EP4108593A1 - Tamper proof seal - Google Patents
Tamper proof seal Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4108593A1 EP4108593A1 EP22180919.7A EP22180919A EP4108593A1 EP 4108593 A1 EP4108593 A1 EP 4108593A1 EP 22180919 A EP22180919 A EP 22180919A EP 4108593 A1 EP4108593 A1 EP 4108593A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- keg
- cap
- skirt
- keg cap
- retention
- 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.)
- Granted
Links
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 61
- 235000013405 beer Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- -1 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000019987 cider Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 1
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
- B65D55/00—Accessories for container closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D55/02—Locking devices; Means for discouraging or indicating unauthorised opening or removal of closure
- B65D55/06—Deformable or tearable wires, strings, or strips; Use of seals, e.g. destructible locking pins
- B65D55/08—Annular elements encircling container necks
- B65D55/0863—Plastic snap-on cap-like collars having frangible parts
Definitions
- the invention relates to a keg cap for a keg, such as a beer keg.
- the invention also relates to a keg provided with the aforesaid keg cap, a mold for producing the aforesaid keg cap and a beer in a keg, wherein the keg in which the beer is located is provided with the aforementioned keg cap.
- Sealing the keg head of kegs is essential to prevent dust and other unwanted particles from accumulating in and around the keg head of the keg. This is important, for example, when the keg is stored in an uncovered space and exposed to different weather conditions.
- One way to achieve these points is to provide the keg with a keg cap.
- keg caps are already on the market, as described for example in GB 2 319 019 and BE 1 008 450 .
- these keg caps consist of a lid and an adjoining skirt, wherein the skirt surrounds the perimeter of the keg head collar of the keg.
- the problem is that these keg caps often do not fit closely enough to the keg head of the keg, so that they can be placed back on the keg undetected after opening. As a result, the keg is insufficiently protected against fraud or attempted fraud. Also, dust and other unwanted particles can accumulate in and around the keg head of the keg.
- the present invention aims to find a solution for at least some of the above problems.
- the invention relates to a keg cap for a keg according to claim 1. More particularly, the invention relates to a keg cap for a keg, such as a beer keg, the keg comprising a keg head for filling the keg, wherein the keg cap comprises a lid and a skirt adjoining thereto, the keg cap comprising a detachable portion for removing the keg cap from the keg head, said detachable portion being outlined by a first and a second pair of tear lines, wherein the first pair of tear lines extends over the full diameter of the lid of the keg cap and wherein the inner wall of said skirt is provided with a plurality of internally directed resilient retention spears along the circumference of the skirt, wherein the angle of the retention spear with the inner wall of the skirt is between 15 degrees and 40 degrees.
- Preferred embodiments of this keg cap are set forth in claims 2-12.
- the keg cap By providing the keg cap with retention spears that form an angle between 15 degrees and 40 degrees with the inner wall of the skirt, the keg cap can fit closely and securely to the keg head of the keg, and it is impossible to remove the keg cap without breaking or tearing it into multiple parts. This means that fraud does not go unnoticed. Moreover, since the keg cap fits closely to the keg head, the accumulation of dust and other unwanted particles in and around the keg head will be avoided.
- the invention in a second aspect, relates to a keg provided with said keg cap.
- the invention relates to a mold for producing said keg cap.
- the invention relates to a beer in a keg, wherein the keg is provided with said keg cap.
- a segment means one or more segments.
- Quoting numerical intervals by endpoints comprises all integers, fractions and/or real numbers between the endpoints, these endpoints included.
- the invention in a first aspect, relates to a keg cap for a keg, such as a beer keg, the keg comprising a keg head for filling the keg, wherein the keg cap comprises a lid and a skirt adjoining thereto, the keg cap comprising a detachable portion for removing the keg cap from the keg head, said detachable portion being outlined by a first and a second pair of tear lines, wherein the first pair of tear lines extends over the full diameter of the lid of the keg cap and wherein the inner wall of said skirt is provided with a plurality of internally directed resilient retention spears along the circumference of the skirt, the latter being able to elastically press against the keg head collar in the coupled locked state.
- the operation of the keg cap is based on the resilient effect of the retention spears.
- These retention spears are connected to the skirt of the keg cap and are located along the circumference of the skirt. When placing the keg cap over the keg head collar, the retention spears bend toward the skirt and thus allow mounting of the keg cap. Once fitted over the keg head collar, the retention spears spring inward again.
- Crucial to the tight fit of the keg cap to the keg head of the keg is the angle formed between the retention spear and the inner wall of the skirt.
- this angle must be sufficiently large so that the retention spears can prevent the keg cap from being removed from the keg head in one piece after placement, but on the other hand must be as small as possible so that the keg cap fits closely to the keg head.
- the keg cap according to the present invention is such that the angle of the retention spear with the inner wall of the skirt of the keg cap is between 15 degrees and 40 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 36 degrees. Retention spears forming an angle with the inner wall of such an order of magnitude allow the keg cap to fit closely and securely enough to the keg head of the keg. This makes it impossible to remove the keg cap without breaking or tearing it into multiple parts and furthermore prevents the build-up of dust and other unwanted particles at the keg head of the keg.
