EP1930253B1 - Container and method - Google Patents
Container and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1930253B1 EP1930253B1 EP07254735A EP07254735A EP1930253B1 EP 1930253 B1 EP1930253 B1 EP 1930253B1 EP 07254735 A EP07254735 A EP 07254735A EP 07254735 A EP07254735 A EP 07254735A EP 1930253 B1 EP1930253 B1 EP 1930253B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- container
- rim
- base
- rim portion
- base portion
- 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.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/10—Container closures formed after filling
- B65D77/20—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers
- B65D77/2024—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers the cover being welded or adhered to the container
- B65D77/2068—Means for reclosing the cover after its first opening
- B65D77/2096—Adhesive means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2205/00—Venting means
-
- 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
- B65D2577/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks, bags
- B65D2577/10—Container closures formed after filling
- B65D2577/20—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers
- B65D2577/2075—Lines of weakness or apertures
- B65D2577/2083—Lines of weakness or apertures in container flange
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/32—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging two or more different materials which must be maintained separate prior to use in admixture
- B65D81/3294—Thermoformed trays or the like with a plurality of recesses for different materials located in different recesses
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/34—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within the package
- B65D81/3446—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents for packaging foodstuffs or other articles intended to be cooked or heated within the package specially adapted to be heated by microwaves
- B65D81/3453—Rigid containers, e.g. trays, bottles, boxes, cups
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a container and a method of manufacturing the container.
- the invention relates to containers for foodstuff.
- foodstuff needs to be stored in a container that maintains a satisfactory level of freshness, prevents contamination and provides evidence of tamper resistance.
- Some known containers are made with a separate or hinged thermoformed lid that can be closed over a base in order to store the food within the container.
- Thermoformed lids are typically semi-rigid and are therefore allow stacking of containers. These lids can also be replaced over the base.
- a thermoformed lid does not provide an airtight seal.
- FR 2618411 discloses a container according to the preamble of claim 1.
- lidding film can be heat sealed over the base of a container.
- a heat sealable lidding film has the advantage that it can be airtight to enable a longer shelf life of the foodstuff within the container and also allows the container to be gas flushed prior to sealing to further prolong the life of the foodstuff.
- Lidding film has a lower relative thickness than a thermoformed lid, which can therefore reduce the cost of each container because less material is required.
- one disadvantage of lidding film is that if the contents of the container need to be heated by microwave for example, the lidding film must be pierced prior to heating.
- Another disadvantage is that once the lidding film is removed from a container it cannot be easily replaced over the container to reseal or cover any foodstuff that remains within.
- the rim portion can have a greater rigidity relative to the lid portion.
- the base portion can be shaped to define a container portion.
- the container portion can be suitable for containing a foodstuff.
- the base portion can have an opening adapted to be selectively closed by the lid portion.
- the opening can provide access to the container portion.
- the lid portion can be adapted to close the opening such that the lid portion provides a substantially fluid tight seal around the container portion.
- the rim portion can circumscribe at least a part of the opening of the base portion.
- the rim portion and the base portion can be made from the same material.
- the rim portion and the base portion can be semi-rigid.
- the rim portion and the base portion can be formed as a one-piece item.
- the rim portion and the base portion can be thermoformed.
- the frangible connection represents a weak part of the container that is more easily disrupted than other parts of the container.
- the perforations can have the dual function of providing a plurality of air vents allowing ventilation of the container portion. This is advantageous for example, during use of the container in a microwave as the lid portion does not have to be separately pierced.
- the lid portion can be flexible.
- the lid portion can be heat sealable to the rim portion.
- the lid portion can have a lower relative thickness than the base or the rim portions.
- the lid portion can be a film.
- the lid portion can be coupled to rim portion at a first sealing area.
- the lid portion can be coupled to the base portion at a second sealing area.
- the first and second sealing areas can be separable by the frangible connection.
- the second sealing area can be provided within the region surrounded by the first sealing area.
- the second sealing area can be provided within the region surrounded by the frangible connection.
- a fluid tight seal can be provided at the first sealing area between the lid portion and the rim portion.
- a fluid tight seal can be provided at the second sealing area between the lid portion and the base portion.
- the lid portion can be peelable at least in the region of the second sealing area.
- a reinforced part can be provided proximate the frangible connection.
- the reinforced part can be provided on at least one of the base portion and the rim portion.
- the reinforced part can be provided between the first and second sealing areas.
- the reinforced part can comprise a channel member formed as part of the rim portion.
- the frangible connection can be more easily disrupted than the coupling between the lid portion and the rim portion.
- the coupling between the rim portion and the lid portion can require a greater separation force in a particular direction than the frangible connection, such that in normal use, the frangible connection is disrupted to facilitate separation of the rim portion from the base portion rather than separation of the lid portion and the rim portion.
- the relative location of the coupling between the lid portion and the rim portion can be such that the coupling is less easily separated than the frangible connection between the rim portion and the base portion.
- the coupling is less easily separated than the frangible connection between the rim portion and the base portion.
- At least one of the rim portion and the base portion can be provided with clips for reattaching the rim portion and the base portion following disruption of the frangible connection.
