EP3435812B1 - Container for food use - Google Patents

Container for food use Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3435812B1
EP3435812B1 EP17711098.8A EP17711098A EP3435812B1 EP 3435812 B1 EP3435812 B1 EP 3435812B1 EP 17711098 A EP17711098 A EP 17711098A EP 3435812 B1 EP3435812 B1 EP 3435812B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
locking member
container
cover
food use
box
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.)
Active
Application number
EP17711098.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3435812A1 (en
Inventor
François Aznar
Bruno Gstalder
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.)
MAPED SAS
Original Assignee
MAPED SAS
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by MAPED SAS filed Critical MAPED SAS
Publication of EP3435812A1 publication Critical patent/EP3435812A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3435812B1 publication Critical patent/EP3435812B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

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
    • B65D45/00—Clamping or other pressure-applying devices for securing or retaining closure members
    • B65D45/02—Clamping or other pressure-applying devices for securing or retaining closure members for applying axial pressure to engage closure with sealing surface
    • B65D45/16—Clips, hooks, or clamps which are removable, or which remain connected either with the closure or with the container when the container is open, e.g. C-shaped
    • B65D45/20—Clips, hooks, or clamps which are removable, or which remain connected either with the closure or with the container when the container is open, e.g. C-shaped pivoted
    • B65D45/24—Clips, hooks, or clamps which are removable, or which remain connected either with the closure or with the container when the container is open, e.g. C-shaped pivoted incorporating pressure-applying means, e.g. screws or toggles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
    • A45C11/20—Lunch or picnic boxes or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
    • A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
    • 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
    • B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D25/02—Internal fittings
    • B65D25/04—Partitions
    • 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
    • B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D43/02—Removable lids or covers
    • B65D43/0202—Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element
    • B65D43/0214—Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element secured only by friction or gravity
    • B65D43/0222—Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element secured only by friction or gravity only on the outside, or a part turned to the outside, of the mouth of the container
    • 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
    • B65D53/00—Sealing or packing elements; Sealings formed by liquid or plastics material
    • B65D53/02—Collars or rings
    • 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
    • B65D81/3216—Rigid containers disposed one within the other
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
    • A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
    • A45C2013/026—Inserts

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a box for food use for transporting and storing food.
  • Boxes intended for the transport and preservation of food, in particular for meals to be taken at school or at work generally comprise a box body receiving the food and a removable cover which is coupled to the box body.
  • the boxes are usually closed by clipping the cover onto the upper edge of the box body.
  • This type of closure which can be produced in particular on boxes made of plastic material, is effected by pressure on the cover, possibly followed by local pressures of the clipping.
  • Clipping needs to be firm to obtain a good seal. However, the stronger the closure, the more difficult the box is to open or close, especially by young children. Also, complete and lasting closure is not guaranteed.
  • the box can be opened and the food contained in the box may leak during transport or when positioning the box at an angle or upside down.
  • box closing systems provide locking means comprising two or four hooks.
  • the hooks generally mounted mobile on the lid, allow a firm and watertight closing of the box.
  • US 3,860,136 A describes a container provided with such a closure system.
  • One of the aims of the present invention is to provide a box for food use, the closure of which is ensured in a durable manner in order to prevent the box from opening during transport and the actuation of which can be carried out easily, in particular by means of toddlers.
  • the closure of the box can thus be locked by simply pivoting the locking member on the box body around the axis of rotation due to the circular arc shape of the side faces of the retaining wings and the shape complementary in an arc of a circle of the side faces of the lugs of the locking member.
  • This locking can be obtained independently of the general shape of the box. It is thus possible to design a box having flat side walls, such as a box of generally parallelepiped or prismatic shape, with a rotary locking around a vertical axis of rotation.
  • This rotary locking allows a durable and easy closing of the box, in several points, by a single manipulation.
  • the force to be exerted to lock the box can also be relatively low.
  • the box can therefore be easily handled by children.
  • such a box is simple to produce and therefore economical.
  • the Figure 1 shows a box 1 for food use for transporting and storing food, especially for meals to be taken at school or at work.
  • the box 1 comprises three distinct elements which are a box body 2, a cover 3 which can mate with the box body 2 to close the box 1 as well as a locking member 4 surmounting the lid 3.
  • the locking member 4 is pivotally mounted on the cover 3 about an axis of rotation II between an unlocked position ( Figure 2 ) and a locked position ( Figure 3 ) in which the locking member 4 locks the cover 3 coupled to the gearbox body 2.
  • the box body 2 is a container (or receptacle). It has a housing 5 suitable in particular for receiving food.
  • the box body 2 can include one or more partitions 10, arranged vertically in the box body 2 to compartmentalize the bottom 7.
  • the box 1 can also include at least one removable compartment 11, having dimensions adapted to fit at least partially into a sub-housing of the box body 2 ( figure 7 ).
  • the box body 2 can have a raising element 12, adapted to raise the compartment 11 in the housing 5 of the box body 2.
  • the raising element 12 makes it possible to provide a space under the compartment 11 and thus to compartmentalize the gearbox body 2 in height.
  • the raising element 12 is for example formed by a narrowing of the housing 5 of the box body 2, for example at least partially peripheral.
  • the edge of the cover 3 has for example a double wall 13a, 13b.
  • the walls 13a, 13b extend vertically, that is to say parallel to the side walls of the box body 2, forming a peripheral groove between the two walls 13a, 13b.
  • the box 1 for food use may include a first seal 14 partially received in a peripheral groove of the box body 2 or of the cover 3 ( figures 1 , 10a and 10b ).
  • the first seal 14 is at least partly compressed between the cover 3 and the box body 2 when the locking member 4 is in the locked position, which makes it possible to ensure good sealing of the box 1.
  • the first seal 14 comprises a serrated peripheral portion 15 and a tubular peripheral portion 16 surmounting the serrated peripheral portion 15.
  • the cross section of the serrated peripheral portion 15 has a fir or harpoon shape, with two or three stages of retaining teeth, allowing the first gasket 14 to be inserted and retained in a cavity, such as in the peripheral groove of the double wall 13a, 13b of the cover 3.
  • the tubular peripheral portion 16 forms the actual seal.
  • the cross section of the tubular peripheral portion 16 has a substantially oval or round shape in the uncompressed state.
  • a round cross section makes it possible to obtain a first symmetrical seal 14 which can be positioned indifferently in one direction or the other in the cavity, without possible orientation error.
  • the box 1 can also include at least one second seal 17 carried by the edge of the compartment 11 received in the box body 2 ( figures 7 , 11a , 11b , 15 and 16 ).
  • the second seal 17 comprises a serrated peripheral portion 15 and a peripheral portion with open profile 18 surmounting the serrated peripheral portion 15.
  • the cross section of the open profile peripheral portion 18 has a "C" shape in the rest state.
  • This peripheral portion 18 has for example two facing lips. It can be mounted in both directions, the orientation of the opening being able to be either directed towards the outside or the inside of the box 1.
  • This open form requires less compressive force on the part of the user. than to compress the closed shape of the tubular peripheral portion 16, however with less guarantee of sealing.
  • the compartment 11 may have a height greater than that of the side wall portions of the box body 2 extending above the raising element 12.
  • the edge of the compartment 11 carrying the second seal 17 protrudes. of the edge 6 of the box body 2 when the compartment 11 is received in the box body 2.
  • the second seal 17 can thus be compressed between the compartment 11 and the upper internal wall of the cover 3 when the lock 4 is in the locked position.
  • the first and second sealing gasket 14, 17 are for example made of silicone material.
  • the axis of rotation I-I of the locking member 4 extends in the direction of coupling of the cover 3 to the box body 2, that is to say in the vertical direction. It can be arranged in a central position, it is for example coincident with an axis of symmetry of the box 1.
  • the locking member 4 rotatable about the axis of rotation II comprises at least two tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b, for example four, which are preferably arranged two by two opposite one of the 'other with respect to the axis of rotation II ( figure 13 ).
  • the four legs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b are for example spaced angularly from each other at an angle of 90 °.
  • the box body 2 has at least two retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b whose upper faces (facing the cover 3) extend in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation II of the locking member 4.
  • the gearbox body 2 also has clearances 19a, 19b formed next to the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b.
  • the clearances 19a, 19b are shaped to free the passage of the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 in the direction of coupling.
  • the upper faces of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b are coplanar and extend substantially at 90 ° from the side walls of the box body 2. They are for example formed in the edge 6 of the housing 5, on the side opposite to the housing. bottom 7 of the gearbox body 2, projecting in a horizontal plane (L, T).
  • the side faces 24a, 24b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b are part of at least one circle C1, C2 whose center passes through the axis of rotation II ( figure 6 ).
  • Each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 has a side face 25a, 25b complementary to a side face 24a, 24b of a retaining wing 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b.
  • the lateral face 25a, 25b of each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b thus has the shape of an arc of a circle inscribed in at least one circle C1 ', C2' with dimensions substantially greater than the circle C1, C2 in which s' include the side faces 24a, 24b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b, to allow the rotation of the locking member 4 around the box body 2 ( figure 13 ).
  • each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 has a curved end 26a, 26b, projecting radially towards the axis of rotation I-I.
  • the curved end 26a, 26b is configured to cooperate with a lower edge 27a, 27b of a respective retaining wing 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b of the box body 2 to axially retain the cover 3 coupled to the box body 2 in the locked position.
  • the lower ridges 27a, 27b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b are arranged on the opposite side of the upper faces extending radially in the plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation I-I.
  • the closing of the box 1 can thus be locked by simply pivoting the locking member 4 on the box body 2 around the axis of rotation II due to the circular arc shape of the side faces 24a, 24b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b and of the complementary shape in an arc of a circle of the side faces 25a, 25b of the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4.
  • This locking can be obtained independently of the form general of the box 1. It is thus possible to design a box 1 having planar side walls, such as a box 1 of generally parallelepiped or prismatic shape, having a bottom of generally polygonal shape such as square, rectangular or triangular, with a rotary locking around a vertical axis of rotation II.
  • This rotary locking allows a durable and easy closing of the box 1, in several points, by a single manipulation.
  • the force to be exerted to lock the box 1 can also be relatively low. Box 1 can therefore be easily handled by children.
  • such a box 1 is simple to produce and therefore economical.
  • each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 can carry an axial guide surface having complementary ramps, hollows and / or protuberances, configured to cooperate during the pivoting of the 'locking member 4 between the locked and unlocked positions with a complementary axial guide surface carried by the lower ridges 27a, 27b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b.
  • the axial guide surfaces make it possible to cause a feeling to the user manipulating the locking member 4 in the manner of cam surfaces.
  • each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 carries an axial ramp configured to cooperate with a complementary axial ramp carried by a lower edge 27a, 27b of a wing of retainer 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b respectively.
  • the axial ramps are oriented relative to the direction of rotation of the locking member 4 between the locked and unlocked positions to gradually increase the tightening of the cover 3 on the gearbox body 2 with the rotation of the locking member 4 towards the position locked. These axial ramps allow progressive compression of the seals 14, 17.
  • the axial ramps may extend over all or part of the curved end 26a, 26b and in correspondence over all or part of the lower edges 27a, 27b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b.
  • the curved ends 26a, 26b and the lower edges 27a, 27b carry on the one hand, an axial ramp and on the other hand, a flat surface inscribed in a radial plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation II, extending the axial ramp.
  • These axial guide surfaces result for the user in the feeling of less force after passing a hard point.
  • the curved ends 26a, 26b and the lower ridges 27a, 27b may be tapered on the side of their mutual engagement towards the locked position ( figure 12 ). This ensures a smooth engagement between the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 and the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b of the gearbox body 2.
  • cover 3 may have guiding and retaining elements cooperating with the locking member 4 to guide the pivoting of the locking member 4 and to retain the locking member 4 to the cover 3.
  • the cover 3 comprises a cylindrical portion 30 arranged on the upper outer wall ( figure 9 ).
  • a complementary circular orifice 31 centered on the axis of rotation II is then provided in the body of the locking member 4 ( figure 13 ).
  • the cylindrical portion 30 thus forms a pivoting guide element for the locking member 4.
  • the cover 3 and the locking member 4 may have complementary reversible retaining elements, for example of the clipping type, that is to say cooperating by elastic deformation.
  • the cylindrical portion 30 of the cover 3 comprises at least one lateral rib 32 cooperating with a complementary lateral rib 33 formed in the edge of the complementary circular orifice 31 to retain the locking member 4 to the cover 3 ( figures 15 and 16 ).
  • the cover 3 and the locking member 4 may include complementary stop elements configured to limit the rotation of the locking member 4 in the locked and unlocked positions.
  • the upper outer wall of the cover 3 comprises at least one pin 34, for example two, configured to cooperate with a complementary internal cavity of the locking member 4 ( figure 9 ).
  • the locking member 4 can be made in one piece. It is the same for the box body 2, the cover 3 and the compartment 11. These elements can be made of plastic material and obtained by molding. The plastic material is particularly suitable for being brought into contact with food.
  • the figures 1 to 16 show a first embodiment in which two first curved ends 26a of two first tabs 20a, 20b of the locking 4 are configured to cooperate with two first retaining wings 22a, 22b, and two second curved ends 26b of two second lugs 21a, 21b are configured to cooperate with two second retaining wings 23a, 23b.
  • the first side faces 24a of the first retaining wings 22a, 22b are part of a first circle C1.
  • the second side faces 24b of the second retaining wings 23a, 23b are part of a second circle C2.
  • the second circle C2 has a larger diameter than that of the first circle C1.
  • the width of the first legs 20a, 20b and of the first retaining wings 22a, 22b is smaller than that of the second legs 21a, 21b and of the second retaining wings 23a, 23b which are more distant of the center of rotation II.
  • the axial ramps carried by the first curved ends 26a and the first lower ridges 27a have a greater inclination than those of the second curved ends 26b and the second lower ridges 27b.
  • a through orifice 35 is provided in the cover 3.
  • the box 1 may include a ring 28 having a through hole, the ring 28 being received in the through orifice 35.
  • the ring 28 may be elastic, it is for example made of material silicone.
  • the through orifice of the ring 28, and therefore of the through orifice 35, is released when the locking member 4 is in the unlocked position ( figure 15 ) and is blocked by a protuberance 36 of the locking member 4 in the locked position ( figure 16 ).
  • the through orifice 35 thus allows the box 1 to be vented, which is particularly useful for avoiding splashing when opening the box 1 or the explosions / deformations of the cover 3, in particular when the box 1 has been heated. Also, this makes it possible to facilitate the opening of the cover 3, in particular when hot food has been introduced into the box 1 and their cooling has depressurized the sealed box 1. It is thus possible to balance the internal and external pressures of the box 1 when the through orifice 35 is released in the unlocked position ( figure 15 ), box 1 being also completely sealed in the locked position ( figure 16 ).
  • the user closes the box 1 by moving the cover 3 towards the box body 2 in the vertical coupling direction, that is to say coaxially with the axis of rotation II, the curved ends 26a, 26b of the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b being inserted into the recesses 19a, 19b of the gearbox body 2.
  • Box 1 is then closed in a durable and watertight manner.
  • FIGS 17 to 20 illustrate another example of a box 1 'in which the retaining wings 23 of the box body 2' are identical to each other and the tabs 21 of the locking member 4 'are identical to each other, the side faces of the retaining wings 23 forming part of a single circle C and the side faces of the legs 21 in a single complementary circle C '.
  • Such a locking member 4 ' is particularly suitable for a parallelepipedal box 1', the box body 2 of which has a bottom 7 'of substantially square shape as shown in the figures. figures 17 to 20 .
  • each tab 21 of the locking member 4 ' can be inscribed in a radial plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation II, in correspondence with the flat lower edges of the retaining wings. 23 (see figure 17 ).
  • the cover 3 ' comprises a plurality of guide ribs 37, four in the example, projecting vertically from the upper outer wall of the cover 3'.
  • the guide ribs 37 have a respective shape of an arc of a circle which are oriented with respect to each other so as to encircle a ring 38 of the locking member 4 'connecting the four legs 21. These guide ribs 37 make it possible to guide the pivoting of the locking member 4 'relative to the cover 3'.
  • locking member 4 is provided with a gripping handle 39, to facilitate its handling in rotation by the user.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne une boite à usage alimentaire permettant le transport et la conservation des aliments.The present invention relates to a box for food use for transporting and storing food.