- the keg cap Before the keg can be connected, the keg cap must be removed. Given the design of the keg cap, this can only be done in a controlled manner by tearing through the keg cap. In order to open the keg cap in a controlled manner, the keg cap is provided with a detachable portion that can be detached from the keg cap by means of tear lines.
- the first pair of tear lines of the detachable portion of the keg cap continues at one end of the lid of the keg cap in two openings that terminate in the second pair of tear lines and the first pair of tear lines terminate at the other end of the lid in a tear tab.
- the tear tab is separated from the keg cap skirt by a tear tab opening.
- the keg cap skirt is provided with a third pair of tear lines at the tear tab opening.
- the detachable portion can be completely separated from the keg cap when the keg cap is opened.
- the first pair of tear lines, the openings in the skirt and the second pair of tear lines will ensure that the detachable portion is completely removed from the keg cap in a controlled manner and the latter can be disconnected from the keg head of the keg.
- the keg cap cannot be put back in one piece and opening the keg cap cannot go unnoticed. Opening the keg cap in a controlled manner (via the tear tab) thus provides the best indication that the keg has not been tampered with.
- the detachable portion can be easily removed from the keg cap.
- the portion of the detachable portion in the lid and the portion in the skirt therefore form one rigid whole.
- the last part of the detachable portion, the part in the skirt can be easily removed by means of a lever effect.
- the two openings in the skirt as a continuation of the first pair of tear lines allow the length of the second pair of tear lines to be reduced, which in turn facilitates removal of the detachable portion.
- Improperly removing the keg cap from the keg head can also cause the third pair of tear lines to rupture.
- the third pair of tear lines is torn, it may be indicative of fraud.
- the tear tab and tear tab opening function to facilitate removal of the detachable portion.
- the keg cap further comprises intermediate tabs, wherein these intermediate tabs arise from the inside of the skirt of the keg cap and wherein these intermediate tabs, in the coupled condition of the keg cap and the keg, surround the keg head collar of the keg.
- the intermediate tabs are positioned at least on either side of each retention spear. The function of these intermediate tabs is to allow the keg cap to fit closely to the keg head collar of the keg.
- These intermediate tabs can take any shape.
- the thickness of these intermediate tabs is between 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm. This thickness is suitable for allowing the keg cap to closely match the diameter of the keg head collar.
- the keg cap further comprises release apertures in the lid of the keg cap. These release apertures are necessary to form the retention spears on the inside of the keg cap skirt during the keg cap manufacturing process. Such a release aperture is therefore always located at the level of a retention spear.
- the width of these release apertures is substantially equal to the width of the retention spears. Furthermore, these release apertures allow visually checking the positioning of the retention spears against the keg head collar when placing the keg cap on the keg head of the keg.
- the tear lines can be on the inside (the side facing the keg head) or on the outside (the side facing the outside environment) of the keg cap.
- the first pair of tear lines is on the outside of the lid. In another embodiment of the keg cap, the first pair of tear lines is on the inside of the lid. Providing the first pair of tear lines, which are located on the horizontal plane of the lid, on the inside of the lid, ensures that the outside of the lid forms a plane without any relief. As a result, this outside of the lid can easily be printed with text and/or one or more illustrations. Also, the placement of the first pair of tear lines on the inside of the lid prevents the accumulation of dust and other contaminating elements in the grooves of this first pair of tear lines.
- the inside of the lid of the keg cap is provided with a circular elevation or rib. In a further embodiment, this circular elevation or rib abuts in the cavity of the collar of the keg head of the keg.
- the inner diameter of the lid of the keg cap comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central rim of the release apertures.
- this inner diameter of the lid is between 50 mm and 75 mm, preferably between 52 mm and 72 mm, even more preferably between 55 mm and 71 mm.
- An inner diameter of such an order of magnitude is suitable for sufficiently closing the keg head collar when the keg cap is coupled to the keg. Namely, this inner diameter must be greater than the inner diameter of the keg head collar of the keg with which the keg cap will be coupled.
- the release apertures will be at the height of the inner diameter of the keg head collar of the keg and the keg head of the keg will not be protected from external contamination. With a larger inner diameter of the lid, the release apertures will be too small to properly form the retention spears during the production process of the keg cap.
- the inner wall of this skirt is provided with a plurality of internally directed resilient retention spears along the periphery of the skirt.
- the locking diameter comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central point of each of the retention spears. In a preferred embodiment this locking diameter is between 50 mm and 80 mm, preferably between 52 mm and 75 mm, even more preferably between 55 mm and 71 mm.
- a locking diameter of such an order of magnitude is suitable for sealing the collar of the keg head sufficiently tightly in the coupled state with the keg. If this locking diameter is larger, the retention spears will connect insufficiently, and it will be possible for the keg cap to be removed from the keg in one piece (i.e. without breaking or tearing the keg cap). Since the keg cap is undamaged in this situation, it can be put back unnoticed, and the keg is no longer protected against fraud. If this locking diameter is too small, the keg cap cannot be placed over the keg head.
