GB2406847A - Sealing system for collapsible tubes - Google Patents

Sealing system for collapsible tubes Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2406847A
GB2406847A GB0421697A GB0421697A GB2406847A GB 2406847 A GB2406847 A GB 2406847A GB 0421697 A GB0421697 A GB 0421697A GB 0421697 A GB0421697 A GB 0421697A GB 2406847 A GB2406847 A GB 2406847A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
tube
collapsible
plug
sealing
spring
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
GB0421697A
Other versions
GB2406847B (en
GB0421697D0 (en
Inventor
Nicolas Bruno Chudoba
Edgar Fajardo Camacho
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
MOLYTEC Ltda
Original Assignee
MOLYTEC Ltda
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by MOLYTEC Ltda filed Critical MOLYTEC Ltda
Publication of GB0421697D0 publication Critical patent/GB0421697D0/en
Publication of GB2406847A publication Critical patent/GB2406847A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2406847B publication Critical patent/GB2406847B/en
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/56—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using mechanical means or mechanical connections, e.g. form-fits
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/56—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using mechanical means or mechanical connections, e.g. form-fits
    • B29C65/562—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using mechanical means or mechanical connections, e.g. form-fits using extra joining elements, i.e. which are not integral with the parts to be joined
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
    • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
    • B29C66/112—Single lapped joints
    • B29C66/1122—Single lap to lap joints, i.e. overlap joints
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
    • B29C66/51—Joining tubular articles, profiled elements or bars; Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; Joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
    • B29C66/53—Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars
    • B29C66/534—Joining single elements to open ends of tubular or hollow articles or to the ends of bars
    • B29C66/5344—Joining single elements to open ends of tubular or hollow articles or to the ends of bars said single elements being substantially annular, i.e. of finite length, e.g. joining flanges to tube ends
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
    • B29C66/61—Joining from or joining on the inside
    • B29C66/612—Making circumferential joints
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B7/00—Closing containers or receptacles after filling
    • B65B7/14—Closing collapsible or resilient tubes, e.g. for tooth paste, for lighter fuel
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D35/00—Pliable tubular containers adapted to be permanently or temporarily deformed to expel contents, e.g. collapsible tubes for toothpaste or other plastic or semi-liquid material; Holders therefor
    • B65D35/02—Body construction
    • B65D35/10—Body construction made by uniting or interconnecting two or more components
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/56—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using mechanical means or mechanical connections, e.g. form-fits
    • B29C65/565—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using mechanical means or mechanical connections, e.g. form-fits involving interference fits, e.g. force-fits or press-fits
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
    • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
    • B29C66/112—Single lapped joints
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
    • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/12—Joint cross-sections combining only two joint-segments; Tongue and groove joints; Tenon and mortise joints; Stepped joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/122—Joint cross-sections combining only two joint-segments, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising only two joint-segments in the joint cross-section
    • B29C66/1222—Joint cross-sections combining only two joint-segments, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising only two joint-segments in the joint cross-section comprising at least a lapped joint-segment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
    • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/12—Joint cross-sections combining only two joint-segments; Tongue and groove joints; Tenon and mortise joints; Stepped joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/122—Joint cross-sections combining only two joint-segments, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising only two joint-segments in the joint cross-section
    • B29C66/1224—Joint cross-sections combining only two joint-segments, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising only two joint-segments in the joint cross-section comprising at least a butt joint-segment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
    • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/13—Single flanged joints; Fin-type joints; Single hem joints; Edge joints; Interpenetrating fingered joints; Other specific particular designs of joint cross-sections not provided for in groups B29C66/11 - B29C66/12
    • B29C66/131—Single flanged joints, i.e. one of the parts to be joined being rigid and flanged in the joint area
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
    • B29C66/71—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the composition of the plastics material of the parts to be joined
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
    • B29C66/72—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/723—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined being multi-layered
    • B29C66/7232—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined being multi-layered comprising a non-plastics layer
    • B29C66/72321—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined being multi-layered comprising a non-plastics layer consisting of metals or their alloys
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
    • B29C66/73—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset
    • B29C66/731—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/7315—Mechanical properties
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
    • B29C66/73—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset
    • B29C66/731—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/7315—Mechanical properties
    • B29C66/73151—Hardness
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/83—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof characterised by the movement of the joining or pressing tools
    • B29C66/832—Reciprocating joining or pressing tools
    • B29C66/8322—Joining or pressing tools reciprocating along one axis
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
    • B29K2995/00—Properties of moulding materials, reinforcements, fillers, preformed parts or moulds
    • B29K2995/0037—Other properties
    • B29K2995/007—Hardness
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
    • B29K2995/00—Properties of moulding materials, reinforcements, fillers, preformed parts or moulds
    • B29K2995/0037—Other properties
    • B29K2995/0089—Impact strength or toughness
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
    • B29L2023/00—Tubular articles
    • B29L2023/20—Flexible squeeze tubes, e.g. for cosmetics