- the clips can comprise at least two radial indents on the rim portion and an undercut on the base portion, such that the radial indents can be located in the undercut, thereby to clip the rim portion and the base portion.
- At least one of the first and second sealing areas can be covered with an adhesive to facilitate resealing of the lid portion over the base portion following disruption of the frangible connection.
- the rim portion can be provided with a first sealing surface.
- the base portion can be provided with a second sealing surface.
- a lid portion can be provided for sealing to the first sealing surface. The lid portion can also seal to the second sealing surface.
- the first and second sealing surfaces can be separated by the frangible connection.
- the first and second sealing surfaces can be separated by a reinforcing part.
- the base and the rim portions and the frangible connection can also include any features previously described with reference to the first aspect of the invention.
- the rim portion can have a greater rigidity relative to the lid portion.
- the method can include the step of forming the rim portion and the base portion as a one-piece item.
- the method can include heat-sealing the lid portion on at least one of the base portion and the rim portion.
- the method can include heat sealing the lid portion on at least one of the base portion and the rim portion in order to form a fluid tight seal.
- a base 20 of a container is shown in Figs. 1 and 2 .
- the base 20 has a lower face 20f that is reinforced by a recess 20r provided therein.
- a sidewall 20s extends upwardly from the lower face 20f.
- the inner surface of the lower face 20f and the sidewall 20s define a receptacle portion 22 that is suitable for containing a foodstuff.
- a reinforcing collar 20c is formed towards an upper end of the sidewall 20s and a lip 20l extends radially outward therefrom in a direction parallel to the lower face 20f.
- the lip 20l is formed at an acute angle relative to the reinforcing collar 20c to enhance the strength of the base 20 in this region and allow stacking of several containers during transit.
- An upper surface of the lip 20l defines a base sealing surface 24.
- An inner perimeter of the lip 20l defines an opening 26 through which foodstuff can be inserted into the receptacle portion 22 of the base 20.
- a rim 30 is attached to an outer perimeter of the lip 20l by means of a frangible connection 40 in the form of a plurality of perforations.
- the rim 30 extends radially outward in the same plane as the lip 20l and is provided with a reinforcing means in the form of an annular channel 32 to improve the strength of the rim 30.
- a rim sealing surface 34 is provided on an upper surface of the rim 30 and parallel to (and in the same plane as) the base sealing surface 24 provided on the base 20.
- the base 20 and the rim 30 are initially thermoformed as a one-piece item and the frangible connection 40 is subsequently effected by punching or cutting perforations between the rim 30 and the base 20 to thereby define these separate portions of the container.
- Suitable methods of forming the frangible connection will be well known, and kiss cutting is one example of another suitable method of forming the frangible connection.
- a lid comprising a lidding film is shown at 50 in Fig. 3 .
- the lidding film 50 has an outer profile approximately matching the outer edge of the rim 30.
- the lidding film 50 is a peelable film. Together, the lidding film 50 and the base 20 form a container 10.
- the present embodiment is adapted to provide an airtight seal over the receptacle portion 22.
- the lidding film 50 is heat sealed to the rim 30 at the rim sealing surface 34 and to the base 20 at the base sealing surface 24, thereby creating two seals 35, 25 respectively. Since the base seal 25 sealing the lidding film 50 to the base 20 is located between the perforations of the frangible connection 40 and the opening 26, the base seal 25 provides an airtight seal to prevent fluid ingress/egress from the receptacle portion 22. This arrangement also allows gas flushing of the sealable receptacle portion 22 prior to sealing, to maintain greater longevity and freshness of the foodstuff within the receptacle portion 22.
- the contents such as foodstuffs are added to the receptacle portion 22 through the opening 26 of the container 10.
- the container 10 is then optionally flushed with an appropriate gas, and the lidding film 50 is then heat sealed to the base sealing surface 24 and the rim sealing surface 34 to create the seals 35, 25 ( Figs. 4 and 5 ).
- a user can pull the rim 30 in a direction shown by an arrow 54 ( Figs. 6 , 7 and 8 ). Pulling the lidding film 50 upwardly away from the base 20 has the effect of disrupting the frangible connection 40. Thus, the rim 30 with the lidding film 50 attached at sealing area 35 is separated from the base 20. This action also causes the seal 25 to break and the lidding film 50 is peeled off the base sealing area 24, but remains attached to the rim 30.
- the rim 30 and the lidding film 50 are thereby removed together to provide access to the contents of the container 10 within the receptacle portion 22.
- the channel 32 strengthens the rim 30, to substantially reduce flexing of the rim 30 and the base 20 when a user is removing the lidding film 50 from the container 10. This also helps the perforations of the frangible connection 40 to make a clean break between the base 20 and the rim 30.
- the rim 30 is pulled away from the base 20 with the seal 35 between the lidding film 50 and the rim sealing area 34 intact.
- the lidding film 50 remains attached to the rim 30 and is therefore prevented from curling or folding in such a way that it cannot be replaced over the base 20.
- the rim 30 acts as a semi-rigid frame around the perimeter of the lidding film 50 to effectively retain the lidding film 50 in a planar configuration. As a result, the lidding film 50 and the attached outer rim 30 can be re-used to cover the container after opening and cover any remaining foodstuff within the container portion 22.
