inserts en matériau relativement tendre tel que le liège). En effet, lors de la mise en place des bouchons sur les bouteilles, en particulier par les moyens mécanisés classiques, les pressions axiales supportées sont parfois très élevées.The upper overmolding collar 25 which delimits the upper opening 27, and the cellular stiffening structure 7, together define mechanical support means capable of avoiding, or at least greatly limiting, the deformations or alterations of the insert. 21 when placing the stopper on the receiving bottle (in particular for the inserts of relatively soft material such as cork). Indeed, during the establishment of plugs on the bottles, in particular by conventional mechanized means, the axial pressures supported are sometimes very high.

La structure alvéolaire 7 remplit une fonction de protection de l'intégrité de l'insert 21 en faisant barrage à l'introduction accidentelle d'objets extérieurs ; en outre, si on utilise un insert 21 de type micro-poreux, elle favorise les échanges entre le liquide conditionné et l'extérieur.The honeycomb structure 7 serves a function of protecting the integrity of the insert 21 by blocking the accidental introduction of external objects; in addition, if an insert 21 of microporous type is used, it promotes exchanges between the conditioned liquid and the outside.

Sur les figures 5 et 6, on observe encore que l'extrémité inférieure 5 du bouchon 1 a un diamètre légèrement inférieur au reste du corps cylindrique. Cette particularité permet de faciliter le positionnement et l'insertion du bouchon sur le goulot de la bouteille.
La partie de diamètre légèrement inférieur est dépourvue de protubérance annulaire et correspond ici à l'épaisseur de la structure d'obturation 20. La diminution de diamètre correspondante peut être obtenue dans le cadre du procédé de fabrication du bouchon, et en particulier de manière naturelle, du fait de la compression de l'insert liée aux fortes pressions mises en oeuvre.
La compression correspondante est obtenue en particulier pour des inserts en liège ; cette compression a encore pour conséquence d'améliorer les caractéristiques d'étanchéité entre les matériaux après le moulage.On the Figures 5 and 6 it is further observed that the lower end 5 of the plug 1 has a diameter slightly smaller than the rest of the cylindrical body. This feature facilitates the positioning and insertion of the cap on the neck of the bottle.
The portion of slightly smaller diameter is devoid of annular protuberance and corresponds here to the thickness of the closure structure 20. The corresponding diameter reduction can be obtained in the context of the plug manufacturing process, and in particular in a natural way due to the compression of the insert due to the high pressures used.
The corresponding compression is obtained in particular for cork inserts; this compression also has the effect of improving the sealing characteristics between the materials after molding.

La troisième forme de réalisation de bouchon, illustrée par les figures 7 à 10, a une structure générale identique à la forme de réalisation décrite ci-dessus en relation avec les figures 5 et 6, et comporte au surplus une jupe monobloc périphérique, destinée à venir recouvrir la face externe du col de la bouteille de réception.The third embodiment of plug, illustrated by the Figures 7 to 10 , has a general structure identical to the embodiment described above in relation to the Figures 5 and 6 and further comprises a peripheral monobloc skirt intended to cover the outer face of the neck of the receiving bottle.

On retrouve ici un bouchon en forme générale de corps cylindrique 1 comprenant une paroi cylindrique 6, dans laquelle est aménagée une structure alvéolaire 7 constituée d'une juxtaposition de canaux longitudinaux 10, organisés en forme générale de nid d'abeilles ; ces canaux s'étendent depuis l'extrémité supérieure 4 du bouchon où ils débouchent, jusqu'à l'extrémité inférieure 5 où ils sont fermés par la structure d'obturation 20 munie de l'insert 21 adapté.Here we find a cap in the general shape of cylindrical body 1 comprising a cylindrical wall 6, in which is arranged a honeycomb structure 7 consisting of a juxtaposition of longitudinal channels 10, organized in the general shape of honeycomb; these channels extend from the upper end 4 of the plug where they open, to the lower end 5 where they are closed by the closure structure 20 provided with the insert 21 adapted.