Les boites destinées au transport et à la conservation des aliments notamment pour les repas devant être pris à l'école ou au travail, comportent généralement un corps de boite recevant les aliments et un couvercle amovible s'accouplant au corps de boite.Boxes intended for the transport and preservation of food, in particular for meals to be taken at school or at work, generally comprise a box body receiving the food and a removable cover which is coupled to the box body.

La fermeture des boites est habituellement réalisée par clipsage du couvercle sur la bordure supérieure du corps de boite. Ce type de fermeture, réalisable notamment sur des boites en matériau plastique, s'effectue par pression sur le couvercle, éventuellement suivie de pressions locales du clipsage.The boxes are usually closed by clipping the cover onto the upper edge of the box body. This type of closure, which can be produced in particular on boxes made of plastic material, is effected by pressure on the cover, possibly followed by local pressures of the clipping.

Le clipsage nécessite d'être ferme pour obtenir une bonne étanchéité. Néanmoins, plus la fermeture est forte et plus la boite est difficile à ouvrir ou fermer, notamment par des jeunes enfants. Egalement, la fermeture complète et durable n'est pas garantie. La boite peut s'ouvrir et les aliments contenus dans la boite peuvent fuir lors du transport ou lors d'un positionnement en biais ou renversé de la boite.Clipping needs to be firm to obtain a good seal. However, the stronger the closure, the more difficult the box is to open or close, especially by young children. Also, complete and lasting closure is not guaranteed. The box can be opened and the food contained in the box may leak during transport or when positioning the box at an angle or upside down.

De plus, des problèmes d'usure peuvent apparaitre dans le temps après de nombreuses ouvertures et fermetures, pouvant engendrer de moins bonnes performances en termes d'étanchéité.In addition, wear problems may appear over time after numerous openings and closings, which may lead to poorer performance in terms of sealing.

D'autres systèmes de fermeture de boites prévoient des moyens de verrouillage comprenant deux ou quatre crochets. Les crochets, généralement montés mobiles sur le couvercle, permettent une fermeture ferme et étanche de la boite. Le document US 3 860 136 A décrit un récipient muni d'un tel système de fermeture.Other box closing systems provide locking means comprising two or four hooks. The hooks, generally mounted mobile on the lid, allow a firm and watertight closing of the box. The document US 3,860,136 A describes a container provided with such a closure system.

