EP4118002A1

EP4118002A1 - Recyclable container for liquid foods

Info

Publication number: EP4118002A1
Application number: EP20747353.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Franz HELLMAIER
Original assignee: B2b Getraenke Service GmbH
Current assignee: Robert Maierhoefer GbR
Priority date: 2020-07-21
Filing date: 2020-07-21
Publication date: 2023-01-18
Anticipated expiration: 2040-07-21
Also published as: CN115836012A; WO2022017588A1; EP4118002B1; US20230348134A1

Abstract

The invention relates a container (1) for liquids, comprising: a) a main part (3) with at least one substantially cylindrical cavity (5) for receiving liquids, said cylindrical cavity comprising two opposite end-face surfaces (7, 9) and a circumferential lateral surface (11), wherein the lateral surface extends between the two end-face surfaces substantially along a longitudinal direction (100), at least one of the end-face surfaces defines at least one opening (23) in the main part in order to provide access to the cavity from the outside, the cross-sectional area of the opening equaling at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, and the main part has at least one first magnetic connection means (15), and b) at least one cover (25) which is adapted so as to close the opening, said cover having at least one second magnetic connection means (17). The cover can be brought into releasable engagement with the main part via a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connection means and the second magnetic connection means.

Description

REUSABLE CONTAINERS FOR LIQUID FOOD

1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a container for liquids.

2. Background of the Invention

For the packaging of liquids, for example liquid foodstuffs, the prior art essentially uses non-returnable glass bottles, reusable glass bottles, non-returnable PET bottles, reusable PET bottles, aluminum cans, composite cartons (Tetrapack) and plastic composite stand-up pouches (pouches), disposable plastic drinking cups, disposable cardboard drinking cups and other containers for liquids. Depending on the material, these have specific disadvantages and all of them have a massive impact on our environment. Depending on the material and whether disposable or reusable packaging is used, the effort involved in logistics and cleaning is considerable. However, the packaging all contributes a significant share of the global waste volume. Often, the prior art containers for liquids are difficult to clean or not even suitable for reuse. Furthermore, plug-in or screw connections are provided for almost all containers that have a resealable closure. In the case of plug-in connections, it is essentially the shearing forces that define a holding force. The desired shearing force must be determined by matching the concentric diameters, including the respective seal. With frequent use (opening/closing), this shearing force becomes weaker due to material abrasion and thus the sealing ability decreases over time. Even in the case of screw mechanisms frequently used in the prior art, the possibility of wear also arises with frequent use. In the case of threaded connections made of plastic in particular, there is a risk of mechanical damage due to incorrect "putting on" and the resulting miscutting. The threads are difficult too clean, which is disadvantageous when it comes to avoiding contamination, especially in the food sector.

The object of the present invention is to at least partially solve the above problems and to provide a container for liquid which enables a high reuse rate in order to save raw materials as much as possible and to preserve the service life or service life of this packaging as long as possible. Furthermore, easy cleaning and thus local reuse and refilling should be made possible. In this way, complex collection and recycling processes should be kept to a minimum.

In addition, hygienic cleaning should be made possible, which is simple and energy-efficient and at the same time largely reduces expensive chemical treatment. It should also be made possible for the material to be as clean as possible at the end of the product cycle, so that a technical recycling rate of almost 100% is possible.

3. Description of the invention

The above problems are solved by a container according to claim 1.

The present invention relates to a container for liquids, comprising a): a base body with at least one essentially cylindrical cavity for holding liquid, the cylindrical cavity comprising two opposite end faces and a peripheral surface area, or being delimited/defined by them , wherein the lateral surface extends between the two end faces essentially along a longitudinal direction, and at least one of the end faces defines at least one opening in the base body in order to provide access from the outside to the cavity, the cross-sectional area of the opening being at least is 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, and wherein the base body has at least a first magnetic connection means, and b): at least one cover which is adapted to close the opening, the cover having at least a second magnetic connection has medium, wherein the lid is detachable with the Base body is engageable via a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connection means and the second magnetic connection means. The container according to the invention can be used in the packaging of liquids

Foodstuffs are used, but can also be used to hold other suitable liquids (e.g. cosmetics, detergents, etc.). The containers according to the invention can be produced and used in any volume size (e.g. 300, 500, 1,000 ml). They can be used both as packaging and containers for cold liquids and, in the double-walled version, for serving and consuming hot drinks as (closable) cups for coffee, tea, etc. The base body can be easily filled through the opening, which has a corresponding minimum opening size, and can be cleaned easily and without residue, even in standard household dishwashers. The large opening according to the invention can thus ensure that, on the one hand, enough cleaning liquid can enter the cavity and, on the other hand, it can be made possible that cleaning liquid that is running off can drain off quickly and does not accumulate in the cavity, which would otherwise result in the cleaning liquid being deposited transported particles and thus negatively affects the cleaning result. The outer contour of the lid can essentially be designed freely, preferably it is designed in the same geometric shape as the base body. In the lid, ergometric indentations or indentations can be worked into the lid contour, which can facilitate gripping and turning, for example. It is noted that “substantially cylindrical” is in no way to be understood as being limited to a purely circular cylinder, even if a circular-cylindrical shape of the cavity may be particularly preferred, but includes all cylindrical shapes, for example also elliptical or any other cylindrical shape.