Dans cette variante de réalisation, la partie supérieure de la paroi cylindrique 6 est munie d'un prolongement en forme de couronne périphérique monobloc 30 destinée à venir recouvrir le dessus du goulot de la bouteille, à partir de laquelle s'étend une jupe 31 de recouvrement de la face externe dudit goulot, également obtenue monobloc.In this variant embodiment, the upper part of the cylindrical wall 6 is provided with an extension in the form of a monoblock peripheral ring 30 intended to cover the top of the neck of the bottle, from which extends a skirt 31 of covering the outer face of said neck, also obtained monobloc.

La couronne 30 correspondante est structurée pour former une sorte de languette facile à enlever manuellement ou au moyen d'un outil approprié, de manière à séparer la partie « bouchon » 1 proprement dite et la partie « jupe » 31, en vue de permettre l'extraction du « bouchon » 1 par le consommateur.
Pour cela, la couronne 30 est délimitée par deux lignes annulaires parallèles 32 et 33, où la matière est amincie pour former des sortes de lignes de prédécoupe ; ces lignes constituent pour l'une 32, la ligne de liaison avec l'extrémité supérieure 4 du corps cylindrique 1, et pour l'autre 33, la ligne de liaison avec ia jupe 31.
De plus, cette couronne 30 est encore munie d'une ligne de matière amincie 34, s'étendant entre les deux lignes de liaisons 32 et 33 précitées ; cette ligne de matière amincie 34, ici conformée de manière légèrement arrondie, facilite la préhension d'une extrémité de la couronne/languette 30, et son enlèvement par traction selon un mouvement de révolution autour du goulot 16 de la bouteille.The corresponding ring 30 is structured to form a sort of tongue easy to remove manually or by means of a suitable tool, so as to separate the portion "plug" 1 itself and the part "skirt" 31, to allow the extraction of the "cork" 1 by the consumer.
For this, the ring 30 is delimited by two parallel annular lines 32 and 33, where the material is thinned to form sorts of precut lines; these lines constitute for one 32, the connecting line with the upper end 4 of the cylindrical body 1, and for the other 33, the connecting line with the skirt 31.
In addition, this ring 30 is further provided with a thin line of material 34, extending between the two lines of links 32 and 33 above; this line of thinned material 34, here shaped in a slightly rounded manner, facilitates the gripping of one end of the crown / tongue 30, and its removal by traction in a movement of revolution around the neck 16 of the bottle.

Sur la figure 10, on remarque encore que l'extrémité supérieure 35 de la jupe 31 est légèrement évasée, de sorte à s'écarter de quelques millimètres par rapport à la face externe du goulot de la bouteille. Cette conformation particulière permet de constituer une sorte de petit réservoir annulaire 36 sur le pourtour du goulot, une fois la languette 30 enlevée. Ce petit réservoir périphérique 36 est adapté pour collecter les éventuelles coulures de liquide au moment du service.On the figure 10 it is also noted that the upper end 35 of the skirt 31 is slightly flared so as to deviate a few millimeters from the outer face of the neck of the bottle. This particular conformation makes it possible to form a kind of small annular reservoir 36 around the perimeter of the neck, once the tongue 30 has been removed. This small peripheral reservoir 36 is adapted to collect any liquid run-off at the time of service.

Cette structure de bouchon est adaptée pour que la jupe monobloc 31 enveloppe au mieux le col de la bouteille lorsque la partie de bouchon est correctement positionnée dans le goulot. La mise en place correspondante est réalisée par tout moyen mécanique adaptée, ou manuellement.This plug structure is adapted so that the monobloc skirt 31 envelops at best the neck of the bottle when the cap portion is correctly positioned in the neck. The corresponding implementation is carried out by any suitable mechanical means, or manually.

Dans une variante de réalisation, le bouchon avec sa jupe monobloc peut être dépourvu de réservoir annulaire 36.In an alternative embodiment, the cap with its one-piece skirt may be devoid of annular reservoir 36.

