FR2845665A1 - Cork for liquid e.g. effervescent wine bottle, has inner part made of compressible material with external diameter greater than recessed part, where inner part is compressed and inserted into outer part made of elastomer - Google Patents

Abstract

The cork has a U-shaped outer part (1) made of elastomer with a diameter close to a diameter of a neck. An inner part (2) made of a compressible material with an external diameter greater than a diameter of a recessed part is inserted into the outer part. The part (2) has an elongated cavity opening on an exterior of its upper part and permitting gas contained in compressed cells to clear out, when the part (2) is compressed.

Description

i The invention presented in this patent relates to stoppers with

  elastomer parts intended to close or obstruct containers and in particular bottles containing liquids such as still and sparkling wines. These plugs are made up of several parts made from different materials. The principle of production allows them a significant deformation capacity greater than the synthetic stoppers usually encountered and authorizes their use for the corking of sparkling wines. Usually, the containers and more particularly the bottles 10 are closed by cylindrical caps. These are most commonly done in

  cork which has mechanical properties of compressibility and adapted resilience.

  Two families are to be distinguished: I) Solid cork: This natural material, although used for many years for the corking of wines, however presents many defects such as: 1 5 -problem said of cork taste: compounds present in cork

  (mainly trichloroanisole) in minute quantities migrate in the wine, make it react, alter its organoleptic qualities to the point of making it uncomfortable.

  The origins of the presence of these compounds are poorly understood and although many efforts have been undertaken by the professional cork industry, the risk of the presence of this molecule exists. The detection means are expensive and their use on an industrial scale cannot be envisaged. The average bottle rate

  affected varies from 1% to 2% on average.

  -dust or debris that ends up in the container.

  leakage problems due to stoppers pierced by worms or upwelling of liquid between the peripheral surface of the stopper and the wall of the neck of the bottle.

  -high prices due to a shortage of cork to meet the demand for mechanical performance altered by storage in a humid atmosphere 2) Agglomerated or reconstituted corks coupled or not with solid cork washers. 30 These techniques and models developed following the growing shortage of cork make it possible to produce corks from scraps resulting from the cuts used to make solid corks. The prices are lower but these plugs have the following drawbacks - plugs generated by causes identical to those known in solid cork 35 and described above - migrations in the liquid of the container of the glue compounds or resins used to secure the pieces or cork particles - poor aging which limits the use of these materials for short storage times (low aging). Faced with the increase in the price of cork and the inflation of cork taste problems encountered with corks, plastic corks have been

  developed in the 1990s. The materials used are mixtures of polyolefins mixed with plasticizers and swelling agents.

  Many patents have been filed in this area and we will only cite the main ones here:

  -US Patent No. 4363849 (Paisley) describes a synthetic stopper made of polyolefin 15 type copolymer of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and having an appearance of cork.

  -US Patent No. 4,188,457 (Throp) describes a composition of thermoplastics having particular elastic recovery properties allowing rapid expansion of

  plugs after compression by the jaws of the butcher machine.

  -US Patent No. 5904965 (Christmas) provides a stopper obtained by coextrusion with a central part of cellular material and a smooth skin.

  - US patent N'5317047 (Sabate) mentions a molded stopper made of composite synthetic material obtained by mixing: - ground cork powder - micro-spheres of a methyl methacrylateacrylonitrile 25 copolymer - a polyurethane binding agent or acrylic Several patents filed by the company Supreme Corq describe specific compositions making it possible to obtain, by molding, stoppers having properties close to cork stoppers. In particular the US patents N0 5480915, 5496862,

5,692,629.5710,184 and 5,855,287.

  - Patent WO 00/26103 (Supreme corq) discloses a particular composition (mixture of TPE, polypropylene and ethylene a-olefin copolymer) and different techniques of setting

  in action. A 2-part stopper is also available.

  -The document WO 01/02263 (Shell) describes a plug made from a foamed thermoplastic elastomer composed of: -one (or more) thermoplastic copolymer -blowing agents - one or more polyolefin chains with a melt index of 0 , 05 to 400 All the materials developed to date, however, have insufficient mechanical characteristics, and in particular a capacity for compressibility. This creates the following difficulties:

  -use impossible for corking sparkling wines.