Likewise, the lateral surface cannot run coaxially to a longitudinal axis of the cylinder, but can taper or widen so that it describes a funnel or truncated cone shape. A cross-sectional area can be understood as the area of a cross section of the cylinder perpendicular to the cylinder axis. The base body and the cover can be designed in one piece. This can increase the robustness of the parts so formed and simplify their production. The magnetic connecting means, which enable a magnetic connection of the components of the container, ie, for example, the cover and base body, can in this case, for example, each comprise permanent magnets that have opposite polarity, so that they attract one another. Also, only one magnetic connector of one component may have a permanent magnetic field and an oppositely located other magnetic connector of the other component may not have a permanent magnetic field, such as a non-magnetized ferrous piece, but which may be attracted to the magnetic field of the opposite magnetic connector to form such a to allow magnetic connection. This allows flexibility in the design of the magnetic connection between the components of the container and can save costs in production. The lid can be securely attached to the base body via the magnetic connection so as to enable storage of liquid in the base body. The container according to the invention can provide a wear-free type of connection compared to purely mechanical connections, such as, for example, conventional screw caps. This ensures a secure connection even after many reuses. Likewise, the use of adhesives for the connection can be dispensed with, which can age over time, which can possibly be accelerated by appropriate cleaning processes, which impairs the reliability of the connection. Significant advantages of the magnetic connection according to the invention compared to conventional plug connections result from the fact that the holding forces of magnetic connections are accurate

Fine-tuning of the holding forces and the associated sealing options are permitted. It can have a constant holding force over the entire product life cycle and therefore remain permanently sealed. Furthermore, it can be kept absolutely smooth at the transition surfaces and thus enable easy and hygienic cleaning. In this way, undercuts or beads can be avoided, which offer space for deposits and bacteria. Finally, the magnetic connection of the lid or the insert adapter described below can offer a convenience advantage for the consumer. In particular, self-locating positioning and closing can be made possible, which is what Easier to close the connections between the components of the container and allows faster closing with less effort. That is, the magnetic connection can be such that magnetic forces of the magnetic connection means are aligned in such a way that the magnetic connection means move independently into a defined position, for example a fully closed end position, as soon as they have been brought close to one another. Likewise, such a so-called defined end or sealing point can be reached automatically, which prevents too little or too much force from being applied by mistake, so that the desired end or sealing point can be reached perfectly in any case.

All the elements of the container according to the invention can be cleaned very easily and completely in both conventional and professional dishwashing machines. As a result, all collection, transport and industrial cleaning processes that are harmful to the environment are eliminated and the ecological balance of the container according to the invention can be improved compared to containers according to the prior art due to a high number of reuse cycles. The service life of the container according to the invention can also be extended with up to 1,000 reuses or more with appropriate use.

The outer shape of the container can correspond to shapes known to those skilled in the art for conventional beverage carton packaging, in order to make it easy for the consumer to handle a well-known and permanently used form of packaging without having to rely on unfamiliar and not “learned”

change usage processes. The outer contours of the body can also be supplemented with appropriate ergometric shaping. Furthermore, the outer contour can be adapted to enable the containers to be stacked. For this purpose, correspondingly congruent openings and/or projections can be provided on the outside of the container, which engage in one another when the containers are stacked or stored next to one another and/or on top of one another. For example, the container can have at least one indentation and/or at least one projection on its outside, the indentation and/or the projection being shaped in such a way as to fit into at least one indentation and/or at least one projection engage an outside of at least one further, adjacently arranged container. The outer shape can also be round or cylindrical, for example circular-cylindrical. Correspondingly, the faces of the end faces of the outer shape can have a rectangular, square or round shape.

In a preferred embodiment, the lateral surface is formed by an inner wall of the base body and defines an inner wall, the inner wall being free of a region in which the inner wall extends at an angle of inclination of >70° with respect to the longitudinal direction, preferably >55° with respect to the longitudinal direction, more preferably >40°, more preferably >25°, more preferably >10°. Most preferably, the inner shell wall does not have areas with an inclination angle with respect to the longitudinal direction.

Inclining the inner shell wall includes both inclining into and away from the interior of the cavity, resulting in the formation of corresponding projections or indentations in the inner shell wall. It can thus be avoided according to the invention that disadvantageous, steep projections or depressions are provided in the inner wall of the jacket, so that, for example, during a rinsing process, the introduction of cleaning liquid, such as rinsing water, is not prevented. This also makes it possible for the cleaning liquid that has been introduced to run off easily. The container according to the invention does not have any undercuts or other geometric cavities or angles that are difficult to access, which can promote an accumulation of liquid or prevent liquid from flowing into and out of the cavity. This improves the cleanability of the container according to the invention, for example in dishwashers, and can thus enable residue-free and hygienic cleaning.

