EP3665093B1 - Package with a functional element - Google Patents

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is in the field of packaging technology and relates to a pack, in particular for food.

TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

Packaging can be made in different ways and from different materials. A common way of producing them is to produce packaging from a packaging laminate with a laminate made up of a fibrous material, in particular cardboard-based carrier layer, by means of folding and sealing processes. There are essentially two established methods for this.

In a first method, a tube is formed from a packaging laminate, preferably unwound from a roll, in its direction of discharge (longitudinal direction), while the resulting packaging is usually closed along its longitudinal seam by inserting a sealing strip. The product to be protected by the resulting pack is filled into this tube and the filled tube is sealed and separated in portions at predetermined points transverse to the running direction. From the resulting semi-finished composite packaging ("pillows"), finished composite packaging is produced by folding and other sealing processes.

In a second process, the packaging material, which is also initially in the form of a packaging laminate, is used to produce individual blanks by longitudinal and/or cross cutting, from which a packaging casing and finally packaging is created by folding and further steps such as sealing along sealing edges. One of the advantages of this type of production is that the blanks and packaging sleeves are very flat and can therefore be stacked to save space. In this way, the blanks or packaging casings can be produced at a different location than the folding, sealing and filling of the packaging casings. Here, too, laminates (=composites) are used, which are built on a carrier layer that has a fibrous material, in particular cardboard.

Such packaging is particularly widespread in the food industry. Both methods can be used in the subject to form a package and thus form part of the disclosure of the subject.

Depending on whether a composite packaging is intended to provide protection for a so-called freshly filled product for a few days up to a few weeks, or whether it is intended to protect a "germ-free" and aseptically filled foodstuff with at least a liquid portion over a long period of time at ambient conditions , there are sometimes very different requirements.

With a freshly filled product, even if it is a so-called "extended shelf life product", the period in which the contents of the composite packaging must be protected is very clear and ranges from a few days to several weeks. On the other hand, the properties of the product itself usually vary quite widely. For example, the number of germs affecting the product varies significantly from batch to batch of the same product, so that the initial conditions are difficult to determine.

In the case of a "germ-free" product filled under aseptic conditions, on the other hand, there are completely different problems. There are defined conditions around which the composite packaging, usually in the tens of thousands or even several tens of thousands, produced on a single filling machine during a production time of one hour, fluctuates. However, the individual composite packaging is then exposed to different strains during its further existence, so that the strains on the product to be protected, for example due to transport and storage conditions, can hardly be predicted over the long period of up to a year or even longer in individual cases.

We generally speak of long-lasting protection for food when the product can be protected in its full quality for months in the composite packaging without refrigeration. For this purpose, the product is then generally aseptically filled into the resulting composite packaging. In the case of UHT milk and juices, it can often be assumed that the contents of the composite packaging will keep for a period of up to a year, sometimes even longer.

In order to protect the consumer from consuming food that is hazardous to health, the legislature, despite the almost contradictory problems just described, prescribes a uniform solution, namely the labeling of the composite packaging with a so-called "best before date". With this concept, the manufacturer must guarantee that the product contained in the composite packaging is harmless to health until the best-before date is reached and, if stated on the packaging, its quality at least corresponds to the specified nutritional values. This automatically means that the specified best-before date is estimated with extreme caution, so that the majority of the composite packaging still contains a product that is completely harmless to health - in some cases well beyond the expiry of the best-before date.

Nevertheless, the indication of the best-before date means that the consumer no longer tests the product himself, but usually throws away the unopened composite packaging after the best-before date has expired.

However, since the food packs are usually opened before the best-before date has expired, conventional packs offer the consumer no help with regard to the shelf life of the product inside the pack after it has been opened for the first time. Even if the packs in question are relatively small containers, the contents of the pack should be used up within a few days or weeks, depending on the product.

STATE OF THE ART

For itself it is from the WO 2012 017244 A1 (OAKLEY ) already known to form the opening element of a pack of the type in question in such a way that it contains an adjustable display to show the days since it was first opened. However, such a display requires the assistance of the consumer, if the display is not readjusted daily by the consumer, this already known display mode is also of no value. Furthermore, manipulations (consciously or unconsciously) cannot be reliably prevented.

From the publication EP 2071496 A1 (MONDI ) A method for producing a packaging material is known, in which information about a package and a product can be stored by means of a radio-readable memory, in particular an RFID chip. The information can contain information about a best-before date, for example.

DE 20 2009 011274 U1 (KILIC ) relates to a beverage packaging with stabilized packaging walls and an existing or producible opening for removing the contents of the packaging, with an audio mechanism being arranged in a packaging wall or on a packaging wall or connected to a removal closure or another packaging component, which audio mechanism has at least one electronic memory, a power source has an audio output unit and a control unit for the audio mechanism or parts thereof.

FR 2934915 A1 (SOJASUN ) relates to a removable device for displaying at least one piece of information representative of the expiry date of a liquid foodstuff after a first opening of the container in which the liquid is packaged, the container being a bottle having a portion which defining a neck, and comprising a cap (11, 64) for closing the neck (70). The display device is housed in a hollow body and is able, for example, to provide information on the time that has elapsed since the bottle was opened. The hollow body is an independent component that is reversibly placed on the bottle.

GB2344101A (TAYLOR ) relates to a closure for a container comprising a timer device and a device for generating an acoustic or visual warning signal when the timer device indicates that a predetermined time interval has elapsed since the occurrence of a triggering event. The triggering event may be the first sealing of the container by a manufacturer to signal a "best before" date, or the first opening of the container by a user to signal a "use after opening" date. In one embodiment, a first chamber of the closure contains a first material 30 and a second chamber contains a second material 32 with a seal 24 between the first and second chambers that is broken upon the occurrence of the triggering event. The warning signal is a visual signal generated as a result of contact between the first and second materials. Alternatively, the timing and signaling means can be electronic.

GB 2419868 A (ADVANCED ANALYSIS ) discloses an indicator for food packaging, the contents of which have a limited shelf life after opening, with a label connected to the packaging which is to be actuated when the packaging is opened and which indicates the lapse of time after actuation. The label may include a portion that is torn off when the package is opened. Removal of the end portion can initiate a color-changing oxidation reaction by exposing a chemical composition to the atmosphere. A color change may be gradual along the length of the label. The label can be designed to reseal the package when the shelf life of the food inside has expired.

US 2012 291894 A1 (HIGGINS patent) relates to an elapsed time indicator comprising an activator assembly including a fluid reservoir and a conduit configured to provide a predetermined flow rate of fluid along the conduit. The elapsed time indicator further includes a visual display assembly configured to change appearance upon exposure to the fluid. The line connects the fluid container to the visual display assembly. The activator assembly is configured to release fluid from the fluid reservoir in response to an activation event to allow the fluid to flow.

US 2017 087524 A1 (DESHPANDE ) relates to a system and method for closely monitoring the spoilage of a liquid foodstuff or the like from the point of its manufacture to the point at which it is either consumed or must be discarded. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a container for the food product, or a device that attaches to a container, is equipped with a switch, thermometer, other environmental sensors, a controller, and an alarm. The switch is activated automatically or manually at the moment the liquid food product is made, and then the temperature and other environmental parameters of the food product are monitored over the further course of time, tracking the temperature history of the product throughout the period until the Controller calculates that the maximum security period has expired; whereupon an alarm is activated to warn the user to discard the product. Specifically, this is an attachment on a baby bottle.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

However, the problem with these functional elements, such as a radio-readable memory, is that they are activated from the time of delivery. It is therefore necessary to keep the functional elements active for a very long time. Periods of up to a year or longer may be necessary, especially for products with very long shelf life dates, especially if they were filled aseptically. However, the expiry date is often heavily dependent on when the pack was opened. As soon as the consumer opens the pack, germs get into the filled food and the shelf life is then severely limited. In this case, the previous solutions do not help, since they only know the time of filling, but not the time of opening the pack.