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Pipe Accessories (AREA)
  • Medical Preparation Storing Or Oral Administration Devices (AREA)
  • Joints That Cut Off Fluids, And Hose Joints (AREA)
  • Closing Of Containers (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Abstract

A sealing system for collapsible tubes comprises a plug 1 and a ring 2 which are placed at the bottom of a rigid, semi-rigid or soft collapsible tube 3 so that the tube will remain vertical during storage and use, always keeping its shape. The ring 2 supports the pressure exerted by the plug 1 on the tube 3. The plug 1 is a cylindrical body with a small circular tab 4 at the top, a central section 5 or plug proper, which is a hollow conical trunk or hollow cylinder; and a lower section 6 which is a conical trunk or solid cylinder. A machine for sealing the tube 3 comprises a tube holder 7 and a spring-loaded base member for supporting the tube 3 as the plug is pushed into it and subsequently expelling the tube 3.

Description

1 2406847
SEALING SYSTEM FOR COLLAPSIBLE TUBES
AND MACHINE
Field of Invention s
The present application relates to sealing systems for collapsible tubes and machines. In particular, but not exclusively, it relates to a sealing system which comprises a compound plug which is inserted into the lower part of the tube so that the tube is held vertical during storage and use, always maintaining the shape of the tube. The present application also relates to machines or tube-holders made especially for the process for sealing the tubes.
Backaround of the Invention
At present, the sealing or plugging of collapsible tubes depends on the material of the tube, as described below: In aluminum collapsible tubes sealing is achieved by folding as illustrated in Fig. 1, and as described in US Patent 4,196,825 entitled "Laminated Collapsible Tube" in the name of Colgate Palmolive Company Published on 8 April 1980, which describes a Collapsible Tube used for toothpaste which has in its base a sealed articulated zone and a section in the form of a nozzle. The tube is made of a thermoplastic-metal-thermoplastic-thermoplastic-metal thermoplastic laminate.
US Patent 4,705,194 entitled "Toothbrush holder attachment for toothpaste" in the name of Joseph Judge, Published on 10 November 1987 consists of a non-collapsible toothpaste tube on which the toothbrush is mounted to form an integral part.
US Patent No. 5.975.361 entitled "Winding and locking device for collapsible tubes" owned by Richard N. Corrow published on 2 November 1999, describes a sealed system in the lower part of the tube by means of an additional grooved piece.
US Patent No. 6,056,159 entitled "Holder for full or folded collapsible tubes" in the name of Robert Wesley Layer Published on 2 May 2000, mentions a dispenser for a collapsible tube which consists of a firm base which has a V- shaped truncated section to the centre, where the collapsible tube is placed in such a way that it stays in a vertical position.
US Patent 6,415,479 entitled "Clip for squeezing tubes" in the name of Nathan Steinberg Published on 9 July 2002, describes a tube which carries joined to the lower part a section in the form of a clip which may be permanent or removed and allows the product to come out extruded.
In polyethylene collapsible tubes, PVC tubes and laminates heat-sealing is used, fusing material with temperature on both sealing bars, allowing the sealing of thick packaging which must keep its contents hermetically packed.
This adapts itself to any sealing need for flexible materials at that level, as illustrated in Figs 2 a), 2 b) and 2 c).
Patent Application EPO No. 656,855 B1 and US Patent No. 5,649,648 of 22 July 1997, in the name of Henkel Kommanditgesellschaft, uses a sealing system which consists of a removable plug inserted in the lower part of aluminum tube like a button to allow the fluid in the tube to come out. The system is applied to collapsible tubes of rigid material since the pressure for the sealing is exerted on the tube.
Aims of the Invention.
An aim of preferred embodiments of the present application is to provide a sealing system for collapsible tubes and a machine which system consists of a plug composed of two sections which are placed in the lower part of the tube so that the tube remains vertical during storage and use, always keeping the shape of the tube, since the sealing pressure is exerted on the plug and the ring.