The smaller the intended angle of inclination, the easier it is for a liquid to flow off the inner wall of the jacket. Depending on the area of use and the type of cleaning provided, different, suitable angles of inclination can be provided for the container according to the invention. The angle of inclination will is not formed with reference to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder or an axis which is coaxial thereto, but is formed with reference to the essentially longitudinal direction of extent of the jacket inner wall, which can also run inclined to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. However, the essentially longitudinal direction of extension of the jacket inner wall can of course also run coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. In any case, the angle of inclination should be <70°, as this allows liquid that is poured into the cavity to drain away quickly. In a preferred embodiment the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 80% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95% and most preferably at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity. In such a case, the corresponding end face area in which this opening is located consists for the most part of the opening.

A sufficient size of the opening with respect to the narrowest point of the cavity can thus be ensured, which allows easier filling and cleaning of the container according to the invention. In particular, in the case where the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, a smooth transition without any edges along a transition from the cavity to the opening can be provided. In this case, the circular-cylindrical cavity can correspond to the shape of a tube that is open on one side.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body has four rectangular outer surfaces which extend substantially coaxially to the longitudinal direction, longitudinally extending edges of the outer surfaces being arranged adjacent to one another to define a peripheral parallelepiped surface. The base body is particularly preferably essentially cuboid, ie the body has six surfaces which consist of rectangles which are at right angles to one another. The base body can have any base area, but is preferably rectangular or round, and the base area dimensions can be aligned with the required filling volume in each case. Preferably, the external dimensions (length,

width, height) can be adapted to the formal standards and conditions of commercially available dispensing devices (filling devices) for liquids, as well as refrigerators and shelving systems.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body also has at least one end-side outer surface, which is arranged on a front side of the cuboid outer surface, the end-side outer surface preferably being square.

Thus, the base body can be bounded and closed on five sides by square surfaces on the outside and have an opening on its sixth side.

The outer contour of the base body can be dependent on the shape of the essentially cylindrical cavity. For example, a cuboid outer contour of the base body can be defined by a circle diameter of the essentially cylindrical cavity and a square end face outer surface correspondingly enclosing the circle. The walls can all be designed in one piece, for example cast, which increases the mechanical robustness of the container. One or more corners of the base body, which are formed by the outer surfaces, can have a rounded shape. In addition to the cleanability of the outer surface, this also increases the gripping and holding comfort for a user.

In a preferred embodiment, another of the end faces of the cylindrical cavity forms an inner wall of the base body and defines an end face inner wall or another of the end faces of the cylindrical cavity defines at least one further opening in the base body for external access to the cylindrical provide cavity.

In the first alternative, the end face on which the previously described opening is not defined in the base body can be designed to be closed. A cavity with only one opening is thus provided. All walls delimiting the cavity can be made in one piece, which increases the robustness and the Production simplified. In the second alternative, the provision of a further opening provides a substantially cylindrical cavity with two openings at opposite ends, which enables the possibility of cleaning or filling or emptying the cylindrical cavity from both ends. Both openings can then be closed using appropriate covers. The lids can be the same or different, for example in shape and/or material used, which provides flexibility in the design of the container according to the invention. In a preferred embodiment, the lid has a top and a

Bottom on, wherein the bottom has a base which is shaped to snugly engage in the shell inner wall of the cylindrical cavity and / or wherein the top is shaped to be flush with the outer surfaces of the base body, the top preferably having a square shape.

The cover can thus be designed in such a way that it forms a positive fit with both the outer contour of the base body and a positive fit with the inner contour of the cylindrical cavity. Despite a possibly different design of the internal cavity and the outer contour of the base body, both a suitable sealing of the cavity and a suitable outer contour of the container can be provided, for example to enable storage of several containers according to the invention next to or on top of each other. For example, with a rectangular or square outer contour of the lid, a rotating movement of the same can be enabled by forming an essentially round base on the underside of the lid, which protrudes concentrically into the cavity of the base body when the container is closed. The transition from the lid to the container can preferably be provided with a sealing means, such as an O-ring, so that a corresponding seal can be provided between the base body and the lid. Through a magnetic connection of the magnetic connection means of the

Base body and the lid, the seal can be secured accordingly. In a preferred embodiment, at least one corner defined in at least one inner wall of the cylindrical cavity is rounded and has a radius of 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm, with preferably all corners, which are defined in or on the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity, are rounded and one

radius of 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm.

Appropriate rounding of the corners can facilitate cleaning of the cavity and prevent liquid from getting stuck in the corners. The rounded corners can also be dried more easily after cleaning, for example with hot air.

In a preferred embodiment, the lid has at least a third magnetic connection means and at least one lid opening, the container further comprising: at least one insert which is shaped to engage in the lid opening, the insert having at least a fourth magnetic connection means, the Insert is releasably engageable with the lid via a magnetic connection between the third magnetic connection means and the fourth magnetic connection means.

Differently functional inserts can be used in one or more lid openings. These cover openings can also be provided with the magnetic connecting means described above, which enables the inserts to be inserted and changed easily, safely and quickly. An insert may also have a round base member which is inserted into the lid opening to close and seal it. The so introduced into the lid opening base element of the respective insert can be sealed by means of a sealing element, for example an O-ring, and the seal can be ensured via a corresponding magnetic connection between the lid and the insert.

Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the provision of the third magnetic connecting means can also be dispensed with. In that case one can magnetic connection between the fourth magnetic connection means of the insert and the second magnetic connection means of the lid are provided. The insert can be designed in one piece. This can increase the robustness of the insert and simplify its production. If a base body with two openings and two lids is provided, the respective lids can have the same or different inserts. The flexibility in the usability of the container according to the invention can thus be increased. The base body can have at least one first magnetic connecting means on an upper edge of an outer side, which is cast into a polymer of the base body. Furthermore, the cover can have at least one second magnetic connection means, which is cast in a polymer of the cover, the magnetic connection means of the base body and the cover being arranged opposite one another when the base body fully engages with the cover. A maximum adhesive force can thus be achieved, since the magnets are arranged at the smallest possible distance from one another. For example, the lid can have at least a third magnetic connecting means, which is cast into a polymer of the lid and the insert can have at least a fourth magnetic connecting means, which is cast into a polymer of the insert, the magnetic connecting means of the lid and the insert being in one are positioned opposite one another when the lid is fully engaged with the insert.

Furthermore, the outer contour of the container can be adapted to accommodate an outwardly protruding insert of an adjacent container. For example, the base body can have at least one depression on its outside, which is shaped to accommodate a correspondingly protruding insert of at least one container arranged adjacent to it.

Furthermore, when the components of the container that can be engaged via the magnetic connection means, in particular the base body, lid and/or insert, are fully engaged, the magnetic connection means of the container can have an adhesive force that is sufficiently large to prevent the components from becoming unintentionally loosened impede. The adhesive force is understood as the force that a magnet exerts perpendicularly on a plate, for example a Iron plate that can exert and which provides an appropriate magnetic connection with the magnet. The adhesive force can depend, for example, on the material, magnetization, geometry and volume of the magnet. In order to release a magnet perpendicularly from the plate, a force opposite to the adhesive force must be applied, which is greater than that

adhesive force. In practice, adhesive forces are also often specified as a maximum weight that a corresponding magnet is able to hold. The adhesive force of the container according to the invention should be sufficiently large to prevent the liquid from escaping from the cavity of the base body and thus also defines its holding power. The adhesive force should also be large enough to prevent the lid from being released unintentionally, for example during transport. The adhesive force required to prevent unintentional loosening can also depend on the filling volume and the associated weights and forces. The adhesive force of the components of the container that can be brought into engagement via the magnetic connecting means, for example the base body, lid and/or insert, can vary in strength, depending on the design and intended use of the container and the individual components. In a preferred embodiment, the base body has no mechanical connection means, in particular plug-in and/or screw connection means, for connection to the cover.

The magnetic connecting means can thus be the only connecting means via which the individual components of the container, ie for example the base body, lid and/or insert, are connected to one another. In this way, advantageously smooth surfaces can be formed on the components of the container, which allow easy and thorough cleaning.

Mechanical connection means are understood to be all connections which, via a mechanical engagement, create a connection between two or more

Components allow each other, and in particular sealing connections. This is often achieved by appropriate formations in the walls of the components, for example by means of a screw thread in the outer or inner wall of a base container and a corresponding screw thread in the outer or inner wall a lid, which are formed congruently to one another and allow the components to engage with one another.

A screw connection is understood to mean an arrangement in which a connection is achieved by rotating the components in opposite directions, including so-called bayonet connections. A plug-in connection is understood to be an arrangement in which a connection is achieved via an opposite, essentially linear movement of the components. One component can have one or more corresponding recessed formations, for example undercuts, into which correspondingly arranged and shaped protruding formations, for example projections, of the other component can engage and lock when the two components are plugged into one another. The aforementioned screw or plug connections are only two examples of mechanical connecting means and many other configurations and arrangements of mechanical connecting means are conceivable, which can be avoided by the container according to the invention. All unfavorable mechanical fasteners have in common that they do not allow the surfaces of the components to be formed smoothly and are therefore generally more difficult to clean. A person skilled in the art understands that these statements can apply to all connections between the components of the container, for example also to connections between the lid and the insert.

In a preferred embodiment, the components of the container that can be engaged via magnetic connecting means, in particular the base body, lid and/or insert, also include at least one integrated release aid which is designed in such a way that it is easier for a user to loosen the magnetic connecting means.

A user can thus detach the cover from the base body manually, although the adhesive force provided actually prevents the cover from detaching, for example from being lifted off vertically. Advantageously, the aid is provided integrated with the container according to the invention, so that no separate tools have to be used to enable detachment. Thus, the use of the container according to the invention is simplified. The integrated solvent can consist of one or more elements which allow the magnetic connection to be separated when a user operates it manually. For example, the respective components of the container can provide suitable means for relative displacement of the components at their connecting edges, for example via suitable formations in the walls, which enable a guided movement of the components. Thus, a user can apply shearing forces, for example via rotation or translation, of one or more components relative to one another, whereby opposing magnetic connecting means can be displaced relative to one another, resulting in a corresponding reduction in the force between the magnetic

Connecting means leads. Thus, a user can eventually separate the components from each other. For example, a cover and a base body can be designed in such a way that a user can first turn the cover and then lift it off. The integrated dissolving aid should preferably be designed in such a way that it does not impair the ability to clean and refill the container according to the invention. It should therefore also not have any undercuts or edges in which liquid can collect. Correspondingly, the integrated release aid can also be provided for releasing the magnetic connection between the cover opening and the insert.