- the outer diameter of the keg cap at the top is between 50 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 65 mm and 85 mm, even more preferably between 70 mm and 80 mm.
- the outer diameter of the keg cap on the opposite side, the bottom is between 50 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 65 mm and 85 mm, even more preferably between 71 mm and 81 mm.
- An outer diameter of such an order of magnitude makes it possible to place sufficient intermediate tabs and retention spears of suitable width along the circumference of the inner wall.
- the skirt comprises a peripherally projecting rim on the underside.
- this peripherally projecting rim is complete and continuous. The above-mentioned rim serves as a reinforcing element for the skirt, giving it greater rigidity and preventing tearing during the fitting and fixing of the keg cap on the collar.
- the height of the skirt and/or the rim of the skirt, as well as their thickness, are selected in accordance with the type of keg and keg head for which the keg cap is intended.
- the height of the keg cap is between 10 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 12 mm and 18 mm, even more preferably between 16 mm and 17 mm, even more preferably between 16.3 mm and 16.6 mm.
- a keg cap of such height makes it possible to provide retention spears having a suitable height to tightly enclose the keg head.
- the height of the retention spears, measured from their point of departure from the underside of the skirt of the keg cap is preferably between 4 mm and 10 mm, even more preferably between 5 mm and 9 mm.
- the keg cap may be made of any material known in the art.
- the keg cap is made from a thermoplastic polymer.
- the keg cap is made of polystyrene.
- the keg cap is made from recycled polystyrene. Recycled polystyrene offers an ecological alternative to non-recycled polystyrene.
- the keg cap is made from polypropylene, preferably by an injection molding process.
- Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer that combines strength and elasticity. This has the advantage that the keg cap can be installed without breakage. Namely, the retention spears must first bend towards the skirt before springing back inwards, which requires a certain elasticity of the material. These properties also ensure that the keg cap is less likely to break into unwanted small parts when opened. This reduces the risk that parts of the keg cap end up in the keg head of the keg.
- the keg cap is made from recycled polypropylene. Recycled polypropylene offers an ecological alternative to non-recycled polypropylene.
- the invention relates to a keg provided with said keg cap.
- the keg comprises a keg head with a collar.
- the keg head collar of the keg can take on any profile.
- the design of the keg cap is such that the keg cap fits closely and firmly against the keg head of the keg. As a result, the keg cap cannot be removed unnoticed, thereby preventing fraudulent opening of the keg. In addition, the accumulation of dust and other unwanted particles in the keg head of the keg is avoided.
- the keg can take any shape and size.
- the inner diameter of the keg head collar is between 50mm and 75mm. In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the keg head collar is smaller than the inner diameter of the keg cap lid.
- the invention relates to a mold for producing said keg cap by means of an injection molding process.
- the mold may be made of any material known in the art.
- the mold is made of steel. Steel is a sturdy and wear-resistant material, which extends the life of the mold.
- the mold consists of different parts, wherein the parts are constructed in such a way that, after the thermoplastic polymer has been injected and the entrapped air has escaped, the molded product can be easily and above all quickly removed from the mold.
- the keg cap can be used to secure a keg with any contents.
- the keg cap is used to secure a keg containing a liquid.
- the keg cap can be used to secure a keg containing cider, wine, oil, etc.
- the keg cap is used to secure a keg containing beer.
- the invention relates to a beer in a keg, wherein the keg is provided with said keg cap.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The invention relates to a keg cap for a keg, such as a beer keg. The invention also relates to a keg provided with the aforesaid keg cap, a mold for producing the aforesaid keg cap and a beer in a keg, wherein the keg in which the beer is located is provided with the aforementioned keg cap.
- Sealing the keg head of kegs is essential to prevent dust and other unwanted particles from accumulating in and around the keg head of the keg. This is important, for example, when the keg is stored in an uncovered space and exposed to different weather conditions.
- In order to protect kegs against fraud, it is also important that the kegs cannot be closed again unnoticed after opening.
- One way to achieve these points is to provide the keg with a keg cap.
- Several keg caps are already on the market, as described for example in
GB 2 319 019BE 1 008 450 - The present invention aims to find a solution for at least some of the above problems.
- The invention relates to a keg cap for a keg according to
claim 1. More particularly, the invention relates to a keg cap for a keg, such as a beer keg, the keg comprising a keg head for filling the keg, wherein the keg cap comprises a lid and a skirt adjoining thereto, the keg cap comprising a detachable portion for removing the keg cap from the keg head, said detachable portion being outlined by a first and a second pair of tear lines, wherein the first pair of tear lines extends over the full diameter of the lid of the keg cap and wherein the inner wall of said skirt is provided with a plurality of internally directed resilient retention spears along the circumference of the skirt, wherein the angle of the retention spear with the inner wall of the skirt is between 15 degrees and 40 degrees. Preferred embodiments of this keg cap are set forth in claims 2-12. - By providing the keg cap with retention spears that form an angle between 15 degrees and 40 degrees with the inner wall of the skirt, the keg cap can fit closely and securely to the keg head of the keg, and it is impossible to remove the keg cap without breaking or tearing it into multiple parts. This means that fraud does not go unnoticed. Moreover, since the keg cap fits closely to the keg head, the accumulation of dust and other unwanted particles in and around the keg head will be avoided.