Another aim of preferred embodiments of this invention is to improve the process of plugging tubes with low-cost technology.
Another aim of preferred embodiments of the invention is to present a machine or tube-holder specifically for use in the sealing system.
Advantanes of the Invention.
The sealing system for collapsible tubes and machine, which are the preferred embodiments of the present application may have the following advantages: The collapsible tube may suitably be kept vertical during storage and use, and suitably always keeps its shape due to the sealing system which uses the plug and ring.
The plug is suitably made of inert non-reactive raw materials and suitably is therefore non-toxic, and it suitably does not alter the taste or any other sensory feature of the liquids in contact with it.
The plug is suitably not affected by galvanic, electrolytic or bacterial corrosion. The plug is suitably characterized by offering excellent resistance to attacks of all types of chemical product or reagent. This resistance is suitably based on its characteristic that it is not polar.
The sealing system is suitably used in collapsible tubes of rigid, semi rigid and soft material since the pressure the machine exerts is on the plug and the ring, and it can suitably be applied to various kinds of industry such as glues and adhesives, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, foods etc. Summarv of the Invention According to the present invention there is provided a sealing system for collapsible tubes and machine, characterized in that the system has a plug and a ring which are placed at the bottom end of a collapsible tube, by a machine or tube-holder.
According to the present invention there is further provided a sealing system for collapsible tubes characterized in that the system has a plug and a ring which can be placed at the bottom end of a collapsible tube by a tube-holder.
Suitably, the plug is a cylindrical body with a small circular tab at the top, a central section or plug proper, which is a hollow conical trunk or hollow cylinder; and a lower section which is a conical trunk or solid cylinder.
Suitably, the walls of the plug have a thickness of 2 to 4mm and the dimensions of the plug depend on the diameter of the tube namely: outside diameter of 12 to 15mm, total height of 11 to 12mm; with the hollow central section 7 to 8mm diameter and height of 6 to 7mm, and the tab 2mm high and 13.5mm diameter.
Suitably, the ring has a thickness of 1 to 3mm, a height of 8 to 9mm and a diameter of 16 to 1 7mm, depending on the diameter of the tube.
Suitably, the sealing system is applied to rigid, semi-rigid and soft collapsible tubes.
Suitably, the machine or tube-holder has five parts, as follows: a) a spring; b) a fixing housing; c) a base to hold the spring; d) a base to support the tube; e) a guide to fit the tube.
Suitably, the spring is a compression spring which holds the base to support the tube, joined to the guide to fit the tube; and then, it compresses to displace lo the collapsible tube simultaneously when introducing the plug into itself and finally, it expels the tube when the sealing process is complete.
Suitably, the guide to fit the tube, directs the movement of the collapsible tube and holds the ring to plug and completely seal the collapsible tube.
The sealing system for collapsible tubes and machine may consist of: a plug and a ring which are placed at the bottom of a rigid, semi-rigid or soft collapsible tube through a machine or tube-holder, so that the tube will remain vertical during storage and use, always keeping its shape.
According to the present invention there is further provided a sealing apparatus comprising a sealing system for collapsible tubes and a tubeholder characterized in that the system has a plug and a ring which can be placed at the bottom end of a collapsible tube by the tube-holder.
According to the present invention three is further provided a tubeholder for placing a plug and a ring at the bottom end of a collapsible tube, wherein the tube-holder has five parts as follows: a) a spring; b) a fixing housing; c) a base to hold the spring; d) a base to support the tube; e) a guide to fit the tube.