  - wine imprisonment between the cork and the neck d to an elastic recovery after

  deformation too slow. This creates liquid spikes and leakage primers.

  - cut by the compression jaws of butcher machines which generates

leaks.

  - bonding or adhesion of the stopper to the walls of the glass, which makes the opening

  with a difficult corkscrew, see impossible.

  We have identified that the sealing performance is obtained by a plug made of a material having: - impermeability to gases and liquids - a capacity for deformation and compressibility, a speed to return to its initial shape and to be applied against container walls - an ability to stay in contact with the container walls, this property is

  characterized by elastic recovery after deformation.

  The principle of this invention is a stopper made of synthetic or natural materials, the active part of which in contact with the neck and ensuring the seal is produced in several (2 or more) parts: -an external part (1) in the form of U obtained by molding has a production diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the neck to be obstructed. This part is then deformed and enlarged (extended) by the introduction into the internal cavity of the U of a part called the internal part (2). This will allow contact between

  the external surface of (1) and the walls of the neck and thus ensure sealing.

  an internal part (2) of compressible or rigid material has a production diameter slightly greater than the diameter of the hollow part of the U. This part is

  introduced into the external part (1) and achieves its expansion.

  Two families are to be distinguished: -The introduction of the internal part (2) in the hollow part of the U is carried out before introduction into the neck and (1) is in an expanded state before introduction into the neck. The assembly (1 & 2) is then inserted into the neck by compression then pressing. The different stages are shown schematically by the sketches in Figure 1. This

  category is then called variant N0 1.

  -The cap is "self-expanding", it is introduced into the neck in a non-

  expanded then the external part (1) is expanded "in situ" in the neck.

  Two categories are possible: -Figure 2 represents the functioning of a plug in 3 parts: An external part (1) in the shape of U made in elastomer An internal part (2) of an external diameter D equal or slightly less than

  internal diameter d of (1). (2) is made of flexible and compressible material (foam).

  An upper part (3) whose production diameter D is slightly greater

at diameter d.

  Parts (2) and (3) are partially introduced into (1). The immobilization of (2 & 3) 20 relative to (1) is ensured by notches not shown in these diagrams. The assembly (1,2 & 3) is inserted into the neck then (3) is fully inserted into (1), which compresses and then ensures the expansion of (2) and (1). This category is then called variant N0 2 - Figure (3) shows the operation of a 2-piece stopper with conical internal geometries. This category is then called variant N0 3. The immobilization of (2) in (1) can be ensured: - either by chemical bonds (bonding, crosslinking, etc.) in the case of solutions 30 based on variant N0 1 - or by mechanical connections provided by latching notches in the case of solutions based on variants N0 1, N0 2 and N0 3. Figure 4 represents

  several possible forms of notches.

  The outer part (1) may be provided with ridges or notches as shown in Figure 4a. These elements make it possible to create preferential compression zones and

  improve sealing against liquids and gases.

  The materials of (1), (2) and possibly (3) are chosen according to the desired properties: - (1) is made of flexible and compact material which can have sliding properties and

  food contact properties.

  - (2) is made of flexible cellular material for variants N0 1 and N '2 or possibly rigid in variant N' 3. The Young's modulus of (2) is adapted as a function of the 10 types of plugging to be performed and of the geometry (dimensions) of the cap. We

  note here that (2) can be made of cork or from its derivatives (agglomerates).

- (3) is made of rigid material.

  The visible faces of (1) may be printed or support markings, the lower face 15 in contact with the liquid may even include relief engravings

  obtained during molding. It is the same for the visible faces of parts (2) or (3).

  The principles described in this invention allow

  to use a noble material (food, compact, inert) on the periphery and a less noble and foamed material in the central part. The cost is thus optimized.

  -to produce plugs of shape and in particular of square, rectangular, triangular or polygonal shape. For reasons of simplicity, the solutions and figures described in this document represent circular shapes but the reasoning and

  the solutions can be transposed to all polygonal, square, 25 rectangular geometries.