- In a second aspect, the invention relates to a keg provided with said keg cap.
- In a further aspect, the invention relates to a mold for producing said keg cap.
- In a final aspect, the invention relates to a beer in a keg, wherein the keg is provided with said keg cap.
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Figure 1 shows a top view of the keg cap according to the present invention. -
Figure 2 shows a side view of the keg cap of the present invention. -
Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the keg cap according to the present invention in side view, in which the retention spears and the intermediate tabs are clearly visible. -
Figure 4 shows a detail view of a retention spear of the keg cap of the present invention coupled to the keg head collar of the keg. -
Figure 5 shows a top and bottom view of the keg cap according to the present invention. - Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. For a better understanding of the description of the invention, the following terms are explained explicitly.
- In this document, "a" and "the" refer to both the singular and the plural, unless the context presupposes otherwise. For example, "a segment" means one or more segments.
- The terms "comprise", "comprising", "consist of", "consisting of", "provided with", "have", "having", "include", "including", "contain", "containing" are synonyms and are inclusive or open terms that indicate the presence of what follows, and which do not exclude or prevent the presence of other components, characteristics, elements, members, steps, as known from or disclosed in the prior art.
- Quoting numerical intervals by endpoints comprises all integers, fractions and/or real numbers between the endpoints, these endpoints included.
- In a first aspect, the invention relates to a keg cap for a keg, such as a beer keg, the keg comprising a keg head for filling the keg, wherein the keg cap comprises a lid and a skirt adjoining thereto, the keg cap comprising a detachable portion for removing the keg cap from the keg head, said detachable portion being outlined by a first and a second pair of tear lines, wherein the first pair of tear lines extends over the full diameter of the lid of the keg cap and wherein the inner wall of said skirt is provided with a plurality of internally directed resilient retention spears along the circumference of the skirt, the latter being able to elastically press against the keg head collar in the coupled locked state.
- The operation of the keg cap is based on the resilient effect of the retention spears. These retention spears are connected to the skirt of the keg cap and are located along the circumference of the skirt. When placing the keg cap over the keg head collar, the retention spears bend toward the skirt and thus allow mounting of the keg cap. Once fitted over the keg head collar, the retention spears spring inward again. Crucial to the tight fit of the keg cap to the keg head of the keg is the angle formed between the retention spear and the inner wall of the skirt. On the one hand, this angle must be sufficiently large so that the retention spears can prevent the keg cap from being removed from the keg head in one piece after placement, but on the other hand must be as small as possible so that the keg cap fits closely to the keg head. The keg cap according to the present invention is such that the angle of the retention spear with the inner wall of the skirt of the keg cap is between 15 degrees and 40 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 36 degrees. Retention spears forming an angle with the inner wall of such an order of magnitude allow the keg cap to fit closely and securely enough to the keg head of the keg. This makes it impossible to remove the keg cap without breaking or tearing it into multiple parts and furthermore prevents the build-up of dust and other unwanted particles at the keg head of the keg.
- Before the keg can be connected, the keg cap must be removed. Given the design of the keg cap, this can only be done in a controlled manner by tearing through the keg cap. In order to open the keg cap in a controlled manner, the keg cap is provided with a detachable portion that can be detached from the keg cap by means of tear lines.
- In one embodiment, the first pair of tear lines of the detachable portion of the keg cap continues at one end of the lid of the keg cap in two openings that terminate in the second pair of tear lines and the first pair of tear lines terminate at the other end of the lid in a tear tab. The tear tab is separated from the keg cap skirt by a tear tab opening. The keg cap skirt is provided with a third pair of tear lines at the tear tab opening.
- By providing the second pair of tear lines in the keg cap, the detachable portion can be completely separated from the keg cap when the keg cap is opened. Thus, when pulling the tear tab, the first pair of tear lines, the openings in the skirt and the second pair of tear lines will ensure that the detachable portion is completely removed from the keg cap in a controlled manner and the latter can be disconnected from the keg head of the keg. By removing the detachable portion, the keg cap cannot be put back in one piece and opening the keg cap cannot go unnoticed. Opening the keg cap in a controlled manner (via the tear tab) thus provides the best indication that the keg has not been tampered with.
- Preferably, the detachable portion can be easily removed from the keg cap. In a preferred embodiment, the portion of the detachable portion in the lid and the portion in the skirt therefore form one rigid whole. As a result, the last part of the detachable portion, the part in the skirt, can be easily removed by means of a lever effect. The two openings in the skirt as a continuation of the first pair of tear lines allow the length of the second pair of tear lines to be reduced, which in turn facilitates removal of the detachable portion.
- Improperly removing the keg cap from the keg head can also cause the third pair of tear lines to rupture. Thus, if the third pair of tear lines is torn, it may be indicative of fraud.
- The tear tab and tear tab opening function to facilitate removal of the detachable portion.
