EP3251964A1 - Pouring element for a composite packing and composite packaging with a pouring element - Google Patents

Abstract

Shown and described are a pouring element (A) for a composite package (P), in particular for a beverage carton for liquid food, having a mounting flange (5) and a Ausgießubus (6) having base body (2), arranged in a Ausgießtubus (6) and a guided cutting element (3), first guide means (7) formed in the pouring tube (6) and second guide means (8) formed on the cutting element (3), the first and second guide means (7, 8) cooperating correspondingly, and a composite packing (P ), in particular a beverage carton for liquid foodstuffs, with a packing gable panel (1) suitable for receiving a pouring element (A). In order to optimize the production of the pouring element (A) material and manufacturing technology and to guarantee the initial opening of the composite package (P) in the field of packing material weakening is provided that the first guide means (7) formed by a circumferential and self-contained rib (9) is.

Description

The invention relates to a pouring element for a composite package, in particular for a beverage carton for liquid food, comprising a base body having a mounting flange and a pouring spout, a cutting element arranged and guided in Ausgießubus, Ausgießubus formed in the first guide means and formed on the cutting element second guide means, wherein the first and second guide means cooperate correspondingly and a composite package, in particular a beverage carton for liquid food, with a suitable for receiving a pouring box gable panel.

In the field of packaging technology, composite packaging has long been part of the state of the art. For example, beverage cartons consist of various packaging materials, such as paper and plastics, which form a package laminate over the entire surface and printed. The layer structure can vary depending on the requirements, for example, for aseptic filling materials additionally an aluminum layer is inserted in order to achieve a good barrier effect against gases and light. Often - but not always - the laminate is cut to packaging size during its manufacture and so-called packing jacket blanks (blanks) are formed in this way. Alternatively, the package laminate is delivered as continuous material (rolls) and cut later.

The actual forming and filling of the packaging and the closing of a package is done in a packaging machine, which is often referred to as a form - / fill / seal machine based on its main functions. As fillings are mainly liquid foods such as drinks, soups or yogurt in question. Also conceivable are stacked, pasty or lumpy products or the like.

Packages of the type mentioned are sometimes also provided with pouring elements. These enable the consumer in addition to a controlled pouring usually also a reclosure option. Not infrequently and predominantly with aseptic application is also provided a Erstöffnungsfunktion for the pack. The previously gas-tight sealed package is first separated. This can be done for example by means of pull-ring ("ring-pull") or -Lasche or by a piercing and / or cutting device. Such piercing and / or cutting devices are often designed as sleeve-like cutting elements (cutting rings), which are coupled via drive means, for example, with the screw cap, so that by means of the rotary actuation of the screw cap, the package is cut simultaneously.

The European application EP 1 396 435 A1 shows, for example, a three-part pouring element. The main body, screw cap and cutting sleeve are first manufactured individually by injection molding and result in a functional pouring spout, which can be permanently connected via a mounting flange on the main body with a filled, composite package described above. When the screw cap is actuated by the consumer for the first time, the cutting element moves in the direction of a weakened section specially provided in the composite pack and separates it by a plurality of cutting teeth.

The implementation of the cap screw movement in a rotationally co-rotating and translationally opposite cutting element movement is realized by a corresponding thread pairing on the components. The positively projecting thread flank of the cutting element meshes over a larger portion in the negative thread flank of the body. This allows for a relatively secure guidance of the components - which is always desirable - but limits the kinematics of the cutting element to a constant feed rate. However, this can be disadvantageous, since it can come in packings of the type mentioned during the separation process to a so-called "PE-pulling". It stretches the Polyethylene film in the length without separating, which ends in a poor or incomplete opening result, so that the product can not pour out in the required manner. The special tooth geometry is intended to remedy the problem. Furthermore, such parts are relatively expensive to manufacture, for example, threaded undercuts complicate the demolding of the molded parts on the injection molding machine.

An improved three-piece pouring element shows the applicant's international application WO 2004/000667 A1 , The invention enables a staggered kinematics of the cutting element. This is first fed purely axially and thus pierced the composite pack by a combined piercing and cutting member. This is followed by a pure rotation that allows the organ to be cut exclusively.

In order to enable this special kinematics, relatively massive sized guide and power transmission means are needed. In addition, strong wall thicknesses of the components must ensure the necessary rigidity and thus also the functional reliability. However, such embodiments bring about high material consumption and increase the cycle times during injection molding.

