JP2006521973A - Capsules with pierceable caps and stoppers and containers with such capsules - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention mainly relates to a capsule (1) attached to a stopper for a container for liquid supply, and a corresponding stopper and container. The sealing capsule (1) is mainly composed of a deformable membrane (2) sealed at the bottom by a pierceable cap (3) to define a volume containing at least one substance, and said cap Having at least one intermediate part (6) with built-in means (4) for crushing (3), the crushing means being effective for the substance (S) after sufficient deformation of the deformable membrane (2) The cap can be crushed to release the quantity, the intermediate part (6) being formed as a peripheral ring (7) on which the arcuate member (15) is locally supported, the free end (16) of which It is formed as at least one protruding member or pointed member (12) facing the cap (3) for crushing.

Description

  The present invention relates to a capsule for the supply of liquid or paste products, in particular for mineral water bottles, attached to a stopper of a container with a neck or neck, and a corresponding stopper and container.

  More particularly, the stopper with a capsule according to the present invention puts a special substance or component that is mixed into the contents of the container immediately before use or consumption into a sealed compartment that is shut off from the container to be plugged in this way. It is configured as follows.

  The stopper of the present invention is not limited to any kind of drinkable or non-drinkable liquids such as mineral water, fruit juice, milk drinks, but also sauces or seasonings (eg ketchup, mustard, vinaigrette sauce) or non-food It can be used in particular for plugging bottles made of a synthetic material, commonly called plastics material (eg PET), for filling liquids (maintenance products, detergents, etc.).

  In these particular fields, for example, to prepare a high calorie beverage or baby bottle, it is provided with a plurality of compartments containing substances, in particular edible substances, which are generally added to the contents of containers containing drinks such as water or milk. A number of other plugs are already known.

  However, all current plugs have some disadvantages that are somewhat more cumbersome.

  A first type of known stopper has a capsule or tank sealed with a detachably secured film or sheet on top of the stopper mounted on the container. To add the substance in the tank to the container, loosen the stopper, tear off the film or sheet that closes the tank to form an opening for the substance, and turn the stopper over to turn the container The contents of the container and the substance can be mixed by pouring the substance into the container, and finally closing the container again and shaking the container. This type of stopper therefore requires a number of cumbersome steps, some of which, in particular, consist of turning the stopper over to release the substance into the container, injecting the substance onto the side of the container. A certain level of sophistication may be required in order to avoid the problem.

  Another type of stopper has a capsule or container that releases solid material in the form of a tablet through the pressure a user exerts on the capsule with a finger. By the way, this kind of stopper has various problems in consideration of the fact that the substance contained in the capsule and the contents of the container should not contact accidentally. In this type of stopper, the above problem is solved by the presence of a sealing cap fixed to the neck of the container. In a first variant embodiment of such a plug, the user first releases the plug and removes the sealing cap to release the substance, then plugs the container again and pushes the capsule to eject the capsule tablet. . In a second variant embodiment, the cap is fixed to the container while the user can remove the cap. In any case, a number of tedious steps are likewise required for the release of the substance. Yet another drawback is that the cap of the capsule allowing the release of the substance only works well if the substance takes the form of a tablet or a hard pastille.

  In order to limit the number of steps required for the release of the substance, the substance in the form of a tablet or a hard sugar-coated tablet, an upper deformable membrane that exerts pressure to release said substance, and a lower cap that acts as a sealing member A plug that can be inserted between the two was devised. The lower cap is torn by the tablet when the user pushes the upper deformable membrane.

  By the way, the stiffness of the cap can be exerted by the contents of the container when it is compressed during the container handling step, while at the same time it is sufficiently weak so that the substance can be easily removed (preferably irrespective of the state of the substance). This is a critical parameter since it must be high enough to withstand the pressure. In fact, if the cap is too stiff, the cap will break during the handling step and the material will accidentally mix with the contents of the container.

  This can be disadvantageous for certain people because the rigidity of the cap is quite high, as the pressure that the user or consumer must exert on the cap to dispense the material must be similarly high. Ideally, the pressure transmitted through the substance to the cap should be the same regardless of the form and configuration of the substance. By the way, when using a powdery substance, for example, the stress exerted on the elastic film and transmitted to the cap is weakened, so that it is not always sufficient for crushing the cap to discharge the substance.

  The main drawback of this type of plug is therefore that it is limited to use in materials that take the form of tablets or hard dragees that can transmit the stress exerted on the cap almost entirely by the finger. Therefore, this type of plug cannot be used in the case of liquid or powdered substances. Moreover, since the crushing of the cap is a function performed in relation to the form of the substance, any reproducibility of the crushing is excluded.

  The present invention aims to eliminate at least some of the disadvantages of known capsules and plugs with capsules, minimizing the risk of accidental crushing of the cap and adding to the container to be added. Capsule and stopper that can isolate the substance from the contents, and that the crushing of the cap by the user is quite easy and reproducible as much as possible regardless of the state or physical configuration of the substance. The purpose is to provide.

  In fact, it is ideally added to the contents of the container, especially in the case of partially filled capsules that contain materials that may not be able to transmit sufficient stress even if the user exerts mechanical stress that can break the seal cap. It should be possible to crush the seal cap whatever the type of material.

  This is especially true for highly flowable liquids and solid or highly compressible solids such as fine powders and brittle granules.

  Furthermore, the plug according to the present invention does not preferably form a detachable part by opening, so it must be usable with one hand without any force or manipulation by the consumer.

  Accordingly, the present invention is primarily comprised of a deformable membrane that is sealed at the bottom by a pierceable cap and defines an airtight volume for at least one substance to be placed between the deformable membrane and the cap. In order to provide a hermetically sealed capsule, the cap can be crushed to release an effective amount of material after external mechanical stress is applied to the deformable membrane and the deformable membrane is sufficiently deformed. , Characterized in that it has at least one built-in crushing means for the pierceable cap.