According to the present invention there is further provided a process for sealing collapsible tubes using a sealing system for collapsible tubes and machine, wherein the system has a plug and a ring which are placed at the bottom end of a collapsible tube, by a machine or tube- holder.
List of figures Figure 1. Illustrates views of a sealing system for aluminium collapsible tubes in the present state of the art.
Figure 2. Is a front view of a heat-sealing system used for plastic collapsible tubes (Fig. 2 a) and laminates (Fig.2 b).
Figure 3. Is a front view of the sealing system for collapsible tubes.
Figure 4. Is a front view of the plug of the sealing system.
Figure 5. Is a front view of the ring of the sealing system.
Figure 6. Is a section of the machine or tube-holder used in the sealing system for collapsible tubes.
Figure 7. Is a section of the assembly of the sealing system for collapsible tubes.
Detailed Disclosure of the Invention.
The present application relates to a sealing system for collapsible tubes and a lo machine, which together comprise as shown in Figures 3 and 7, (a) a plug 1; (b) a ring 2; (c) a collapsible tube 3; and (d) machine or tube-holder 7.
The plug 1 is a cylindrical body, having on the upper part a small circular tab 4, a central section 5 or plug proper, which is a hollow, conical trunk (see Figure 4a) or, in an alternative embodiment, a hollow cylinder (Figure 4b), and a lower section 6 which is a solid conical trunk or cylinder.
The principal function of the plug 1 is to prevent the product from leaking out and to maintain the pressure exerted by the ring.
The part of the plug 1 which is introduced into the collapsible tube 3, has the external shape of a cone calculated in accordance with the deformation that the tube 3 can support; this shape provides better sealing and a tighter fit to the ring 2 which internally has the same degree of tapering.
The walls of the plug 1 have a thickness that varies from 2 mm to 4 mm, designed to reduce the permeability allowed by the material much more thus guaranteeing the quality of the product and a longer useful life.
The dimensions of the plug 1 depend on the diameter of the tube and vary from an outside diameter of 12 mm and 15 mm and a total height of 11 mm to 12 mm; the hollow central section 5 being 7 mm to 8 mm in diameter and 6 mm to 7 mm high; and the tab 4 being 2 mm high by 13.5 mm in diameter.
The thickness of the plug 1 is designed to support pressures of 2000 kPa to 4000 kPa in order to give excellent sealing of the tube 3.
The plug 1 is designed to facilitate manufacture and to avoid problems arising in the process of injection, such as deformation, contraction and shakeout.
The plug 1 is designed to facilitate the placing of the same in the sealing process.
The thickness of the ring wall 2 is 1 to 3 mm and the height of 8 to 9 mm and diameter of 16 to 17mm depending on the diameter of the tube and it is designed to support working pressure for more than 10 years at a temperature of 20 C; as seen in the Figure 5.
The principal function of the ring 2 is to support the pressure exerted by the plug 1 on the walls on the collapsible tube 3.
The inside of the ring 2 has the same taper as the plug 1 to give the best possible seal.
In destructive testing the ring 2 supported pressure of 2000 kPa with no s observable change or failing and cracks appeared at 3500 kPa.
The working pressure of the ring 2 is less than 550 kPa.
The ring 2 is designed to facilitate manufacture and avoid the problems that lo occur in injection, such as deformation, contraction and shakeout.
The ring 2 is designed to facilitate the placing of the same in the sealing process.
The plug 1 and the ring 2 support temperatures of -5 C - 100 C, depending on the material of which they are made.
The plug and the ring are made by injection of PP polypropylene, which is a commercial thermoplastic material, semi crystalline and semi-opaquewhite.
PP polypropylene is linear polyolefin with catalysts to control esterregularity so that the polypropylene is usually predominantly isotactic with hardness and heat resistance superior to HO polyethylene. Polypropylene copolymers have better resistance to impact. Polypropylene, like the polyethylenes, has good chemical resistance but weak resistance to UV rays (unless previously stabilised or protected).