- the present invention retains the benefits of a container 10 having an airtight lidding film 50 with the additional advantage that the base 20 can be re-covered once the container 10 has been opened.
- the lidding film 50 is heat sealed onto only the rim sealing area 34.
- No airtight seal is provided between the receptacle portion 22 and the ambient environment because air can diffuse through the perforations of the frangible connection 40.
- Such a container is suitable for foodstuff that is frozen prior to cooking, where an airtight seal is neither necessary nor appropriate.
- This also has a particular advantage where foodstuff within the container is to be cooked in a microwave because the perforations of the frangible connection 40 provide a plurality of vents so that no separate piercing of the lidding film 50 is required.
- the lidding film 50 can be resealable such that following removal of the rim 30 and the lidding film 50, once the base 20 is re-covered a pressure applied to the lidding film 50 over the region of the base sealing area 24 that causes the lidding film 50 to make a temporary seal.
- the sealing areas can be formed from or covered with an adhesive or tacky material to facilitate this re-sealing if desired.
- Figures 9 and 10 show a container according to a third embodiment of the invention, having a different shape to the container 10 of the first embodiment.
- Like components are denoted with identical reference numbers having a prefix "1".
- a base 120 of the container is divided into four individual base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d. Each of these base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d defines a receptacle portion 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d suitable for containing a foodstuff.
- a lip 120l circumscribes the edge of each base compartment 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d and the upper surface of the lip 1201 provides a base sealing surface 124.
- a rim 130 surrounds the edge of the lip 1201 and is connected thereto by means of a frangible connection 140.
- a reinforcing U-shaped channel 132 strengthens the container between the rim 130 and the frangible connection 140.
- a tab 160 is formed to allow a user to gain a purchase on the rim 130 in order to initiate disruption of the frangible connection 140.
- a lidding film 50 is sealed against a sealing area 134 on the upper surface of the rim 130 and against the base sealing area 124 that surrounds the edge of each base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d.
- the fluid tight seal around the base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d allows each receptacle portion 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d to be filled with a different foodstuff without the risk of any cross-contamination due to the fluid tight seal between the lidding film 150 and the base sealing area 124.
- the container 110 is manufactured as described with reference to the first embodiment and the base 120 and rim 130 are thermoformed into the desired shape with the four separate base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, before the frangible connection 140 is punched.
- the lidding film 150 is heat sealed onto the rim sealing area 134 and the base sealing area 124 to provide airtight seals to prolong the life of the foodstuffs contained in the receptacle portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d.
- a user can access the foodstuff within the receptacle portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d by grasping the tab 160 and pulling the rim 130 away from the base 120 to disrupt the frangible connection 140 therebetween. Once the user has accessed the contents of the receptacle portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, the rim 130 with the attached lid can be used to cover the base 120 to keep the remaining contents fresh.
- Figures 11 and 12 show another alternative shape of container 210. Like components have been denoted with similar reference numerals to Figures 9 and 10 , using the prefix "2" instead of "1".
- FIGs. 13 to 16 show an alternative container 310 according to another embodiment of the invention. Like components have been denoted with similar reference numerals to Figures 9 and 10 , using the prefix "3" instead of "1".
- the base 320 is circular and has four indents 329 along the frangible connection 340 spaced at 90° relative to one another.
- the rim 330 has four corresponding protrusions 339 along the frangible connection 340 also spaced at 90° relative to one another.
- the U-shaped reinforcing channel 332 is provided with four inwardly protruding radial indentations 337 spaced at 90° relative to one another and located vertically spaced from and beneath the protrusions 339.
- the indentations 337 extend radially inwardly beyond the general circumference of the frangible connection 340, other than in the region of the base indents 329.
- the rim 330 When access is required to the contents of the receptacle portions 322a, 322b, 322c, 322d, the rim 330 is pulled upwards away from the base 320 in a manner described with reference to previous embodiments. Since the frangible connection 340 is the weakest part of the container 310, the connection between the base 320 and the rim 330 is disrupted and the rim 330 with the lidding film 350 sealed thereto can be removed to uncover the receptacle portions 322a, 322b, 322c, 322d. Following disruption of the frangible connection 340, a new perimeter 381 is created around an edge of the base 320 as shown in Figure 14 . The perimeter 381 extends radially outwardly from the base 320 and thereby creates an undercut (not shown) between a top end of a sidewall (not shown) of the base 320 and an outer edge of the perimeter 381.
- a user can reattach the rim 330 to the base 320.
- a user aligns the protrusions 339 on the rim 330 with the indents 329 on the perimeter 381 of the base 320 so that the lidding film 350 covers the base 320.
- the user can then rotate the rim 330 relative to the base 320 (or the base 320 relative to the rim 330) by around 45° so that the protrusions 339 are positioned above the perimeter 381 and the radial indentations 337 of the rim 330 are located beneath the perimeter 381 of the base 320, as shown in Figure 16 .
- the rim 330 is clipped to the base 320 by means of the protrusions 339 above and the radial indentations 337 below the perimeter 381, thereby securing the rim 330 on either side of the base 320.
- the base sealing area 324 can be provided with an adhesive so that the lidding film 350 can be pressed against the sealing area 324 to reseal the lidding film 350 to the base 320.