  The present invention also aims to provide a closure for a container having a neck or col for the supply of liquid or paste products, in particular for mineral water bottles, which closure is fixed to the container. The pedestal closes the container via a capsule according to the present invention hermetically fitted into the pedestal, and the deformable membrane itself of the capsule fits into the pedestal. Covered with a rigid protective cover held by an annular base part, the bottom of the capsule is formed from a pierceable cap, thereby filling at least one substance added to the contents of the container before consumption A sealed effective volume is defined between the deformable membrane and the cap of the capsule, and when the cap is crushed by sufficient deformation of the deformable membrane, Effective amount, characterized in that it is released into the contents of the container.

  The invention also aims to provide a container with a neck or neck for supplying liquid or paste products, in particular mineral water, having a capsule according to the invention.

  Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  Reference is first made to FIG. 1, which shows a side elevation schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a capsule according to the invention.

  In the embodiment described and illustrated, at least one substance is mainly composed of a deformable membrane 2 sealed at the bottom by a pierceable cap 3, between the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3. The sealed capsule 1 defining an airtight volume V for containing S has at least one crushing means 4 integrated with the pierceable cap 3 and is subjected to external mechanical stress to cause the deformable membrane 2 to be deformed. It is characterized in that the cap can be crushed so as to release an effective amount of substance S after it has been sufficiently deformed.

  By incorporating the crushing means 4 inside the capsule 1 itself, it is possible to produce a single-part capsule 1 that can be assembled in one-touch to a stopper selected to close a desired container. It is not necessary to provide additional external parts.

  According to a first embodiment, which is particularly simple and economical, the capsule 1 according to the invention has the crushing means 4 configured as an incision 5 in the cap 3, i.e. preferably at least one crushing point or crushing of the cap. Configured as a line.

  Advantageously, the incisions 5 are configured as a collection of fracture lines, which are preferably arranged in a star shape centered on the cap 3.

  In this way, opening the cap 3 is ensured by tearing the cap 3, which should be as simple and reproducible as possible.

  For reference, an example of another cross-shaped cut 5 is shown in FIG. 2, but other shapes are equally suitable.

  The cut 5 in the strict sense can be constructed by any method known per se, which is usually used, in particular by laser cutting, die pressing or the like.

  Preferably, the deformable membrane 2 is made of PVC, which is an elastic material, so that the user can successfully break the cap 3 to release one or more substances S contained in the container R, for example one Fully deformable with fingers. The shape of the deformable membrane 2 in a strict sense may be a bell-shaped, preferably a bell-shaped overall shape such as a circular shape with a flat top, or an elliptical shape, but may be any shape. it can.

  According to another feature not shown, the deformable membrane 2 can comprise at least one preferential deformation means for deforming the deformable membrane. This means is configured as a preferentially deforming point, line or surface, for example as a recess which is arranged on the side of the deformable membrane 2 and takes the form of a groove part with a substantially semi-cylindrical cross section. Is done. The deforming means deforms the points, lines, or faces, i.e. the deformable membrane 2 sufficiently significantly, initiating and facilitating the deformation of other parts of the deformable membrane 2 to reach the desired goal. A stress-concentrating part can be formed, thereby making the cap 3 sufficiently torn or smashable, one in an airtight volume V for adding to the contents of a container with a capsule 1 according to the invention, or Allow multiple substances S to pass.

  In the preferred example described above, where one or more suitable deformation means of the deformable membrane 2 (where appropriate for the consumer to operate, eg, located near the top) are located By pressing with the user's thumb or other finger, a relatively easy deformation of the deformable membrane 2 is initiated and this deformation spreads to other harder surfaces, leading these surfaces to the deformation motion, The scale of is immediately sufficient to form an effective through hole for one or more substances S in the pierceable cap 3.

  When the deformable membrane 2 is made of a flexible material such as natural rubber or an elastic material, the original aesthetic of the plug is maintained by returning to the original shape again when the pressing force of the user's finger stops Is still possible.

  Of course, other variable materials that perform the same function can be used as well, even though PVC is preferred primarily because of the physicochemical properties that are particularly suitable for the above applications.

  The material or materials used in the manufacture of the plug capsule 1, in particular the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3, can be characterized by the liquid or pasty nature of the container R thus plugged, or Needless to say, it should be chemically and physically compatible with each of the one or more substances S contained in the airtight volume V defined by the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3. Furthermore, when the container R closed with the stopper according to the present invention is configured to contain a liquid or pasty food, the above-mentioned material has an appropriate food quality, and the stopper product to be commercialized is: It must be ensured that the appropriate hygiene standards are being met.

  Thus, a single operation is sufficient to transfer one or more substances S to the container R after opening the protective cap 19 (see, eg, FIGS. 18 and 19).

  The opening operation of the protective cover 19 can also be performed with one hand. For example, the container R is grasped with the palm of the hand, and the protective cover 19 is removed by the operation of the thumb of the same hand. FIG. 19 shows a stopper with the capsule of the type of FIG. 1 when the protective cover 19 is opened, the deformable membrane 2 is fully pushed in, the cap 3 is broken, and one or more substances S has fallen into the container R.

  At the time of closing, the protective cap 19 is returned to the base part 20 with the index finger until a clicking sound indicating the closing is heard.

  The structure of the base part 20 and the opening / closing means 33 and 34 will be described in detail later.