In a preferred embodiment, the integrated release aid comprises at least one inclined start-up ramp, which is shaped and arranged in such a way that when there is a relative rotary movement of engaged components with respect to one another, it enables a gradual separation of the magnetic connecting means perpendicular to the plane of movement as the relative rotary movement progresses.

At least one inclined ramp can be provided on a component, for example on the underside of a cover, so that it can contact an opposite surface, for example a surface of the top of the base body. When the cover is in a closed state, the one or more run-up ramps can be accommodated in corresponding depressions on the upper side of the base body, so that the underside of the cover and the upper side of the base body rest on and contact one another. In this state is the lid is then firmly connected to the base body via the magnetic connection. If the cover is now rotated, the sloping run-up ramp can be moved out of the recess, so that the cover is simultaneously moved perpendicularly to the surface of the base body by rotation. The cover can thus be lifted off the base body during a rotation. The resulting air gap between the magnetic connecting means leads to an exponential decrease in the magnetic force of attraction and the cover can thus be removed from the base body with little effort. In an analogous way, one or more integrated start-up ramps can also be provided for releasing the magnetic connection between the cover opening and the insert. The specific number and arrangement of the start-up ramps and the corresponding depressions are not limited to the above example, but can be provided in a suitable number and shape on the components of the container in order to achieve magnetic decoupling, for example by means of a rotary movement. The integrated release aid can also be designed in such a way that the application of appropriate shearing forces takes place via a translational movement or a combined rotary and sliding movement.

In a preferred embodiment, the insert is formed as at least one of: a. a closure adapter to enable the lid opening to be closed, and/or b. a drinking adapter to enable drinking of liquid contained in the container, and/or c. a speed bottle adapter to allow metered dispensing of liquid contained in the container.

A closure adapter can enable comprehensive sealing and thus also enable a container filled with liquid according to the invention to be transported over long distances. It can also prevent the ingress of air and thus increase the shelf life of perishable contents. A drinking adapter can be sized and shaped to allow drinking of the liquid contained in the container. For example, the closure adapter can be exchanged for a drinking adapter for this purpose. For example the drinking adapter can be provided with an additional air opening, which prevents the build-up of negative pressure in the container while drinking and thus enables comfortable drinking directly from the container. A so-called speed bottle container (or dosing-dispensing container) is used in the professional gastronomic environment and enables dosing directly at the

Delivery of the liquid from the container. By inserting the speed bottle adapter, this functionality can also be made possible for the container according to the invention in a convenient and simple manner. Also in the case of the connection between the inserts described above and the cover opening, the previously described magnetic connections and the detachment aids can be provided accordingly in order to enable a corresponding connection and detachment of the inserts. The advantages and considerations described above with regard to the provision of the magnetic connections according to the invention apply accordingly. In a preferred embodiment, the container is made of at least one, preferably at least partially transparent, polymer.

One or more components of the container according to the invention can be made of polymer. This includes all common polymers known to those skilled in the art, such as PE and PET. This allows repeated cleaning of the

Container and can reusability and allow. A suitable polymer can depend on the intended use of the container, for example depending on the liquid that is to be held in the container. In the case of a food, for example, a polymer suitable for preserving food can be used. Also, the use of polymer allows the container to be made in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, as these can be almost arbitrarily adapted to the specific use, depending on the intended use. A suitable polymer can also make it possible for the entire container to be easily and completely recycled. The use of a transparent polymer can also allow easy identification of the fill level of the content. The same or different polymers can also be used for different components of the container according to the invention, for example for the lid and base body, in order to achieve a desired achieve rigidity or flexibility. The basic body can also be given any graphical design using what is known as in-mould foil technology.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one, preferably all, magnetic connecting means are arranged in the polymer, preferably completely enclosed by the polymer.

The magnetic connecting means can be arranged in the respective component of the container, ie base body, cover or insert, during the manufacturing process, for example during casting of the component. The magnetic connecting means can also be subsequently introduced into the respective component, for example by providing appropriate recesses in which the magnetic connecting means can be arranged. The enclosing of the magnetic connecting means can take place during the manufacturing process of the components by casting. The magnetic means can preferably be arranged in the polymer in such a way that the liquid stored in the container cannot come into contact with the magnetic connecting means. This prevents contact between the magnetic connecting means and the liquid it contains and thus prevents contamination, for example of food, by the magnetic connecting means and also prevents the liquid from having a negative impact on the magnetic connecting means, for example due to accelerated corrosion. Furthermore, the container can have at least one electronic means of identification, for example an RFID chip. The electronic identification means can be integrated into one or more of the components of the container. This can happen, for example, during injection molding in order to completely enclose the identification means and thus protect it from any damage during cleaning processes or other mechanical processes. With the help of this identification means, appropriately equipped filling devices can optionally also identify containers according to the invention without contact. The provision of such an identification means can also enable integration into digital processes. For example, the one on a free programmable RFID chip vary and be adapted to the respective application. For example, this can be a serial number to be defined. The containers according to the invention can thus be recognized digitally and, for example, processed further in various service and marketing processes without personal data.