Indépendamment de la présente invention, on notera que la jupe monobloc 31, avec ou sans réservoir annulaire 36 peut être envisagée dans le prolongement de la partie supérieure d'un bouchon en matière plastique qui ne comporterait pas la structure alvéolaire de rigidification 7 définie ci-dessus, ni, éventuellement, l'insert 21 en liège ou en bois.
On peut même envisager de réaliser une telle jupe 31 avec le réservoir annulaire 36 et sans structure de bouchon associée, la partie supérieure de cette jupe étant simplement munie d'une pastille circulaire monobloc ceinturée par la languette 30.Independently of the present invention, it will be noted that the one-piece skirt 31, with or without an annular reservoir 36, may be envisaged in the extension of the upper part of a plastic plug which does not comprise the cellular stiffening structure 7 defined below. above, or possibly the insert 21 cork or wood.
It is even conceivable to make such a skirt 31 with the annular reservoir 36 and without associated plug structure, the upper part of this skirt being simply provided with a one-piece circular pellet belted by the tongue 30.

Une autre forme de réalisation possible du bouchon conforme à la présente invention, illustrée sur la figure 11, se démarque sur le plan structurel par rapport au bouchon décrit ci-dessus en relation avec les figures 5 à 10, du fait que son insert surmoulé est prévu selon une position intermédiaire sur la longueur du corps cylindrique, entre deux parties de structure alvéolaire permettant sa relation avec l'extérieur.Another possible embodiment of the plug according to the present invention, illustrated on the figure 11 , stands out structurally from the cap described above in relation to the Figures 5 to 10 , because its overmolded insert is provided in an intermediate position along the length of the cylindrical body, between two parts of honeycomb structure allowing its relationship with the outside.

Sur cette figure 11, on retrouve un bouchon en forme générale de corps cylindrique 1 comprenant une paroi cylindrique 6 ceinturant l'insert surmoulé 21 en forme de pastille circulaire de type liège ou bois, agencé coaxialement avec l'axe 2 du bouchon.
Dans la présente forme de réalisation, l'insert 21 est situé en position centrale sur la longueur du bouchon, et la structure alvéolaire de rigidification est réalisée en deux parties 7' et 7", identiques ou tout au moins similaires, agencées de part et d'autre dudit insert 21. Ces deux parties de structure alvéolaire 7' et 7" sont constituées d'une juxtaposition de canaux longitudinaux 10, en forme générale de nid d'abeille, et sont identiques à celles décrites ci-dessus en relation avec les figures 1 à 10. Les canaux 10 s'étendent depuis l'insert 21 jusqu'aux extrémités 4 et 5 du bouchon au niveau desquelles ils débouchentOn this figure 11 , there is a cap in the general shape of cylindrical body 1 comprising a cylindrical wall 6 surrounding the molded insert 21 in the form of a circular pellet of cork or wood type, arranged coaxially with the axis 2 of the plug.
In the present embodiment, the insert 21 is located centrally along the length of the plug, and the cellular stiffening structure is made in two parts 7 'and 7 ", identical or at least similar, arranged on the one hand and other of said insert 21. These two parts of cellular structure 7 'and 7 "consist of a juxtaposition of longitudinal channels 10, in the general shape of honeycomb, and are identical to those described above in relation to the Figures 1 to 10 . The channels 10 extend from the insert 21 to the ends 4 and 5 of the plug at which they open

L'insert surmoulé 21 est ici maintenu par la paroi cylindrique 6, au niveau de sa surface périphérique, et par les deux parties de structure alvéolaire 7' et 7", respectivement au niveau de sa face supérieure 22 et de sa face inférieure 23. Cet insert 21 est ainsi en relation avec l'extérieur par l'intermédiaire des canaux 10 de la structure alvéolaire 7' pour sa face supérieure 22, et par l'intermédiaire des canaux 10 de la structure alvéolaire 7" pour sa face inférieure 23.The overmoulded insert 21 is here maintained by the cylindrical wall 6, at its peripheral surface, and by the two cellular structure portions 7 'and 7 ", respectively at its upper face 22 and its lower face 23. This insert 21 is thus in relation with the outside through the channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7 'for its upper face 22, and through the channels 10 of the honeycomb structure 7 "for its lower face 23.