  In the following pages, we will endeavor to describe several embodiments implementing the different principles described in variants N0 1, N0 2 and N0 3. These models are not exhaustive and should be considered as exemplary embodiments. They are in no way limiting in relation to the principles described above. The examples are presented according to the different modes of use and we will successively distinguish: - the "flush ring" applications used for still wines or non-sparkling liquids - sparkling wine type applications with a partially pressed stopper and

maintained by a muselet.

  -corks "with head" used on the markets of the spirits and alcohols.

  FIG. 5 shows a stopper which can be used for a "flush with the ring" type stopper.

  The U-shaped body (1) is produced by molding. The external diameter of this U is slightly less than the diameter of the neck of the container to be blocked.

  A central part (2) is made of cellular material by molding or by extrusion. The production diameter of (2) is greater than the internal diameter of (1). A cylindrical central channel (3) can optionally be produced in order to facilitate compression and insertion. This channel can also facilitate the introduction and guiding of the corkscrew during the unclogging operation. The part (2) is then compressed then inserted into (1) by a specifically studied assembly machine. (2) will deform (1) and the external diameter of the assembly (1 and 2) is greater than the diameter of the neck to obstruct. The two parts are held together by bonding or by chemical crosslinking or by bonds

  notch type mechanicals detailed in Figure 4.

  This composite stopper (1 and 2) is delivered to conditioners and is used like a traditional stopper. It is compressed by jaws then pressed into the neck, the external part (1) then finds a diameter close to its production diameter and its

  surface is smooth which ensures sealing.

  Another embodiment of this type of plug is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 6. The

  central part will be directly molded and then expanded in the hollow part of (1).

  FIG. 6 successively shows the body (1) produced by molding in an identical manner to the embodiment previously

  described. The external diameter d is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked.

  the body (1) introduced into the mold (6) whose diameter D is greater than the diameter d.

  -the injection of the central part. The hollow part of the body (1) is used as an impression, the body (1) is deformed and enlarged to diameter D using the vacuum. The material is then injected and then vulcanized under pressure. The assembly is then removed from the mold and all that remains is to trim the upper face of the plug.

  Another possibility is shown in Figure 7. This cap is made up of 3 parts.

  an external part (1) in the shape of a U produced by molding. an internal part (2) obtained by extrusion then cutting up. As described above, its production diameter is greater than the diameter of the hollow part of the U. This part is then compressed and inserted into the hollow part of the U and ensures

its expansion.

  -an upper part (4) which is welded to the part (1).

  Figure 8 shows another possibility. The stopper is made up of 4 parts: -an external part (1) obtained by extrusion and parting -an internal part (2) obtained by extrusion and parting. Parts (1) and (2) can also be produced by co-extrusion with (2) which is expanded while (1)

  is already cooled (thermoplastic elastomer) or vulcanized (elastomer).

  an upper part (4) and a lower part (5) which are welded to the part (1).

  This solution allows production at an advantageous cost.

  The following examples, based on variant N03, allow the expansion of the external part after its introduction into the neck. Figure 9 shows schematically a model with a central cone-shaped excavation. An outer part (1) with a diameter close to the diameter of the neck to be obstructed is inserted into the neck then is deformed and compressed by a central part (2) in the shape of a cone. FIG. 8 successively represents the plug before insertion into the neck with the part (2) partially inserted in (1), the assembly (1 & 2) in place in the neck before the start of the expansion then the assembly (l & 2) with (2) fully depressed and ensuring the expansion of (1). The central part (2) becomes integral with the part (1) by vulcanization or by bonding. The conicities and the inside diameters of (1) and outside of (2) are adapted so as to allow sufficient compression of (1) against the walls of the neck and allow the insertion of (2) into (1). The inner cones of (1) and the outer cones of (2) may have specific shapes allowing localized deformations of (1) to be greater in certain places. For example, we seek to deform and enlarge more significantly the lower part of the stopper (which will be found inside the neck and against the liquid) because the diameter of the neck is wider at this point. The figure

  shows an example of suitable geometry.