  According to another characteristic, the capsule 1 according to the invention comprises at least one intermediate part 6 provided between the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3, the intermediate part 6 being a deformable membrane. And at least one crushing means 4 for the deformable membrane 2 which can be activated when fully deformed.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the capsule 1 according to the present invention constituted according to the second embodiment is such that the at least one intermediate part 6 is preferably substantially bell-shaped, and more preferably It is configured as a ring 7 arranged between a deformable membrane 2 with a flat top and a cap 3 that seals the volume V, the ring 7 forming a connecting valve with respect to the ring 7. At least one surface portion 8 defined in the ring 7 as a crushing means 4 and the valve rotates towards the cap 3 so that the cap pierces the cap when the deformable membrane 2 is fully deformed It is possible.

  According to a third embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the capsule 1 according to the present invention has the at least one intermediate part 6 preferably in the form of a bell, more preferably in the upper part. Constructed as a ring 7 arranged between a flat deformable membrane 2 and a cap 3 sealing the volume V, said ring 7 being preferably interconnected by at least one crushing bridge 10 Having a plurality of surface portions 8, 8 'as the crushing means 4, these surface portions are defined in the ring 7 so as to form a connecting valve to the ring 7 for each surface portion 8, 8'. Each valve is characterized in that after crushing one or a plurality of connecting bridges 10, the cap can be pierced when the deformable membrane 2 is sufficiently deformed by rotating to the cap 3 side.

  As can be seen from FIGS. 10, 11, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24, the fastener of the crushing means 4 on the opposite side of the hinge 9 of the formed rotary valve or on the intermediate part 6. The end of the crushing means 4 on the opposite side can be provided with a thin fastener or bridge 10 ′ that acts as a crushing bridge that secures the crushing means 4, unless a stopper is actually used. This bridge 10 'also allows the user to exert a fairly strong pressure or force on the arcuate member 15 when the user attempts to break the cap 3, which force is responsible for breaking the bridge 10'. At the same time, the crushing or breaking of the cap 3 compared to the stepwise crushing, which, due to its very strong strength and sudden pressing, gradually exerts a strong force and releases the whole substance S contained in the capsule 1. Can be realized more clearly or more clearly.

  Gradual fracture is because the deformable membrane 2 transmits mechanical stress, i.e. transmits mechanical stress while the membrane itself is in contact, or as shown in FIG. In order to transmit the pressure to the surface of the cap 3 or the fulcrum 14 via the substance S, the stress transmitted in this way is also necessary for the perforation of the cap 3 when it is not deformed sufficiently (not pushed in). This is the case when the bridge 10 'or the bridge 10 (FIGS. 6 and 9), which is relatively weaker than the stress and joins the two surface portions together, is not sufficient to break.

  Advantageously, the ring 7 and the surface portions 8, 8 ′ are formed at or near the location of one or more crushing bridges 10, 10 ′ by injection of synthetic material, preferably polyethylene. .

  As can be seen from the embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9, the capsule 1 according to the present invention is characterized in that at least a part of the free outer edge of the surface portion 8, 8 ′ facilitates the piercing of the cap 3. It has a tooth-shaped acute angle portion 11.

  Thereby, if necessary, the crushing of the cap 3 can be facilitated. If this portion is not present, the cap 3 is torn without assistance. The shape and number of the rotary valve and / or crushing means 4 is determined according to the crushing resistance that the cap 3 obtains, and the cap 3 is usually constructed as possibly a plastic-processed aluminum foil or the like.

  A protruding tooth for the crushing means 4 is shown as a non-limiting example, but for example takes the form of a vertical protruding tip within or protruding from the thickness of the rotary valve towards the cap 3. Other protruding cut shapes are possible as well.

  In the variant embodiment shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, the crushing means 4 has at least one projecting member 12 that faces the cap 3 and facilitates its drilling. This modified embodiment will be described later.

  A sixth variant embodiment of the capsule 1 according to the invention has one or more surface portions 8, 8 'of the crushing means 4 having a rigid member 13 projecting towards the deformable membrane 2, this stiffness. The member has an overall effective support surface 14 through which a user can transmit external mechanical stresses exerted on the deformable membrane 2, which mechanical stresses cause the cap 3 to rotate by rotating at least one surface portion 8, 8 ′. By crushing, it is sufficient to release an effective amount of the substance S into the contents of the container R to which the capsule 1 is attached.

  A non-limiting example corresponding to this type of variant embodiment is shown in FIGS.

  In order to facilitate the energy transfer required for crushing the cap 3, the capsule 1 is preferably deformable, preferably at least partially, into the shape of the deformable membrane 2 with the rigid member 13. It is characterized by having an effective support surface 14 that substantially engages the shape of the upper part of the membrane or the shape of a part of the upper part.

  More preferably, the rigid member 13 is formed as a semi-cylindrical part with a vertical or substantially vertical semicircular cross section, and the effective support surface 14 then has the sixth embodiment listed for reference. As shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, it has a rectangular or substantially rectangular band shape.

  With this configuration, the user can deform the deformable membrane 2 at a position that can reach a location near the top of the deformable membrane 2 from a location close to the base 18 (facing the support surface 14). The direction of the stress exerted at that time is almost vertical and is more convenient to exert with one finger or thumb of the consumer.

  The seventh embodiment is configured such that an intermediate part 6 provided between the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3 is formed as a peripheral ring 7, and an arcuate member 15 is formed at the peripheral part. It is supported locally via the hinge part 9. The arcuate member engages the deformable membrane 2 almost and at least locally in its initial state, with its free end 16 as at least one protruding member or pointed member 12 facing the cap 3. And an effective support surface 14 is provided on the arcuate member 15 to allow the user to transmit external mechanical stress on the deformable membrane 2, which force is applied to one or more end projecting members 12 is sufficient to crush the cap 3 and release an effective amount of substance S into the contents of the container R.

  This solution is shown in FIGS.

  Particularly advantageously, the effective support surface 14 provided on the arcuate member 15 has on its inner surface facing the cap 3 side a vertical or substantially vertical wall part 17 which also faces the cap 3 side, and its holding support The surface 14 ′ assists the user in transmitting external mechanical stress that exerts on the deformable membrane 2 to cause the crushing of the cap 3.