Cependant, le verrouillage/déverrouillage des crochets nécessite plusieurs actionnements. En effet, les crochets doivent être manipulés l'un après l'autre, chacun individuellement. De plus, des efforts d'actionnement importants, tels que de l'ordre de 1 à 2 kilos, doivent être exercés pour les actionner. Pour des enfants, le nombre de manipulations à réaliser associé à ces importants efforts, peut entrainer une mauvaise fermeture de la boite, celle-ci pouvant restée déverrouillée ou mal verrouillée. Un risque de casse des crochets suite à une mauvaise manipulation peut également survenir, rendant la boite inutilisable.However, locking / unlocking the hooks requires several actuations. Indeed, the hooks must be handled one after the other, each individually. In addition, significant actuation forces, such as of the order of 1 to 2 kilos, must be exerted to actuate them. For children, the number of manipulations to be carried out associated with these significant efforts can lead to poor closing of the box, it being able to remain unlocked or poorly locked. A risk of breakage of the hooks following improper handling may also arise, rendering the box unusable.

Un des buts de la présente invention est de proposer une boite à usage alimentaire dont la fermeture est assurée de manière durable afin d'éviter que la boite ne s'ouvre pendant le transport et dont l'actionnement peut être réalisé aisément, notamment par des enfants en bas âge.One of the aims of the present invention is to provide a box for food use, the closure of which is ensured in a durable manner in order to prevent the box from opening during transport and the actuation of which can be carried out easily, in particular by means of toddlers.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet une boite à usage alimentaire comportant :

  • un corps de boite,
  • un couvercle pouvant s'accoupler au corps de boite pour fermer la boite,
caractérisée en ce que la boite comporte:
  • un organe de verrouillage comportant au moins deux pattes, l'organe de verrouillage étant monté pivotant sur le couvercle autour d'un axe de rotation entre une position déverrouillée et une position verrouillée,
  • le corps de boite présentant au moins deux ailes de retenue s'étendant dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de rotation, les faces latérales des ailes de retenue s'inscrivant dans au moins un cercle dont le centre passe par l'axe de rotation,
  • chaque patte de l'organe de verrouillage présentant :
    • une face latérale complémentaire à une face latérale d'une aile de retenue, et
    • une extrémité recourbée configurée pour coopérer avec une aile de retenue respective du corps de boite pour retenir axialement le couvercle accouplé au corps de boite dans la position verrouillée,
caractérisée en ce que le couvercle comporte des éléments de guidage et de retenue coopérant avec l'organe de verrouillage pour guider le pivotement de l'organe de verrouillage et pour retenir l'organe de verrouillage au couvercle.To this end, the invention relates to a box for food use comprising:
  • a box body,
  • a cover that can be coupled to the box body to close the box,
characterized in that the box comprises:
  • a locking member comprising at least two tabs, the locking member being mounted to pivot on the cover about an axis of rotation between an unlocked position and a locked position,
  • the gearbox body having at least two retaining wings extending in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the side faces of the retaining wings being inscribed in at least one circle, the center of which passes through the axis of rotation ,
  • each tab of the locking member having:
    • a side face complementary to a side face of a retaining wing, and
    • a curved end configured to cooperate with a respective retaining wing of the box body to axially retain the cover coupled to the box body in the locked position,
characterized in that the cover comprises guiding and retaining elements cooperating with the locking member to guide the pivoting of the locking member and to retain the locking member to the cover.

La fermeture de la boite peut ainsi être verrouillée par simple pivotement de l'organe de verrouillage sur le corps de boite autour de l'axe de rotation du fait de la forme en arc de cercle des faces latérales des ailes de retenue et de la forme complémentaire en arc de cercle des faces latérales des pattes de l'organe de verrouillage. Ce verrouillage peut être obtenu indépendamment de la forme générale de la boite. Il est ainsi possible de concevoir une boite ayant des parois latérales planes, telle qu'une boite de forme générale parallélépipédique ou prismatique, avec un verrouillage rotatif autour d'un axe de rotation vertical.The closure of the box can thus be locked by simply pivoting the locking member on the box body around the axis of rotation due to the circular arc shape of the side faces of the retaining wings and the shape complementary in an arc of a circle of the side faces of the lugs of the locking member. This locking can be obtained independently of the general shape of the box. It is thus possible to design a box having flat side walls, such as a box of generally parallelepiped or prismatic shape, with a rotary locking around a vertical axis of rotation.

Ce verrouillage rotatif permet une fermeture durable et aisée de la boite, en plusieurs points, par une seule manipulation. La force à exercer pour verrouiller la boite peut en outre être relativement faible. La boite peut donc être aisément manipulée par des enfants. De plus, une telle boite est simple à réaliser et donc économique.This rotary locking allows a durable and easy closing of the box, in several points, by a single manipulation. The force to be exerted to lock the box can also be relatively low. The box can therefore be easily handled by children. In addition, such a box is simple to produce and therefore economical.

Selon une ou plusieurs caractéristiques de la boite à usage alimentaire, prise seule ou en combinaison :

  • l'extrémité recourbée de chaque patte de l'organe de verrouillage porte une rampe axiale configurée pour coopérer avec une rampe axiale complémentaire portée par une aile de retenue respective, pour augmenter progressivement le serrage du couvercle sur le corps de boite avec la rotation de l'organe de verrouillage vers la position verrouillée,
  • au moins deux pattes de l'organe de verrouillage sont agencées à l'opposé l'une de l'autre par rapport à l'axe de rotation,
  • l'organe de verrouillage comporte quatre pattes portant chacune une extrémité recourbée configurée pour coopérer avec une aile de retenue respective du corps de boite,
  • au moins une première extrémité recourbée d'une première patte est configurée pour coopérer avec une première aile de retenue et au moins une deuxième extrémité recourbée d'une deuxième patte est configurée pour coopérer avec une deuxième aile de retenue, la première face latérale de la première aile de retenue s'inscrivant dans un premier cercle, la deuxième face latérale de la deuxième aile de retenue s'inscrivant dans un deuxième cercle, le deuxième cercle présentant un diamètre plus grand que celui du premier cercle,
  • le corps de boite présente un fond de forme générale polygonale,
  • un orifice traversant est ménagé dans le couvercle, l'orifice traversant étant dégagé lorsque l'organe de verrouillage est en position déverrouillée et étant obstrué par une protubérance de l'organe de verrouillage dans la position verrouillée,
  • l'organe de verrouillage est réalisé en une seule pièce,
  • la boite à usage alimentaire comporte une première garniture d'étanchéité en partie reçue dans une rainure périphérique d'une bordure du corps de boite ou du couvercle, la première garniture d'étanchéité étant au moins en partie comprimée entre le couvercle et le corps de boite lorsque l'organe de verrouillage est en position verrouillée,
  • la première garniture d'étanchéité comporte une portion périphérique dentelée et une portion périphérique tubulaire surmontant la portion périphérique dentelée,
  • la boite à usage alimentaire comporte au moins une deuxième garniture d'étanchéité portée par un compartiment de ladite boite reçu dans le corps de boite, la deuxième garniture d'étanchéité présentant une portion périphérique dentelée et une portion périphérique à profil ouvert surmontant la portion périphérique dentelée.
According to one or more characteristics of the box for food use, taken alone or in combination:
  • the curved end of each tab of the locking member carries an axial ramp configured to cooperate with a complementary axial ramp carried by a respective retaining wing, to gradually increase the tightening of the cover on the box body with the rotation of the 'locking device to the locked position,
  • at least two tabs of the locking member are arranged opposite to each other with respect to the axis of rotation,
  • the locking member comprises four tabs each carrying a curved end configured to cooperate with a respective retaining wing of the gearbox body,
  • at least a first curved end of a first leg is configured to cooperate with a first retaining wing and at least a second curved end of a second leg is configured to cooperate with a second retaining wing, the first lateral face of the first retaining wing forming part of a first circle, the second lateral face of the second retaining wing forming part of a second circle, the second circle having a diameter greater than that of the first circle,
  • the box body has a bottom of generally polygonal shape,
  • a through orifice is provided in the cover, the through orifice being released when the locking member is in the unlocked position and being blocked by a protuberance of the locking member in the locked position,
  • the locking member is made in one piece,
  • the box for food use comprises a first seal partially received in a peripheral groove of an edge of the box body or the cover, the first seal being at least partially compressed between the cover and the body of gearbox when the locking member is in the locked position,
  • the first seal comprises a serrated peripheral portion and a tubular peripheral portion surmounting the serrated peripheral portion,
  • the box for food use comprises at least one second seal carried by a compartment of said box received in the box body, the second seal having a serrated peripheral portion and a peripheral portion with an open profile surmounting the peripheral portion serrated.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à l'aide de la description qui suit, en référence aux dessins schématiques annexés représentant, à titre d'exemple, une forme d'exécution de cette invention.