- the above embodiment has the advantage that the lidding film 350 can be temporarily reattached to the base 320 enabling the contents of the receptacle portions 322a, 322b, 322c, 322d to stay fresh.
- This temporary clipping of the base 320 and the rim 330 is more secure than simply replacing the lidding film 350 over the receptacle portions 322a, 322b, 322c, 322d to act as a loose cover.
- This embodiment is particularly suited to round or circular containers 310 because the rim 330 and the base 320 can be easily rotated relative to one another. Although, this embodiment with the clipping feature can also be applied to other shapes of container.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a container and a method of manufacturing the container. In particular, although not exclusively, the invention relates to containers for foodstuff. [0002] Typically, foodstuff needs to be stored in a container that maintains a satisfactory level of freshness, prevents contamination and provides evidence of tamper resistance. Some known containers are made with a separate or hinged thermoformed lid that can be closed over a base in order to store the food within the container. Thermoformed lids are typically semi-rigid and are therefore allow stacking of containers. These lids can also be replaced over the base. However, a thermoformed lid does not provide an airtight seal.
-
FR 2618411 - Alternatively, lidding film can be heat sealed over the base of a container.
- A heat sealable lidding film has the advantage that it can be airtight to enable a longer shelf life of the foodstuff within the container and also allows the container to be gas flushed prior to sealing to further prolong the life of the foodstuff. Lidding film has a lower relative thickness than a thermoformed lid, which can therefore reduce the cost of each container because less material is required. However, one disadvantage of lidding film is that if the contents of the container need to be heated by microwave for example, the lidding film must be pierced prior to heating. Another disadvantage is that once the lidding film is removed from a container it cannot be easily replaced over the container to reseal or cover any foodstuff that remains within.
- According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a container as claimed in claim 1.
- The rim portion can have a greater rigidity relative to the lid portion.
- The base portion can be shaped to define a container portion. The container portion can be suitable for containing a foodstuff.
- The base portion can have an opening adapted to be selectively closed by the lid portion. The opening can provide access to the container portion.
- Optionally, the lid portion can be adapted to close the opening such that the lid portion provides a substantially fluid tight seal around the container portion.
- The rim portion can circumscribe at least a part of the opening of the base portion.
- The rim portion and the base portion can be made from the same material. The rim portion and the base portion can be semi-rigid.
- The rim portion and the base portion can be formed as a one-piece item. The rim portion and the base portion can be thermoformed.
- Typically, the frangible connection represents a weak part of the container that is more easily disrupted than other parts of the container.
- The perforations can have the dual function of providing a plurality of air vents allowing ventilation of the container portion. This is advantageous for example, during use of the container in a microwave as the lid portion does not have to be separately pierced.
- The lid portion can be flexible. The lid portion can be heat sealable to the rim portion.
- The lid portion can have a lower relative thickness than the base or the rim portions. The lid portion can be a film.
- The lid portion can be coupled to rim portion at a first sealing area. The lid portion can be coupled to the base portion at a second sealing area. The first and second sealing areas can be separable by the frangible connection.
- The second sealing area can be provided within the region surrounded by the first sealing area. The second sealing area can be provided within the region surrounded by the frangible connection.
- A fluid tight seal can be provided at the first sealing area between the lid portion and the rim portion. A fluid tight seal can be provided at the second sealing area between the lid portion and the base portion.
- The lid portion can be peelable at least in the region of the second sealing area.
- A reinforced part can be provided proximate the frangible connection. The reinforced part can be provided on at least one of the base portion and the rim portion.
- The reinforced part can be provided between the first and second sealing areas. The reinforced part can comprise a channel member formed as part of the rim portion.
- The frangible connection can be more easily disrupted than the coupling between the lid portion and the rim portion.
- The coupling between the rim portion and the lid portion can require a greater separation force in a particular direction than the frangible connection, such that in normal use, the frangible connection is disrupted to facilitate separation of the rim portion from the base portion rather than separation of the lid portion and the rim portion.
- Alternatively, or additionally, the relative location of the coupling between the lid portion and the rim portion can be such that the coupling is less easily separated than the frangible connection between the rim portion and the base portion. Thus, it can be more difficult for a user to gain a purchase on the lid portion in order to separate this from the rim portion.
- At least one of the rim portion and the base portion can be provided with clips for reattaching the rim portion and the base portion following disruption of the frangible connection.
- The clips can comprise at least two radial indents on the rim portion and an undercut on the base portion, such that the radial indents can be located in the undercut, thereby to clip the rim portion and the base portion.
- At least one of the first and second sealing areas can be covered with an adhesive to facilitate resealing of the lid portion over the base portion following disruption of the frangible connection.
- The rim portion can be provided with a first sealing surface. The base portion can be provided with a second sealing surface. A lid portion can be provided for sealing to the first sealing surface. The lid portion can also seal to the second sealing surface.
- The first and second sealing surfaces can be separated by the frangible connection. The first and second sealing surfaces can be separated by a reinforcing part.
- The base and the rim portions and the frangible connection can also include any features previously described with reference to the first aspect of the invention.
- According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a container as claimed in
claim 32. - The rim portion can have a greater rigidity relative to the lid portion.