  According to another feature, the peripheral ring 7 and the one or more surface portions 8, 8 'and / or the one or more hinge portions 9 and / or the arcuate member 15 are preferably injected of synthetic material. It is configured as an integral part by molding.

  Further, if necessary, at least one preferential crushing point or crushing line is provided on the cap 3 provided in the capsule 1 of the embodiment different from the first modified embodiment (FIGS. 1 and 2), for example. It is also possible to further provide as the notch 5, and this makes it easier to crush the cap 3 in combination with the crushing means 4.

  Therefore, it is possible to provide one or a plurality of grooves in which the thickness of the cap 3 is arbitrarily reduced by laser cutting or a similar or equivalent method.

  With regard to the assembly of the various components of the capsule, the first solution is to cap the deformable membrane 2 preferably at a common circular peripheral position where the cap 3 and the deformable membrane 2 overlap and contact. 3 is fixed directly and securely.

  This first method is shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 18, FIG. 19, and FIG. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22, for example, the arcuate member 15 and the ring 7 are integrally formed as a monoblock part, and inserted into the hollow portion made of the deformable membrane 2 (without welding) when the capsule 1 is manufactured. It can be made freely. In that case, the cap 3 is welded directly to the corresponding peripheral part of the deformable membrane 2 and the arcuate member 15 is enclosed between them but not fixed. Therefore, the method for manufacturing the capsule 1 according to this embodiment is advantageously simplified.

  According to the second method, the cap 3 is fixed directly to the lower surface 6 ′ of the intermediate part 6, in particular to the lower surface 6 ′ around the ring 7 forming the intermediate part 6, whereby the cap 3 And the deformable membrane 2 are not in direct contact (FIGS. 3 to 17, 20, and 21).

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, for example, the arcuate member 15 and the ring 7 are similarly integrally molded as a monoblock part, but this part is fixed to the cap 3 by deformation, for example by welding. The possible membrane 2 itself is fixed or welded to the peripheral part of the ring 7, and the arcuate member 15 is enclosed and fixed between them.

  Advantageously, the cap 3 is fixed to the lower surface 6 'of the deformable membrane 2 or intermediate part 6 by circular welding, circular thermal contact or other similar methods.

  The invention also aims to provide a closure for a container with a neck or neck for the supply of liquid or paste products, in particular for mineral water bottles, which is fixed to the container R. The pedestal 18 mainly comprises the pedestal, which closes the container R via the capsule 1 according to the present invention fitted in the pedestal 18 in an airtight manner, and the deformable membrane 2 itself of the capsule 1 is Covered with a rigid protective cover 19 held by an annular base part 20 fitted on the pedestal 18 and the lower bottom of the capsule 1 is formed from a pierceable cap 3, thereby filling the contents of the container R before consumption. A sealed effective volume V filled with at least one additional substance S is defined between the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 and the cap 3 and is sufficient for the deformable membrane 2. During crushing of the cap 3 by shape, characterized in that the effective amount of a substance S is released the contents of the container R.

  According to a preferred variant embodiment shown in FIGS. 23 to 25, the sealed capsule 1 according to the invention comprises at least one intermediate part 6 provided between the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3. The intermediate part 6 includes the at least one crushing means 4 of the deformable membrane 2 operable at a sufficient deformation of the deformable membrane, the intermediate part 6 being connected via a hinge part 9 Formed as a locally supported peripheral ring 7, the arcuate member at least locally substantially engages the shape of the deformable membrane 2 in its initial state, with its free end 16 facing at least the cap 3. The arcuate member is provided with an effective support surface 14 formed as a single protruding member or pointed member 12 and capable of transmitting an external mechanical stress exerted on the deformable membrane 2 by a user, One or more of the distal projection member 12 is swung, characterized in that it is sufficient to obtain a crushing of the cap 3 for releasing a substance S effective amount contained in the capsule 1.

  Preferably, the deformable membrane 2 and the protective cover 19 are both composed of an elastically deformable material taking the shape of approximately two hemispheres, and the radius of the hemisphere of the protective cover 19 is such that the deformable membrane 2 The hemisphere of the protective cover 19 includes at least one meridional cutout 19 'extending from the bottom of the hemisphere to a certain height of the hemisphere. This embodiment of the protective cover is particularly advantageous. This is because the protective cover does not need to be molded in the open position, and the manufacturing cost of the protective cover 19 can be substantially reduced if the size of the mold is significantly reduced to increase the resistance. Further, from the mechanical point of view, by not forming the protective cover 19 in the open position, it is possible to maintain the integrity of the hinge 35 that can be weakened when the protective cover 19 is formed in the open position.

  FIG. 23 shows the protective cover 19 and the base part 20 before assembling to the plug base 18, and FIG. 24 shows the assembled protective cover 19 and base 18. At the time of this assembly, the meridian cutout 19 'spreads away from each other for the assembly of the protective cover 19, and the dimensions when closing the cover on the base 18 in cooperation with the opening and closing means 33, 34 are increased. To.

  A non-limiting example of a plug that can be equipped with the capsule 1 according to the invention is shown in FIGS.

  Advantageously, as can be seen, for example, from FIGS. 18 and 19, the stopper according to the invention is configured in such a way that the pedestal 18 is configured as a part consisting of a cylindrical part 21 fixed to the neck or neck G of the container R, at its upper end, An annular flat portion 22 forming a circular inner shoulder 23 defining the opening 24 of the container R is provided, and the cap 3 is held or fixed on the upper surface 22 ′ of the annular flat portion 22 facing the capsule 1. It is characterized by that.

  The pedestal 18 can be composed of, for example, an injection molded part, and is preferably made of a plastic material.