For this reason, the subject matter was based on the task of ensuring the functionality of a functional element at a point in time when a packaged product is consumed.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

• einem Packstoff,
• zumindest einem an dem Packstoffeangeordneten Betätigungselement, und
• zumindest einem an dem Packstoff und/oder dem Betätigungselement angeordneten, zumindest elektrischen oder elektrochemischen Funktionselement, sowie
• einem Verschlusselement,

wobei eine Relativbewegung zwischen dem Betätigungselement und dem Packstoff einen elektrischen oder elektrochemischen Zustand des Funktionselements verändert, welche sich dadurch auszeichnet, dass

1. (a) das Verschlusselemente im Bereich eines "overcoated holes" und
2. (b) ein Flansch des Verschlusselementes auf der Packung angeordnet sind und
3. (c) das Funktionselement teilweise oder vollständig in einer Kavität zwischen dem Flansch und der Packung angeordnet ist.

The invention relates to a pack, in particular a pack for foodstuffs

• a packaging material
• at least one actuating element arranged on the packaging material, and
• at least one at least electrical or electrochemical functional element arranged on the packaging material and/or the actuating element, and
• a closure element,

wherein a relative movement between the actuating element and the packaging material changes an electrical or electrochemical state of the functional element, which is characterized in that

1. (a) the closure elements in the area of an "overcoated hole" and
2. (b) a flange of the closure member is disposed on the package, and
3. (c) the functional element is partially or completely arranged in a cavity between the flange and the packing.

The pack can be a pack for food that has at least one liquid component. The packaging material of the pack can be a composite material that has several layers made of different materials, including at least one carrier layer made of paper, cardboard, cardboard or another material made of fibrous material and at least one inner and one outer layer made of plastic. In addition—but only optionally—a metallic layer, in particular an aluminum layer, can be present.

It has been recognized that a functional element can be activated by changing an electrical or electrochemical state. This change can occur through an action initiated by the consumer. In particular, this activation (or a deactivation, for example the switching off of a signal) can take place by actuating a closure element. The change in the electrical or electrochemical state can take place directly or indirectly (e.g. through intermediate steps or with a time delay).

For example, as will be explained in more detail below, the functional element can be an electrical, electronic or electrochemical functional element. An electrical element is understood to mean an element in which a voltage occurs at least in the millivolt range and/or a current occurs at least in the milliampere range. As an alternative or in addition to this, the functional element of the pack or the closure can be a chemical functional element and/or a biological functional element. In this case, a relative movement between the actuating element and the packaging material changes a chemical and/or biological state of the functional element.

An electrical functional element can be an antenna, for example, which is arranged in or on the packaging material. A change in an electrical state can consist, for example, in that an antenna is connected to a sensor by the relative movement. Then the antenna can be electrically supplied by the sensor and thus, for example, transmit a sensor measurement value.

An electronic functional element can be a sensor, for example, which is arranged in or on the packaging material and is, for example, in direct or indirect contact with the packaged goods. A change in the state of the functional element can mean that the sensor is connected, for example, to an electrochemical cell via which the sensor is supplied with electrical energy. Also, a connection with a processor or the like can be effected by the relative movement, so that the sensor starts to work.

However, a change in an electrical state can also consist, for example, in the disconnection of a connection. For example, two conductors of an antenna can be short-circuited so that the antenna cannot transmit. By opening this short circuit, the antenna can be connected to a processor, so that the processor can send out signals via the antenna or can be read out via the antenna. This opening can be brought about by the relative movement.

An electrochemical functional element can have a chemical cell, for example, in which a chemical reaction takes place after activation. Such a reaction can be, for example, a redox reaction, in particular an exothermic reaction. an electrochemical one State can be, for example, an activation state of an electrolyte. It is possible, for example, to activate a chemical reaction that is irreversible. Once the reaction has started, it can continue until the reactants are consumed. The relative movement can activate this process.

The actuating element can be arranged on the packaging material. The actuating element can be, for example, a closure element, a straw, a tear-off tab, a sticker or the like. The actuating element is preferably arranged on an outer layer of the packaging material.

The functional element is arranged on the actuating element and/or the packaging material. According to the invention, the functional element is partially or completely arranged in a cavity between a flange of the closure element and the pack. If the functional element is arranged on the packaging material, it can be arranged either on an outer or an inner layer of the packaging material. The functional element can also be arranged between two layers of the packaging material if the packaging material is a multi-layer laminate. The functional element or parts of the functional element can be arranged on each of the individual layers of the packaging material. It is also possible for the functional element to have multiple parts and, for example, to have a sensor arranged inside the pack. The sensor can preferably be arranged in the area of an inner cover layer. A second element can be, for example, an antenna connected to the sensor, which is preferably arranged in the area of a carrier layer or an outer cover layer.

A relative movement between the actuating element and the packaging material can be brought about, for example, by turning a closure element, e.g. a lid, onto a closure, tearing a closure element off the pack, tearing a tab off the pack, folding a tab over that a sticker is peeled off the package or the like. At the moment when the relative movement takes place, there is a change in the electrical, electronic and/or electrochemical state of the functional element.

As already explained, the packaging material can be formed from a packaging laminate. The actuator is preferably located on an outer layer of the packaging laminate, but may also be located between outer layers. The actuating element can also be arranged in or on a closure, in particular a rotary closure.

For example, a packaging laminate (hereinafter also referred to as packaging material) is produced as a web product. This can be formed as a composite of one or more thin layers comprising at least one carrier layer, one barrier layer and one cover layer and one outer layer. The outer layer can also be referred to as the top layer. The exact structure of the laminate (composite) usually depends essentially on the desired level of protection. For example, laminates (composites) used to produce packaging for long-lasting protection of the items to be stored in it at least partly pourable, pasty, and/or liquid product, a barrier layer forming an additional gas barrier, in particular when the product or parts of the product react sensitively to air, in particular to oxygen.

The functional element can be an electrical, electronic, chemical and/or electrochemical element. An electrical functional element can contain both electrical and electronic components.

According to one embodiment, the first functional element has a sensor. According to one embodiment, the electrical element has a transmitter and/or an antenna.

The antenna (antenna unit) can include at least one conductor track, preferably in the form of a conductor spiral or conductor coil, and/or connections for connecting the antenna unit to a chip unit. The antenna unit and the chip unit can also be arranged on a common carrier. The antenna unit allows the stored information of the chip unit to be read out. This preferably means radio antennas, such as are typically used with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) transponders or NFC (Near Field Communication) tags. In particular, elements that can be read out by inductive coupling can be regarded as an antenna unit in the present sense. Furthermore, it can be expedient if the antenna unit includes a carrier element for accommodating the conductor track.

As part of a transmission and reception unit, the transmitter and/or the antenna can be suitable for transmitting data, signals and/or energy in a non-contact or wireless manner, unidirectionally, but preferably also bidirectionally.

The functional element can be equipped with a memory. A memory is to be understood as a data memory. This is a storage medium used to store electronic data. In this case, the data memory can optionally be designed as a volatile memory or as a non-volatile memory or as a combination of the two memory types mentioned. Non-volatile memory is divided into permanent and semi-permanent memory.

Volatile memory is defined as memory whose information is lost unless refreshed or when power is removed. Non-volatile memories are memories in which the stored information is retained for a longer period (at least months) without an operating voltage being applied. With permanent storage, the information, once stored or hardwired, remains in place and can no longer be changed. Information can be stored permanently in semi-permanent memories, but the information can also be changed.

The respective storage type should be selected according to the application that the packaging to be produced from the web material is intended to serve. Depending on the application, there are certain advantages.