  • Figure 1 est une vue générale, en perspective, d'un premier exemple de boite à usage alimentaire, en position ouverte avec un couvercle positionné à l'aplomb du corps de boite.
  • Figure 2 est une vue en perspective de la boite de la Figure 1 en position fermée déverrouillée.
  • Figure 3 est une vue de la boite similaire à la Figure 2, en position fermée verrouillée.
  • Figure 4 est une vue de côté du corps de boite de la Figure 1.
  • Figure 5 est une vue en perspective du corps de boite de la Figure 4.
  • Figure 6 est une vue de dessus du corps de boite de la Figure 4.
  • Figure 7 montre une vue en coupe du corps de boite et d'un compartiment reçu dans le corps de boite.
  • Figure 8 est une vue en perspective du couvercle de la Figure 1.
  • Figure 9 est une vue de dessus du couvercle de la Figure 8.
  • Figure 10a est une vue en perspective d'une première garniture d'étanchéité de la boite de la Figure 1.
  • Figure 10b montre une section transversale de la première garniture d'étanchéité de la Figure 10a.
  • Figure 11a est une vue en perspective d'une deuxième garniture d'étanchéité de la boite de la Figure 1.
  • Figure 11b montre une section transversale de la deuxième garniture d'étanchéité de la Figure 11a.
  • Figure 12 montre une vue agrandie de dessous d'une extrémité recourbée et d'une aile de retenue en position déverrouillée.
  • Figure 13 montre une vue de dessous de l'organe de verrouillage de la boite de la Figure 1.
  • Figure 14 montre une vue de côté de l'organe de verrouillage de la Figure 13.
  • Figure 15 est une vue en coupe verticale de la boite à usage alimentaire de la Figure 1, en position fermée déverrouillée.
  • Figure 16 est une vue similaire à la Figure 15, en position fermée verrouillée.
  • Figure 17 est une vue générale en perspective d'un deuxième exemple de boite à usage alimentaire à l'état désassemblé.
  • Figure 18 est une vue en coupe verticale de la boite de la figure 17 à l'état assemblé, en position fermée verrouillée.
  • Figure 19 est une vue de dessus de la boite de la figure 17 en position fermée verrouillée.
  • Figure 20 est une vue similaire à la figure 19 avec la boite en position fermée déverrouillée.
The invention will be better understood with the aid of the description which follows, with reference to the appended schematic drawings showing, by way of example, one embodiment of this invention.
  • Figure 1 is a general perspective view of a first example of a box for food use, in the open position with a cover positioned directly above the box body.
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of the box of the Figure 1 in the closed unlocked position.
  • Figure 3 is a view of the box similar to the Figure 2 , in locked closed position.
  • Figure 4 is a side view of the gearbox body of the Figure 1 .
  • Figure 5 is a perspective view of the gearbox body of the Figure 4 .
  • Figure 6 is a top view of the gearbox body of the Figure 4 .
  • Figure 7 shows a sectional view of the box body and a compartment received in the box body.
  • Figure 8 is a perspective view of the cover of the Figure 1 .
  • Figure 9 is a top view of the cover of the Figure 8 .
  • Figure 10a is a perspective view of a first gasket of the box of the Figure 1 .
  • Figure 10b shows a cross section of the first gasket of the Figure 10a .
  • Figure 11a is a perspective view of a second gasket of the box of the Figure 1 .
  • Figure 11b shows a cross section of the second gasket of the Figure 11a .
  • Figure 12 shows an enlarged view from below of a curved end and a retaining wing in the unlocked position.
  • Figure 13 shows a bottom view of the locking member of the box of the Figure 1 .
  • Figure 14 shows a side view of the locking member of the Figure 13 .
  • Figure 15 is a vertical sectional view of the food container of the Figure 1 , in the closed unlocked position.
  • Figure 16 is a view similar to Figure 15 , in locked closed position.
  • Figure 17 is a general perspective view of a second example of a box for food use in the disassembled state.
  • Figure 18 is a vertical sectional view of the box of the figure 17 in assembled state, in locked closed position.
  • Figure 19 is a top view of the box of the figure 17 in locked closed position.
  • Figure 20 is a view similar to figure 19 with the gearbox in the unlocked closed position.

Sur ces figures, les éléments identiques portent les mêmes numéros de référence.In these figures, identical elements bear the same reference numbers.

Les réalisations suivantes sont des exemples. Bien que la description se réfère à un ou plusieurs modes de réalisation, ceci ne signifie pas nécessairement que chaque référence concerne le même mode de réalisation ou que les caractéristiques s'appliquent seulement à un seul mode de réalisation. De simples caractéristiques de différents modes de réalisation peuvent également être combinées ou interchangées pour fournir d'autres réalisations.The following embodiments are examples. Although the description refers to one or more embodiments, this does not necessarily mean that each reference relates to the same embodiment or that the characteristics apply only to one embodiment. Simple features of different embodiments can also be combined or interchanged to provide other embodiments.

Dans la suite de la description, on adoptera à titre non limitatif des directions longitudinale, verticale et transversale indiquées sur la Figure 1 par le trièdre (L, V, T) fixe par rapport à la boite 1.In the remainder of the description, the longitudinal, vertical and transverse directions indicated on the diagram will be adopted without limitation. Figure 1 by the trihedron (L, V, T) fixed with respect to box 1.

Par horizontal et vertical, on se réfère à la disposition des éléments sur les figures, correspondant à la boite reposant sur un plan de support.By horizontal and vertical, we refer to the arrangement of the elements in the figures, corresponding to the box resting on a support plane.

La Figure 1 montre une boite 1 à usage alimentaire pour le transport et la conservation des aliments, notamment pour les repas devant être pris à l'école ou au travail.The Figure 1 shows a box 1 for food use for transporting and storing food, especially for meals to be taken at school or at work.

La boite 1 comporte trois éléments distincts que sont un corps de boite 2, un couvercle 3 pouvant s'accoupler au corps de boite 2 pour fermer la boite 1 ainsi qu'un organe de verrouillage 4 surmontant le couvercle 3.The box 1 comprises three distinct elements which are a box body 2, a cover 3 which can mate with the box body 2 to close the box 1 as well as a locking member 4 surmounting the lid 3.

L'organe de verrouillage 4 est monté pivotant sur le couvercle 3 autour d'un axe de rotation I-I entre une position déverrouillée (Figure 2) et une position verrouillée (Figure 3) dans laquelle l'organe de verrouillage 4 verrouille le couvercle 3 accouplé au corps de boite 2.The locking member 4 is pivotally mounted on the cover 3 about an axis of rotation II between an unlocked position ( Figure 2 ) and a locked position ( Figure 3 ) in which the locking member 4 locks the cover 3 coupled to the gearbox body 2.

Comme on peut le voir plus précisément sur les figures 4, 5 et 6, le corps de boite 2 est un contenant (ou récipient). Il présente un logement 5 adapté notamment pour recevoir des denrées alimentaires.As can be seen more precisely on the figures 4 , 5 and 6 , the box body 2 is a container (or receptacle). It has a housing 5 suitable in particular for receiving food.

Le corps de boite 2 peut comporter une ou plusieurs cloisons 10, agencées verticalement dans le corps de boite 2 pour en compartimenter le fond 7. La boite 1 peut également comporter au moins un compartiment 11 amovible, présentant des dimensions adaptées pour s'insérer au moins en partie dans un sous-logement du corps de boite 2 (figure 7).The box body 2 can include one or more partitions 10, arranged vertically in the box body 2 to compartmentalize the bottom 7. The box 1 can also include at least one removable compartment 11, having dimensions adapted to fit at least partially into a sub-housing of the box body 2 ( figure 7 ).

Egalement, le corps de boite 2 peut présenter un élément de surélévation 12, adapté pour surélever le compartiment 11 dans le logement 5 du corps de boite 2. L'élément de surélévation 12 permet de ménager un espace sous le compartiment 11 et ainsi de compartimenter le corps de boite 2 en hauteur. L'élément de surélévation 12 est par exemple formé par un rétrécissement du logement 5 du corps de boite 2, par exemple au moins partiellement périphérique.Also, the box body 2 can have a raising element 12, adapted to raise the compartment 11 in the housing 5 of the box body 2. The raising element 12 makes it possible to provide a space under the compartment 11 and thus to compartmentalize the gearbox body 2 in height. The raising element 12 is for example formed by a narrowing of the housing 5 of the box body 2, for example at least partially peripheral.

Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 8, la bordure du couvercle 3 présente par exemple une double paroi 13a, 13b. Les parois 13a, 13b s'étendent verticalement, c'est-à-dire parallèlement aux parois latérales du corps de boite 2 en formant une rainure périphérique entre les deux parois 13a, 13b. Lorsque le couvercle 3 est accouplé au corps de boite 2, l'extrémité de la paroi interne 13a est reçue dans le logement 5 du corps de boite 2, par exemple à l'encontre d'un resserrement périphérique du corps de boite 2.As can be seen on the figure 8 , the edge of the cover 3 has for example a double wall 13a, 13b. The walls 13a, 13b extend vertically, that is to say parallel to the side walls of the box body 2, forming a peripheral groove between the two walls 13a, 13b. When the cover 3 is coupled to the box body 2, the end of the internal wall 13a is received in the housing 5 of the box body 2, for example against a peripheral tightening of the box body 2.

La boite 1 à usage alimentaire peut comporter une première garniture d'étanchéité 14 en partie reçue dans une rainure périphérique du corps de boite 2 ou du couvercle 3 (figures 1, 10a et 10b). La première garniture d'étanchéité 14 est au moins en partie comprimée entre le couvercle 3 et le corps de boite 2 lorsque l'organe de verrouillage 4 est en position verrouillée, ce qui permet d'assurer une bonne étanchéité de la boite 1.The box 1 for food use may include a first seal 14 partially received in a peripheral groove of the box body 2 or of the cover 3 ( figures 1 , 10a and 10b ). The first seal 14 is at least partly compressed between the cover 3 and the box body 2 when the locking member 4 is in the locked position, which makes it possible to ensure good sealing of the box 1.