  This embodiment can advantageously be improved by: -1) the production of latching notches or shapes allowing the maintenance in

  position of the part (2) inside the part (1).

  -2) a stepped shape which makes it possible to limit the thickness in the lower part of the external part (1) and thus facilitate its expansion. Figure 1 1 represents the comparison of a stepped shape and a smooth cone shape -3) a stepped shape allowing both - the locking in position of the central part explained in 1 - the gain of thickness explained in 2

  With this in mind, FIG. 12 successively represents: 15 - the half-views of the details of the parts (1) and (2).

  -the half view of the central part (2) partially inserted in (1) and immobilized

by 2 notches.

  - the half view of the central part in the depressed position (after installation in the

  neck) and immobilized by 4 notches.

  The insertion into the neck of the solutions described above is however delicate. Another example shown in Figure 13 allows easier introduction into the neck. FIG. 13 represents successively: -the half-views of the parts (1) and (2) -the half-view of the central part (2) partially inserted in (1) and immobilized by 2 notches. The upper part is enlarged and a shoulder is formed which goes

  come to rest on the ring of the container and block the stopper during installation.

  -the half view of the plug partially pressed and resting on the circle of the neck to be blocked.

  -the half view of the plug fully inserted into the neck and expanded.

  The insertion into the neck is thus greatly facilitated and the introduction machine is

  limit to a simple ram.

  This principle is also achievable with a solution based on the N02 variant. In this case, the part (3) has a geometry in the upper part identical to that of the part (2) previously described. The reader can easily imagine the operation of such a

  solution and we will not describe it more precisely.

  The example which is now described is based on the principle of variant N02. FIG. 14 represents a plug made up of 3 parts, an external part (1) made of elastomer and produced by molding. The diameter of (1) is

  slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked.

  an internal part (2) made of cellular material and obtained by molding or extrusion. 10 - an upper part (3) made of rigid material and obtained by molding.

  The first 3 diagrams of this figure represent successively: -The assembled cap in an unexpanded state. This corresponds to its form of

  delivery to conditioners before insertion into the neck.

  -the plug in an expanded state after introduction into the neck. The insertion of the plug is done by a simple pressing in by a shaped mandrel pressing on the

  (3) then on the entire article.

  -the cap in an expanded and locked state. The part (3) cannot slide and

  ensures compression and deformation of (2). The cap thus perfectly matches the shape of the neck. This locking of (3) is ensured by a rotation of (3) in (1). 20 The following diagrams show the details of the different parts (1) and (3).

  The unclogging operation is carried out by turning (3) in the opposite direction. The upper part (3) under the action of the part (2) will slide in (1) and the internal part (2) will

  return to its original shape and the cap can be easily removed from the neck.

  This type of stopper can thus be reused several times and in particular allows the filling of the partially consumed bottle.

  All the examples previously exposed are suitable for "flush with the ring" closure. We will now endeavor to describe applications intended for the corking of sparkling wines with a partially pressed and maintained stopper.

position by a muselet.

  Figure 15 shows a plug made in 2 parts. An outer part (1) of elastomer obtained by molding and whose production diameter is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be obstructed. An internal part (2) with a production diameter greater than the diameter of the internal cavity of (1). The part (2) is inserted into (1) and thus ensures its expansion. The first diagram in FIG. 15 represents the plug under its

  delivery form with (2) introduced in (1).

  This stopper is then used like a traditional stopper, it is compressed then forcefully introduced by the same machines as those used for cork stoppers. The second diagram in FIG. 15 represents the plug introduced into the neck. He will be

held in place by a muselet.

  The diagrams in FIG. 15 bis represent an evolution of the solution described in FIG. 15. The external part (1) whose diameter is close to the diameter to be obstructed has a shorter length than the entire stopper and is limited to the part active that enters the bottleneck. The outer part (2) has a shoulder and is then partially

  inserted in (1). This stopper is then used like a traditional stopper.

  The following example represented by FIG. 16 is based on the principle of the variant N02 previously described. This cap is made up of 3 parts: -An external part (1) made of elastomer, obtained by molding, has a part

  cylindrical bottom with a diameter slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked.

  an internal part (2) of cellular material obtained by molding or extrusion.