The data memory can be part of the antenna or the transmitter. The data memory can be part of what is known as a “tag”, which can be read using radio technology, in particular as an RFID tag. The data memory can already be fully or partially written to during the production process of the packaging material. The data store can be partially or fully written before it is integrated into the laminate. The data memory can be written with a unique ID. The data memory can be completely or partially written with production data. The data memory can be fully or partially written on the filling machine. The data store can be fully or partially written at one or more points in the value chain. The data store can be written to in whole or in part at one or more points in time. The information stored on the data memory can be replaced in whole or in part.

As already explained, the functional element can have at least one sensor and/or one memory. The electrical element can also have a memory. In addition, the electrical element can have a transmitting and/or receiving unit. In particular, this can have a transmitting and/or receiving unit for local radio, in particular for NFC technology or RFID technology. For this purpose, the electrical element can be supplied with its own energy, for example by a battery or a capacitor. It is also possible and particularly preferred if the functional element and/or electrical element is supplied with energy from an external source. This energetic external supply can take place through a magnetic or electric field of a reading unit or a writing unit. In particular, electromagnetic coupling of a receiving coil formed in the electrical element to a transmitting coil can bring about the energetic feeding. A current can be induced in the receiving coil by a transmitting coil, which current can be used to operate the first electronic unit and/or the second electronic unit. For example, it can be useful to activate the sensor through the excitation field and, in the event of activation, to record and store at least one sensor measurement value. If the exciter field is switched off again, at least the stored measured value remains in the memory. Such a measured value can be read out immediately or at a later point in time when there is renewed excitation, so that at least one historical and/or one current sensor measured value can be read out. Since the elements in the packaging material have to be designed as simply as possible, it is preferred if they are set up only for recording the measurement results and storing at least one measurement result and for sending out such a measurement result. A subsequent evaluation of the measurement results can take place in a readout device.

The readout device can be a mobile computer, in particular a mobile phone, a smartphone, a personal digital assistant or the like. This can contain an application that is set up to evaluate the measurement results. One such application may be inventive in its own right. The application activates the transmission coil for energizing the first and second electronic unit. Information can be received from the electrical element via the transmission coil, for example, by influencing the alternating flux. The electrical element can also transmit the information, for example in a different frequency range than that of the excitation field, and the transmitting coil or another coil can receive this information. Measured values can be evaluated with the help of the application.

The electrical element particularly advantageously includes at least parts of a transmitting and receiving unit with an antenna and/or a memory and/or a sensor.

If properties of the sensor are described below or the term sensor is used, this description also applies to another functional element.

The sensor is advantageously set up to detect at least one property of a product packaged in the packaging, in particular a product that is at least partially pourable, pasty and/or liquid. The sensor can be arranged directly, at least in part, on the outer side of the cover layer or can break through the cover layer in the direction of the product. The sensor can thus be suitable for directly detecting the at least one property of the product. The sensor can also be provided at least in part within the cover layer and in particular between the cover layer and the carrier layer. The sensor can then be suitable for indirectly detecting at least one property of the product.

The sensor can be set up to measure the pH value, the temperature, the oxygen content, the proportion of one or more vitamins/trace elements, the electrical conductivity, metabolic products or the like. It can be advantageous if the sensor is designed to determine at least one absolute value.

It is advantageous if two measured values are used to determine the current quality of the food. This can be the same parameter, with the sensor measuring the measured value, e.g. a pH value, for the first time e.g. when it comes into contact with the product and then a change in the measured value without knowing the actual quantitative value. The sensor is therefore preferably a sensor that detects a qualitative change in a measured value. It can therefore be advantageous in some cases if the sensor is designed to determine at least one relative value of the measured value relative to an initial measured value.

More than one sensor can also be used to determine different parameters. Since, for example, the temperature of the examined product still often affects the value determination of the sensor, it is important for the correctness of a determination of the quality of the condition derived from this that the value determination is assessed on the basis of the existing temperature. Therefore, it is suggested that a reading of a first Sensor depending on a measured value of a second sensor, in particular a temperature value of a temperature sensor, weighted and / or normalized.

The provision of a sensor makes it possible to determine one or more properties, for example of a product that comes into contact with the web material, in particular with its cover layer assigned to the product. In order to be able to determine various properties, it is of course conceivable for the functional element to comprise a plurality of sensors, in particular different sensors, and/or for the functional element to comprise further parts which then also comprise a sensor, for example.

Designs of partially or fully printable sensors are also conceivable, which are based on the principle of an ion-sensitive field effect transistor (ISFET) or electrolyte insulator semiconductor (EIS). Here, the standard materials of silicon technology are completely or partially replaced by functional inks based on polymers, which have the same or similar electrical or electrochemical properties as the conventional materials. The structures are produced on a substrate, in particular the top layer, using different printing methods, e.g. screen printing or ink-jet printing. In addition to its function as a carrier of the sensor structure, the substrate can itself serve as a functional part of the sensor structure, e.g. as an insulator, semiconductor or ion-sensitive layer. Single-layer, multi-layer, rigid or flexible carriers in the form of, for example, foils, plates (flakes), sheets, strips or the like can serve as the substrate. In particular, the combination of partially or fully printed sensor structures made of functional inks on flexible film substrates as carriers enables cost-effective production, even for smaller quantities.

It is possible for sensors and/or antennas to be printed as already described above. In particular, it is possible to connect a sensor or another functional element in or on the top layer facing the product. In particular, it is possible to connect an antenna or another electrical element in or on the cover layer that faces away from the product. Electrical elements are also known which are already available as a film-like component. Electrical elements that are already pre-laminated in this way can also contain sensors or antennas. This sheet-like element can be bonded to one side of the barrier layer. It is possible for this to take place directly on the barrier layer or on the top layer or an intermediate layer. Associated with a layer in this disclosure can mean disposed on, in, or on a layer. Arranging can be done by laminating on/in, printing, gluing, riveting, plugging or the like.

In the manufacture of web goods, it may be possible to unwind laminated electrical elements, which are present, for example, as foil elements, from a roll and to laminate them onto the packaging material that moves in the manufacturing process in a continuous application process. A large number of functional elements and/or electrical elements can be unwound from a roll as web goods. The elements arranged on the roll or the web material can have a defined distance from one another, so that the elements are arranged in the same position in the blank.

It has also been recognized that in order to provide the user with the desired information, at least one functional element can be integrated into the packaging laminate, namely between the carrier layer and a cover layer and/or at least partially into the carrier layer or cover layer. This simplifies the manufacture of the packaging laminate and the attachment of the element. This is where the structuring and relatively rigid carrier layer can be used. The carrier layer thus forms a suitable substrate for attaching and receiving the at least one element. Alternatively or additionally, the carrier layer provides a protective effect with regard to the element so that it can be accommodated in the packaging laminate over a long period of time without being damaged. For example, after it has been produced, the packaging laminate can easily be rolled up into a roll in order to then be taken to another location. The carrier layer protects the at least one electronic functional element from damage, in particular from kinking or excessive bending. Alternatively, the element can be protected by the support layer during formation of the package and within the package itself. When the element is integrated at least partially into the cover layer, the flexural rigidity of the carrier layer can also be used. In addition, the layer thickness of the packaging laminate can be kept small without having to include the element at least partially in the carrier layer. In addition, if required, contact of the element with the outside of the package laminate or with the inside of the later package can be provided.

The sensor is advantageously designed as a temperature sensor. In some cases, this can advantageously be an active temperature sensor. Due to their measuring principle, active temperature sensors generate an electrical signal. This has the advantage that no auxiliary electrical power is required. An example of such an active temperature sensor is the thermocouple. In this case in particular, a conductor that is electrically insulated with respect to the barrier layer can already be sufficient.