The polypropylene copolymers are used in making tubing, ships' hulls, seats and parts for cars, plugs and lids for containers etc. The properties of poliproylene used for this invention are: Electrical: Dielectric Constant at 1 MHz 2.2 to 2.6 Dissipation Factor at 1 MHz 0. 0003 to 0.0005 Dielectric Resistance (kV mm') 30 to 40 Surface resistivity (Q/s) 1013 Volume resistivity at C (n.cm) 1046 to 1048 Physical: s Water absorption - Equilibrium (%) 0.03 Density (g/cm3) 0.90 Refractive index 1.49 Oxygen limit index (%) 18.00 Flammability Combustible Resistance to UV Acceptable Mechanical: Stretchingto breaking point(%) 150 - 300 Friction coefficient 0.1 - 0.3 Hardness- Rockwell R80 - R100 Traction module (GPa) 0.9 - 1.5 Abrasion resistance (mg/1000cycles) 13 - 16 Traction resistance (MPa) 25 - 40 Izod Impact resistance (J m') 20 Thermal: Specific heat (J K-' kg') 1700 - 1900 Heat expansion coefficient(x1 o-6 K-) 100 - 180 Conductivity at 23 C (W m' K-') 0.1 0.22 Maximum working temperature ( C) 90 - 120 Minimum working temperature C -10 - -60 Hot deflection temperature 100 - 105 -0,45 MPa ( C) Hot deflection temperature 60 - 65 -1,8 MPa ( C) Chemical resistance: Acids concentrated Good Acids - diluted Good Alkalis Good Alcohols Good Cetones Good Fats and oils Acceptable Halogens Bad Aromatic hydrocarbons Acceptable s Permeability tests show that resistance to permeability of polypropylene is significantly increased in the stretching process, due to the alignment of molecular chains.
The results showed that polypropylene plugs obtained by injection are more resistant to the passage of oxygen.
A machine or tube-holder 7 is required for the process for sealing the collapsible tubes; it is made in accordance with the size of the collapsible tubes 3; commercially there are tubes of 12.8 mm, 15.8 mm, 19 mm, 20.7 mm, 22 mm, 25.4 mm, 26.6 mm, 28.4 mm and 31.7 mm diameter and the length of the tube varies from 50 mm to 200 mm.
The collapsible tubes 3 used in this invention are of rigid, semi-rigid and soft materials.
The tube-holder 7 is made of steel and Teflon, brass and Teflon; stainless steel and Teflon, depending on the use to be made of the container.
The tube-holder 7 has five parts as seen in Figure 6, as follows: a) a steel spring 8; b) a steel, stainless steel or brass fixing housing 9; c) a steel, stainless steel or brass base 10 to hold the spring; d) a Teflon base 11 to support the tube; and e) a Teflon guide to fit the tube 12.
The spring 8 is a compression spring designed especially to the dimensions of the collapsible tube 3.
The functions of the spring 8 are to hold the base support 11 for the tube, joined to the guide 12 to fit the tube; to be compressed in order to allow the movement of the collapsible tube 3 simultaneously when the plug 1 is being introduced into it and to expel the tube 3 when the sealing process is complete.
The fixing housing 9 enables all the other elements to be anchored down and supported.
The base 10 for holding the spring supports the compression forces exerted on the spring and protects it.
The base 11 supporting the tube supports the collapsible tube 3 and supports the forces exerted in the process of placing the plug. 1.
The guiding 12 to fit the tube directs the movement of the collapsible tube 3 and holds the ring 2 to plug and completely seal the collapsible tube 3.
Assembly Process The sealing system for collapsible tubes, object of this patent, is assembled as can be seen in Figure 7, as follows: First, the ring 2 is placed in the tube-holder 7, then the collapsible tube 3 is placed in the tube-holder 7.
The product to be filled is introduced, and the plug 1 is placed in the collapsible tube 3 and force is applied to the plug until it makes contact with the ring 2.
The collapsible tube 3 is removed from the tube-holder 7.
Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.
All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise.
Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.
The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s).
The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims (19)