  The pedestal 18 can fix the stopper to the container R, and at the same time provides a base for the deformable membrane 2 and a base part 20 of the rigid protective cover 19 that covers the deformable membrane 2. .

  As can be seen in particular from FIGS. 18 to 22, the plug according to the invention further takes the form of an annular skirt in which the lower surface 22 ″ of the annular flat part 22 is configured to cooperate with the inner surface of the neck of the container R. It is characterized by having a vertical wall 25 and a cylindrical portion 21 for fixing the stopper to the container, and the vertical wall 25 has the same simple specifications as in FIGS. This is also shown in FIGS.

  Advantageously, the plug according to the invention (in the variant embodiment shown in FIGS. 18 to 22), after assembling the capsule 1 in the plug, the upper surface 22 ′ of the annular flat part 22 is annular together with the annular flat part 22. The peripheral portion of the capsule 1 is provided with an annular edge 26 which forms a groove 27 and which can be at least somewhat deformed, in the position of the cap 3 and the deformable membrane 2 and possibly the position of the intermediate part 6. It is characterized by sealing.

  In this way, the deformable membrane 2 can be completely sealed and the airtightness of the airtight volume V can be increased. For this reason, when the deformable membrane 2 is assembled, the annular edge 26 is bent toward the annular flat portion 22 side of the base 18. Such an indentation of the deformable membrane 2 can be further reinforced by the annular flat portion 22 of the base part 20 when assembled to the pedestal 18 while compressing as described below.

  Preferably, the plug according to the invention further cooperates with an engagement means 29 in which the cylindrical part 21 fixed to the neck or neck G of the container R is arranged on the base part 20 on a circular wall on its outer side. The base part 20 is fixed to the pedestal 18 with a working means 28.

  These means can be any conventional mechanical means suitable for fixation.

  By way of non-limiting example, the cooperating means 28 and the engaging means 29 are notches or grooves that cooperate with a “convex” member, such as a nail or a borrelet, as shown in FIGS. It consists of "concave" members such as.

  Similarly, advantageously, the plug according to the present invention comprises a cylindrical sleeve 30 in which the base part 20 is configured to be secured to the pedestal 18, preferably at its upper end with an annular edge 26 while being compressed. An annular flat portion 31 is formed which is configured to be supported and forms an inner circular edge 32, the annular edge being the position of the cap 3 and the deformable membrane 2 and possibly the position of the intermediate part 6. Thus, the peripheral portion of the capsule 1 is sealed.

  As mentioned above, such measures can advantageously further increase the tightness between the deformable membrane 2 and the plug base 18.

  Alternatively, the cylindrical sleeve 30 of the base part 20 may be secured directly to the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 by any conventional means (welding, laminating etc.), the capsule possibly via the cap 3 And is held or fixed by the pedestal 18 or both. In this way, the cylindrical sleeve 30 is mechanically locked when the protective cover 19 and the pedestal 18 are assembled, and is fixed to the locking portion, or laterally attached to the cylindrical peripheral portion of the pedestal 18. It can be fixed in the direction or both (FIG. 24).

  The stopper according to the invention can be fixed to the neck of the container R by any conventional means. Preferably, the stopper is screwed to the neck of the container R.

  In this case, as shown in FIGS. 18 to 24, the inner thread configured to screw the cylindrical portion 21 onto the outer thread of the threaded neck or neck G of the container R. It can be configured as a cylindrical sleeve with 21 '.

  In this way, the stopper according to the invention can be attached to any container with standard threads.

  According to another feature, the base part 20 has corresponding second means 34 arranged on the protective cover 19 and first opening and closing means 33 which cooperate by interlocking by elastic deformation.

  In general, all rugged or equivalent devices can be adapted to the closure of the present invention to ensure reliability when closing the protective cover 19 and to be easily removed.

  According to a first variant embodiment, the base part 20 has a push button with a first hook cooperating with a corresponding second hook arranged on the protective cover 19.

  Therefore, when the push button is pressed with, for example, a thumb so that the two hooks are released, the protective cover 19 is opened, and the deformable membrane 2 can be reached.

  According to another variant embodiment, the base part 20 has a push button with a punch that cooperates with a corresponding pawl arranged on the protective cover 19.

  The protective cover 19 is advantageously configured to be coupled to the base part 20 by at least one cover hinge 35 so that the protective cover 19 can be rotated when the rotating part is opened and retained. The cover hinge 35 can be realized in various forms. 18 to 22, the hinge 35 is formed as a single part that is injection-molded with a synthetic material and joins the bottom of the protective cover 19 and the base part 20.

  The hinge 35 shown in FIG. 25 that couples the protective cover 19 to the base part 20 at the top makes it possible to connect the cover to the top of the hemisphere constituting the hinge or to rotate at this top. It is configured according to the form. With this embodiment of the protective cover 19 and the hinge 35, the position of the protective cover 19 in the base part 20 can be determined "to compress the protective cover" with the base part 20. By such compression, as shown in FIG. 25, the notch 19 'in the meridian direction is separated and the opening / closing means 33 and 34 are engaged. When the opening / closing means are engaged with each other, the closed position of the protective cover 19 in the base part 20 is stabilized.

  Alternatively, the cover 19 is not permanently fixed to the base part 20 but is held only by the base part (eg, by engagement by elastic deformation), and finally when the contents of the container R are used or consumed. You may comprise so that it may remove. Indeed, the protective cover 19 has the primary purpose of protecting the deformable membrane 2 from any unintentional external impact, for example during handling, storage and transport operations of the capped container R. . Such collisions can accidentally deform or damage the deformable membrane, causing the volume V to become airtight.

  In a particularly simple and economical embodiment, the protective cover 19 is integrated with the base part 20.