- In one embodiment, the keg cap further comprises intermediate tabs, wherein these intermediate tabs arise from the inside of the skirt of the keg cap and wherein these intermediate tabs, in the coupled condition of the keg cap and the keg, surround the keg head collar of the keg. In one embodiment, the intermediate tabs are positioned at least on either side of each retention spear. The function of these intermediate tabs is to allow the keg cap to fit closely to the keg head collar of the keg. These intermediate tabs can take any shape. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of these intermediate tabs is between 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm. This thickness is suitable for allowing the keg cap to closely match the diameter of the keg head collar. In one embodiment, the keg cap further comprises release apertures in the lid of the keg cap. These release apertures are necessary to form the retention spears on the inside of the keg cap skirt during the keg cap manufacturing process. Such a release aperture is therefore always located at the level of a retention spear. In a further embodiment the width of these release apertures is substantially equal to the width of the retention spears. Furthermore, these release apertures allow visually checking the positioning of the retention spears against the keg head collar when placing the keg cap on the keg head of the keg.
- The tear lines can be on the inside (the side facing the keg head) or on the outside (the side facing the outside environment) of the keg cap.
- In one embodiment of the keg cap, the first pair of tear lines is on the outside of the lid. In another embodiment of the keg cap, the first pair of tear lines is on the inside of the lid. Providing the first pair of tear lines, which are located on the horizontal plane of the lid, on the inside of the lid, ensures that the outside of the lid forms a plane without any relief. As a result, this outside of the lid can easily be printed with text and/or one or more illustrations. Also, the placement of the first pair of tear lines on the inside of the lid prevents the accumulation of dust and other contaminating elements in the grooves of this first pair of tear lines.
- In one embodiment, the inside of the lid of the keg cap is provided with a circular elevation or rib. In a further embodiment, this circular elevation or rib abuts in the cavity of the collar of the keg head of the keg.
- The inner diameter of the lid of the keg cap comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central rim of the release apertures. In one embodiment, this inner diameter of the lid is between 50 mm and 75 mm, preferably between 52 mm and 72 mm, even more preferably between 55 mm and 71 mm. An inner diameter of such an order of magnitude is suitable for sufficiently closing the keg head collar when the keg cap is coupled to the keg. Namely, this inner diameter must be greater than the inner diameter of the keg head collar of the keg with which the keg cap will be coupled. If the inner diameter of the lid is smaller, and thus the most central rim of the release apertures is located more internally, the release apertures will be at the height of the inner diameter of the keg head collar of the keg and the keg head of the keg will not be protected from external contamination. With a larger inner diameter of the lid, the release apertures will be too small to properly form the retention spears during the production process of the keg cap.
- The inner wall of this skirt is provided with a plurality of internally directed resilient retention spears along the periphery of the skirt. The locking diameter comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central point of each of the retention spears. In a preferred embodiment this locking diameter is between 50 mm and 80 mm, preferably between 52 mm and 75 mm, even more preferably between 55 mm and 71 mm. A locking diameter of such an order of magnitude is suitable for sealing the collar of the keg head sufficiently tightly in the coupled state with the keg. If this locking diameter is larger, the retention spears will connect insufficiently, and it will be possible for the keg cap to be removed from the keg in one piece (i.e. without breaking or tearing the keg cap). Since the keg cap is undamaged in this situation, it can be put back unnoticed, and the keg is no longer protected against fraud. If this locking diameter is too small, the keg cap cannot be placed over the keg head.
- In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the keg cap at the top, i.e. the side of the lid, is between 50 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 65 mm and 85 mm, even more preferably between 70 mm and 80 mm. In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the keg cap on the opposite side, the bottom, is between 50 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 65 mm and 85 mm, even more preferably between 71 mm and 81 mm. An outer diameter of such an order of magnitude makes it possible to place sufficient intermediate tabs and retention spears of suitable width along the circumference of the inner wall. Preferably, the skirt comprises a peripherally projecting rim on the underside. Preferably, this peripherally projecting rim is complete and continuous. The above-mentioned rim serves as a reinforcing element for the skirt, giving it greater rigidity and preventing tearing during the fitting and fixing of the keg cap on the collar.
- The height of the skirt and/or the rim of the skirt, as well as their thickness, are selected in accordance with the type of keg and keg head for which the keg cap is intended.
- In one embodiment of the keg cap, the height of the keg cap is between 10 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 12 mm and 18 mm, even more preferably between 16 mm and 17 mm, even more preferably between 16.3 mm and 16.6 mm. A keg cap of such height makes it possible to provide retention spears having a suitable height to tightly enclose the keg head. In one embodiment, the height of the retention spears, measured from their point of departure from the underside of the skirt of the keg cap, is preferably between 4 mm and 10 mm, even more preferably between 5 mm and 9 mm.
- The keg cap may be made of any material known in the art. In one embodiment, the keg cap is made from a thermoplastic polymer. In one embodiment, the keg cap is made of polystyrene. In a further embodiment, the keg cap is made from recycled polystyrene. Recycled polystyrene offers an ecological alternative to non-recycled polystyrene.