Selon un exemple de réalisation mieux visible sur les figures 10a, 10b, 15 et 16, la première garniture d'étanchéité 14 comporte une portion périphérique dentelée 15 et une portion périphérique tubulaire 16 surmontant la portion périphérique dentelée 15.According to an exemplary embodiment better visible on figures 10a, 10b , 15 and 16 , the first seal 14 comprises a serrated peripheral portion 15 and a tubular peripheral portion 16 surmounting the serrated peripheral portion 15.

La section transversale de la portion périphérique dentelée 15 présente une forme en sapin ou en harpon, avec deux ou trois étages de dentures de retenue, permettant à la première garniture d'étanchéité 14 d'être insérée et retenue dans une cavité, telle que dans la rainure périphérique de la double paroi 13a, 13b du couvercle 3.The cross section of the serrated peripheral portion 15 has a fir or harpoon shape, with two or three stages of retaining teeth, allowing the first gasket 14 to be inserted and retained in a cavity, such as in the peripheral groove of the double wall 13a, 13b of the cover 3.

La portion périphérique tubulaire 16 forme le joint d'étanchéité proprement dit. La section transversale de la portion périphérique tubulaire 16 présente une forme sensiblement ovale ou ronde à l'état non comprimé. Une section transversale ronde permet d'obtenir une première garniture d'étanchéité 14 symétrique qui peut être positionnée indifféremment dans un sens ou dans l'autre dans la cavité, sans erreur possible d'orientation.The tubular peripheral portion 16 forms the actual seal. The cross section of the tubular peripheral portion 16 has a substantially oval or round shape in the uncompressed state. A round cross section makes it possible to obtain a first symmetrical seal 14 which can be positioned indifferently in one direction or the other in the cavity, without possible orientation error.

La boite 1 peut également comporter au moins une deuxième garniture d'étanchéité 17 portée par la bordure du compartiment 11 reçu dans le corps de boite 2 (figures 7, 11a, 11b, 15 et 16).The box 1 can also include at least one second seal 17 carried by the edge of the compartment 11 received in the box body 2 ( figures 7 , 11a , 11b , 15 and 16 ).

Selon un exemple de réalisation, la deuxième garniture d'étanchéité 17 comporte une portion périphérique dentelée 15 et une portion périphérique à profil ouvert 18 surmontant la portion périphérique dentelée 15.According to an exemplary embodiment, the second seal 17 comprises a serrated peripheral portion 15 and a peripheral portion with open profile 18 surmounting the serrated peripheral portion 15.

La section transversale de la portion périphérique à profil ouvert 18 présente une forme de « C » à l'état de repos. Cette portion périphérique 18 présente par exemple deux lèvres en regard. Elle peut être montée dans les deux sens, l'orientation de l'ouverture pouvant indifféremment être dirigée vers l'extérieur ou l'intérieur de la boite 1. Cette forme ouverte nécessite moins d'effort de compression de la part de l'utilisateur que pour comprimer la forme fermée de la portion périphérique tubulaire 16, avec toutefois une garantie d'étanchéité moindre.The cross section of the open profile peripheral portion 18 has a "C" shape in the rest state. This peripheral portion 18 has for example two facing lips. It can be mounted in both directions, the orientation of the opening being able to be either directed towards the outside or the inside of the box 1. This open form requires less compressive force on the part of the user. than to compress the closed shape of the tubular peripheral portion 16, however with less guarantee of sealing.

Le compartiment 11 peut présenter une hauteur supérieure à celle des portions de parois latérales du corps de boite 2 s'étendant au-dessus de l'élément de surélévation 12. Ainsi, la bordure du compartiment 11 portant la deuxième garniture d'étanchéité 17 dépasse de la bordure 6 du corps de boite 2 lorsque le compartiment 11 est reçu dans le corps de boite 2. La deuxième garniture d'étanchéité 17 peut ainsi être comprimée entre le compartiment 11 et la paroi interne supérieure du couvercle 3 lorsque l'organe de verrouillage 4 est en position verrouillée.The compartment 11 may have a height greater than that of the side wall portions of the box body 2 extending above the raising element 12. Thus, the edge of the compartment 11 carrying the second seal 17 protrudes. of the edge 6 of the box body 2 when the compartment 11 is received in the box body 2. The second seal 17 can thus be compressed between the compartment 11 and the upper internal wall of the cover 3 when the lock 4 is in the locked position.

La première et la deuxième garniture d'étanchéité 14, 17 sont par exemple en matériau silicone.The first and second sealing gasket 14, 17 are for example made of silicone material.

L'axe de rotation I-I de l'organe de verrouillage 4 s'étend dans la direction d'accouplement du couvercle 3 au corps de boite 2, c'est-à-dire dans la direction verticale. Il peut être agencé en position centrale, il est par exemple confondu avec un axe de symétrie de la boite 1.The axis of rotation I-I of the locking member 4 extends in the direction of coupling of the cover 3 to the box body 2, that is to say in the vertical direction. It can be arranged in a central position, it is for example coincident with an axis of symmetry of the box 1.

L'organe de verrouillage 4 rotatif autour de l'axe de rotation I-I, comporte au moins deux pattes 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b, par exemple quatre, qui sont de préférence agencées deux par deux à l'opposé l'une de l'autre par rapport à l'axe de rotation I-I (figure 13). Les quatre pattes 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b sont par exemple espacées angulairement entre elles d'un angle de 90°.The locking member 4 rotatable about the axis of rotation II, comprises at least two tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b, for example four, which are preferably arranged two by two opposite one of the 'other with respect to the axis of rotation II ( figure 13 ). The four legs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b are for example spaced angularly from each other at an angle of 90 °.

Le corps de boite 2 présente au moins deux ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b dont les faces supérieures (en regard du couvercle 3) s'étendent dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de rotation I-I de l'organe de verrouillage 4.The box body 2 has at least two retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b whose upper faces (facing the cover 3) extend in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation II of the locking member 4.

Le corps de boite 2 présente en outre des dégagements 19a, 19b ménagés à côté des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. Les dégagements 19a, 19b sont conformés pour libérer le passage des pattes 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b de l'organe de verrouillage 4 dans la direction d'accouplement.The gearbox body 2 also has clearances 19a, 19b formed next to the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. The clearances 19a, 19b are shaped to free the passage of the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 in the direction of coupling.

Les faces supérieures des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b sont coplanaires et s'étendent sensiblement à 90° des parois latérales du corps de boite 2. Elles sont par exemple formées dans la bordure 6 du logement 5, du côté opposé au fond 7 du corps de boite 2, en faisant saillie dans un plan horizontal (L, T).The upper faces of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b are coplanar and extend substantially at 90 ° from the side walls of the box body 2. They are for example formed in the edge 6 of the housing 5, on the side opposite to the housing. bottom 7 of the gearbox body 2, projecting in a horizontal plane (L, T).

Les faces latérales 24a, 24b des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b s'inscrivent dans au moins un cercle C1, C2 dont le centre passe par l'axe de rotation I-I (figure 6).The side faces 24a, 24b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b are part of at least one circle C1, C2 whose center passes through the axis of rotation II ( figure 6 ).

Chaque patte 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b de l'organe de verrouillage 4 présente une face latérale 25a, 25b complémentaire à une face latérale 24a, 24b d'une aile de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. La face latérale 25a, 25b de chaque patte 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b présente ainsi une forme en arc de cercle s'inscrivant dans au moins un cercle C1', C2' aux dimensions sensiblement supérieures au cercle C1, C2 dans lequel s'inscrivent les faces latérales 24a, 24b des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b, pour permettre la rotation de l'organe de verrouillage 4 autour du corps de boite 2 (figure 13).Each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 has a side face 25a, 25b complementary to a side face 24a, 24b of a retaining wing 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. The lateral face 25a, 25b of each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b thus has the shape of an arc of a circle inscribed in at least one circle C1 ', C2' with dimensions substantially greater than the circle C1, C2 in which s' include the side faces 24a, 24b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b, to allow the rotation of the locking member 4 around the box body 2 ( figure 13 ).

Egalement, chaque patte 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b de l'organe de verrouillage 4 présente une extrémité recourbée 26a, 26b, faisant saillie radialement vers l'axe de rotation I-I. L'extrémité recourbée 26a, 26b est configurée pour coopérer avec une arête inférieure 27a, 27b d'une aile de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b respective du corps de boite 2 pour retenir axialement le couvercle 3 accouplé au corps de boite 2 dans la position verrouillée.Also, each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 has a curved end 26a, 26b, projecting radially towards the axis of rotation I-I. The curved end 26a, 26b is configured to cooperate with a lower edge 27a, 27b of a respective retaining wing 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b of the box body 2 to axially retain the cover 3 coupled to the box body 2 in the locked position.

Les arêtes inférieures 27a, 27b des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b sont agencées du côté opposé des faces supérieures s'étendant radialement dans le plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de rotation I-I.The lower ridges 27a, 27b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b are arranged on the opposite side of the upper faces extending radially in the plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation I-I.