- The method can include the step of forming the rim portion and the base portion as a one-piece item.
- The method can include heat-sealing the lid portion on at least one of the base portion and the rim portion. The method can include heat sealing the lid portion on at least one of the base portion and the rim portion in order to form a fluid tight seal.
- Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings in which:-
-
Fig. 1 is a side view of a base portion; -
Fig. 2 is a plan view of the base portion ofFig. 1 ; -
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a lid portion over the base portion of -
Fig. 2 ; -
Fig. 4 is a detailed sectional view of part of the base portion and the lid portion of -
Fig. 3 ; -
Fig. 5 is a detailed perspective view of part of the base portion and the lid portion ofFig. 3 ; -
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the lid portion and a rim portion being removed from the base portion; -
Fig. 7 is a detailed sectional view of part of the lid portion being removed from the base portion; -
Fig. 8 is a detailed perspective view of part of a lid portion removed from the base portion; -
Fig. 9 is a plan view of a base portion according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; -
Fig. 10 is a side view of a container formed from the base portion of -
Fig. 9 ; -
Fig. 11 is a plan view of a base portion according to another alternative embodiment of the invention; -
Fig. 12 is a side view of a container formed from the base portion of -
Fig. 11 ; and -
Fig. 13 is a plan view of a container according to another alternative embodiment of the invention; -
Fig. 14 is a plan view of a base of the container ofFig. 13 following disruption of the frangible connection; -
Fig. 15 is a plan view of a rim and lid of the container ofFig. 13 following disruption of the frangible connection; and -
Fig. 16 is a plan view of the container ofFig. 13 with the rim and the lid clipped to the base following disruption of the frangible connection. - A
base 20 of a container is shown inFigs. 1 and 2 . According to the present embodiment, thebase 20 has alower face 20f that is reinforced by a recess 20r provided therein. Asidewall 20s extends upwardly from thelower face 20f. The inner surface of thelower face 20f and thesidewall 20s define areceptacle portion 22 that is suitable for containing a foodstuff. A reinforcing collar 20c is formed towards an upper end of thesidewall 20s and a lip 20l extends radially outward therefrom in a direction parallel to thelower face 20f. The lip 20l is formed at an acute angle relative to the reinforcing collar 20c to enhance the strength of the base 20 in this region and allow stacking of several containers during transit. An upper surface of the lip 20l defines abase sealing surface 24. An inner perimeter of the lip 20l defines anopening 26 through which foodstuff can be inserted into thereceptacle portion 22 of thebase 20. - A
rim 30 is attached to an outer perimeter of the lip 20l by means of afrangible connection 40 in the form of a plurality of perforations. Therim 30 extends radially outward in the same plane as the lip 20l and is provided with a reinforcing means in the form of anannular channel 32 to improve the strength of therim 30. Arim sealing surface 34 is provided on an upper surface of therim 30 and parallel to (and in the same plane as) thebase sealing surface 24 provided on thebase 20. - The
base 20 and therim 30 are initially thermoformed as a one-piece item and thefrangible connection 40 is subsequently effected by punching or cutting perforations between therim 30 and the base 20 to thereby define these separate portions of the container. Suitable methods of forming the frangible connection will be well known, and kiss cutting is one example of another suitable method of forming the frangible connection. - A lid comprising a lidding film is shown at 50 in
Fig. 3 . Thelidding film 50 has an outer profile approximately matching the outer edge of therim 30. Thelidding film 50 is a peelable film. Together, thelidding film 50 and the base 20 form acontainer 10. - The present embodiment is adapted to provide an airtight seal over the
receptacle portion 22. Thelidding film 50 is heat sealed to therim 30 at therim sealing surface 34 and to the base 20 at thebase sealing surface 24, thereby creating twoseals base seal 25 sealing thelidding film 50 to thebase 20 is located between the perforations of thefrangible connection 40 and theopening 26, thebase seal 25 provides an airtight seal to prevent fluid ingress/egress from thereceptacle portion 22. This arrangement also allows gas flushing of thesealable receptacle portion 22 prior to sealing, to maintain greater longevity and freshness of the foodstuff within thereceptacle portion 22. - Prior to use, the contents (not shown) such as foodstuffs are added to the
receptacle portion 22 through theopening 26 of thecontainer 10. Thecontainer 10 is then optionally flushed with an appropriate gas, and thelidding film 50 is then heat sealed to thebase sealing surface 24 and therim sealing surface 34 to create theseals 35, 25 (Figs. 4 and 5 ). - When access to the contents of
receptacle portion 22 is required, a user can pull therim 30 in a direction shown by an arrow 54 (Figs. 6 ,7 and 8 ). Pulling thelidding film 50 upwardly away from thebase 20 has the effect of disrupting thefrangible connection 40. Thus, therim 30 with thelidding film 50 attached at sealingarea 35 is separated from thebase 20. This action also causes theseal 25 to break and thelidding film 50 is peeled off thebase sealing area 24, but remains attached to therim 30. - The
rim 30 and thelidding film 50 are thereby removed together to provide access to the contents of thecontainer 10 within thereceptacle portion 22. Thechannel 32 strengthens therim 30, to substantially reduce flexing of therim 30 and the base 20 when a user is removing thelidding film 50 from thecontainer 10. This also helps the perforations of thefrangible connection 40 to make a clean break between the base 20 and therim 30. - In the above-described manner, the
rim 30 is pulled away from the base 20 with theseal 35 between thelidding film 50 and therim sealing area 34 intact. Thelidding film 50 remains attached to therim 30 and is therefore prevented from curling or folding in such a way that it cannot be replaced over thebase 20. Therim 30 acts as a semi-rigid frame around the perimeter of thelidding film 50 to effectively retain thelidding film 50 in a planar configuration. As a result, thelidding film 50 and the attachedouter rim 30 can be re-used to cover the container after opening and cover any remaining foodstuff within thecontainer portion 22. - The present invention retains the benefits of a
container 10 having anairtight lidding film 50 with the additional advantage that the base 20 can be re-covered once thecontainer 10 has been opened. - According to a second embodiment, the