4. Description of the figures

For a better understanding of the present invention and to clarify the practical applicability, figures are provided below and reference is made to them. It should be understood that the figures represent exemplary embodiments and thus in no way limit the scope of the claimed invention. 1 shows a container for liquids according to the present invention in different views.

FIG. 2 shows a base body for a container for liquids according to the present invention in different views.

3 shows a lid for a container for liquids according to the present invention in different views.

4 shows a container for liquids according to the present invention in different views.

5 shows an insert for a lid of a container for liquids according to the present invention in different views. 6 shows an insert for a lid of a container for liquids according to the present invention in different views.

7 shows an insert for a lid of a container for liquids according to the present invention in different views. 5. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment

In the following, the present invention is described in detail with reference to the attached figures, which show exemplary embodiments of the present invention. However, it is possible for the present invention to be embodied in various forms, so the embodiments presented below should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Rather, the embodiments listed should clarify the scope of the invention by way of example to a person skilled in the art. The same reference symbols designate the same elements in the following figures. If no reference symbols are provided on an element in different views, this is only due to the clarity of the illustrations shown. However, a person skilled in the art will readily be able to ascertain the arrangement and configuration of the corresponding elements from the various views.

1 shows a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in different views. The container 1 is shown in different views when viewed from the outside, namely a.) in a view from below, b.) to d.) in side views and e.) in a view from above. Here and in the following, the viewing direction is always to be understood in relation to the longitudinal direction 100 in which the container 1 extends. The container 1 consists of a base body 3 and a cover 25 which is arranged on the upper side and forms a positive fit with the outer contour of the base body 3 . The base body 3 has four rectangular outer surfaces 27 which are connected at their longitudinal edges 29 and which form a lateral surface 31 in the form of a cuboid. The base body 3 is closed at the bottom and open at the top. A recess 53 is provided on an end face outer surface 33 on the underside of the base body 3, which is suitable for an insert 47, which is shown here in the form of a locking adapter 47A, which is provided on the upper side 37 of the lid 25, so that the closure adapter 47A of another container 1 can engage in the recess 53 accordingly. The top of the base body 3 has an opening (not shown) which is closed by the cover 25 . In the lid 25 gripping means 51 are provided in the form of depressions, in which a User can intervene to grip and rotate the lid 25 more easily. On one edge of the cuboid outer surface 31, such as on the right longitudinal edge 29, as shown in FIG.

FIG. 2 shows the base body 3 for a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in different views. In this case, the base body 3 is shown without a cover 25 . FIG. 2a shows a view from below, as already shown in FIG. FIG. 2d corresponds to the previous view of FIG. 1c, with no cover 25 being provided on the upper side. Fig. 2e shows a view from above of the base body 3.

It becomes clear that the base body 3 forms a cylindrical cavity 5 .

Viewed from above, a circular opening 23 is provided in an end face 7 of the base body 3 , which allows access to the cylindrical cavity 5 of the base body 3 from the outside. At the bottom of the cylindrical cavity 5, which is formed by the end-side inner wall 35 of the opposite end-side surface 9 of the base body 3, the recess 53 is shown, which protrudes into the cylindrical cavity 5 in a manner corresponding to a projection. Two release aids 49 in the form of indentations 49B are also shown on the end face 7 . Fig. 2f shows a view corresponding to Fig. 2e. FIGS. 2b and 2c show corresponding cross-sectional views along section lines GG and FF of FIG. 2f. A lateral surface 11 of the cylindrical cavity 5 is formed by an inner lateral wall 13 and the end face 9 of the cylindrical cavity 5 is formed by an inner end wall 35 of the base body 3 . Examples of corners 43 of the cylindrical cavity 5 are shown in Figure 2c. The other corners 43 of the cylindrical cavity 5 are not designated separately for the sake of clarity, but, as shown, are formed correspondingly to the corners 43 shown. Also shown in FIG. 2c are first magnetic connecting means 15 which are provided on the upper end face 7 in the wall of the base body 3. FIG. The first magnetic connecting means 15 are completely surrounded by the wall of the base body 3 . 2b also shows an inclination of the jacket inner wall 13 at the angle a on the upper side of the base body 3. The wall inclines from the longitudinal extension direction 100 of the wall in the direction of the interior of the cylindrical cavity 5. FIG. 3 shows a cover 25 for a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in different views. Here, Figures 3d and 3g show views from above. 3b shows a view from below. FIGS. 3c and 3e show side views of the cover 25. FIG. 3f shows an oblique view from above and FIG. 3h shows an oblique view from below. Figure 3a shows a cross-sectional view along line EE shown in Figure 3g. A cover opening 45 is shown in the cover 25, which runs from the underside 39 of the cover 25 to the upper side 37 of the cover 25 and which allows access to the cylindrical cavity 5 from the outside. Furthermore, two fourth magnetic connecting means 21 are shown, which are arranged on the outside of the cover 25 and which are provided completely enclosed in the cover 25 . Fig. 2b shows the view of the cover 25 from below. Two release aids 49 are shown here in the form of sloping run-up ramps 49A, which are arranged on the peripheral side of a base 41 of the cover 25 . These sloping run-up ramps 49A are designed to fit snugly within the indentations 49B such as are shown in Figure 2e, for example. Due to the round base 41, which snugly engages in the opening 23 of the base body 3, the lid 25 can be rotated from the closed position with the aid of the gripping means 51, which results in the sloping run-up ramps 49A being moved out of the recesses 49B, which thus raising the lid 25 causes. Corresponding indentations 49B, which are provided on the peripheral side of the lid opening 45, are also shown in FIG. 3d. To close the cover 25, the base 41 can be inserted into the opening of the base body 23 and then rotated in the correspondingly opposite direction until the sloping run-up ramps 49A are fully received in the recesses 49B. The outer contours of