  -an upper part (3) made of rigid material obtained by molding The diagrams of this figure represent successively: -the plug in the assembled state and not expanded. The part (3) is partially inserted in (1) and is retained by a circular notch. This is the form of delivery to users, this plug will then be inserted into the neck - The plug only in the expanded state. Part (3) is fully inserted in (1) and is retained by 2 circular notches, (3) compresses and ensures the deformation of (2) and

  the expansion of the lower part of (1). The mushroom shape observed on a cork stopper shortly after uncorking is thus reproduced.

  -The plug inserted in the neck before expansion, the shoulder of the plug rests

on the neck of the neck to be blocked.

  -The cap inserted in the neck and in the expanded state. The lower part of the plug thus perfectly matches the shape of the neck. 35 il Figure 17 represents an evolution of this solution with a geometry of the head (3) and the upper internal cavity of (1) identical to that described in the represented solution

by figure 14.

  The part (3) will be pressed in (1) then will be locked in (1) by rotation.

  The unblocking will be carried out by rotating (3) in the opposite direction, the internal part (2) will resume its initial shape and the external part will regain its production diameter. The cap can be easily removed from the neck. This also makes it possible to progressively balance the internal pressure of the container and the external pressure and to avoid stacking phenomena encountered when this equilibrium is achieved suddenly. 10 The diagrams in Figure 18 describe a cap made up of two elements and based on the

variant N03.

  The outer part (1) of elastomer is obtained by molding. The diameter of the zone which will make the seal is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be obstructed. The internal cavity is composed of a conical zone provided with steps and a cylindrical zone presenting two latching notches

  The internal part (2) also obtained by molding, consists of a conical zone with steps and a cylindrical zone with two snap notches. A central channel can be made in order to allow the passage of air and facilitate the insertion of (2) into (1).

  The stepped areas have geometries adapted to achieve greater expansion in the lower part, area where the diameter of the neck is larger than at the mouth. The different diagrams represent successively: -the cap alone in an unexpanded state. Part (2) is partially introduced into (1) and is retained by a circular notch. The cap is delivered in this state to

  users. This will then be introduced into the neck of the container.

  -the plug only in the expanded state. The part (2) is fully inserted in (1) and ensures its expansion. (2) is retained by 2 circular notches. The mushroom shape 30 observed on a cork stopper shortly after uncorking is thus reproduced - the unexpanded stopper inserted into the neck of the container to be obstructed, the shoulder of the

  cap rests on the neck of the neck.

  -the plug inserted in the neck and expanded.

  The capping machine is limited to a simple ram. The plug is then held in place by a muzzle. The uncorking operation is carried out as with a traditional cork stopper: The wire cap is removed and the internal pressure of the

  container ejects the plug from the neck.

  This solution can be envisaged with a geometry of the upper part of (2) and of the upper part of the internal cavity of (1) identical to those described in the solution represented by FIG. 14.

  The part (2) will be pressed in (1) then will be locked in (1) by rotation.

  The unblocking will be carried out by rotating (2) in the opposite direction, the internal part (2) will resume its partially depressed position and the external part (1) will regain its production diameter. The cap can be easily removed from the neck. This also makes it possible to progressively balance the internal pressure of the container and the external pressure and to avoid stacking phenomena encountered when this equilibrium is achieved suddenly. The reader can easily imagine this solution and we will not describe it more precisely. Figure 19 describes a solution based on variant N02 and which has its own

  bottle restraint system.

  The stopper is made up of: - a body (1) made of molded elastomer. The diameter of realization of the lower part

  of the body is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked.

  -an internal part (2) of flexible and compressible material. This piece is obtained

by extrusion and then cutting.

  -of an upper part (3) obtained by molding of thermoplastics. This part can sink into (1), compress and deform (2) which will ensure the expansion of (1) against the walls of the neck. This part (3) has a system of legs which go

  allow anchoring under the neck of the neck of the container to be blocked.

  The diagrams successively represent:

  -the cap assembled in its delivery form to users.