lidding film 50 is heat sealed onto only therim sealing area 34. No airtight seal is provided between thereceptacle portion 22 and the ambient environment because air can diffuse through the perforations of thefrangible connection 40. Such a container is suitable for foodstuff that is frozen prior to cooking, where an airtight seal is neither necessary nor appropriate. This also has a particular advantage where foodstuff within the container is to be cooked in a microwave because the perforations of thefrangible connection 40 provide a plurality of vents so that no separate piercing of thelidding film 50 is required. - According to any of the embodiments, the
lidding film 50 can be resealable such that following removal of therim 30 and thelidding film 50, once the base 20 is re-covered a pressure applied to thelidding film 50 over the region of thebase sealing area 24 that causes thelidding film 50 to make a temporary seal. The sealing areas can be formed from or covered with an adhesive or tacky material to facilitate this re-sealing if desired. -
Figures 9 and 10 show a container according to a third embodiment of the invention, having a different shape to thecontainer 10 of the first embodiment. Like components are denoted with identical reference numbers having a prefix "1". - A
base 120 of the container is divided into four individual base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d. Each of these base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d defines a receptacle portion 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d suitable for containing a foodstuff. A lip 120l circumscribes the edge of each base compartment 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d and the upper surface of thelip 1201 provides abase sealing surface 124. Arim 130 surrounds the edge of thelip 1201 and is connected thereto by means of afrangible connection 140. A reinforcingU-shaped channel 132 strengthens the container between therim 130 and thefrangible connection 140. At one corner of the rim 130 a tab 160 is formed to allow a user to gain a purchase on therim 130 in order to initiate disruption of thefrangible connection 140. - A
lidding film 50 is sealed against a sealingarea 134 on the upper surface of therim 130 and against thebase sealing area 124 that surrounds the edge of each base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d. The fluid tight seal around the base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, allows each receptacle portion 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d to be filled with a different foodstuff without the risk of any cross-contamination due to the fluid tight seal between thelidding film 150 and thebase sealing area 124. - The
container 110 is manufactured as described with reference to the first embodiment and thebase 120 andrim 130 are thermoformed into the desired shape with the four separate base compartments 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, before thefrangible connection 140 is punched. Once foodstuff has been added to the receptacle portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, thelidding film 150 is heat sealed onto therim sealing area 134 and thebase sealing area 124 to provide airtight seals to prolong the life of the foodstuffs contained in the receptacle portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d. - A user can access the foodstuff within the receptacle portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d by grasping the tab 160 and pulling the
rim 130 away from the base 120 to disrupt thefrangible connection 140 therebetween. Once the user has accessed the contents of the receptacle portions 122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, therim 130 with the attached lid can be used to cover the base 120 to keep the remaining contents fresh. -
Figures 11 and 12 show another alternative shape ofcontainer 210. Like components have been denoted with similar reference numerals toFigures 9 and 10 , using the prefix "2" instead of "1". -
Figs. 13 to 16 show an alternative container 310 according to another embodiment of the invention. Like components have been denoted with similar reference numerals toFigures 9 and 10 , using the prefix "3" instead of "1". - The
base 320 is circular and has fourindents 329 along thefrangible connection 340 spaced at 90° relative to one another. Therim 330 has fourcorresponding protrusions 339 along thefrangible connection 340 also spaced at 90° relative to one another. - The U-shaped reinforcing
channel 332 is provided with four inwardly protrudingradial indentations 337 spaced at 90° relative to one another and located vertically spaced from and beneath theprotrusions 339. Theindentations 337 extend radially inwardly beyond the general circumference of thefrangible connection 340, other than in the region of the base indents 329. - When access is required to the contents of the
receptacle portions rim 330 is pulled upwards away from the base 320 in a manner described with reference to previous embodiments. Since thefrangible connection 340 is the weakest part of the container 310, the connection between the base 320 and therim 330 is disrupted and therim 330 with thelidding film 350 sealed thereto can be removed to uncover thereceptacle portions frangible connection 340, anew perimeter 381 is created around an edge of the base 320 as shown inFigure 14 . Theperimeter 381 extends radially outwardly from thebase 320 and thereby creates an undercut (not shown) between a top end of a sidewall (not shown) of thebase 320 and an outer edge of theperimeter 381. - Should a user wish to re-cover the
receptacle portions receptacle portions rim 330 to thebase 320. In order to achieve this, a user aligns theprotrusions 339 on therim 330 with theindents 329 on theperimeter 381 of the base 320 so that thelidding film 350 covers thebase 320. The user can then rotate therim 330 relative to the base 320 (or the base 320 relative to the rim 330) by around 45° so that theprotrusions 339 are positioned above theperimeter 381 and theradial indentations 337 of therim 330 are located beneath theperimeter 381 of thebase 320, as shown inFigure 16 . In this manner, therim 330 is clipped to thebase 320 by means of theprotrusions 339 above and theradial indentations 337 below theperimeter 381, thereby securing therim 330 on either side of thebase 320. Thebase sealing area 324 can be provided with an adhesive so that thelidding film 350 can be pressed against the sealingarea 324 to reseal thelidding film 350 to thebase 320. - The above embodiment has the advantage that the
lidding film 350 can be temporarily reattached to the base 320 enabling the contents of thereceptacle portions base 320 and therim 330 is more secure than simply replacing thelidding film 350 over thereceptacle portions rim 330 and the base 320 can be easily rotated relative to one another. Although, this embodiment with the clipping feature can also be applied to other shapes of container. - Modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although some of the present embodiments are described with reference to a container having a circular cross-section, the invention is also appropriate for containers of any shape, such as those having rectangular, oval or square cross-section.