In other cases it can be preferred that the temperature sensor is designed as a passive temperature sensor. In contrast to active sensors, passive temperature sensors require auxiliary energy in order to be able to read out the signal. The resistance thermometer is an example of a passive temperature sensor. This is an electrical component that uses the temperature dependence of the electrical resistance of an electrical conductor to measure the temperature. Pure metals are preferably suitable as resistance material. They show greater changes in resistance than alloys. Furthermore, they have an almost linear relationship between resistance and temperature. Platinum is often used.

However, measuring resistors made of ceramics (sintered metal oxides) or semiconductors can also be used. This allows much higher temperature coefficients to be achieved than with metals and thus also much higher sensitivities, but sometimes at the expense of accuracy.

Both thermocouples and various versions of resistance thermometers can now be produced inexpensively using printing techniques.

At least one of the at least one sensor is advantageously a conductivity sensor.

The electrical conductivity, in particular of liquids, can be determined with a conductivity sensor. The conductivity results from this as a sum parameter of all dissolved, dissociated substances (ions) in the liquid. This is of particular advantage when packaging is produced from the web material (packaging material) which is used to store a product containing at least one liquid component, preferably a foodstuff. Here, the development makes use of the fact that the electrical resistance of most liquid foods or foods containing at least one liquid component changes with the transition from a state that can be consumed without hesitation to a state that has gone bad.

As already explained, the functional element can be formed from a number of sub-elements. A first and a second functional element can be provided and, for example, an electrical or chemical connection between the two partial elements can be activated by the relative movement.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the functional element can comprise at least one electrical conductor. It is possible that the relative movement opens or closes the electrical conductor. An electrical conductor track can be provided in or on one of the layers. A part of the actuating element can form the electrical conductor track. In the case of a relative movement, for example, the conductor track can be opened. It is also possible for the actuating element to engage in the electrical conductor track and, for example, separate it in order to open the electrical conductor.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the actuating element can have at least one electrical conductor. This electrical conductor of the actuating element can interact with an electrical conductor of the functional element as a result of a relative movement. For example, it is possible for the electrical conductor of the actuating element to close an opening in the electrical conductor of the functional element during the relative movement. The electrical conductor of the actuating element can also engage in the electrical conductor of the functional element as a result of the relative movement and, for example, thereby close the electrical conductor of the functional element.

According to one exemplary embodiment, it is proposed that the functional element be arranged on an inside or an outside of the packaging material. According to another Embodiment is proposed that the functional element is arranged between the inside and the outside of the packaging material.

The packaging material is formed from a laminate of several layers comprising at least one carrier layer, one barrier layer and one cover layer. Electrical conductors can be routed on one of these layers in isolation from the barrier layer. It is thus possible to run an electrical conductor on a cover layer. It is also possible to route an electrical conductor on a carrier layer. The electrical conductor is preferably insulated from the barrier layer.

A first side of the barrier layer can be an inside in the pack. On such a first side, a layer can be the top layer, which is applied there directly to the barrier layer. It is possible for the functional element and/or one of the electrical conductors or conductor tracks to be applied at least partially between the barrier layer and the cover layer. The electrical conductor can be formed as a film conductor, for example, and can thus be independently insulated from the barrier layer. The functional element, for example the sensor, can also be formed as a film element, with the electronics or the chemical components being laminated into a film. This foil can be placed on the barrier layer and the functional element is electrically insulated from the barrier layer by the foils of the functional element. The film can be sealable with at least one of the cover layers, in particular it can be formed from the same plastic.

It is also possible for the functional element and/or one of the electrical conductors to be applied to the side of the cover layer facing away from the barrier layer. This can be useful in particular when the functional element and/or the electrical conductor or the conductor track are not independently insulated. The cover layer can then form insulation for the electrical conductor, the conductor track and/or the functional element in relation to the barrier layer. This is a sensible arrangement in particular for printed electronic elements, conductors or conductor tracks. An adhesion promoter layer can also serve as an insulating layer.

A second side of the barrier layer may face an outside of the package. At least one carrier layer is applied to this second side of the barrier layer. It goes without saying that the sequence in which the layers are applied to one another can in particular also initially include the carrier layer, to which the barrier layer is then applied, which is also meant by the above formulation. The electrical element, a conductor track and/or one of the electrical conductors can be applied between the barrier layer and the carrier layer or on a layer which is arranged on the side of the carrier layer which is remote from the barrier layer. A layer which is arranged on the side of the carrier layer which is remote from the barrier layer can be, for example, the outer side of the carrier layer, a cover layer applied to the carrier layer, a colored layer or the like. Especially when a conductor track or an electrical If the conductor is applied to such an outer layer, if the blank or two edges of the blank overlap, through-plating can take place from the inside to the outside, in which the conductors or conductor tracks rest on one another.

According to one exemplary embodiment, it is proposed that the first side of the barrier layer faces the inner layer of a pack and the second side of the barrier layer faces an outer layer of the pack.

According to one embodiment, it is proposed that the actuating element is a closure element of the pack. This can be a lid, a cutting element, an adhesive element or the like, with which the pack can be brought from the closed state into the open state. Just a closure of the pack is moved relative to the pack at the moment of opening the pack. This relative movement can result in the functional element being activated, since the pack is then open. The closure can be a screw cap, for example. It is also possible that when the closure is turned, a barrier layer of the pack is destroyed, e.g. by a cutting element, so that the shelf life of the food in the pack is particularly limited from this point on. It is precisely at this moment that the functional element should be activated, as this is when the limited durability begins.

It is also proposed that the actuating element is at least partially arranged on a closure element of the pack. It is not absolutely necessary for the actuating element itself to be the closure, but it can also be sufficient to arrange this on the closure. For example, a tab or tab may be located on the interior or exterior of the closure, such as the lid. Twisting or pulling can move this actuator relative to the package. It is possible, for example, for a tab or a tab to be torn off from a fastening on the pack, with the functional element being activated as a result of this tearing off.

As already explained, the functional element itself can be arranged in or on the pack. In particular, the functional element can be arranged on a flange that can be connected to the pack or on a screw cap or cover of a closure. A flange can be part of a plastic element, for example, which is attached to the packaging material. Such a plastic element can be part of a closure, for example. The flange can also be part of a plastic element, for example a base, on which the packaging material is arranged.

A flange of the closure element is arranged on the package, with the closure element being arranged in the area of a so-called "overcoated hole". By actuating the closure element, the overcoated hole can be pierced and, for example, product moisture can escape from the pack. This product moisture can be suitable for activating the functional element. For this reason the functional element is partial or placed entirely in a cavity between the flange and the packing. The cavity is particularly open in the direction of the opening of the closure element. If the overcoated hole is opened in the area of the opening of the closure element or the packaging material's packaging material is opened in the area of the opening of the closure element, moisture can escape from the inside of the pack to the outside. If the cavity is open in the direction of the opening of the closure element, moisture also gets into the region of the cavity and the functional element can be activated as a result.

An electrical path can also run along such an "overcoated hole" or in the area of an opening of the closure element on the pack. An electrical path can also run in any layer in the area of the opening of the closure element. A package can be opened by tearing at least one layer of the package laminate. If this tearing is carried out by the actuating element, a relative movement takes place between the actuating element and the packaging material. If there is an electrical conductor in the area of the opening that is opened by the actuating element, it can be separated. The disconnection or closure can be immediate or indirect (e.g. through intermediate steps or with a time delay).

An electrical conductor can also be closed, for example when a screw cap is rotated on a thread and an electrical conductor is closed on the thread via electrical contacts on the inside of the screw cap.

According to one embodiment, it is proposed that the relative movement breaks through a moisture barrier of the package. A moisture barrier can in particular be an "overcoated hole". Also, any other arrangement of layers of the packaging laminate can be severed, thereby severing the moisture barrier. Then another layer can also represent the moisture barrier. The escaping moisture can be used to activate the functional element.