  According to another feature, the lower end of the pedestal 18 remote from the neck of the container R or the outlet of the neck G comprises a safety ring 36.

  This ensures that the stopper is never loosened from the neck or neck of the container R.

  Furthermore, the plug according to the invention is also characterized in that it includes at least one inviolable device in the position of the locking means of the protective cover 19 in the closed position.

  Such means can be configured, for example, as a ring or circular strip of a film of thermoformed thermoplastic material that engages and locks the locking means of the protective cover 19 before first use. Cover. During initial use, the circular band is removed by means of facilitating such removal, for example, a (dashed) cutout, a pull-out notch, an open tape, etc., thus serving as evidence that the plug has been opened. .

  According to another advantageous feature, the protective cover 19 and the deformable membrane 2 are made of one or more translucent materials, preferably made of a transparent material.

  Therefore, the user can confirm the presence of the substance S before use, for example, the presence of a tablet such as a very accurate medicine that dissolves in the contents of the container R before ingestion. Moreover, when using a transparent material, the property of the substance S can be managed by, for example, a color code or a form code. Therefore, depending on the type of taste, the substance S is colored and the substance should be a tasteless or relatively tasteless drink, or a drink whose taste should be modified, i.e. it should have a strong taste or vice versa. It can be considered to add to drinks that should be weakened or even hidden.

  By way of non-limiting example, the substance S can be a colored powder, dragee or syrup that is dissolved in mineral water, each color corresponding to a taste or other predetermined characteristic (yellow = lemon flavor, red = Apple, green = lime, orange = orange or orange, chestnut = chocolate, blue = mint, black = cola, etc.)

  Furthermore, it is likewise possible to improve the aesthetics and playful elements of the plug according to the invention by means of embodiments using transparent materials.

  Most commonly, the substance or substances S may be any edible or non-edible substance (regardless of its solid, liquid, gaseous, pasty, etc. state) or into the contents of the container R May be a mixture of substances that may be desired to be added. The contents can also be any edible or non-edible contents regardless of their physical state.

  Preferably, the substance S or substances S are solid or liquid, and the contents of the container R are more or less viscous liquid, preferably water, more preferably mineral water.

  Preferably, one or more substances S and the contents of the container R are edible, i.e. harmless to humans and animals.

  In this description, the contents of the liquid in the solid substance S and the container R are given as non-limiting examples, but those skilled in the art can modify the application with respect to the types of materials used and the dimensions of various parts. It is self-evident that the above example can be adapted to other cases not explicitly described here.

  The term “addition” with respect to one or more substances is likewise understood to mean a pure and simple addition, ie the one or more substances S (for example insoluble) of the container R It must be understood as a mere fact of adding to the contents, but on the other hand their physical (with or without assistance) to form stable mixtures, suspensions, emulsions etc. Should be understood as meaning complete mixing, partial or complete dissolution in the contents, and chemical mixing (leading to one or more chemical reactions).

  Advantageously, the one or more substances S comprise at least one substance that senses the contents of the container R that the capsule 1 is intended to cooperate with, the sensing substance only before or shortly before consumption. Added to the container.

  Non-limiting examples of such substances S are pharmaceutical preparations that are very fragile and must be in a form that can be taken at the final moment, and physical or chemical stability over time. There are almost no mixtures (immiscible substances, fresh food).

  Therefore, according to another characteristic, the capsule 1 according to the invention is characterized in that one or more substances S contain at least one medicine.

  According to another characteristic, the capsule 1 according to the invention is characterized in that the substance or substances S comprise at least one cosmetic agent for internal use, for example an internal collagen solution.

  As described above, the one or more substances S are preferably foods.

  Advantageously, the one or more substances S are pigments, fragrances, preservatives, sweeteners, thickeners, stabilizers, supplements, supplements, dietary special diets, or at least Selected from the group consisting of any mixture obtained from two of the above components.

  Supplement means any food (such as dairy or cereal or fiber-based products) that is considered to have a particularly good health effect.

  Furthermore, the capsule 1 according to the invention is characterized in that the one or more substances S comprise at least one solid substance, optionally in the form of a powder or granules.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the capsule 1, and further the stopper provided with such a capsule 1, has a substantially hemispherical rounded outer shape that is slightly flattened in some cases.

  These rounded ergonomic shapes make it easy to handle (take, carry, etc.) and improve aesthetics, especially with less risk of injury to children. Become.

  In contrast to the capsule 1 of the first embodiment (FIGS. 1, 2) in which the capsule is particularly suitable, according to a particularly advantageous variant embodiment, a circular shape defining the opening 24 of the container R to be capped is provided. The inner shoulder 23 is provided with at least one member in the shape of a tooth 37 on its inner periphery, which crushes the cap 3 that can be pierced when the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 is sufficiently deformed. (Fig. 18).

  Alternatively, for this type of capsule 1, the annular vertical wall 25 (of the pedestal 18) is configured with a pair of parallel arms 38, 38 ′ extending in a plane parallel to the face of the cap 3. The arms are formed at locations 39 and 39 'facing the diametrical direction of the inner periphery of the vertical wall 25. Preferably, the arms 38, 38 ′ are connected to each other by a small bridge passing through the center of the opening 24, and each of the arms 38, 38 ′ is at its end position facing the face of the cap 3. Having at least one pointed protruding member 41, 41 ′ or the like, which facilitates crushing of the pierceable cap 3 when the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 is fully deformed.

  This particular embodiment is shown in FIGS. 26-29, which is more simplified and easier to understand than FIGS. 18-21.

  When the part is manufactured by injection molding, the small bridge 40 can be used as an injection molding point I of the plastic material (FIG. 29).