  -The cap inserted in the neck and in an unexpanded state. The shoulder of the body

  (1) is supported on the neck ring. -The cap inserted in the neck and in the expanded state. Part (3) is

  pressed in (1), compresses (2) and thus ensures the expansion of (1). The anchoring of the tabs under the neck of the neck makes it possible both to keep the upper part (3) pressed in (1) and to keep it from the stopper in the bottle. In order to guarantee this function, the tabs will be kept tightened by an elastomer ring or a wire link made of metal or synthetic material. This solution avoids the use of a wire cap and simplifies the corking operation, it also prevents untimely rising of the corks observed sometimes between the capping operation and the operation of laying the wire cap with sensitive sparkling wines. This combination of the stopper function and the maintain function on the bottle is

  also possible with a solution of the N03 variant type. Figure (20) shows a stopper made up of 2 pieces.

  The outer part (1) of elastomer is obtained by molding. The diameter of the area that will seal is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked. The cavity

  internal is composed of a conical zone provided with steps.

  The internal part (2) is obtained by molding of thermoplastics and consists of a conical zone with steps which fits into the hollow cavity of (1). This part (2) can sink into (1) and ensure its expansion, it has a system of legs which

  will allow anchoring under the container ring.

  The anchoring system shown in this case is a metal wire that the legs of the

  parts (2) enclose on 4 points (obtained by overmolding the wire). This principle is comparable to the system used on traditional wire caps.

  Other anchoring solutions or principles are possible but are not detailed in this

  document because do not constitute the object of this patent.

  In the solution described by figure 20, the connection in rotation of (2) compared to (1) was

  left free but it is possible to secure (2) and (1) in rotation by notches as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 19.

  We will now focus on describing "head" type cork solutions 30 used for the alcohol and spirits markets.

  Figures 21 and 22 describe two solutions based on variant N0 1.

  The cap is made up of three parts:

  an external part (1) obtained by molding of elastomers. The embodiment diameter of the body is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked.

  Chamfers are made in the lower part to allow and facilitate

  insertion into the neck of the container to be blocked.

  -A central part (2) made of cellular material obtained by molding or by extrusion.

  The production diameter of (2) is greater than the diameter of the internal cavity of (1).

  This internal part (2) is compressed and then introduced into the hollow cavity of (1) and

ensures expansion.

  -A head (3) obtained by molding of thermoplastics or in a rigid material such as wood. This head is either overmolded in the case of Figure 22 or glued

in the case of Figure 21.

  This cap is delivered to conditioners in this form. The insertion and insertion into the neck of the container to be obstructed is carried out in the same way as that of the caps.

cork existing to date.

  This solution allows low compression rates during introduction into the neck and is very comparable mechanically to the performance of cork head corks.

1 5 current.

  This solution can be improved by self-expanding caps based on the variants

N0 2 and N '3.

  The diagrams in Figure 23 describe a cap made up of two elements and based on the

variant N03.

  The outer part (1) of elastomer is obtained by molding. The diameter of the area that will seal is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked. (1) has a shoulder in the upper part which will simultaneously allow the stopper to rest on the neck and the anchoring of part (2). The internal cavity is composed of a conical zone

equipped with bleachers.

  The internal part (2) also obtained by molding, consists of a conical zone with steps and a cylindrical part with a circular shoulder (called notch) allowing anchoring under the shoulder of (1). The stepped areas have geometries adapted to achieve greater expansion in the lower part,

  area where the diameter is larger than at the mouth.

  The two diagrams represent successively: -the cap alone in an unexpanded state. Part (2) is partially introduced

  in (1) and is retained by the 2 steps. The cap is delivered in this state to 35 users. This will then be introduced into the neck of the container.

  -the plug only in the expanded state after introduction into the neck. The part (2) is fully inserted in (1) and ensures its expansion. (2) is retained by the notch

  circular which is anchored under the shoulder of (1).