According to one exemplary embodiment, it is proposed that the functional element has a chemical cell and that the chemical cell is activated when the package is opened for the first time. For example, a chemical cell can be based on a redox reaction. Here, an electrolyte can react with a reactant. For example, NaCl can be used as the electrolyte and a nanoscale aluminum as the reactant. If the reaction is initiated, it proceeds according to the principle of lateral oxidation until the reactant is consumed. For example, it can occur as a lateral oxidation of an aluminum layer. These and other chemical reactions can proceed along a layer of the reactant. Here, for example, a thin layer of a reactant with an electrolyte can be subjected to the electrochemical process. Through this process, information lying under the layer of the reactant can be optically released.

According to one embodiment, the reaction is self-sustaining, such that once activated, it continues until the reactant is consumed. In this case, for example, the reaction can proceed in a spatial direction with a sharply defined front from the origin of the reaction along the layer of the reaction partner. The substrate lying under the reaction partner, for example the aluminum layer, is optically uncovered, for example, so that information printed there gradually becomes recognizable. This information can be used, for example, to provide information about the shelf life of the product. If the chemical process is set in motion by activation, the reaction partner, for example the aluminum layer, gradually dissolves and the underlying label is gradually exposed. Information on the shelf life can be given on this label and, when the food is completely consumed, information can be displayed to the consumer, for example, that the food is no longer durable.

Especially in the case of electrochemical processes, initial activation can permanently activate the functional element. In this case, permanent means that the activation lasts longer than the actual initial activation by the moisture sensor or the short-circuiting. In the above example, for example, the durability can be provided by the self-acting reaction between the electrolyte and the reactant. If the reactant is used up, the activation is complete, but this still falls under the term permanent activation. As an alternative to this, provision can be made for the functional element to be permanently deactivated after it has been activated for the first time.

The display on the aforementioned functional element can be implemented in a wide variety of ways. For example, with simple indicators, colors or color gradients can be displayed, which adjust or change over the period of consumption. Slightly more complex indicators can also have a display on which the number of days since opening or - vice versa - the remaining shelf life days can be shown in a corresponding alternating order.

According to a further preferred embodiment, however, the functional element can also have a measuring element which measures further parameters such as temperature, humidity or the like and displays them via the functional element.

In order to be able to display the shelf life of the food depending on the environmental conditions, it can make sense that the chemical reaction is temperature-dependent. In particular, the rate of consumption of the reactant can be temperature dependent. For example, at a low temperature, the reaction may proceed more slowly than at a high temperature. Corresponding electrolytes and reaction partners are known, so that a suitable selection can be made.

It is of particular advantage if the functional element and the measuring element are also designed in one piece. In this case, the actuating element can also serve as a measuring element at the same time, in order to reduce the structural size of the functional element.

The functional element can be embodied as a flat label, which can preferably be embodied in the form of a strip, in particular when it is a functional element with a display in a longitudinal extension.

Alternatively, however, it is also possible to design the functional element with a round, oval or rectangular planar extension, with the functional element being as flat as possible.

Especially in the case of electrochemical processes, initial activation can permanently activate the functional element. In this case, permanent means that the activation lasts longer than the relative movement lasts. In the above example, for example, the durability may be provided by the self-acting reaction between the electrolyte and the reactant. If the reactant is used up, the activation is complete, but this still falls under the term permanent activation. As an alternative to this, provision can be made for the functional element to be permanently deactivated after it has been activated for the first time.

For the sake of completeness, the structure of the layers of the packaging laminate (as a preferred embodiment of the packaging material) is described in more detail below.

The layers of the layer sequence are connected to one another. The term “connected” or “composite” used in this description encompasses the adhesion of two objects that goes beyond Van der Waals forces of attraction. Unless stated otherwise, the layers in the layer sequence can follow one another indirectly, ie with one or at least two intermediate layers, or directly, ie without an intermediate layer. For the planar composite, this means, for example, that the barrier layer can be connected directly and thus directly to the first polyolefin layer or also indirectly via an adhesion promoter layer. Furthermore, the further polyolefin layer can also be connected directly and directly to the carrier layer, but there can also be other objects in between, for example in the form of further polymer layers, with a direct connection being preferred. The wording “comprising a layer sequence” as used above means that at least the specified layers can be present in the specified order in the composite according to the invention. This formulation does not necessarily mean that these layers follow one another directly.

A first polyolefin layer can act as a cover layer overlying the barrier layer on a side facing away from the carrier layer. A further polyolefin layer can be superimposed as an outer layer on the carrier layer on a side facing away from the barrier layer. The further polyolefin layer preferably adjoins the carrier layer.

The first polyolefin layer as well as the further polyolefin layer as well as all further polymer layers can have further components. These polyolefin layers are preferably incorporated into or applied to the sheet-like composite material in an extrusion process. The other components of the polyolefin layers are preferably components that do not adversely affect the behavior of the polymer melt when applied as a layer. The other components can be, for example, inorganic compounds such as metal salts or other plastics such as other thermoplastics. However, it is also conceivable that the other components are fillers or pigments, for example carbon black or metal oxides.

Suitable thermoplastics for the other components are, in particular, those that are easy to process due to good extrusion behavior. Among these, polymers obtained by chain polymerisation are suitable, in particular polyesters or polyolefins, cyclic olefin copolymers (COC) and polycyclic olefin copolymers (POC), in particular polyethylene and polypropylene, being particularly preferred and polyethylene being very particularly preferred. Among the polyethylenes, HDPE, MDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, VLDPE and PE and mixtures of at least two of these are preferred. Mixtures of at least two thermoplastics can also be used.

Suitable polyolefin layers have a melt flow rate (MFR) in a range from 1 to 25 g/10 min, preferably in a range from 2 to 20 g/10 min and more preferably in a range from 2.5 to 15 g/10 min. 10 min, and a density in a range of 0.890 g/cm ³ to 0.980 g/cm ³ , preferably in a range of 0.895 g/cm ³ to 0.975 g/cm ³ , and more preferably in a range of 0.900 g/cm 3 ³ to 0.970 g/cm ³ . The polyolefin layers preferably have at least one melting temperature in a range from 80 to 155°C, preferably in a range from 90 to 145°C and particularly preferably in a range from 95 to 135°C. The planar composite between the barrier layer and the carrier layer preferably contains a polyolefin layer, preferably a polyethylene layer. More preferably, the composite precursor includes a polyolefin layer, preferably a polyethylene layer, between the barrier layer and the support layer.

Any material that is suitable for this purpose to a person skilled in the art and has sufficient strength and rigidity to give the container stability to the extent that the container essentially retains its shape when filled can be used as the carrier layer. In addition to a number of plastics, preference is given to plant-based fibrous materials, in particular cellulose, preferably glued, bleached and/or unbleached cellulose, with paper and cardboard being particularly preferred. The basis weight of the carrier layer is preferably in a range from 120 to 450 g/m ² , more preferably in a range from 130 to 400 g/m ² and most preferably in a range from 150 to 380 g/m ² . A preferred cardboard usually has a single-layer or multi-layer structure and can be coated on one or both sides with one or more top layers. Furthermore, a preferred cardboard has a residual moisture less than 20% by weight, preferably from 2 to 15% by weight and particularly preferably from 4 to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the paperboard. A particularly preferred cardboard has a multi-layer structure. Furthermore, the cardboard preferably has at least one, but particularly preferably at least two, layers of a cover layer on the surface facing the environment, which is known to the person skilled in the art as the “line”.

In papermaking, “coating” is used to describe liquid phases containing mostly inorganic solid particles, preferably solutions containing chalk, gypsum or clay, which are applied to the surface of the cardboard. Furthermore, a preferred cardboard has a Scott Bond value in a range from 100 to 360 J/m ² , preferably from 120 to 350 J/m ² and particularly preferably from 135 to 310 J/m ² . The areas mentioned above make it possible to provide a composite from which a container can be folded with high tightness, easily and with low tolerances.