In order to improve the injection molding production and the assembly of the parts thus created is in the applicant's international application WO 2009/068671 A1 a one-piece production of base element, cutting element and screw cap has been proposed. The cutting element is already essentially formed in its original position in the tube of the base element and the screw cap is connected to the base element via a connecting strap. For assembly, it is sufficient to bounce the injection-molded parts. Now, if the consumer wants to remove the product of the composite package, he actuates the screw of the now applied to a compound pack spout and cuts the connection tab for the first time (this also serves as a seal of authenticity) and sets the cutting element in motion.

The kinematics of the cutting element results from the guide webs formed in the pouring tube, in which guide ribs engage the cutting element. This initially follows a steeper screwing and goes into a flatter over. After the separation of the package, the cutting element is locked via a recess and a stop in its end position. This important function is necessary, otherwise there is a risk that the cutting element could fall into the product.

Another generic pouring shows the European application EP 2 055 640 A1 , When the screw cap is turned up, the rotational movement is transformed into a staggered movement of the cutting element. This is realized by a complex construction on a negatively profiled notch on the cutting element and in this current, projecting on the inner wall of the Ausgießubus, cam. The components are relatively expensive to manufacture and can only be produced with a high cost of materials.

On this basis, it is the object of the present invention, a pouring element and a composite package of the type mentioned above and described in more detail above and further develop that the disadvantages described are overcome. In particular, the production should be optimized in terms of materials and production technology and the opening function for the composite package should be fully guaranteed.

This object is achieved in a pouring element according to the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that the first guide means is formed by a circumferential and self-contained rib. Such a rib allows extensive freedom of design of the guide means to achieve a desired cutting element kinematics. In particular, a staggering of the rotational and axial motion components or variable axial feed components can be realized. The complete circulation of the rib guarantees a safe guidance of the cutting element. In particular, it avoids the risk of the cutting element being stressed even under load, For example, under the effect of forces and torques of the cutting process, can not escape from its forced operation, since this has no limiting ends. A circumferential rib avoids undercuts (as in threads), so that the regularly injection molded plastic parts can be easily removed from the tools. This allows a simpler and thus more cost-effective design of the mold halves, simplifies the filling of the cavities and thus shortens the injection cycle times, which optimizes the production. The restriction to a rib also saves material. A self-contained rib also increases the rigidity and strength of the body, so that the guide means fulfill their function and a good and safe opening is possible. If strength and stiffness are guaranteed, wall thicknesses can also be optimized (ie reduced), creating further potential for material savings. However, such a lightweight construction is of particular importance in mass production as well as pouring elements.

The problem underlying the invention is also solved by a composite package, wherein the packing gable panel has a local packing material weakening and such pouring element is positioned and permanently connected in such a way that when the pouring element is first actuated the cutting element is movable in the direction of the weakening of the packing material and it is severable, that the composite package is ready for emptying. Pouring element and composite packing must always be closely coordinated. Thus, an exact positioning on a designated packing gable panel is of crucial importance. On the one hand, the pouring element must remain connected to the composite packing, on the other hand, the cutting element should dig exactly in the packing material weakening created for it and separate it. Only this allows a complete opening of the pack, which is then ready for emptying.

A further teaching of the invention provides that the rib for the initial position of the cutting element has at least one high plateau section. Such a high plateau allows a secure retention of the cutting element until the first opening of the composite package. However, this is necessary because otherwise there would be a risk that the composite package prematurely undergoes damage and no longer tight, which could spoil the content prematurely.

According to a further teaching of the invention, the rib for the end position of the cutting ring on at least one Tiefplateauabschnitt. A locking of the cutting element in the end position is for safety, since the cutting element under no circumstances free from the final position and in particular must not fall into the product. For example, if the cutting element is driven by a cap, this should also be hindered neither when reclosing nor re-turning, what the low plateau provides.

Other types of embodiments of the invention provide that the rib has different slopes for different movements of the cutting element and / or that the rib has a further plateau for a pure rotational movement of the cutting element. Different movements of the cutting element may be desirable depending on the cutting material. If adverse effects such as the "PE-pulling" are to be prevented, it is advisable to first pierce the packing material (perforate) and then cut by a rotary motion, what provides the further plateau.

Another teaching of the invention provides that the rib between high and low plateau portion has a fall-out section for the cutting element. Such a supplementary section completely closes the rib and provides additional security against falling out of the cutting element.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the second guide means are formed by arranged over the circumference of the cutting element cams. Such cams run along the first guide means to stop. Local cams, despite their material-saving construction (as opposed to webs) can fully fulfill their intended function.