On obtient un bouchon symétrique qui peut être positionné dans n'importe quel sens sur le goulot d'une bouteille.
Selon une variante de réalisation, l'insert surmoulé de la figure 11 peut être remplacé par une structure d'obturation monobloc en matière plastique, similaire à celle décrite précédemment en relation avec les figures 1 à 4.A symmetrical plug is obtained that can be positioned in any direction on the neck of a bottle.
According to an alternative embodiment, the molded insert of the figure 11 can be replaced by a one-piece plastic closure structure similar to that previously described in connection with the Figures 1 to 4 .

Dans encore une autre forme de réalisation possible de bouchon conforme à la présente invention, la structure d'obturation sera prévue au niveau de l'extrémité supérieure du corps cylindrique et la structure alvéolaire de rigidification s'étendra en dessous, jusqu'à l'extrémité inférieure.In yet another possible embodiment of plug according to the present invention, the closure structure will be provided at the upper end of the cylindrical body and the stiffening honeycomb structure will extend below, until the lower end.

Claims (18)

  1. A plug generally cylindrical in shape intended for sealing the neck of a bottle, said cylindrical body (1) being delineated by a so-called upper end (4) and by a so-called lower end (5), the latter being intended for engaging first into said bottle neck, said cylindrical body (1) comprising a cylindrical wall (6) made of moulded plastic material, inside which are provided - a sealing structure (12, 20) at least liquid-proof, and - a stiffening honeycomb structure (7, 7', 7"), also made of moulded plastic material, provided integral with said cylindrical wall (6), which honeycomb structure (7 ; 7', 7") is formed of a plurality of juxtaposed longitudinal channels (10), extending from said sealing structure (12, 20) up to at least one of the upper (4) and/or lower (5) ends of said cylindrical body, at which they emerge, characterised in that the honeycomb internal structure (7 ; 7', 7") is in the form of a beehive, formed of channels (10) whereof at least the greater portion exhibits transversal hexagonal or substantially hexagonal section.
  2. A plug according to claim 1, characterised in that the sealing structure (12, 20) is provided at the so-called lower end (5) of the cylindrical body (1).
  3. A plug according to claim 1, characterised in that the sealing structure (12, 20) is provided at intermediate position over the length of the cylindrical body (1), between the upper (4) and lower (5) ends.
  4. A plug according to claim 3, characterised in that the stiffening honeycomb structure is provided in two sections (7' and 7") extending on both sides of the sealing structure (12, 20).
  5. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the sealing structure comprises a single-piece pellet of plastic material (12).
  6. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the sealing structure (20) comprises a compound-filled insert (21) made of a material of appropriate nature for optimising the preservation and/or the evolution of the liquid packed in the bottle.
  7. A plug according to claim 6, characterised in that the compound-filled insert (21) is made of cork.
  8. A plug according to claim 6, characterised in that the compound-filled insert (21) is made of wood.
  9. A plug according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that the compound-filled insert (21) is provided at the so-called lower end (5) of the cylindrical body (1), and is in the form of a cylindrical pellet whereof the axis is coaxial to said cylindrical body (1), which circular pellet (21) is held by the compound-filling material - by means of a tubular extension (24) at its cylindrical peripheral wall, - by means of two annular flanges (25, 26) at the external rings of its upper (22) and lower (23) faces, and - by means of the wall of the channels (10) of the honeycomb structure (7) at its upper face (22) accessible through the opening (27) delineated by said upper flange (25).
  10. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that its cylindrical wall (6) has an average thickness ranging between 1 and 3 mm.
  11. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the honeycomb internal structure (7 ; 7', 7") is formed of channels (10) whereof the ratio between the average diameter and the average thickness of the walls ranges between 1 and 8, and preferably between 2 and 6.
  12. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the honeycomb internal structure (7 ; 7', 7") is formed of a juxtaposition of longitudinal channels (10), in number ranging between 10 and 50, preferably between 15 and 40.
  13. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that the honeycomb internal structure (7 ; 7', 7") comprises a channel (10') arranged on the axis (2) of the cylindrical body (1).
  14. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterised in that its cylindrical wall (6) comprises a juxtaposition of external annular protrusions (8), over at least a portion of its height, for optimising its sealing capacities.
  15. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterised in that the lower portion (5) of its cylindrical body (1) has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the upper portion of said cylindrical body (1), in particular for easier positioning on the neck (16) of the bottle.
  16. A plug according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterised in that the upper portion (4) of the cylindrical body (1) is extended by a single-piece skirt (31) intended for covering the external face of the upper portion of the neck (16) of the bottle.
  17. A plug according to claim 16, characterised in that it comprises, at the linking portion between the cylindrical body (1) and the overlaying skirt (31), two parallel circular lines (32, 33) tapering in section, delineating a ring (30), united by a line (34) also tapering in section, said ring (30) forming a tongue easy to be removed manually or by means of an appropriate tool, in order to separate the "plug" portion (1) properly speaking of the "skirt" portion (31).
  18. A plug according to claim 17, characterised in that it comprises a skirt (31) whereof the upper portion (35), situated just below said tongue (30) for separating the cylindrical body from the skirt, is shaped so as to be spaced apart slightly from the external face of the neck (16) of the bottle, once the assembly placed correctly on said bottle neck, to provide a small annular tank (36) for receiving possible liquid overflows during service.
EP05818934A 2004-11-08 2005-11-08 Stopper for a bottle Not-in-force EP1824752B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0411888A FR2877644B1 (en) 2004-11-08 2004-11-08 CAP FOR BOTTLE
PCT/FR2005/050937 WO2006051240A1 (en) 2004-11-08 2005-11-08 Stopper for a bottle