Lid 25 have rounded corners, as shown for example in Fig. 3g. As shown particularly in Figures 3a, 3c and 3e, the lid 25 has a peripheral notch on its underside 39 suitable for receiving a sealing O-ring. In this way, the cover 25 can close the opening 23 of the base body 3 in a leak-proof manner.

4 shows a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in different views. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 25 is connected to the base body 3, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 4e. In addition a locking adapter 47A connected to the lid 25. The closure adapter 47A closes the lid opening 45. FIG. 4f shows a view from above and shows the section lines AA to DD for the corresponding cross-sectional views of FIGS. 4a to 4d. Here, FIG. 4a in particular shows that an angle of inclination a of the jacket inner wall 13 is provided, which differs from a

Angle of inclination a of the jacket inner wall 13, as shown in Fig. 4b. In particular, Fig. 4c shows that two first magnetic connecting means 15 are arranged on the upper side of the base body 3 in the wall and that two opposite second magnetic connecting means 17 are arranged in the cover 25, which provide a magnetic connection so that the cover 25 is held on the base body 3. It is further shown in Fig. 4c that two third magnetic connection means 19 are provided on the outer peripheral side of the cover opening 45 in the cover 25 and that two opposite fourth magnetic connection means 21 are provided in the closure adapter 47A, which provide a magnetic connection so that the Closure adapter 47A is held on the lid 25. The fully closed state is achieved when the respective magnetic closure means are arranged exactly opposite one another, ie the greatest possible magnetic connection strength is present. FIG. 5 shows an insert for a lid 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in different views. The insert 47 is designed in the form of a closure adapter 47A. Here, FIG. 5a shows a view of the closure adapter 47A from below, FIG. 5b shows a view from the side, FIGS. 5c and 5e shows views from above, FIG. 5d shows a cross-sectional view along line HH of FIGS. 5c and 5t a view from below. In particular, sloping run-up ramps 49A are shown, which are arranged on the underside of the closure adapter 47A. These are suitably shaped to be received in the indentations 49B on the top 37 of the lid 25. The closure adapter 47A can be rotated, which, when rotated in the opening direction, results in the sloping run-up ramps 49A being moved out of the depressions 49B and thus causing the closure adapter 47A to be lifted. To close the insert 47, the socket-shaped underside of the insert 47 can be inserted into the cover opening 45 and then rotated in the opposite direction until the sloping ramps 49A are fully received in the recesses 49B. At the A circumferential notch is provided on the underside of the locking adapter 47A to allow for the receipt of a sealing O-ring. In this way, the closure adapter 47A can close the lid opening 45 in a leak-proof manner. FIG. 6 shows an insert 47 for a lid 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in different views. The insert 47 is in the form of a speed bottle adapter 47B. A channel 55 is arranged in the speed bottle adapter and provides access to the cylindrical cavity 5 via the cover opening 45 so that a user can dispense a liquid contained in the cylindrical cavity 5 . A circumferential notch is provided on the underside of the 47B Speed Bottle Adapter to accommodate an O-ring. The speed bottle adapter 47B can thus close the cover opening 45 in such a way that liquid can only escape from the cylindrical cavity 5 via the channel 55 . All the release and connection elements described above with reference to the insert 47 or the closure adapter 47A can be provided analogously. The speed bottle adapter can have an extended pouring spout for easier pouring. Furthermore, the speed bottle adapter can comprise two components made of different materials, for example a plastic base and a stainless steel spout.

FIG. 7 shows an insert 47 for a lid 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in different views. The insert 47 is in the form of a drinking adapter 47C. A channel 55 is arranged in the drinking adapter, which provides access to the cylindrical cavity 5 via the cover opening 45 so that a user can drink a liquid contained in the cylindrical cavity 5 . A circumferential notch is provided on the underside of the drinking adapter 47C, which allows the receipt of an O-ring. The drinking adapter 47C can thus close the lid opening 45 in such a way that liquid can only escape from the cylindrical cavity 5 via the channel 55 . All the release and connection elements described above with reference to the insert 47 or the closure adapter 47A can be provided analogously.