  This stopper is suitable for containers with a thin ring thickness (metal canister type) but cannot be used for corking glass bottles. For this type of closure, we will prefer a solution of the type shown in Figure 26 and described later. FIG. 24 represents a solution using the N0 2 principle. This plug is composed of 3 parts: -An external part (1) made of elastomer, obtained by molding has a cylindrical external geometry with a diameter slightly less than the diameter of the neck at

  obstruct and a cylindrical internal cavity having 2 notches.

  an internal part (2) made of cellular material and obtained by molding or extrusion.

  an upper part (3) made of rigid material and obtained by molding. The external cylindrical part has 2 notches which will fit into the notches of the internal cavity of (1) The diagrams of this figure represent successively -the plug in the assembled state and not expanded. Part (3) is partially inserted into (1) and is retained by a circular notch. This is the form of delivery to users, this plug will then be inserted into the neck -The plug in the expanded state. Part (3) is fully inserted in (1) and is

  retained by 2 circular notches, (3) compresses and ensures the deformation of (2) and the expansion of the lower part of (1).

  The plug is inserted by simply pushing in and snapping on (3) into (1). FIG. 25 shows an evolution of the solution described above and allows plugging and unclogging by rotation of the head relative to the body. The proposed solution is composed of 3 parts: -an external part (1) made of elastomer and produced by molding. The external diameter of

  (1) is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked.

  an internal part (2) made of cellular material and obtained by molding or extrusion.

  an upper part (3) made of rigid material and obtained by molding.

  The first 3 diagrams of this figure represent successively: -The assembled cap in an unexpanded state. This corresponds to its form of

  delivery to conditioners before insertion into the neck.

  -the plug in an expanded state, this corresponds to its shape after introduction and expansion in the neck. The plug is inserted by a simple push

  then an angular rotation of the head.

  -the cap in an expanded and locked state. The part (3) cannot slide and

  ensures compression and deformation of (2). The plug thus perfectly matches the shape of the neck. This locking of (3) is ensured by a rotation of (3) in (1).

  The following diagrams show the details of the different parts (1) and (3).

  The unclogging operation is carried out by turning (3) in the opposite direction. The upper part (3) under the action of the part (2) will slide in (1) and the internal part (2) will return to its original shape and the plug can be easily removed from the neck. 15 This type of plug can thus be reused several times and in particular allows the

  filling the partially consumed bottle.

  FIG. 26 represents an evolution of solution 23 and allows plugging and unclogging by rotation of the head. The solution is technically close to the solution described in Figure 25, the main difference is at the part (2) which is conical in shape and can be made with a rigid material or with a compressible cellular material. The plug is shown in the same views as in FIG. 25: the plug assembled in an unexpanded state. This corresponds to its form of

  delivery to conditioners before insertion into the neck.

  -the plug in an expanded state, this corresponds to its shape after introduction and expansion in the neck. The plug is inserted by a simple push

  then a slight rotation of the head.

  -the cap in an expanded and locked state. The part (3) cannot slide and keeps (2) in (1) in the depressed position. The cap thus perfectly matches the shape of the neck. This locking of (3) is ensured by a

rotation of (3) in (1).

  Figure 27 shows an evolution of the solution described in Figure 14 with an outer part (1) having a shoulder and allowing the support of the plug on the ring before expansion. The stopper is always composed of 3 parts: -an external part (1) made of elastomer and produced by molding. The external diameter of (1) is slightly less than the diameter of the neck to be blocked and (1) has a

  shoulder coming to rest on the upper part of the ring.

  an internal part (2) made of cellular material and obtained by molding or extrusion.

  an upper part (3) made of rigid material and obtained by molding.

  The details of the parts are identical to solution 14 and are not shown.

  The stopper is successively shown: -inserted in the neck of a bottle and in the unexpanded state

  -inserted and expanded in the neck.

  This solution makes it easier to sink and expand and provides protection for the top of the ring, which can be sought in transport operations.