Dans la position déverrouillée, les extrémités recourbées 26a, 26b ont pivoté en regard des dégagements 19a, 19b du corps de boite 2 de sorte que le couvercle 3 n'est plus retenu au corps de boite 2.In the unlocked position, the curved ends 26a, 26b have pivoted opposite the clearances 19a, 19b of the gearbox body 2 so that the cover 3 is no longer retained on the gearbox body 2.

La fermeture de la boite 1 peut ainsi être verrouillée par simple pivotement de l'organe de verrouillage 4 sur le corps de boite 2 autour de l'axe de rotation I-I du fait de la forme en arc de cercle des faces latérales 24a, 24b des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b et de la forme complémentaire en arc de cercle des faces latérales 25a, 25b des pattes 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b de l'organe de verrouillage 4. Ce verrouillage peut être obtenu indépendamment de la forme générale de la boite 1. Il est ainsi possible de concevoir une boite 1 ayant des parois latérales planes, telle qu'une boite 1 de forme générale parallélépipédique ou prismatique, présentant un fond de forme générale polygonale tel que carré, rectangulaire ou triangulaire, avec un verrouillage rotatif autour d'un axe de rotation I-I vertical.The closing of the box 1 can thus be locked by simply pivoting the locking member 4 on the box body 2 around the axis of rotation II due to the circular arc shape of the side faces 24a, 24b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b and of the complementary shape in an arc of a circle of the side faces 25a, 25b of the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4. This locking can be obtained independently of the form general of the box 1. It is thus possible to design a box 1 having planar side walls, such as a box 1 of generally parallelepiped or prismatic shape, having a bottom of generally polygonal shape such as square, rectangular or triangular, with a rotary locking around a vertical axis of rotation II.

Ce verrouillage rotatif permet une fermeture durable et aisée de la boite 1, en plusieurs points, par une seule manipulation. La force à exercer pour verrouiller la boite 1 peut en outre être relativement faible. La boite 1 peut donc être aisément manipulée par des enfants. De plus, une telle boite 1 est simple à réaliser et donc économique.This rotary locking allows a durable and easy closing of the box 1, in several points, by a single manipulation. The force to be exerted to lock the box 1 can also be relatively low. Box 1 can therefore be easily handled by children. In addition, such a box 1 is simple to produce and therefore economical.

L'extrémité recourbée 26a, 26b de chaque patte 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b de l'organe de verrouillage 4 peut porter une surface de guidage axiale présentant des rampes, creux et/ou protubérances complémentaires, configurée pour coopérer lors du pivotement de l'organe de verrouillage 4 entre les positions verrouillée et déverrouillée avec une surface de guidage axiale complémentaire portée par les arêtes inférieures 27a, 27b des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. Les surfaces de guidage axiales permettent de provoquer un ressenti à l'utilisateur manipulant l'organe de verrouillage 4 à la manière de surfaces de came.The curved end 26a, 26b of each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 can carry an axial guide surface having complementary ramps, hollows and / or protuberances, configured to cooperate during the pivoting of the 'locking member 4 between the locked and unlocked positions with a complementary axial guide surface carried by the lower ridges 27a, 27b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. The axial guide surfaces make it possible to cause a feeling to the user manipulating the locking member 4 in the manner of cam surfaces.

Par exemple et comme mieux visible sur la figure 14, l'extrémité recourbée 26a, 26b de chaque patte 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b de l'organe de verrouillage 4 porte une rampe axiale configurée pour coopérer avec une rampe axiale complémentaire portée par une arête inférieure 27a, 27b d'une aile de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b respective.For example and as better visible on the figure 14 , the curved end 26a, 26b of each tab 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 carries an axial ramp configured to cooperate with a complementary axial ramp carried by a lower edge 27a, 27b of a wing of retainer 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b respectively.

Les rampes axiales sont orientées relativement au sens de rotation de l'organe de verrouillage 4 entre les positions verrouillée et déverrouillée pour augmenter progressivement le serrage du couvercle 3 sur le corps de boite 2 avec la rotation de l'organe de verrouillage 4 vers la position verrouillée. Ces rampes axiales permettent une compression progressive des garnitures d'étanchéité 14, 17.The axial ramps are oriented relative to the direction of rotation of the locking member 4 between the locked and unlocked positions to gradually increase the tightening of the cover 3 on the gearbox body 2 with the rotation of the locking member 4 towards the position locked. These axial ramps allow progressive compression of the seals 14, 17.

Les rampes axiales peuvent s'étendre sur toute ou partie de l'extrémité recourbée 26a, 26b et en correspondance sur toute ou partie des arêtes inférieures 27a, 27b des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b.The axial ramps may extend over all or part of the curved end 26a, 26b and in correspondence over all or part of the lower edges 27a, 27b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b.

Par exemple, les extrémités recourbées 26a, 26b et les arêtes inférieures 27a, 27b portent d'une part, une rampe axiale et d'autre part, une surface plane s'inscrivant dans un plan radial perpendiculaire à l'axe de rotation I-I, prolongeant la rampe axiale. Ces surfaces de guidage axiales se traduisent pour l'utilisateur par le ressenti d'un effort moindre après le passage d'un point dur.For example, the curved ends 26a, 26b and the lower edges 27a, 27b carry on the one hand, an axial ramp and on the other hand, a flat surface inscribed in a radial plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation II, extending the axial ramp. These axial guide surfaces result for the user in the feeling of less force after passing a hard point.

D'autres formes complémentaires, telles que des creux et renflements, peuvent également être prévus pour générer un ressenti de type clipsage. Ces formes sont par exemple agencées dans le prolongement de la surface plane, leur franchissement par l'organe de verrouillage 4 étant successif à celui de la surface plane dans le sens de rotation allant vers la position verrouillée.Other complementary shapes, such as hollows and bulges, can also be provided to generate a feeling of the clipping type. These shapes are for example arranged in the extension of the flat surface, their crossing by the locking member 4 being successive to that of the flat surface in the direction of rotation going towards the locked position.

Les extrémités recourbées 26a, 26b et les arêtes inférieures 27a, 27b peuvent être effilées du côté de leur engagement mutuel vers la position verrouillée (figure 12). Cela permet d'assurer un engagement sans heurts entre les pattes 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b de l'organe de verrouillage 4 et les ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b du corps de boite 2.The curved ends 26a, 26b and the lower ridges 27a, 27b may be tapered on the side of their mutual engagement towards the locked position ( figure 12 ). This ensures a smooth engagement between the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b of the locking member 4 and the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b of the gearbox body 2.

En outre, le couvercle 3 peut présenter des éléments de guidage et de retenue coopérant avec l'organe de verrouillage 4 pour guider le pivotement de l'organe de verrouillage 4 et pour retenir l'organe de verrouillage 4 au couvercle 3.In addition, the cover 3 may have guiding and retaining elements cooperating with the locking member 4 to guide the pivoting of the locking member 4 and to retain the locking member 4 to the cover 3.

Par exemple, le couvercle 3 comporte une portion cylindrique 30 agencée sur la paroi externe supérieure (figure 9). Un orifice circulaire complémentaire 31 centré sur l'axe de rotation I-I est alors ménagé dans le corps de l'organe de verrouillage 4 (figure 13). La portion cylindrique 30 forme ainsi un élément de guidage en pivotement pour l'organe de verrouillage 4.For example, the cover 3 comprises a cylindrical portion 30 arranged on the upper outer wall ( figure 9 ). A complementary circular orifice 31 centered on the axis of rotation II is then provided in the body of the locking member 4 ( figure 13 ). The cylindrical portion 30 thus forms a pivoting guide element for the locking member 4.

Le couvercle 3 et l'organe de verrouillage 4 peuvent présenter des éléments de retenue complémentaires réversibles, par exemple de type clipsage c'est-à-dire coopérant par déformation élastique. Ainsi par exemple, la portion cylindrique 30 du couvercle 3 comporte au moins une nervure latérale 32 coopérant avec une nervure latérale 33 complémentaire formée dans la bordure de l'orifice circulaire complémentaire 31 pour retenir l'organe de verrouillage 4 au couvercle 3 (figures 15 et 16).The cover 3 and the locking member 4 may have complementary reversible retaining elements, for example of the clipping type, that is to say cooperating by elastic deformation. Thus, for example, the cylindrical portion 30 of the cover 3 comprises at least one lateral rib 32 cooperating with a complementary lateral rib 33 formed in the edge of the complementary circular orifice 31 to retain the locking member 4 to the cover 3 ( figures 15 and 16 ).

Le couvercle 3 et l'organe de verrouillage 4 peuvent comporter des éléments de butée complémentaires configurés pour limiter la rotation de l'organe de verrouillage 4 dans les positions verrouillée et déverrouillée. Par exemple, la paroi externe supérieure du couvercle 3 comporte au moins un picot 34, par exemple deux, configuré pour coopérer avec une cavité interne complémentaire de l'organe de verrouillage 4 (figure 9).The cover 3 and the locking member 4 may include complementary stop elements configured to limit the rotation of the locking member 4 in the locked and unlocked positions. For example, the upper outer wall of the cover 3 comprises at least one pin 34, for example two, configured to cooperate with a complementary internal cavity of the locking member 4 ( figure 9 ).