Claims (35)
- A container (10) comprising:a base portion (20) having a rim portion (30), wherein the rim portion (30) is separable from the base portion (20) by means of a frangible connection (40);a lid portion (50) coupled to the rim portion (30); characterised by the rim portion (30) having the same thickness as the base portion (20), and the frangible connection (40) including perforations located between the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20).
- A container (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rim portion (30) has a greater rigidity relative to the lid portion (50).
- A container as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the base portion (20) is shaped to define a container portion suitable for containing a foodstuff.
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the base portion (20) has an opening (26) adapted to be selectively closed by the lid portion (50).
- A container as claimed in claim 4, when dependent on claim 3, wherein the opening (26) provides access to the container portion.
- A container as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the lid portion (50) is adapted to close the opening (26) such that the lid portion (50) provides a substantially air tight seal around the container portion.
- A container as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the rim portion (30) circumscribes at least a part of the opening (26) of the base portion (20).
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20) are semi-rigid.
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20) are formed as a one-piece item.
- A container as claimed in claim 3, wherein the perforations (40) have the dual function of providing a plurality of air vents allowing ventilation of the container portion.
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the frangible connection (40) represents a weak part of the container (10) that is more easily disrupted than other parts of the container (10).
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lid portion (50) is flexible.
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lid portion (50) is heat sealable to the rim portion (30).
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lid portion (50) has a lower relative thickness than the base portion (20) and the rim portion (30).
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lid portion (50) is a film.
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lid portion (50) is sealed against the rim portion (30) at a first sealing area and the lid portion (50) is sealed against the base portion (20) at a second sealing area.
- A container as claimed in claim 16, wherein the frangible connection (40) is located between the first and second sealing areas.
- A container as claimed in claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the second sealing area is located within an area surrounded by the first sealing area.
- A container as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the second sealing area is located within an area surrounded by the frangible connection (40).
- A container as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein a fluid tight seal is provided at at least one of the first sealing area and second sealing areas.
- A container as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the lid portion (50) is peelable in the region of the second sealing area.
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a reinforced part is provided proximate the frangible connection (40).
- A container as claimed in claim 22, wherein the reinforced part is provided on at least one of the base portion (20) and the rim portion (30).
- A container as claimed in claim 22 or claim 23, when dependent on claim 16, wherein the reinforced part is located between the first and second sealing areas.
- A container as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the reinforced part comprises a channel member (132) formed as part of the rim portion (30).
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein frangible connection (40) is more easily disrupted than the seal between the lid portion (50) and the rim portion (30).
- A container as claimed in claim 26, wherein the seal between the rim portion (30) and the lid portion (50) requires a greater separation force in a particular direction than the frangible connection (40), such that in normal use, the frangible connection (40) is disrupted to facilitate separation of the rim portion (30) from the base portion (20) rather than separation of the lid portion (50) and the rim portion (30).
- A container as claimed in claim 26 or claim 27, wherein the location of the seal between the lid portion (50) and the rim portion (30) is less accessible than the frangible connection (40) between the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20).
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the container (10) is a foodstuff container.
- A container as claimed in any preceding claim wherein at least one of the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20) can be provided with a clip means (339) for attaching the rim portion (30) to the base portion (20) following disruption of the frangible connection (40).
- A container as claimed in claim 30, wherein the clip means (339) comprise at least two radial indentations (337) on the rim portion (30) and an undercut on the base portion (20) such that the radial indentations (337) are locatable in the undercut thereby to clip the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20).
- A method of manufacturing a container (10) including the steps of:providing base portion (20) having a rim portion (30);frangibly connecting the base portion (20) and the rim portion (30); and coupling a lid portion (50) to the rim portion (30); characterised by:including the step of thermoforming the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20) such that the rim portion (30) has the same thickness as the base portion (20) and; including the step of punching or cutting perforations between the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20) to form the frangible connection (40) therebetween.