The barrier layer is a metal layer. In principle, all layers with metals that are known to the person skilled in the art and that can create a high degree of impermeability to light and oxygen are suitable as the metal layer. According to a preferred embodiment, the metal layer can be present as a foil or as a deposited layer, e.g. B. after a physical vapor deposition. The metal layer is preferably a continuous layer. According to a further preferred embodiment, the metal layer has a thickness in a range from 3 to 20 μm, preferably in a range from 3.5 to 12 μm and particularly preferably in a range from 4 to 10 μm.

Metals preferably selected are aluminum, iron or copper. A steel layer, e.g. B. be preferred in the form of a film. The metal layer is also preferably a layer with aluminum. The aluminum layer can expediently consist of an aluminum alloy, for example AlFeMn, AlFe1.5Mn, AlFeSi or AlFeSiMn. The purity is usually 97.5% and higher, preferably 98.5% and higher, in each case based on the entire aluminum layer. In a special embodiment, the metal layer consists of an aluminum foil. Suitable aluminum foils have an extensibility of more than 1%, preferably more than 1.3% and particularly preferably more than 1.5%, and a tensile strength of more than 30 N/mm ² , preferably more than 40 N/mm ² and more preferably more than 50 N/mm ² . In the pipette test, suitable aluminum foils show a droplet size of more than 3 mm, preferably more than 4 mm and particularly preferably more than 5 mm. Suitable alloys for creating aluminum layers or foils are available under the designations EN AW 1200, EN AW 8079 or EN AW 8111.

In the case of a metal foil as the barrier layer, an adhesion promoter layer can be provided between the metal foil and a nearest polymer layer on one and/or both sides of the metal foil. According to a special embodiment of the container according to the invention, however, no adhesion promoter layer is provided on either side of the metal foil, between the metal foil and the nearest polymer layer.

A metal oxide layer can also be preferred as the barrier layer. All metal oxide layers which are familiar to the person skilled in the art and appear suitable for achieving a barrier effect against light, vapor and/or gas can be considered as metal oxide layers. Particularly preferred are metal oxide layers based on the previously mentioned metals aluminum, iron or copper, as well as metal oxide layers based on titanium or silicon oxide compounds. A metal oxide layer is produced, for example, by vapor-depositing a plastic layer, for example an oriented polypropylene film, with metal oxide. A preferred method for this is physical vapor deposition.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the metal layer of the metal oxide layer can be present as a layer composite of one or more plastic layers with a metal layer. Such a layer can be obtained, for example, by vapor-depositing metal onto a plastic layer, for example an oriented polypropylene film. A preferred method for this is physical vapor deposition.

In order to make it easier to open the container according to the invention or the sheet-like composite, the carrier layer can have at least one recess (synonymous: hole, opening). In a special embodiment, the recess is covered with at least the barrier layer and at least the first polyolefin layer as cover layers. A planar composite is preferred, the carrier layer having at least one hole which is covered at least with the barrier layer and at least with the first polyolefin layer and the further polyolefin layer. Furthermore, one or more further layers, in particular adhesion promoter layers, can be provided between the layers already mentioned. It is preferred here that the hole covering layers are connected to one another at least partially, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 70% and particularly preferably at least 90% of the area formed by the hole.

According to a particular embodiment, it is preferred that the hole penetrates the entire assembly and is covered by a closure or opening device that closes the hole. In connection with a first preferred embodiment, the hole provided in the carrier layer can have any shape known to the person skilled in the art and suitable for various closures, drinking straws or opening aids. The opening of a planar composite or a container with a planar composite is usually produced by at least partially destroying the hole cover layers covering the hole. This destruction can be done by cutting, pushing into the container or pulling out of the container. Destruction can take place by means of an openable closure connected to the container and arranged in the area of the hole, usually above the hole, or by a drinking straw which is pushed through the hole cover layers covering the hole.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the carrier layer of the composite has a large number of holes in the form of a perforation, the individual holes being covered at least with the barrier layer and one of the first polyolefin layer as hole covering layers. A container made from such a composite can then be opened by tearing along the perforation. Such holes for perforations are preferably produced by means of a laser. The use of laser beams is particularly preferred when a metal foil or a metalized foil is used as the barrier layer. It is also possible for the perforation to be made by mechanical perforation tools, usually having blades.

Adhesion promoters in the adhesion promoter layer can be any plastics which, through functionalization by means of suitable functional groups, are suitable for producing a firm connection by forming ionic bonds or covalent bonds to the surface of the respective other layer. They are preferably functionalized polyolefins obtained by copolymerization of ethylene with acrylic acids such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, crotonic acid, acrylates, acrylate derivatives or carboxylic acid anhydrides bearing double bonds, for example maleic anhydride, or at least two of them. Among these, preference is given to polyethylene-maleic anhydride graft polymers (EMAH), ethylene-acrylic acid copolymers (EAA) or ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers (EMAA), which are sold, for example, under the trade names ^Bynel® and ^Nucrel® by DuPont or ^Escor® by ExxonMobile Chemicals .

A preferred polyolefin is a polyethylene or a polypropylene or both. A preferred polyethylene is one selected from the group consisting of an LDPE, an LLDPE, and an HDPE, or a combination of at least two of them. Another preferred polyolefin is an mpolyolefin. Suitable polyethylenes have a melt flow rate (MFR) in a range from 1 to 25 g/10 min, preferably in a range from 2 to 20 g/10 min and particularly preferably in a range from 2.5 to 15 g/10 min. 10 min, and a density in a range of 0.910 g/cm ³ to 0.935 g/cm ³ , preferably in a range of 0.912 g/cm ² to 0.932 g/cm ³ , and more preferably in a range of 0.915 g/cm 3 ³ to 0.930 g/cm ³ .

An mpolyolefin is a polyolefin that has been produced using a metallocene catalyst. A metallocene is an organometallic compound in which a central metal atom is sandwiched between two organic ligands such as cyclopentadienyl ligands. A preferred m-polyolefin is m-polyethylene or m-polypropylene, or both. A preferred m-polyethylene is one selected from the group consisting of an mLDPE, an mLLDPE, and an mHDPE, or a combination of at least two thereof.

A preferred color layer contains colorant in a proportion in the range from 5 to 15%, preferably from 8 to 15%, more preferably from 13 to 15% by weight of the color layer. Another preferred color layer also includes an application medium. A preferred application medium is an organic medium. A preferred organic medium is an organic binder. A preferred organic binder is a thermoplastic. A preferred thermoplastic is polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The colored layer preferably borders on the further polyolefin layer, with the further polyolefin layer preferably bordering on the carrier layer. Color layer is preferably obtainable by printing. A preferred printing here is offset printing or gravure printing or both. A further preferred colored layer is not overlaid by any further layer of the layer sequence on a side of the colored layer facing away from the carrier layer.

A preferred colorant is a colorant according to the DIN 55943 standard. Another preferred colorant is a pigment or a dye or both. A particularly preferred colorant is a pigment. Another preferred colorant is a natural colorant or a synthetic colorant or both. Another preferred colorant is one selected from the group consisting of a white colorant, a black colorant, and a chromatic colorant, or a combination of at least two of them. Another preferred colorant is an effect colorant or a luminescent colorant or both.

The features of the methods and devices can be freely combined with one another.