The drinking adapter can preferably have a ventilation hole, which allows the cavity to be ventilated while drinking, so that negative pressure is avoided. . Reference List

container 1

Base body 3 cylindrical cavity 5

Front face 7

Front face 9

lateral surface 11

Jacket inner wall 13 first magnetic connecting means 15 second magnetic connecting means 17 third magnetic connecting means 19 fourth magnetic connecting means 21

Opening of the base body 23

lid 25

Outer surface 27

Edges of the rectangular outer surfaces 29

Cuboid outer surface 31

Front side outer surface 33

Front inner wall 35

Top of the lid 37

Underside of the lid 39

Socket 41

Corner of inner wall 43

Lid opening 45

insert 47

Lock Adapter 47A

Speed Bottle Adapter 47B

Hydration Adapter 47C

Release tool 49 inclined ramp 49A

Depression 49B

gripping means 51

Recess 53

Channel 55 longitudinal direction 100

angle of inclination a

Claims

CLAIMS 1 to 15

1. A container (1) for liquids, comprising: a) a base body (3) with at least one essentially cylindrical cavity (5) for receiving liquid, the cylindrical cavity (5) having two opposite end faces (7, 9 ) and a peripheral lateral surface (11), the lateral surface (11) extending between the two end faces (7, 9) essentially along a longitudinal direction (100), and at least one of the end faces (7, 9) at least one opening (23) defined in the base body (3) to provide external access to the cavity (5), the cross-sectional area of the opening (23) being at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5), and wherein the base body (3) has at least a first magnetic connecting means (15), b) at least one cover (25) which is adapted to close the opening (23), the cover (25) having at least a second magnet table connecting means (17), the cover (25) being releasably engageable with the base body (3) via a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connecting means (15) and the second magnetic connecting means (17).

2. Container (l) for liquids according to the preceding claim, wherein the lateral surface (s) is formed by an inner wall of the base body (3) and defines an inner lateral wall (13), wherein the inner lateral wall (13) is free of an area in which the jacket inner wall (13) extends at an angle of inclination (a) of >70° with respect to the longitudinal direction (100), preferably of >55° with respect to the longitudinal direction (100), more preferably >40°, more preferably >25°, more preferably >10° and most preferably has no areas with an inclination angle (α) with respect to the longitudinal direction (100).

3. Container (1) for liquids according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening (23) is at least 80% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5), preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95% and most preferably at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5).

4. Container (1) for liquids according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (3) has four rectangular outer surfaces (27) which extend substantially coaxially to the longitudinal direction (100), longitudinally extending edges (29) of the Outer surfaces (27) are disposed adjacent one another to define a peripheral parallelepiped shell outer surface (31).

5. Container (1) for liquids according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (3) further has at least one end face outer surface (33) which is arranged on one end face of the cuboid outer surface (31), the end face outer surface (33) is preferably square.

6. Container (1) for liquids according to one of the preceding claims, wherein another of the end faces (7, 9) of the cylindrical cavity (5) is formed by an inner wall of the base body (3) and an end face inner wall (35) defined or wherein another of the end faces (7, 9) of the cylindrical cavity (5) defines at least one further opening in the base body (3) for external access to the cylindrical

Provide cavity (5).

7. Container (1) for liquids according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid (25) has a top (37) and a bottom (39), the bottom (39) having a base (41) which is shaped, to fit into the shell inner wall (13) of the cylindrical cavity (5) engage and / or wherein the top is shaped to be flush with the

Complete outer surfaces (27) of the base body (3), wherein the top (37) preferably has a square shape.

8. Container (1) for liquids according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one corner (43) defined in at least one inner wall of the cylindrical cavity (5) is rounded and has a radius of 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm, preferably all corners (43) defined in or on the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity (5) are rounded and have a radius of 0, 1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm.

9. Container (1) for liquids according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid (25) has at least one third magnetic connecting means (19) and at least one lid opening (45), wherein the container (1) further comprises: at least one insert ( 47) shaped to engage the lid opening (45), the insert (47) having at least a fourth magnetic connection means (21), the insert (47) being releasably engageable with the lid (25) via a magnetic connection between the third magnetic connection means (19) and the fourth magnetic connection means (21).

10. Container (1) for liquids according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body has no mechanical connection means, in particular plug-in and/or screw connection means, for connection to the lid.

11. Container (1) for liquids according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the components of the container (1) that can be engaged via magnetic connecting means (15, 17, 19, 21), in particular the base body (3), cover (25) and/or or insert (47), further comprising at least one integrated release aid (49) which is designed in such a way that the release of the magnetic connecting means (15, 17, 19, 21) is facilitated by a user.

12. Container (l) for liquids according to the preceding claim, wherein the integrated dissolving aid (49) comprises at least one oblique start-up ramp, which is shaped and arranged such that, in the case of a relative rotational movement of engaged components, a successive Separation of the magnetic connecting means (15, 17, 19, 21) allows perpendicular to the plane of movement with progressive relative rotary movement.

13. A container (1) for liquids according to any one of the preceding claims 9 to 12, wherein the insert (47) is shaped as at least one of: a. a closure adapter (47A) to enable the lid opening (45) to be closed, and/or b. a drinking adapter (47B) to allow drinking of liquid contained in the container (1), and/or c. a speed bottle adapter (47C) to allow metered dispensing of liquid contained in the container (1).

14. Container (1) for liquids according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container (1) is made of at least one, preferably at least partially transparent, polymer.

15. Container (1) for liquids according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one, preferably all, magnetic connecting means (15, 17, 19, 21) are arranged in the polymer, preferably completely enclosed by the polymer.