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1824752A1 EP1824752A1 (en) 2007-08-29
EP1824752B1 true EP1824752B1 (en) 2008-02-20

Family

ID=34950950

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05818934A Not-in-force EP1824752B1 (en) 2004-11-08 2005-11-08 Stopper for a bottle

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US20080121607A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1824752B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE386691T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2005303639A1 (en)
DE (1) DE602005004940T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2302252T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2877644B1 (en)
PT (1) PT1824752E (en)
WO (1) WO2006051240A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2946960B1 (en) 2009-06-19 2016-07-01 Presticorc BOX OF THE TYPE A BOTTLE AND BOTTLE EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A BOX
US9212343B1 (en) * 2010-04-30 2015-12-15 Russell D. Karasch Apparatus and method for aging liquids
CN108025853B (en) 2015-04-30 2019-08-30 特洛依海伦有限公司 Heat insulation cap

Family Cites Families (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2389072A (en) * 1942-07-29 1945-11-13 Jacob F Millard Bottle closure
US2418630A (en) * 1944-01-01 1947-04-08 Febbraro Mario Bottle closure
CH307930A (en) * 1952-10-02 1955-06-30 Wieckmann Gerd One-piece closure for bottles or the like.
FR1078273A (en) * 1953-06-11 1954-11-17 Advanced stopper
FR1388710A (en) * 1963-09-28 1965-02-12 Pasinvest Ets Bottle closure
GB1030775A (en) * 1964-01-30 1966-05-25 Werner Heierle Improvements relating to bottle closing stoppers
US3924771A (en) * 1971-07-30 1975-12-09 Gunther Cleff Bottle cap having a preshrunk foil portion
US3995762A (en) * 1976-03-24 1976-12-07 Pfefferkorn Hans O Bottle stopper means for wine bottles
DE7710510U1 (en) * 1977-04-02 1977-09-29 Pfefferkorn & Co Two-part stopper made of elastic plastic for wine bottles and similar containers
CA2027427A1 (en) * 1990-10-12 1992-04-13 William S. Laidlaw Plug for sealing wood preservative in wood structures
US5513820A (en) * 1993-11-15 1996-05-07 Meyer Plastics, Inc. Core plug apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2006051240A1 (en) 2006-05-18
ATE386691T1 (en) 2008-03-15
AU2005303639A1 (en) 2006-05-18
PT1824752E (en) 2008-05-29
DE602005004940D1 (en) 2008-04-03
ES2302252T3 (en) 2008-07-01
DE602005004940T2 (en) 2009-02-19
FR2877644B1 (en) 2008-08-15
FR2877644A1 (en) 2006-05-12
EP1824752A1 (en) 2007-08-29
US20080121607A1 (en) 2008-05-29

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