L'organe de verrouillage 4 peut être réalisé en une seule pièce. Il est en de même pour le corps de boite 2, le couvercle 3 et le compartiment 11. Ces éléments peuvent être en matériau plastique et obtenus par moulage. Le matériau plastique est notamment adapté pour être mis en contact avec des aliments.The locking member 4 can be made in one piece. It is the same for the box body 2, the cover 3 and the compartment 11. These elements can be made of plastic material and obtained by molding. The plastic material is particularly suitable for being brought into contact with food.

Les figures 1 à 16 montrent un premier exemple de réalisation dans lequel deux premières extrémités recourbées 26a de deux premières pattes 20a, 20b de l'organe de verrouillage 4 sont configurées pour coopérer avec deux premières ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, et, deux deuxièmes extrémités recourbées 26b de deux deuxièmes pattes 21a, 21b sont configurées pour coopérer avec deux deuxièmes ailes de retenue 23a, 23b.The figures 1 to 16 show a first embodiment in which two first curved ends 26a of two first tabs 20a, 20b of the locking 4 are configured to cooperate with two first retaining wings 22a, 22b, and two second curved ends 26b of two second lugs 21a, 21b are configured to cooperate with two second retaining wings 23a, 23b.

Les premières faces latérales 24a des premières ailes de retenue 22a, 22b s'inscrivent dans un premier cercle C1. Les deuxièmes faces latérales 24b des deuxièmes ailes de retenue 23a, 23b s'inscrivent dans un deuxième cercle C2. Le deuxième cercle C2 présente un diamètre plus grand que celui du premier cercle C1.The first side faces 24a of the first retaining wings 22a, 22b are part of a first circle C1. The second side faces 24b of the second retaining wings 23a, 23b are part of a second circle C2. The second circle C2 has a larger diameter than that of the first circle C1.

Des rayons distincts pour les premières faces latérales 24a, 25a et pour les deuxièmes faces latérales 24b, 25b convient particulièrement pour une boite 1 parallélépipédique à fond 7 sensiblement rectangulaire comme représenté sur les figures 1 à 16.Separate radii for the first side faces 24a, 25a and for the second side faces 24b, 25b are particularly suitable for a box 1 parallelepiped with a substantially rectangular bottom 7 as shown in the drawings. figures 1 to 16 .

Du fait des différents diamètres des cercles C1, C2, la largeur des premières pattes 20a, 20b et des premières ailes de retenue 22a, 22b est plus petite que celle des deuxièmes pattes 21a, 21b et des deuxièmes ailes de retenue 23a, 23b plus éloignées du centre de rotation I-I. Egalement, les rampes axiales portées par les premières extrémités recourbées 26a et les premières arêtes inférieures 27a présentent une inclinaison plus élevée que celles des deuxièmes extrémités recourbées 26b et des deuxièmes arêtes inférieures 27b.Due to the different diameters of the circles C1, C2, the width of the first legs 20a, 20b and of the first retaining wings 22a, 22b is smaller than that of the second legs 21a, 21b and of the second retaining wings 23a, 23b which are more distant of the center of rotation II. Also, the axial ramps carried by the first curved ends 26a and the first lower ridges 27a have a greater inclination than those of the second curved ends 26b and the second lower ridges 27b.

Selon un exemple de réalisation mieux visible sur les figures 15 et 16, un orifice traversant 35 est ménagé dans le couvercle 3. La boite 1 peut comporter une bague 28 présentant un trou traversant, la bague 28 étant reçue dans l'orifice traversant 35. La bague 28 peut être élastique, elle est par exemple en matériau silicone.According to an exemplary embodiment better visible on figures 15 and 16 , a through orifice 35 is provided in the cover 3. The box 1 may include a ring 28 having a through hole, the ring 28 being received in the through orifice 35. The ring 28 may be elastic, it is for example made of material silicone.

L'orifice traversant de la bague 28, et donc de l'orifice traversant 35, est dégagé lorsque l'organe de verrouillage 4 est en position déverrouillée (figure 15) et est obstrué par une protubérance 36 de l'organe de verrouillage 4 dans la position verrouillée (figure 16).The through orifice of the ring 28, and therefore of the through orifice 35, is released when the locking member 4 is in the unlocked position ( figure 15 ) and is blocked by a protuberance 36 of the locking member 4 in the locked position ( figure 16 ).

L'orifice traversant 35 permet ainsi une mise à l'air de la boite 1, ce qui est particulièrement utile pour éviter les éclaboussures à l'ouverture de la boite 1 ou les explosions/déformations du couvercle 3, notamment lorsque la boite 1 a été chauffée. Egalement, cela permet de faciliter l'ouverture du couvercle 3 notamment lorsque des aliments chauds ont été introduits dans la boite 1 et que leur refroidissement a dépressurisé la boite 1 étanche. On peut ainsi équilibrer les pressions intérieur et extérieur de la boite 1 lorsque l'orifice traversant 35 est dégagé dans la position déverrouillée (figure 15), la boite 1 étant par ailleurs complétement étanche dans la position verrouillée (figure 16).The through orifice 35 thus allows the box 1 to be vented, which is particularly useful for avoiding splashing when opening the box 1 or the explosions / deformations of the cover 3, in particular when the box 1 has been heated. Also, this makes it possible to facilitate the opening of the cover 3, in particular when hot food has been introduced into the box 1 and their cooling has depressurized the sealed box 1. It is thus possible to balance the internal and external pressures of the box 1 when the through orifice 35 is released in the unlocked position ( figure 15 ), box 1 being also completely sealed in the locked position ( figure 16 ).

En fonctionnement, à partir d'une boite ouverte (Figure 1), l'utilisateur ferme la boite 1 en déplaçant le couvercle 3 vers le corps de boite 2 dans la direction d'accouplement verticale, c'est-à-dire de manière coaxiale à l'axe de rotation I-I, les extrémités recourbées 26a, 26b des pattes 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b étant insérées dans les dégagements 19a, 19b du corps de boite 2.In operation, from an open box ( Figure 1 ), the user closes the box 1 by moving the cover 3 towards the box body 2 in the vertical coupling direction, that is to say coaxially with the axis of rotation II, the curved ends 26a, 26b of the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b being inserted into the recesses 19a, 19b of the gearbox body 2.

La boite 1 est alors en position fermée déverrouillée (Figure 2).Box 1 is then in the unlocked closed position ( Figure 2 ).

Puis, l'utilisateur pivote l'organe de verrouillage 4 autour de l'axe de rotation I-I. Le serrage du couvercle 3 sur le corps de boite 2 est progressivement augmenté avec la rotation de l'organe de verrouillage 4 vers la position verrouillée du fait de la coopération des rampes axiales portées par les extrémités recourbées 26a, 26b des pattes 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b avec les arêtes inférieures 27a, 27b des ailes de retenue 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. Les garnitures d'étanchéité 14, 17 sont ainsi progressivement comprimées jusqu'à ce que l'organe de verrouillage 4 ait pivoté dans la position verrouillée (Figure 3). L'orifice traversant 35 est obstrué par une protubérance 36 de l'organe de verrouillage 4 qui a pivoté dans la position verrouillée (figure 16).Then, the user pivots the locking member 4 around the axis of rotation II. The tightening of the cover 3 on the box body 2 is gradually increased with the rotation of the locking member 4 towards the locked position due to the cooperation of the axial ramps carried by the curved ends 26a, 26b of the tabs 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b with the lower ridges 27a, 27b of the retaining wings 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b. The seals 14, 17 are thus progressively compressed until the locking member 4 has pivoted into the locked position ( Figure 3 ). The through orifice 35 is blocked by a protuberance 36 of the locking member 4 which has pivoted into the locked position ( figure 16 ).

La boite 1 est alors fermée de manière durable et étanche.Box 1 is then closed in a durable and watertight manner.

Les figures 17 à 20 illustrent un autre exemple de boite 1' dans lequel les ailes de retenue 23 du corps de boite 2' sont identiques entre elles et les pattes 21 de l'organe de verrouillage 4' sont identiques entre elles, les faces latérales des ailes de retenue 23 s'inscrivant dans un unique cercle C et les faces latérales des pattes 21 dans un unique cercle C' complémentaire. Un tel organe de verrouillage 4' convient particulièrement pour une boite 1' parallélépipédique dont le corps de boite 2 présente un fond 7' de forme sensiblement carrée comme représenté sur les figures 17 à 20.The figures 17 to 20 illustrate another example of a box 1 'in which the retaining wings 23 of the box body 2' are identical to each other and the tabs 21 of the locking member 4 'are identical to each other, the side faces of the retaining wings 23 forming part of a single circle C and the side faces of the legs 21 in a single complementary circle C '. Such a locking member 4 'is particularly suitable for a parallelepipedal box 1', the box body 2 of which has a bottom 7 'of substantially square shape as shown in the figures. figures 17 to 20 .

Par ailleurs dans cet exemple, l'extrémité recourbée de chaque patte 21 de l'organe de verrouillage 4' peut s'inscrire dans un plan radial perpendiculaire à l'axe de rotation I-I, en correspondance avec des arêtes inférieures planes des ailes de retenue 23 (voir figure 17).Furthermore in this example, the curved end of each tab 21 of the locking member 4 'can be inscribed in a radial plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation II, in correspondence with the flat lower edges of the retaining wings. 23 (see figure 17 ).