1. A sealing system for collapsible tubes and machine, characterized in that the system has a plug and a ring which are placed at the bottom end of a collapsible tube, by a machine or tube-holder.
2. A sealing system for collapsible tubes characterized in that the system has a plug and a ring which can be placed at the bottom end of a collapsible tube by a tube-holder.
3. A sealing system for collapsible tubes according to Claim 1 or 2 wherein the plug is a cylindrical body with a small circular tab at the top, a central section or plug proper, which is a hollow conical trunk or hollow cylinder; and a lower section which is a conical trunk or solid cylinder.
4. A sealing system for collapsible tubes according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the walls of the plug have a thickness of 2 to 4mm and the dimensions of the plug depend on the diameter of the tube namely: outside diameter of 12 to 1 5mm, total height of 1 1 to 1 2mm; with the hollow central section 7 to 8mm diameter and height of 6 to 7mm, and the tab 2mm high and 1 3.5mm diameter.
5. A sealing system for collapsible tubes according to Claim 1 to 2, wherein because the ring has a thickness of 1 to 3mm, a height of 8 to 9mm and a diameter of 16 to 1 7mm, depending on the diameter of the tube.
6. A sealing system for collapsible tubes according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the sealing system is applied to rigid, semi-rigid and soft collapsible tubes.
7. A sealing system for collapsible tubes according to Claim 1, wherein the machine or tube-holder has five parts, as follows: a) a spring; b) a fixing housing; c) a base to hold the spring; d) a base to support the tube; e) a guide to fit the tube.
8. A sealing system for collapsible tubes according to Claim 7, wherein the spring is a compression spring which holds the base to support the tube, joined to the guide to fit the tube; and then, it compresses to displace the collapsible tube simultaneously when introducing the plug into itself and finally, it expels the tube when the sealing process is complete.
lo
9. A sealing system for collapsible tubes according to Claim 1, wherein the guide to fit the tube, directs the movement of the collapsible tube and holds the ring to plug and completely seal the collapsible tube.
10. A sealing apparatus comprising a sealing system for collapsible tubes and a tube-holder characterized in that the system has a plug and a ring which can be placed at the bottom end of a collapsible tube by the tube holder.
11. A sealing apparatus for collapsible tubes according to Claim 10, wherein the tube-holder has five parts, as follows: a) a spring; b) a fixing housing; c) a base to hold the spring; d) a base to support the tube; e) a guide to fit the tube.
12. A sealing apparatus for collapsible tubes according to Claim 11, wherein the spring is a compression spring which is arranged to hold the base to support the tube, joined to the guide to fit the tube; and then, compress to displace the collapsible tube simultaneously when introducing the plug into itself and finally, expel the tube when the sealing process is complete.
13. A sealing apparatus for collapsible tubes according to Claim 11, wherein the guide to fit the tube is arranged to direct the movement of the collapsible tube and hold the ring to plug and completely seal the collapsible tube.
14. A tube-holder for placing a plug and a ring at the bottom end of a s collapsible tube, wherein the tube-holder has five parts as follows: a) a spring; b) a fixing housing; c) a base to hold the spring; d) a base to support the tube; e) a guide to fit the tube.
15. A tube-holder according to Claim 14, wherein the spring is a compression lo spring which is arranged to hold the base to support the tube, joined to the guide to fit the tube; and then, compress to displace the collapsible tube simultaneously when introducing the plug into itself and finally, expel the tube when the sealing process is complete.
16. A tube-holder according to Claim 14, wherein the guide to fit the tube is arranged to direct the movement of the collapsible tube and holds the ring to plug and completely seal the collapsible tube.
17. A sealing system for collapsible tubes and a machine substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.
18. A process for sealing collapsible tubes using a sealing system for collapsible tubes and machine according to Claim 1.
19. A process for sealing collapsible tubes substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.
GB0421697A 2003-10-01 2004-09-30 Sealing system for collapsible tubes and machines Expired - Fee Related GB2406847B (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CO03087276 2003-10-01