In further expedient embodiments, the second guide means are formed as cam pairs, which are optionally distributed as three pairs of cams over the circumference of the cutting element. Such cam pairs include the rib of the first guide means. This allows an additional limitation of the degrees of freedom of the positive guidance, so that it becomes safer and more accurate. If three cam pairs are arranged distributed over the circumference of the cutting element, an optimal compromise between material consumption and guiding function is found.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that at least one cam comes into contact with the rib via a rounded contour. Such rounding is able to gently follow varying slopes and different portions of the rib of the first guide means without jamming or creating large torques.

According to a further teaching of the invention, a closure cap is connected to the base body, which allows the reclosure of a partially consumed composite package.

In further embodiments of the invention, the cutting element can be driven via drive flanks formed on the closure cap, which act on drive elements arranged on the cutting element. Thus, the Erstöffnungsdrehbewegung to drive the cutting element exploit ("single-action"). If the drive is realized via flanks (on the cap) and webs (on the cutting ring), a particularly advantageous coupling is created.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the packing material weakening is listed as an overcoated hole. Such Special preparation of the packing material is particularly suitable for opening through a material and production technology optimized pouring, since the separation does not have to be done by the solid material of the composite package.

Fig. 1

eine erfindungsgemäße Verbundpackung mit Ausgießelement in perspektivischer Ansicht von vorn oben,

Fig. 2

ein erfindungsgemäßes Ausgießelement in perspektivischer Ansicht von oben,

Fig. 3

den Grundkörper des Ausgießelements aus Fig. 2 in perspektivischer Ansicht von oben,

Fig. 4

den Grundkörper aus Fig. 3 in einem Vertikalschnitt entlang der Linie IV-IV,

Fig. 5

den Grundkörper aus Fig. 3 in einem Vertikalschnitt entlang der Linie V-V,

Fig. 6

das Schneidelement des Ausgießelements aus Fig. 2 in perspektivischer Ansicht von oben,

Fig. 7

ein Führungsnockenpaar des Schneidelements aus Fig. 6 in Detailansicht und

Fig. 8

die Verschlusskappe des Ausgießelements aus Fig. 2 in perspektivischer Innenansicht.

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing showing only one embodiment. In the drawing show:

Fig. 1

a composite package according to the invention with pouring element in a perspective view from the top front,

Fig. 2

an inventive pouring element in a perspective view from above,

Fig. 3

the main body of the pouring out Fig. 2 in a perspective view from above,

Fig. 4

the main body out Fig. 3 in a vertical section along the line IV-IV,

Fig. 5

the main body out Fig. 3 in a vertical section along the line VV,

Fig. 6

the cutting element of the pouring out Fig. 2 in a perspective view from above,

Fig. 7

a pair of guide cam of the cutting element Fig. 6 in detail view and

Fig. 8

the cap of the pouring out Fig. 2 in perspective interior view.

In the FIG. 1 illustrated embodiment of a composite package P according to the invention shows this as a beverage carton. The composite package P consists of a packing material which forms a packing laminate from a sequence of surface-bonded materials: a cardboard carrier layer is laminated on both sides with polymer layers and an additional aluminum layer shields the product of the composite package P against undesired environmental influences (light, oxygen).

The composite package P provides a packing gable panel 1 in the head area, onto which a pouring element A according to the invention is also applied and permanently attached. When the pouring element A is actuated for the first time, a packing material weakening region-here covered by the pouring element A-is severed and thus the composite pack P, which is thus ready for emptying, is opened for the first time. In the embodiment shown and thus far preferred, this weakened region is embodied as an overcoated hole which is formed during production: a hole is punched out of the cardboard carrier layer so that local weakening occurs after its coating.

FIG. 2 shows the pouring element A according to the invention, the individually manufactured by injection molding parts are fully assembled (assembled): a base body 2, a - here hidden - cutting element 3 (shown in FIG FIG. 6 ) and a closure cap 4. The now pouring spout A is then applied via a mounting flange 5 on the composite package P and permanently connected by means of hot melt adhesive.

If the closure cap 4 is actuated by the consumer for the first time, the unscrewing movement of the closure cap 4 is transferred to the cutting element 3 guided in the base body 2, which separates the composite package P in the region of the weakening. Through the opening thus created can then pour out the product.

In the FIG. 3 the main body 2 is shown, which also consists of a pouring tube 6 in addition to the mounting flange 5. In the assembled and functional state, the cutting element 3 is arranged in the pouring tube 6 and formed on the inner wall of the Ausgießubus first guide means 7 and thus corresponding formed on the cutting element 3 second guide means 8 (see FIGS. 6 and 7 ) forced. The first guide means 7 are formed by a circumferential and self-contained rib 9.