- In an alternative preferred embodiment, the keg cap is made from polypropylene, preferably by an injection molding process. Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer that combines strength and elasticity. This has the advantage that the keg cap can be installed without breakage. Namely, the retention spears must first bend towards the skirt before springing back inwards, which requires a certain elasticity of the material. These properties also ensure that the keg cap is less likely to break into unwanted small parts when opened. This reduces the risk that parts of the keg cap end up in the keg head of the keg. In a further embodiment, the keg cap is made from recycled polypropylene. Recycled polypropylene offers an ecological alternative to non-recycled polypropylene.
- In a second aspect, the invention relates to a keg provided with said keg cap. In a preferred embodiment, the keg comprises a keg head with a collar. The keg head collar of the keg can take on any profile. By providing a keg with the aforementioned keg cap, the keg can be protected against fraud. The design of the keg cap is such that the keg cap fits closely and firmly against the keg head of the keg. As a result, the keg cap cannot be removed unnoticed, thereby preventing fraudulent opening of the keg. In addition, the accumulation of dust and other unwanted particles in the keg head of the keg is avoided. The keg can take any shape and size. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the keg head collar is between 50mm and 75mm. In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the keg head collar is smaller than the inner diameter of the keg cap lid.
- In a third aspect, the invention relates to a mold for producing said keg cap by means of an injection molding process. The mold may be made of any material known in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the mold is made of steel. Steel is a sturdy and wear-resistant material, which extends the life of the mold. In one embodiment, the mold consists of different parts, wherein the parts are constructed in such a way that, after the thermoplastic polymer has been injected and the entrapped air has escaped, the molded product can be easily and above all quickly removed from the mold.
- The keg cap can be used to secure a keg with any contents. In one embodiment, the keg cap is used to secure a keg containing a liquid. For example, the keg cap can be used to secure a keg containing cider, wine, oil, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the keg cap is used to secure a keg containing beer.
- In a final aspect, the invention relates to a beer in a keg, wherein the keg is provided with said keg cap. By storing the beer in a keg with the aforementioned keg cap, the beer will be protected against fraud and the quality and quantity of the beer cannot be changed unnoticed.
- In what follows, the invention is described by way of non-limiting figures illustrating the invention, and which are not intended to and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.
-
-
FIGURE 1 :
Figure 1 shows a top view of thekeg cap 1 according to the present invention. Thekeg cap 1 consists of alid 2 and an adjoiningskirt 3. The inner wall of this skirt is provided with a plurality of internally directedresilient retention spears 4 along the periphery of theskirt 3. These retention spears can elastically press against the keg head collar (not shown) in the coupled locked state. Because of theseretention spears 4, it is impossible to remove thekeg cap 1 from the keg head without breaking or tearing thekeg cap 1 into multiple parts. In order to remove thekeg cap 1 from the keg head of the keg in a controlled manner, thekeg cap 1 is provided with adetachable portion 5. Thisdetachable portion 5 is outlined by a first pair of tear lines (not visible) located on the inside of the lid of the keg cap and a second pair of tear lines (not visible) at the level of the keg cap skirt. The first pair of tear lines extends over the full diameter of thelid 2 of thekeg cap 1 and continues at one end of thelid 2 of thekeg cap 1 into two openings (not shown) that terminate in the second pair of tear lines in the skirt of thekeg cap 1. The first pair of tear lines ends at the other end of thelid 2 in atear tab 8. The desired tear direction is indicated by an arrow 9. Thekeg cap 1 comprisesrelease apertures 10 in thelid 2. Theseapertures 10 make it possible to form theretention spears 4 during the production of thekeg cap 1 and to visually check the position of theretention spears 4 when placing thekeg cap 1 over the keg head of the keg. The inner diameter 11 of thelid 2 of thekeg cap 1 comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central rim of the release apertures 10 and is 55.2 mm in the embodiment of the present figure. An inner diameter 11 of such an order of magnitude is suitable for sufficiently sealing the collar of the keg head in the coupled state with the keg. Namely, this inner diameter 11 must be greater than the inner diameter of the keg head collar of the keg with which thekeg cap 1 will be coupled. The outside of theskirt 3 has a peripherally projectingcontinuous rim 20 on the underside. The above-mentionedrim 20 serves as a reinforcing element for theskirt 3, giving it greater rigidity and preventing tearing during the fitting and fixing of thekeg cap 1 on the collar of the keg head. -
FIGURE 2 :