Publications (3)

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GB2406847A true GB2406847A (en) 2005-04-13
GB2406847B GB2406847B (en) 2007-03-14

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AR (1) AR046684A4 (en)
BR (1) BRMU8402393U (en)
DE (1) DE202004015276U1 (en)
EC (1) ECSMU045332U (en)
GB (1) GB2406847B (en)
IT (1) ITMI20040449U1 (en)
PE (1) PE20050009A1 (en)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2016011153A1 (en) * 2014-07-16 2016-01-21 Dow Global Technologies Llc Flexible container with fitment and process for producing same
EP3031734A1 (en) * 2014-12-12 2016-06-15 Galderma S.A. Sealable packaging device and related method
US10858136B2 (en) 2019-04-23 2020-12-08 Smart Bottle, Inc. Flexible container and process for installation of fitment in same

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB545261A (en) * 1940-11-15 1942-05-18 Keith Trevor Improvements relating to hollow bodies made from cellulose products and other plastic substances
GB1598267A (en) * 1977-06-20 1981-09-16 Abbott Joseph L Collapsible container structure and method of making same
FR2545450A1 (en) * 1983-05-06 1984-11-09 Benarrouch Jacques Stopper for refillable flexible tubes for packaging liquid or pasty products.
WO1993010013A1 (en) * 1991-11-14 1993-05-27 Jacques Benarrouch Tube container for paste comprising a refilling device locked by a screw cap

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB545261A (en) * 1940-11-15 1942-05-18 Keith Trevor Improvements relating to hollow bodies made from cellulose products and other plastic substances
GB1598267A (en) * 1977-06-20 1981-09-16 Abbott Joseph L Collapsible container structure and method of making same
FR2545450A1 (en) * 1983-05-06 1984-11-09 Benarrouch Jacques Stopper for refillable flexible tubes for packaging liquid or pasty products.
WO1993010013A1 (en) * 1991-11-14 1993-05-27 Jacques Benarrouch Tube container for paste comprising a refilling device locked by a screw cap

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2016011153A1 (en) * 2014-07-16 2016-01-21 Dow Global Technologies Llc Flexible container with fitment and process for producing same
US10589882B2 (en) 2014-07-16 2020-03-17 Dow Global Technologies Llc Flexible container with fitment and process for producing same
EP3031734A1 (en) * 2014-12-12 2016-06-15 Galderma S.A. Sealable packaging device and related method
US10858136B2 (en) 2019-04-23 2020-12-08 Smart Bottle, Inc. Flexible container and process for installation of fitment in same

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ECSMU045332U (en) 2005-07-06
ITMI20040449U1 (en) 2005-01-01
AR046684A4 (en) 2005-12-21
GB2406847B (en) 2007-03-14
GB0421697D0 (en) 2004-11-03
DE202004015276U1 (en) 2005-04-14
BRMU8402393U (en) 2005-05-17
PE20050009A1 (en) 2005-02-17

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Effective date: 20130930