FIGS. 4 and 5 show the vertically cut halves of the base body 2 with the respective inner wall of the pouring tube 6, on which the course of the projecting rib 9 is visible. The rib 9 has a high plateau section 10 in the upper area, which forms the guide section for the starting position of the cutting element 3. Now, when the cutting element 3 is set in motion, this follows the first guide means 7, and is moved from the high plateau section 10 over a variable in pitch section to a deep plateau section 11, where the end position of the cutting element 3 is reached. Between high plateau section 10 and deep plateau section 11 of the actual opening operation of the composite package P takes place. Here, the piercing and cutting cut on the cutting element 3 terminal members 12 (see FIG. 6 ) the composite package P in the area of the over-coated hole.

In the embodiment shown and thus far preferred, a further plateau 13 is formed on the rib 9 between the high and low plateau sections 11, which causes a pure rotation of the cutting element 3, whereby the separating members 12 cut the over-coated hole instead of piercing over this region.

If the cutting element 3 has reached its end position, it should be locked in this. However, in order to prevent unwanted loosening, the rib 9 is formed between its high plateau section 10 and deep plateau section 11 as a fall-out securing section 14.

In FIG. 6 Cutting element 3 is shown as a single part. The mentioned second guide means 8 are realized as cams 15, which in pairs include the first guide means 7 of the rib 9 and thus form a positive guide. Three such pairs of cams 16 are formed distributed over the circumference of the cutting element 3, whereby a sufficiently good guidance of the same is ensured. A detailed view of such a cam pair 16 is shown in FIG FIG. 7 to see. The lower cam 15, which comes into contact with the underside of the rib 9, is partially shaped as a rounded contour 17, so that different sections of the rib 9 are passed through as smoothly as possible.

FIG. 8 shows the cap 4 as a single part. On the inner surface of the cover surface drive flanks 18 are formed, which on projecting on the inside of the cutting element 3 drive elements 19 (see FIG. 6 ) act, which are designed as webs. Thus, the cap 4 is coupled to the cutting element 3 and the desired force and torque transmission can take place.

Claims (16)

Pouring element (A) for a composite package (P), in particular for a beverage carton for liquid foodstuffs, with a base body (2) having a mounting flange (5) and a pouring tube (6), a cutting element (3) arranged and guided in the pouring tube (6) ), in the pouring tube (6) formed first guide means (7) and on the cutting element (3) formed second guide means (8), wherein the first and second guide means (7, 8) cooperate correspondingly,
characterized in that
the first guide means (7) is formed by a circumferential and self-contained rib (9). Pouring element (A) according to claim 1,
characterized in that
the rib (9) for the initial position of the cutting element (3) has at least one high plateau section (10). Pouring element (A) according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that
the rib (9) for the end position of the cutting element (3) has at least one deep plateau section (11). Pouring element (A) according to one of claims 1 to 3,
characterized in that
the rib (9) has different pitches for different movements of the cutting element (3). Pouring element (A) according to claim 4,
characterized in that
the rib (9) between high (10) and deep plateau section (11) has a further plateau (13) for a pure rotational movement of the cutting element (3). Pouring element (A) according to one of claims 4 or 5,
characterized in that
the rib (9) between the high (10) and deep plateau portion (11) has a fall-out section (14) for the cutting element (3). Pouring element (A) according to one of claims 1 to 6,
characterized in that
the second guide means (8) are formed by cams (15) arranged over the circumference of the cutting element (3). Pouring element (A) according to claim 7,
characterized in that
the second guide means (7) are formed by cam pairs (16). Pouring element (A) according to claim 8,
characterized in that
three cam pairs (16) are arranged distributed over the circumference of the cutting element (3). Pouring element (A) according to one of claims 7 to 9,
characterized in that
at least one cam (14) comes into contact with the rib (9) via a rounded contour (17). Pouring element (A) according to one of claims 1 to 10,
characterized in that
a closure cap (4) is connected to the base body (2). Pouring element (A) according to claim 11,
characterized in that
the cutting element (3) can be driven via drive flanks (18) formed on the closure cap (4). Pouring element (A) according to claim 12,
characterized in that
the drive flanks (18) act on drive elements (19) arranged on the cutting element (3). Pouring element (1) according to claim 13,
characterized in that
the drive elements (19) are designed as webs. Composite pack (P), in particular a beverage carton for liquid foods, having a packing gable panel (1) suitable for receiving a pouring element (A), the packing gable panel (1) having a local packing material weakening and a pouring element (A) according to one of claims 1 to 14 is positioned and permanently connected such that when the pouring element (A) is actuated for the first time, the cutting element (3) can be moved in the direction of the weakening of the packing material and can be severed so that the composite pack (P) is ready for emptying. A composite package (P) according to claim 15,
characterized in that
the packing material weakening is carried out as an overcoated hole.

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