Claims (1)

  l) Stopper intended to close or close containers and in particular bottles, characterized in that it has an active part in contact with the neck and ensuring the tightness produced in 2 parts: - An external part (1) made of elastomer has a central recess into which an internal part (2) described below is inserted. The production diameter of (1) is slightly less than the diameter of the neck of the container to be closed,   -A central part (2) made of compressible material whose production diameter 10 is greater than the diameter of the internal cavity of (1).   Part (2) is inserted in (1) and ensures its expansion. The set (1 and 2) is then   compressed and pressed into the neck.   The geometries of the internal parts (obviously of (1) and external shape of (2)) can be adapted so as to allow the mechanical immobilization of (2) with respect to (1). 2) Stopper intended to close or close receptacles and in particular bottles, characterized in that it has an active part in contact with the neck and ensuring the tightness produced in 3 parts: -An external part (1) made in The elastomer has a central recess into which the internal part (2) and the upper part (3) described below will be inserted. The production diameter of (1) is slightly less than the diameter of the neck of the container to be closed. -A central part (2) made of flexible and deformable material. The diameter of   realization of (2) is slightly less than the diameter of the internal cavity of (1).   -An upper part (3) made of elastomers or rigid materials and having an end of the same shape and of dimensions slightly larger than those of the cavity internal of (1).   Part (2) is inserted into the cavity of (1) and (3) is partially inserted into the cavity of (1). The assembly (1, 2 and 3) is inserted into the neck then (3) is pressed into (1) which   deforms and compresses (2) and ensures the expansion of (1).   The geometries of the internal parts (obviously of (1) and external shape of (3)) can be adapted so as to allow the mechanical immobilization of (3) relative to (1) in the positions - partial depression of (3) in (1) - total depression of (3) in (1) The geometries of the upper part of (1) and the upper part of (3) can be produced so as to create a deformation and an enlargement of (1) in upper part this when (3) is only partially depressed. This deformation disappears when (3) is fully inserted in (1). 3) Stopper intended to close or close receptacles and in particular bottles, characterized in that it has an active part in contact with the neck and ensuring the seal produced in 2 parts: -An external part (1) made of elastomer has a central recess into which an internal part (2) described below will be inserted. This obviously is of geometry   conical or consists of several truncated cones (stepped shape).   -An internal part (2) made of rigid material or flexible material have an external geometry in homothety with the geometry of the internal cavity of (1), the diameters of the truncated cones of (2) are slightly greater than those of the internal cavity from 1).   The part (2) is partially inserted into the cavity of (1). The set (1 and 2) is then   inserted into the neck then (2) is pushed into (1) and ensures its expansion.   The geometries of the internal parts (obviously of (1) and external shape of (2)) can be adapted so as to allow the mechanical immobilization of (2) relative to (1) in the positions - partial depression of (3 ) in (1) - total depression of (3) in (1) The geometries of the internal parts (obviously of (1) and external shape of (2)) can be adapted so as to obtain a greater deformation of (1 ) in the lower zone   (part in contact with the contents of the container).   The geometries of the upper part of (1) and the upper part of (2) can be made so as to create a deformation and widening of (1) in the upper part   this when (2) is only partially pressed. This deformation disappears when (2) is fully depressed in (1).   4) Plug according to claim 1 or claim 2 or claim 3 characterized in that:   - The section of the sealing area can be circular or polygonal 35 (triangle, square ...) or rectangular.   -the external surface of (1) has reliefs called ridges or notches whose role is to   create preferential compression zones and promote sealing.   ) plug according to claim I characterized in that: the central part (2) has a central recess intended to facilitate the insertion of the   corkscrew during the uncorking operation. and or   -an upper part (4) is welded or linked to the external part (1).   or - an upper part (4) and a lower part (5) are welded or linked to the part external (1).   6) plug according to claim 2 characterized in that the establishment (depression) and the   locking of the part (3) in the part (1) is achieved by a combined movement of translation and rotation.   Parts (1) and (3) have notch and groove systems allowing these   movements and allowing the blocking of (3) in the depressed position.   7) plug according to claim 3 characterized in that the establishment (insertion) and the locking of the part (2) in the part (1) is achieved by a combined movement of translation and rotation.   Parts (1) and (2) have notch and groove systems allowing these movements and allowing the blocking of (2) in the depressed position 8) plug according to claim 2 or claim 3 characterized in that the plug has its own system container. This retaining system will simultaneously keep part (2) or part (3) in the pressed-in position in (1) and allows the plug to be held in the pressed-in position in the neck