Figure 2 shows a side view of thekeg cap 1 of the present invention. In the figure a part of theskirt 3 has been omitted so that a part of the inside of thekeg cap 1 is visible. The outside of theskirt 3 has a peripherally projectingcontinuous rim 20 on the underside. Thetear tab 8 of thedetachable portion 5 is separated from theskirt 3 of thekeg cap 1 by atear tab opening 12. Theskirt 3 comprises a third pair oftear lines 13a,13b at thistear tab opening 12. The second pair of tear lines (not visible) and the third pair oftear lines 13a,13b may rupture if the keg cap is incorrectly removed. The inner wall of thisskirt 3 is provided with a plurality of internally directedresilient retention spears 4 along the periphery of theskirt 3. The locking diameter 14 comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central point 4a of each of theretention spears 4 and is 57.6 mm in the embodiment of the present figure. A locking diameter 14 of such an order of magnitude is suitable for sealing the collar of the keg head sufficiently tightly in the coupled state with the keg. If this locking diameter 14 is larger, theretention spears 4 will not connect sufficiently to the keg head (not shown) and it will be possible to remove thekeg cap 1 from the keg in one piece (i.e. without breaking the keg cap 1). Since thekeg cap 1 is undamaged in this situation, it can be replaced unnoticed, and the keg is thus no longer protected against fraud. If this locking diameter 14 is too small, thekeg cap 1 cannot be placed over the keg head.Intermediate tabs 16 are placed between theretention spears 4. Theseintermediate tabs 16 originate from the inside of theskirt 3 of thekeg cap 1 and, in the coupled state, surround the collar of the keg head of the keg. The function of theseintermediate tabs 16 is to make thekeg cap 1 fit as closely as possible to the diameter of the collar of the keg head. The outer diameter at the top 17a of thekeg cap 1 is 71.4 mm. The outer diameter at the bottom 17b of thekeg cap 1 is 72.6. Theheight 18 of thekeg cap 1 is 16.5 mm in the embodiment of the present figure. Akeg cap 1 ofsuch height 18 makes it possible to provideretention spears 4 having a suitable height to tightly enclose the keg head. -
FIGURE 3 :
Figure 3 shows a cross-section of thekeg cap 1 according to the present invention in side view, in which theretention spears 4 and theintermediate tabs 16 are clearly visible. Theintermediate tabs 16 are positioned on either side of theretention spears 4. When placing thekeg cap 1 over the collar of the keg head (not shown), theretention spears 4 bend towards theskirt 3 and thus allow mounting of thekeg cap 1. Once fitted over the collar of the keg head, theretention spears 4 spring inward again and prevent thekeg cap 1 from being removed in one piece. Theretention spears 4 can thus press elastically against the collar of the keg head in the coupled locked state. A cross-section of anintermediate tab 16 is visible on the left-hand side of the figure. The function of theseintermediate tabs 16 is to make thekeg cap 1 fit as closely as possible to the diameter of the collar of the keg head. The outside of theskirt 3 has a peripherally projectingcontinuous rim 20 on the underside. -
FIGURE 4 :
Figure 4 shows a detail view of aretention spear 4 of thekeg cap 1 coupled to thecollar 19 of the keg head of the keg. Theretention spear 4 can elastically press against thecollar 19 of the keg head in the coupled locked state. The operation of thekeg cap 1 is based on the resilient effect of theretention spears 4. When placing thekeg cap 1 over thecollar 19 of the keg head, theretention spears 4 bend towards theskirt 3 and thus enable mounting of thekeg cap 1. Once fitted over thecollar 19 of the keg head, theretention spears 4 spring inward again. Crucial for the correct closure of the keg head of the keg with thekeg cap 1 is the angle α formed between theretention spear 4 and the inner wall of theskirt 3. This angle α must on the one hand be sufficiently large so that theretention spear 4 can prevent thekeg cap 1 from being removed in one piece from the keg head after placement, but on the other hand must be as small as possible so that thekeg cap 1 fits closely to the keg head. The inside of thelid 2 of the keg cap is provided with a circular elevation orrib 22 which adjoins thecavity 23 of thecollar 19 of the keg head of the keg. The outside of theskirt 3 has a peripherally projectingcontinuous rim 20 on the underside. -
FIGURE 5 :
Figures 5A and 5B show a top view and a bottom view, respectively, of thekeg cap 1 according to the present invention. Thekeg cap 1 consists of alid 2 and an adjoiningskirt 3. The inner wall of thisskirt 3 is provided with a plurality of internally directedresilient retention spears 4 along the periphery of theskirt 3.Intermediate tabs 16 are positioned on either side of theretention spears 4. Thedetachable portion 5 is outlined by a first pair oftear lines 6a,6b which are located on the inside of thelid 2 of thekeg cap 1. This first pair oftear lines 6a,6b extends over the full diameter of thelid 2 of thekeg cap 1 and continues at one end of thelid 2 of thekeg cap 1 in two openings 7a,7b which terminate in the second pair oftear lines 21a,21b in theskirt 3 of thekeg cap 1. The first pair oftear lines 6a,6b ends at the other end of thelid 2 in atear tab 8. Thetear tab 8 is separated from theskirt 3 by atear tab opening 12. At the height of thisopening 12, thekeg cap 1 is provided with a third pair oftear lines 13a,13b in theskirt 3 of thekeg cap 1. Thekeg cap 1 comprisesrelease apertures 10 in thelid 2. These release apertures 10 make it possible to form theretention spears 4 during the production of thekeg cap 1 and to visually check the position of theretention spears 4 when placing thekeg cap 1 over the keg head of the keg (not shown). The inside of thelid 2 of the keg cap is provided with a circular elevation orrib 22 which adjoins the cavity of the keg head collar of the keg (not shown). The outside of theskirt 3 has a peripherally projectingcontinuous rim 20 on the underside.