EXPLANATION OF THE DRAWINGS

• Fig. 1A eine Packung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• Fig. 1B eine Detailansicht eines Verschlusses;
• Fig. 1C eine Schnittansicht eines Verschlusses;
• Fig. 2A eine Packung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• Fig. 2B eine Detailansicht eines Verschlusses;
• Fig. 2C eine Schnittansicht eines Verschlusses;
• Fig. 3A eine nicht erfindungsgemäße Packung mit inaktivem Funktionselement;
• Fig. 3B die Packung gemäß Fig. 3A mit aktivem Funktionselement
• Fig. 4A eine Schnittansicht durch einen Verschluss einer nicht erfindungsgemäßen Packung;
• Fig. 4B ein Verschluss einer nicht erfindungsgemäßen Packung in einem nicht aktivierten Zustand;
• Fig. 4C ein Verschluss einer nicht erfindungsgemäßen Packung in einem aktivierten Zustand;
• Fig. 5A ein Betätigungselement im Bereich eines overcoated holes;
• Fig. 5B eine Anordnung eines Leiters im Bereich eines overcoates holes;
• Fig. 5C eine weitere Anordnung eines Leiters im Bereich eines overcoated holes;
• Fig. 6A eine Schnittansicht eines Funktionselements;
• Fig. 6B eine Schnittansicht eines Funktionselements in einem nicht aktivierten Zustand;
• Fig. 6C eine Schnittansicht eines Funktionselements in einem aktivierten Zustand;
• Fig. 7 eine Darstellung eines Reaktionsverlaufs in einem Funktionselement gemäß Fig. 6.

The object is explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing showing exemplary embodiments. Show in the drawing:

• Figure 1A a pack according to an embodiment;
• Figure 1B a detailed view of a closure;
• Figure 1C a sectional view of a closure;
• Figure 2A a pack according to an embodiment;
• Figure 2B a detailed view of a closure;
• Figure 2C a sectional view of a closure;
• Figure 3A a pack with an inactive functional element that is not according to the invention;
• Figure 3B the pack according to Figure 3A with active functional element
• Figure 4A a sectional view through a closure of a pack not according to the invention;
• Figure 4B a closure of a package not according to the invention in a non-activated state;
• Figure 4C a closure of a package not according to the invention in an activated state;
• Figure 5A an actuating element in the area of an overcoated hole;
• Figure 5B an arrangement of a conductor in the area of an overcoated hole;
• Figure 5C another arrangement of a conductor in the area of an overcoated hole;
• Figure 6A a sectional view of a functional element;
• Figure 6B a sectional view of a functional element in a non-activated state;
• Figure 6C a sectional view of a functional element in an activated state;
• 7 a representation of a reaction course in a functional element according to FIG 6 .

Fig. 1a shows a pack 2 made of a packaging material 4. In the form shown, the pack 2 is already closed and, in particular, welded along a sealing seam 6. FIG. The packaging material 4 can be constructed in one of the ways described above and in particular can be formed as a laminate.

A closure 8 is provided on a top of the pack 2 . The closure can be understood as an actuating element. The closure 8 is formed from a lid 10 and a flange 12 fastened to the pack 2 or the packaging material 4 .

A functional element 14 is provided between the flange 12 and the packaging material 4 of the pack 2, as will be described below. The functional element 14 extends into the area of the opening of the flange 12 which is closed by the cover 10 .

The flange 12 is, as in the Fig. 1b shown, provided with a recess 12a which extends into an opening in the opening of the flange 12 cavity 12b.

The functional element 14 is, as in the 1c shown, arranged between the flange 12 and the packaging material 4 of the pack 2. First, the functional element 14 runs through the recess 12a into the cavity 12b. In the area of an opening 16 of the flange 12, the cavity 12b opens out. If the packaging material 4 is now damaged and in particular opened in the area of the opening 16, for example by a relative movement of the lid 10 and thus a cutting element (not shown) in relation to the flange 12 and thus the pack 2, moisture from the interior 18 of the pack 2 enters the area of the opening 16. This escaping moisture can be sufficient to activate the functional element 14 arranged in the cavity 12b. This moisture activation is preferential a chemical process in the functional element, as will be described below

Figure 2a shows an exemplary embodiment of a pack 2 with a packaging material 4 in which the functional element 14 is arranged completely in the area of the closure 8 .

In the Figure 2b it can be seen that the recess 12a breaks through the flange 12 upwards on the side facing away from the pack 2 and opens into a cavity 12b in the opening 16 .

This is in the section view in Figure 2c shown in more detail. It can be seen that the functional element is connected to the opening 16 via the cavity 12b. If the packaging material 4 of the pack is damaged in the area of the opening 16 , in particular if it is separated, then moisture enters the area of the opening 16 from the interior 18 of the pack. This opening 16 can be made by a relative movement of the lid 10 with respect to the flange 12, and therefore the pack 2.

The functional element 14 is then activated by the moisture reaching the functional element 14 .

In the Figures 1c and 2c the packs are shown unopened. The packaging material 4 can be cut open in the region of the opening 16, for example by a cutting element (not shown), which is moved in the direction of the packaging material 4 by a relative movement of the cover 10 with respect to the flange 12. When the lid 10 is screwed on for the first time, the pack 2 is thus opened. This pouring opening can then be used to activate the functional element 4 .

Although in the Figures 1c and 2c not shown, it is understood that the embodiments according to Figures 1a-1c and 2a-2c each have an "overcoated hole" within the scope of the present invention, as is the case with reference to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG Figure 5a is described.

The functional element 14 can in particular be an electrochemical functional element, as in FIGS figures 6 is described.

It is also possible for the functional element to be an antenna, for example. A movement of the cover 10 on the flange 12 can, for example, short-circuit two contacts of the functional element 14 . For this purpose, for example, a contact element can be provided on the inner wall of the flange 12 facing the opening 16, which contact element is brought into contact with the functional element. This bringing into contact can be brought about, for example, by the relative movement of the cover 10 . For example, a cutting element, which is used to open the packaging material 4, can bring an electrical contact element into contact with the functional element 14 at the same time. This makes sense, for example, when the functional element is an antenna. The antenna can then be activated, for example, by the cutting element or the electrical contact element arranged thereon. In particular, a sensor can be provided on the inside of the flange 12 which faces the opening 16 . A conductor of the sensor can be electrically separated from the contact element 14 . An electrical contact element can establish an electrical connection between a sensor and the functional element 14 via the relative movement

Figure 3A shows an example of a pack 2 which is not according to the invention. The tab 20 is operatively connected to a functional element 14, in particular, the tab 20 is mechanically connected to the functional element 14 . When delivered, the tab 20 is connected both to the cover 10 and to the functional element 14 .

By turning the lid 10, the tab 20 is pulled off the functional element 14, as shown in FIG Figure 3B shown. In this case, the functional element 14 can be activated. For example, the functional element 14 is an antenna, which can be read using NFC or RFID technology, for example. First of all, the antenna may not be functional, for example due to a short circuit via the tab 20. If the tab 20 is pulled off, this short circuit can be eliminated and, for example, the antenna can be connected to a sensor arranged inside the pack 2. Using radio technology, the antenna can be addressed and, for example, sensor data can be read from inside the pack.

Activation when opening for the first time also takes place in the embodiment according to the invention, which is not according to the invention Figures 4A to 4C . Here, too, the flange 12 is attached to the packaging material 4 of the pack 2 . The cover 10 is screwed onto the flange 12 in the area of the opening 16 . The inner wall of the cover 10 is metallically coated at least in parts. This is in the Figure 4B to recognize.

There it can be seen that the inner wall of the cover 10 is partially coated with a metallic coating 22 . It can be seen here that the coating 22 encloses two pitch circle segments of the inner wall of the cover 10 . The enclosed angular range of each segment can be between 10 and 170°, for example, preferably between 90 and 170°. In particular, the included angle of a segment is less than 180° to allow for activation in the event the lid 10 is rotated. For this purpose, in addition to the metallic coating 22 of the cover 10, a metallic coating 24 of the flange 12 is provided in the area of the thread. This coating is also only provided in at least one pitch circle segment.

In particular, the coatings 22, 24 are provided on opposite pitch circle segments. The angle subtended by the coating 24 may correspond to the angle subtended by the coating 22 .

In the Figure 4B a closed state is shown. Here the coatings 22, 24 are on top of each other so that they touch directly.