Egalement dans cet exemple, le couvercle 3' comporte une pluralité de nervures de guidage 37, quatre dans l'exemple, faisant saillie verticalement de la paroi externe supérieure du couvercle 3'. Les nervures de guidage 37 présentent une forme respective en arc de cercle qui sont orientées les unes par rapport aux autres de manière à encercler un anneau 38 de l'organe de verrouillage 4' reliant les quatre pattes 21. Ces nervures de guidage 37 permettent de guider le pivotement de l'organe de verrouillage 4' relativement au couvercle 3'.Also in this example, the cover 3 'comprises a plurality of guide ribs 37, four in the example, projecting vertically from the upper outer wall of the cover 3'. The guide ribs 37 have a respective shape of an arc of a circle which are oriented with respect to each other so as to encircle a ring 38 of the locking member 4 'connecting the four legs 21. These guide ribs 37 make it possible to guide the pivoting of the locking member 4 'relative to the cover 3'.

On note aussi que l'organe de verrouillage 4' est muni d'une poignée de préhension 39, pour faciliter sa manipulation en rotation par l'utilisateur.It is also noted that the locking member 4 'is provided with a gripping handle 39, to facilitate its handling in rotation by the user.

Claims (11)

  1. Container (1) for food use comprising:
    - a container body (2);
    - a cover (3) that can be coupled to the container body (2) to close the container (1),
    - a locking member (4) comprising at least two tabs (20a, 20b, 21a, 21b), the locking member (4) being mounted pivoting on the cover (3) about an axis of rotation (I-I) between an unlocked position and a locked position;
    - the container body (2) having at least two retaining wings (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b) extending in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (I-I), the side faces (24a, 24b) of the retaining wings (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b) falling within at least one circle (C1, C2) of which the centre passes through the axis of rotation (I-I) ;
    - each tab (20a, 20b, 21a, 21b) of the locking member (4) having:
    - a side face (25a, 25b) complementary to a side face (24a, 24b) of a retaining wing (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b); and
    - a curved end (26a, 26b) configured to engage with a respective retaining wing (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b) of the container body (2) to axially hold the cover (3) coupled to the container body (2) in the locked position,
    characterized in that the cover (3) comprises guiding and retaining elements (30, 32) engaging with the locking member (4) to guide the pivoting of the locking member (4) and to retain the locking member (4) on the cover (3).
  2. Container (1) for food use according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the curved end (26a, 26b) of each tab (20a, 20b, 21a, 21b) of the locking member (4) bears an axial ramp configured to engage with a complementary axial ramp borne by a respective retaining wing (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b), in order to progressively increase the clamping of the cover (3) on the container body (2) with the rotation of the locking member (4) to the locked position.
  3. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two tabs (20a, 20b, 21a, 21b) of the locking member (4) are arranged opposite each other relative to the axis of rotation (I-I).
  4. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking member (4) comprises four tabs (20a, 20b, 21a, 21b) each having a curved end (26a, 26b) configured to engage with a respective retaining wing (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b) of the container body (2).
  5. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one first curved end (26a) of a first tab (20a, 20b) is configured to engage with a first retaining wing (22a, 22b) and at least one second curved end (26b) of a second tab (21a, 21b) is configured to engage with a second retaining wing (23a, 23b), the first side face (24a) of the first retaining wing (22a, 22b) falling within a first circle (C1), the second side face (24b) of the second retaining wing (23a, 23b) falling within a second circle (C2), the second circle (C2) having a diameter larger than that of the first circle (C1).
  6. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container body (2) has a bottom (7) of generally polygonal shape.
  7. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a through-hole (35) is arranged in the cover (3), the through-hole (35) being clear when the locking member (4) is in the unlocked position and being obstructed by a protuberance (36) of the locking member (4) in the locked position.
  8. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking member (4) is produced as a single part.
  9. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a first gasket seal (14) partly received in a peripheral groove of an edge of the container body (2) or of the cover (3), the first gasket seal (14) being at least partly compressed between the cover (3) and the container body (2) when the locking member (4) is in the locked position.
  10. Container (1) for food use according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first gasket seal (14) comprises a toothed peripheral portion (15) and a tubular peripheral portion (16) surmounting the toothed peripheral portion (15).
  11. Container (1) for food use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one second gasket seal (17) borne by a compartment (11) of said container (1) received in the container body (2), the second gasket seal (17) having a toothed peripheral portion (15) and an open profile peripheral portion (18) surmounting the toothed peripheral portion (15).
EP17711098.8A 2016-03-31 2017-02-24 Container for food use Active EP3435812B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1652834A FR3049587B1 (en) 2016-03-31 2016-03-31 FOOD USE BOX
PCT/EP2017/054375 WO2017167510A1 (en) 2016-03-31 2017-02-24 Container for food use

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3435812A1 EP3435812A1 (en) 2019-02-06
EP3435812B1 true EP3435812B1 (en) 2020-08-05

Family

ID=56008793

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17711098.8A Active EP3435812B1 (en) 2016-03-31 2017-02-24 Container for food use

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US10737850B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3435812B1 (en)
CN (1) CN209825501U (en)
FR (1) FR3049587B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017167510A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN111698925A (en) * 2017-09-29 2020-09-22 派克凯特有限责任公司 Food storage container
US10994892B2 (en) * 2018-06-11 2021-05-04 One Equals Three, LLC Food container and method of use
AU2019295422A1 (en) * 2018-06-29 2021-01-28 Breville Pty Limited A lid for a food processor
EP3692874B1 (en) * 2019-02-06 2023-07-26 The Côtelette Sàrl Vessel comprising a housing, a lid and at least one container and container adapted to such a vessel
FR3097209B1 (en) * 2019-06-13 2021-09-17 Mon Bento Lid for a lunch box

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3880313A (en) * 1968-03-04 1975-04-29 Edward G Akers Safety cap and container
US3860136A (en) * 1974-01-30 1975-01-14 Child Resistant Packaging Inc Child-resistant enclosure for hazardous materials
US4053078A (en) * 1976-08-18 1977-10-11 Kerr Glass Manufacturing Corporation Child safety closure
US5638976A (en) * 1995-11-15 1997-06-17 Arnold; Bruce Douglas Container with rotatable locking lid
US5927528A (en) * 1997-03-06 1999-07-27 Jones; William Thomas Medication container with improved sealing between cap liner and container body
US7819264B2 (en) * 2003-12-03 2010-10-26 Rexam Closure Systems Inc. Child-resistant closure, container and package

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN209825501U (en) 2019-12-24
FR3049587A1 (en) 2017-10-06
US20190127127A1 (en) 2019-05-02
US10737850B2 (en) 2020-08-11
EP3435812A1 (en) 2019-02-06
FR3049587B1 (en) 2019-08-02
WO2017167510A1 (en) 2017-10-05

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3435812B1 (en) Container for food use
EP3160291B1 (en) Cosmetic pot having a lid with a translationally moved coupling element
EP0308289B1 (en) Container with a removable cap having lateral generatrices aligned with those of the container
EP3256021B1 (en) Cosmetic pot having a lid with a guided coupling element
EP1722453B1 (en) Flush mounted box
FR2950865A1 (en) LOCKING CAP FOR A COLLARED CONTAINER WITH A FASTENING CAPSULE
EP0880915A1 (en) Container for cosmetic products, compact and method of opening and closing
FR3067576A1 (en) CASE FOR COSMETIC PRODUCT
FR2883153A1 (en) Kitchen utensil e.g. pressure cooker, holding device, has locking mechanism for locking handle in usage position, where mechanism has locking ring mounted translationally and co-axially to rotation axle of handle
FR2763625A1 (en) KEY WITH A HEAD FORMING A HOUSING CONTAINING AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE
WO2021213718A1 (en) Box for food use
FR3053031B1 (en) PERFECTION OF COVER RECIPIENT
EP2861105B1 (en) Double valve for an anti-spill cup and corresponding cup
WO2012022923A1 (en) Device comprising a gripping section for uncorking corked bottles
WO2021018528A1 (en) Plug for closing a receptacle, as well as an assembly comprising said plug
WO2021018746A1 (en) Stopper for closing a receptacle and an assembly comprising the stopper
FR3126404A1 (en) CONTAINER WITH AUTOMATIC MAGNETIC LOCKING LID
FR3020625A1 (en) FOLDING COVER SHUTTER FOR A CYLINDRICAL CONTAINER
FR3096971A1 (en) Dispensing device and container fitted with said device
EP3428083A1 (en) Container at least partially made of metal, comprising a plurality of parts, provided with a system for assembling said parts
FR2960397A3 (en) Support for hooking object e.g. bag, to edge of board table, has case shaped backing plate comprising hook connected to pivot, and interdependent and removable pivots whose axes are aligned, where plate is supported on top of holder
EP3621893A1 (en) Spacer ring for positioning between a container and a stopper and assembly of said container and stopper
CH712933B1 (en) Openable ring with secure closure.
EP1847463A1 (en) Childproof cardboard package, blank for making it, and method of opening it
FR3062640A1 (en) MULTIFUNCTION BOTTLE

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20180914

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: AZNAR, FRANCOIS

Inventor name: GSTALDER, BRUNO

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20191127

GRAJ Information related to disapproval of communication of intention to grant by the applicant or resumption of examination proceedings by the epo deleted

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSDIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

INTC Intention to grant announced (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20200324

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1297489

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20200815

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602017021015

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20200805

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1297489

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20200805

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201105

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201105

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201106

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201207

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201205

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602017021015

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20210507

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20210224

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210228

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210228

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210228

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210228

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20230222

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230526

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20170224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200805

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240228

Year of fee payment: 8