Claims (15)
- Keg cap (1) for a keg, such as a beer keg, the keg comprising a keg head for filling the keg, wherein the keg cap (1) comprises a lid (2) and a skirt (3) adjoining thereto, the keg cap (1) comprising a detachable portion (5) for removing the keg cap (1) from the keg head, this detachable portion (5) being outlined by a first (6a,6b) and a second pair of tear lines (21a,21b), wherein the first pair of tear lines (6a,6b) extends over the full diameter of the lid (2) of the keg cap (1) and wherein the inner wall of said skirt (3) is provided with a plurality of internally directed resilient retention spears (4) along the circumference of the skirt (3), characterized in that the angle (α) of the retention spear (4) with the inner wall of the skirt (3) is between 15 degrees and 40 degrees.
- Keg cap (1) according to claim 1, wherein the angle (α) of the retention spear (4) with the inner wall of the skirt (3) is between 20 degrees and 36 degrees.
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the first pair of tear lines (6a,6b) of the detachable portion (5) of the keg cap (1) continues at one end of the lid (2) of the keg cap (1) in two openings (7a,7b) which terminate in the second pair of tear lines (21a,21b) and wherein the first pair of tear lines (6a,6b) terminates at the other end of the lid (2) in a tear tab (8), wherein the tear tab (8) is separated from the skirt (3) of the keg cap (1) by a tear tab opening (12), characterized in that the skirt (3) comprises a third pair of tear lines (13a,13b) at the tear tab opening (12).
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, further comprising intermediate tabs (16), wherein these intermediate tabs (16) originate from the inside of the skirt (3) of the keg cap (1) and wherein these intermediate tabs (16) surround the collar of the keg head of the keg in the coupled state.
- Keg cap (1) according to claim 4, wherein the intermediate tabs (16) are positioned at least on either side of each retention spear (4).
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, further comprising release apertures (10) in the lid (2) of the keg cap (1).
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims 3-6, the first pair of tear lines (6a,6b) being on the inside of the lid (2).
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims 6-7, wherein the inner diameter (11) of the lid (2) of the keg cap (1) comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central rim of the release apertures (10) and this diameter is between 50 mm and 75 mm.
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the locking diameter (14) comprises the inscribed diameter formed by the most central point of each of the retention spears (4) and this diameter is between 50 mm and 80 mm.
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, the height (18) of the keg cap (1) being between 10 mm and 20 mm.
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, the height of the retention spears (4) being between 4 mm and 10 mm.
- Keg cap (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, wherein the keg cap (1) is manufactured from polypropylene or polystyrene, preferably by an injection molding process.
- Keg provided with a keg cap (1) according to any of claims 1-12.
- Mold for producing a keg cap (1) according to any of claims 1-12 by means of an injection molding process.
- Beer in a keg, wherein the keg is provided with a keg cap (1) according to any of claims 1-12.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
BE20215497A BE1029529B1 (en) | 2021-06-25 | 2021-06-25 | CAP FOR BARRELS |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4108593A1 true EP4108593A1 (en) | 2022-12-28 |
EP4108593C0 EP4108593C0 (en) | 2024-04-03 |
EP4108593B1 EP4108593B1 (en) | 2024-04-03 |
Family
ID=76807444
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22180919.7A Active EP4108593B1 (en) | 2021-06-25 | 2022-06-24 | Tamper proof seal |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4108593B1 (en) |
BE (1) | BE1029529B1 (en) |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0652160A1 (en) * | 1993-11-06 | 1995-05-10 | Lawson Mardon Sutton Ltd. | Snap-on cap for a beer keg |
BE1008450A6 (en) | 1994-05-11 | 1996-05-07 | Gevaplast | A vat, specifically a beer barrel, fitted with a covering lid and aprocedure for manufacturing the covering lid |
GB2319019A (en) | 1996-11-06 | 1998-05-13 | Rankin Brothers & Sons | Tamper Proof Seal |
EP1007429A1 (en) * | 1996-04-12 | 2000-06-14 | Gevaplast | Snap-locking closure device for a beer barrel |
-
2021
- 2021-06-25 BE BE20215497A patent/BE1029529B1/en active IP Right Grant
-
2022
- 2022-06-24 EP EP22180919.7A patent/EP4108593B1/en active Active
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0652160A1 (en) * | 1993-11-06 | 1995-05-10 | Lawson Mardon Sutton Ltd. | Snap-on cap for a beer keg |
BE1008450A6 (en) | 1994-05-11 | 1996-05-07 | Gevaplast | A vat, specifically a beer barrel, fitted with a covering lid and aprocedure for manufacturing the covering lid |
EP1007429A1 (en) * | 1996-04-12 | 2000-06-14 | Gevaplast | Snap-locking closure device for a beer barrel |
GB2319019A (en) | 1996-11-06 | 1998-05-13 | Rankin Brothers & Sons | Tamper Proof Seal |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
BE1029529B1 (en) | 2023-01-30 |
EP4108593C0 (en) | 2024-04-03 |
EP4108593B1 (en) | 2024-04-03 |
BE1029529A1 (en) | 2023-01-25 |
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