The fact that the enclosed angles of the pitch circle segments of the coatings 22, 24 are preferably less than 180° results in a gap between the two pitch circle segments.

When opening for the first time, the cover 10 is rotated relative to the flange 12 and the result is that, as in Figure 4C shown, the coatings 22, 24 overlap each other in such a way that the gaps forming between the pitch circle segments are closed. The pitch circle segments thus short-circuit one another and a functional element can be activated.

In Figure 4A For example, a sensor is provided as a functional element 14 in the area of the interior of the opening 16 . Turning the cover 10 activates the functional element 14.

Figure 5A shows an overcoated hole 26 in the area of a packaging material 4, in the area of a pouring opening. A flange 12 as previously shown is positioned with its opening 16 over the overcoated hole 26. FIG. It is understood that the arrangement of the pack with overcoated hole 26 in connection with the packs 2 according to figs 1 and 2 is possible.

The overcoated hole 26 is undamaged if the package is unopened. The overcoated hole 26 is pierced in a manner known per se by a cutting element. This allows the pack 2 to be opened.

If, for example, an electrical conductor 28 runs along the overcoated hole 26, the conductor loop of the electrical conductor 28 can be interrupted by breaking through the overcoated hole 26.

Thus, for example, when opening for the first time, an electrical conductor 28 is severed at the same time by severing the barrier layer arranged in the area of the overcoated hole 26 . This severing of the electrical conductor 28 can lead to an activation of a functional element 14 . For example, an antenna can be short-circuited and activated for transmission only by separating the electrical conductor 28 .

Figure 5B shows an exemplary embodiment in which a carrier layer 4a of the packaging material 4 has been removed in the area of the overcoated hole 26 . As a result, a barrier layer 4b is uncovered, which is optionally covered with a cover layer 4b' or an adhesion promoter layer 4b'. In addition, the barrier layer 4b can be protected by a cover layer 4c arranged inside 18 of the pack. The electrical conductor 28 runs on the upper side of the barrier layer 4b or the cover layer 4b'.

Figure 5C shows a further exemplary embodiment in which the electrical conductor 28 runs on the inside 18 of the barrier layer 4b, in particular between the barrier layer 4b and the cover layer 4c. The electrical conductor 28 shown there runs over the entire diameter of the overcoated hole 26.

Figure 6A shows a functional element 14 in vertical section along the line VI A - VI A from Figure 6B , which for example in the figures 1 and 2 is used. This functional element 14 has an electrochemical activation element 11, which reacts like a moisture sensor. Figure 6A shows the functional element 14 in horizontal section along the line VI B - VI B from Figure 6A . The functional element 14 initially has a carrier substrate 30 . Provided on the carrier substrate 30 are electrical conductors 32 which are spaced apart from one another in the region of a front end and form a gap 34 with one another there. This gap 34 can be arranged in the region of the cavity 12b and in particular protrude into the opening 16. The activation element 11 can be arranged above the gap 34 and can short-circuit the gap 34 in the event of activation.

The two conductors 32 are separated from one another on the other side by a release element 36 .

If an electrical short circuit is created across the gap 34 between the two conductors 32, e.g. via the activation element 11, the triggering element 36 can be released, for example. The triggering element 36 can be a galvanic cell, for example, which dissolves itself via the short circuit between the conductors 32 along the gap 34 .

It can be seen that the triggering element 36 spatially and mechanically separates an electrolyte 38 from a reactant 40 . For example, the electrolyte 38 is NaCl. The reaction partner 40 can be a nanoscale aluminum layer, for example. Substrates other than electrolyte 38 and reactant 40 are also conceivable.

If the triggering element 36 is opened, the electrolyte 38 can reach the reactant 40 . A reaction takes place between the electrolyte 38 and the reaction partner 40, in particular according to the principle of lateral oxidation. This reaction propagates along the reactant channel 40 in a spatial direction. As a result, the reactant 40 is dissolved. The reaction partner is dissolved in space with a sharp front 46.

Figure 6C 12 shows how the electrolyte 38 flows into the channel 42 of the reactant 40 and how the reactant 40 gradually reacts with the electrolyte 38 in the process. A printed label 44, which is arranged below the reactant 40, can become recognizable as a result of this reaction.

For example, the label 40 can be printed with information about a shelf life. As a result of the ongoing reaction between the electrolyte 38 and the reaction partner 40, further information on the label 44 is gradually uncovered.

Once the reaction has been initiated, it can no longer be stopped and the reaction partner 40 is completely used up, so that after a certain time the entire label 44 is visible.

The rate of reaction between the electrolyte 38 and the reactant 40 may be temperature dependent.

7 shows, for example, the distance traveled by the front 46 of the reaction over time. In a first time window 48, the pack 2 is stored at room temperature, for example. This causes the reaction to proceed faster and the front 26 to propagate faster. In a second time window 50, the pack 2 is stored at refrigerator temperature. It can be seen that the front 46 develops more slowly. In the time window 52, the pack 2 is again stored at room temperature and the front 46 plants again away faster. After a certain time, all of the reaction partner 40 has been used up and the display of the label 44 can be read completely.

This can indicate, for example, that the product has exceeded its best-before date.

By activating based on a relative movement, sensors, antennas or the like can be activated both electrically and electrochemically. As shown above, traces can be opened or closed. This can activate antennas or sensors. Electrochemical and chemical processes can also be initiated. All of these actions are made possible by the relative movement between the packaging material and an actuating element. Actuating elements can be, for example, a cover, a tab, a cutting element or the like.

REFERENCE LIST

2

pack

4

packing material

4a

backing layer

4b

barrier layer

4c

top layer

6

sealing seam

8th

closure

10

Lid

11

activation element

12

flange

12a

recess

12b

cavity

14

functional element

16

opening

18

inside of pack

20

tab

22, 24

coating

26

overcoated hole

28

electrical conductor

30

carrier substrate

32

Director

34

gap

36

activation element

38

electrolyte

40

reaction partner

42

channel

44

labels

46

front

48-52

Time window

Claims (12)

1. Package, in particular a package for foodstuffs, with

   - a packaging material (4);

   - at least one actuating element (10) arranged on the packaging material (4); and

   - at least one at least electrical or electrochemical functional element (14) arranged on the packaging material (4) and/or the actuating element (10); as well as

   - a closure element (8)

   wherein a relative movement between the actuating element (10) and the packaging material (4) changes an electrical or electrochemical state of the functional element (14),
   characterized in that

   (a) the closure element (8) is in the region of an "overcoated hole" and

   (b) a flange (12) of the closure element (8) is arranged on the packing, and

   (c) the functional element (14) is partially or completely arranged in a cavity (12b) between the flange (12) and the packing.
2. Package according to claim 1, characterized in that the relative movement activates or deactivates the functional element (14).
3. Package according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional element (14) comprises at least one electrical conductor (32) and that the relative movement opens or closes the electrical conductor (32).
4. Package according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (10) comprises at least one electrical conductor (32) and in that the electrical conductor (32) interacts with an electrical conductor (32) of the functional element (14) during the relative movement.
5. Package according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional element (14) is arranged on an outer side of the packing material (4).
6. Package according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cavity (12b) is open in the direction of an opening of the closure element (8).
7. Package according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relative movement separates or closes an electrical path of a conductor (32).
8. Package according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relative movement cuts a moisture barrier of the packing and that moisture escaping from the packing activates the functional element (14).
9. Package according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional element further comprises a chemical cell and that the relative movement activates the chemical cell.
10. Package according to claim 9, characterized in that a self-supplying chemical reaction takes place in the chemical cell after the activation.
11. Package according to any one of claims 9 and/or 10, characterized in that the reaction rate of the chemical reaction is temperature dependent.
12. Package according to anyone of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional element (14) is permanently activated or permanently deactivated after an initial activation.

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