  In particular, when the deformable membrane 2 is sufficiently deformed with or without the aid of one or more substances S contained in the hermetic volume V of the capsule 1 (to avoid any accidental crushing). ) The cap 3 which is placed at a sufficient safety distance from the tip 41, 41 'at the top is pushed downward in the direction of the tip and the tip penetrates the cap or to an existing suitable breaking point or line. Then, crushing is started, and a sufficient amount of the substance S is released into the container R.

  Finally, the present invention further aims to provide a container R with a neck or neck for the supply of liquid or paste products, in particular mineral water, characterized in that it comprises a capsule 1 according to the present invention. .

  Advantageously, the container R is characterized in that the capsule 1 is attached to a stopper according to the invention.

In order to pour a mixture of the contents of the container R and one or more substances S directly from the neck or neck G of the container R or to drink directly from this neck, the stopper is completely loosened and the mixture Need only pass through the opening 24 of the container R. This embodiment is economical because there is no need to add parts for pouring the mixture. Moreover, since the stopper can be arbitrarily tightened or loosened without deteriorating the airtightness of the container R, the mixture can be stored in the container R, and the deformable membrane 2 is impermeable after deformation. This can be done while protecting from the outside. Further, a member such as a valve is provided at the position of the pedestal 18 so that a gas that is formed and accumulated in the container R in some cases when mixing the substance S and the contents of the container R (for example, CO in the case of an effervescent tablet). ₂ ) enabling the discharge of pressure and thereby avoiding the risk of overpressure.

  In order to enable the supply of the mixture, an inlet / outlet or a second stopper may be provided on the side of the container R. Further, the inlet / outlet or the second stopper may be provided with a gas venting means. This variant embodiment is costly because it is more complex to implement. Furthermore, since it is necessary to add certain parts, the container R is not symmetrical, and as a result, storage and handling are complicated.

  Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Numerous corrections can still be made without departing from the protection scope of the present invention, in particular in terms of the construction of the various components, or by substitution of technical equivalents.

1 is a schematic side elevational sectional view showing a first embodiment before use of a capsule according to the present invention. It is a schematic bottom view of the capsule of FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic side elevational sectional view showing a second embodiment before use of the capsule according to the present invention. It is a schematic sectional drawing by the AA line of the capsule of FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic side elevational sectional view showing a third embodiment of a capsule according to the present invention. It is a schematic sectional drawing by the AA line of the capsule of FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing by the BB line of the capsule of FIG. 6 in the used condition. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows 4th embodiment of the capsule by this invention. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows 5th embodiment before the use of the capsule by this invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic side elevational sectional view showing a sixth embodiment before use of the capsule according to the present invention. It is a schematic sectional drawing by the AA line of the capsule of FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing by the BB line of the capsule of FIG. 10, FIG. FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule of FIG. 10 in a used state. FIG. 9 is a schematic side elevational sectional view showing a seventh embodiment before use of the capsule according to the present invention. It is a schematic sectional drawing by the AA line of the capsule of FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing by the BB line of the capsule of FIG. 14, FIG. FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule of FIG. 14 in a used state. 2 is a schematic side elevational sectional view showing the closure according to the invention in a closed state with the capsule according to the first embodiment of FIG. 1 before use; FIG. It is a figure which shows the stopper of FIG. 18 attached to the container after opening a protective cover and crushing the cap of a capsule. FIG. 8 is a side elevational sectional view showing the stopper according to the invention with the capsule according to the third embodiment of FIGS. 5 to 7 in a closed state; It is a figure which shows the stopper of FIG. 18 attached to the container after opening a protective cover and crushing the cap of a capsule. FIG. 9 is an exploded side elevational sectional view of the stopper according to the present invention with the capsule according to the eighth embodiment before assembly, in a closed state; FIG. 6 is a partially exploded side elevational sectional view of a plug according to the present invention with a protective cap formed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention in a closed state prior to assembly. It is a figure which shows the stopper of FIG. 23 after an assembly. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the protective cap of FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a specific embodiment of a component of a plug according to the present invention. It is sectional drawing by the AA line of the components of FIG. FIG. 27 is a top view of the component of FIG. 26. It is a partial expansion perspective view which shows the center part of FIG.

Claims (31)