- A method according to claim 32, including the step of forming the rim portion (30) and the base portion (20) as a one-piece item.
- A method according to any one of claims 32 to 33, including heat-sealing the lid portion (50) to at least one of the base portion (20) and the rim portion (30).
- A method according to any one of claims 32 to 34, including heat sealing the lid portion (50) at least one of the base portion (20) and the rim portion (30) in order to form a fluid tight seal.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GBGB0624343.0A GB0624343D0 (en) | 2006-12-06 | 2006-12-06 | Container and method |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP1930253A1 EP1930253A1 (en) | 2008-06-11 |
EP1930253B1 true EP1930253B1 (en) | 2011-02-16 |
Family
ID=37711624
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP07254735A Active EP1930253B1 (en) | 2006-12-06 | 2007-12-06 | Container and method |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP1930253B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE498565T1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE602007012506D1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB0624343D0 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2014179287A1 (en) * | 2013-05-03 | 2014-11-06 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Container closure |
US9469445B2 (en) | 2011-02-07 | 2016-10-18 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Package with lid sealing system |
Families Citing this family (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB0821686D0 (en) | 2008-11-28 | 2008-12-31 | British American Tobacco Co | Container |
GB0822657D0 (en) | 2008-12-12 | 2009-01-21 | British American Tobacco Co | Container |
CA2804720C (en) | 2010-07-16 | 2018-05-01 | Cascades Canada Ulc | Plastic container |
NL1038469C2 (en) * | 2010-12-22 | 2012-06-25 | Naber Beheer B V | METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A PACKAGING |
US8998030B2 (en) | 2011-02-07 | 2015-04-07 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Package with lid sealing system |
US9032698B2 (en) | 2011-07-07 | 2015-05-19 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Package with lid sealing system |
WO2013006858A1 (en) | 2011-07-07 | 2013-01-10 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Canister |
EP2684803B1 (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2014-09-10 | Multivac Sepp Haggenmüller GmbH & Co. KG | Method for manufacturing a packaging |
NL2011432C2 (en) | 2013-01-18 | 2014-07-28 | Naber Beheer B V | PACKAGING, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A PACKAGING, AND MAY BE USED FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUCH A METHOD. |
NL2010144C2 (en) * | 2013-01-18 | 2014-07-21 | Naber Beheer B V | PACKAGING AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A PACKAGING |
US9630762B2 (en) | 2014-01-22 | 2017-04-25 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Package with peelable closure |
WO2015189784A1 (en) | 2014-06-10 | 2015-12-17 | Internova Pack S.A.S. Di Alessio Pietro & C. | Reclosable container structure |
US9809360B2 (en) | 2014-07-23 | 2017-11-07 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Package with peelable closure |
MX2017001400A (en) * | 2014-08-01 | 2017-05-03 | Graphic Packaging Int Inc | Microwave packaging. |
Family Cites Families (9)
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US3108708A (en) * | 1959-11-10 | 1963-10-29 | Plastomatic Corp | Sealed plastic containers |
GB896753A (en) * | 1960-06-28 | 1962-05-16 | Nat Dairy Prod Corp | Packaging |
US3318477A (en) * | 1965-03-29 | 1967-05-09 | Plastomatic Corp | Plastic closures for preformed container bodies |
US3495759A (en) * | 1968-04-24 | 1970-02-17 | Anderson Bros Mfg Co | Reclosable package |
FR2559366A1 (en) * | 1984-02-10 | 1985-08-16 | Delgrande Lorenzo | Removable rim on plastic containers |
FR2618411B1 (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1989-12-29 | Valoine Sarl Charcuterie | CONTAINER FOR FOOD PACKAGING, CLOSED WITH RELEASABLE LID AND REUSABLE AS A LID |
NZ226028A (en) * | 1987-09-09 | 1990-06-26 | Idemitsu Petrochemical Co | Hermetically sealed package which can be resealed after opening |
CH677473A5 (en) * | 1988-12-02 | 1991-05-31 | Alusuisse | Container with resealable cover - has edge with weakened zones forming cone parting surface widening towards top |
JP3914137B2 (en) * | 2001-11-20 | 2007-05-16 | 立花容器株式会社 | Package and method for producing the same |
-
2006
- 2006-12-06 GB GBGB0624343.0A patent/GB0624343D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2007
- 2007-12-06 EP EP07254735A patent/EP1930253B1/en active Active
- 2007-12-06 AT AT07254735T patent/ATE498565T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2007-12-06 DE DE602007012506T patent/DE602007012506D1/en active Active
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9469445B2 (en) | 2011-02-07 | 2016-10-18 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Package with lid sealing system |
WO2014179287A1 (en) * | 2013-05-03 | 2014-11-06 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Container closure |
CN105263813A (en) * | 2013-05-03 | 2016-01-20 | 比瑞塑料公司 | Container closure |
CN105263813B (en) * | 2013-05-03 | 2017-05-03 | 比瑞塑料公司 | Container closure |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
ATE498565T1 (en) | 2011-03-15 |
GB0624343D0 (en) | 2007-01-17 |
DE602007012506D1 (en) | 2011-03-31 |
EP1930253A1 (en) | 2008-06-11 |
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