  It consists mainly of a deformable membrane (2) sealed at the bottom by a pierceable cap (3), and at least one substance is placed between the deformable membrane (2) and the cap (3) Defining a hermetic volume (V) for the cap, and releasing the effective amount of the substance (S) after the deformable membrane (2) is sufficiently deformed by mechanical external stress. A sealed capsule (1) having at least one built-in crushing means (4) for the pierceable cap (3) that is crushable, wherein the deformable membrane (2) and the cap (3) including at least one intermediate part (6), said intermediate part (6) being operable upon sufficient deformation of said deformable film, said deformable membrane (2 ) Said at least one crushing means (4) The intermediate part (6) is formed as a peripheral ring (7) in which the arcuate member (15) is locally supported via a hinge part (9), said arcuate member being deformable in its initial state ( 2) at least approximately locally engaged with the shape of (2), the free end (16) being formed as at least one protruding member or pointed member (12) facing the cap (3), the user can An effective support surface (14) capable of transmitting external mechanical stress on the possible membrane (2) is provided on the arcuate member (15) and this stress rocks one or more tip protruding members (12). Capsule (1), characterized in that it is sufficient to obtain a crush of the cap (3), which releases an effective amount of substance (S).   The effective support surface (14) provided on the arcuate member (15) has on its inner surface facing the cap (3) a vertical or nearly vertical wall portion (17) also facing the cap (3), The auxiliary support surface (14 ′) of the cap assists the user in transmitting external mechanical stress on the deformable membrane (2) so as to cause crushing of the cap (3), The capsule according to claim 1.   2. The peripheral ring (7) and the one or more hinge parts (9) and / or the arcuate member (15) are preferably integrally formed by injection molding of synthetic material. Or the capsule of 2.   The end of the crushing means (4) opposite the hinge (9) or fastener of the crushing means (4) in the intermediate part (6) secures the crushing means (4) unless a stopper is actually used. Capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it can be provided with a thin stop or bridge (10 ') that acts as a breaking bridge.   The cap (3) is preferably fixed directly to the deformable membrane (2) at a common circular peripheral position where the cap (3) and the deformable membrane (2) overlap and contact. Capsules according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that   In particular, the cap (3) is directly fixed to the lower surface (6 ′) of the intermediate part (6) at the lower surface (6 ′) around the ring (7) forming the intermediate part (6). The capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 5.   Cap (3) is fixed to the lower surface (6 ') of the deformable membrane (2) or intermediate part (6) by circular welding, circular thermal contact or any similar method, Item 7. A capsule according to item 5 or 6.   The one or more substances (S) comprise at least one substance that senses the contents of the container (R) that the capsule (1) is intended to cooperate with, which is consumed by the contents of the container. Capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it is added to the container slightly before or just before.   9. Capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more substances (S) contain at least one drug.   Capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the one or more substances (S) comprise at least one cosmetic agent.   Capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the one or more substances (S) are foods.   One or more substances (S) may be a pigment, a fragrance, a preservative, a sweetener, a thickener, a stabilizer, a supplement, a nutritional supplement, a dietary special diet, or at least two of the above ingredients 12. Capsules according to claim 11, characterized in that they are selected from the group consisting of all components obtained from   13. Capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the one or more substances (S) comprise at least one solid substance, optionally in the form of a powder or granules.   A container stopper with a neck or neck for supplying liquid or paste products, in particular for mineral water bottles, mainly consisting of a pedestal (18) fixed to said container (R), The container (R) is closed via the capsule (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the pedestal is hermetically fitted into the pedestal (18), and the capsule (1) The deformable membrane (2) itself is covered with a rigid protective cover (19) held by an annular base part (20) fitted into the pedestal (18), the bottom of the capsule (1) being perforated A sealed effective volume (V) filled with at least one substance (S) which is formed from a possible cap (3) and is added to the contents of the container (R) before consumption is the said capsule (1) Deformable membrane (2) An effective amount of substance (S) is released into the contents of the container (R) when the cap (3) is crushed by sufficient deformation of the deformable membrane (2), defined between the cap (3) Features a stopper.   The deformable membrane (2) and the protective cover (19) are both composed of two substantially hemispherical elastically deformable materials, the radius of the hemisphere of the protective cover (19) being deformed Slightly smaller than the radius of the possible membrane (2) hemisphere, the hemisphere of the protective cover (19) extending from the bottom of the hemisphere to a constant height of the hemisphere (19 ′) 15. The stopper according to claim 14, further comprising:   The pedestal (18) is configured as a part consisting of a cylindrical portion (21) fixed to the neck or neck (G) of the container (R), and at the upper end thereof defines the opening (24) of the container (R). An annular flat portion (22) forming a circular inner shoulder (23), wherein the cap (3) is held on the upper surface (22 ') of the annular flat portion (22) facing the capsule (1) or 16. Cap according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that it is fixed.   A vertical cut wall (25) in the form of an annular skirt in which the lower surface (22 ") of the annular flat portion (22) is configured to cooperate with the inner surface of the neck of the container (R), and the stopper is attached to the container. 17. Plug according to claim 16, characterized in that it has a cylindrical part (21) for fixing.   The upper surface (22 ′) of the annular flat portion (22) is an annular shape that can be deformed at least to form an annular groove (27) with the annular flat portion (22) after the capsule (1) is assembled to the stopper. With a rim (26) to seal the peripheral part of the capsule (1) at the position of the cap (3) and the deformable membrane (2) and possibly the position of the intermediate part (6). 18. A plug according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that   Base part (20) such that a cylindrical part (21) secured to the neck or neck (G) of the container (R) secures the base part (20) to the pedestal (18) on a circular wall on its outer side. 19. A plug according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that it comprises means (28) configured to cooperate with engagement means (29) arranged on the surface.   The base part (20) includes a cylindrical sleeve (30) fixed to the pedestal (18), and is configured to be supported at its upper end by an annular edge (26), preferably with compression, With an annular flat part (31) forming an internal circular edge (32), said annular edge being the position of the cap (3) and the deformable membrane (2) and possibly the intermediate part (6) 20. A plug according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that, in position, the peripheral part of the capsule (1) is sealed.   Cylindrical sleeve with an inner thread (21 ′), wherein the cylindrical part (21) is configured to be screwed onto the threaded neck or neck (G) of the container (R). 21. A plug according to any one of claims 16 to 20, characterized in that it is configured as:   The base part (20) has corresponding first means (34) arranged on the protective cover (19) and first opening / closing means (33) cooperating by interlocking by elastic deformation. The stopper according to any one of claims 14 to 21.   The base part (20) according to claim 22, characterized in that it has a push button with a first hook cooperating with a corresponding second hook arranged on the protective cover (19). plug.   23. A plug according to claim 22, characterized in that the base part (20) has a push button with a punch that cooperates with a corresponding pawl arranged on the protective cover (19).   25. A plug according to any one of claims 14 to 24, characterized in that the protective cover (19) is connected to the base part (20) by at least one cover hinge (35).   26. The lower end of the pedestal (18) remote from the neck or neck (G) outlet of the container (R) includes a safety ring (36). plug.   27. A plug according to any one of claims 14 to 26, further comprising at least one impenetrable device in the position of the locking means of the protective cover (19) in the closed position.   28. The protective cover (19) and the deformable membrane (2) are made of one or more translucent materials, preferably made of a transparent material. The stopper according to claim 1.   A circular inner shoulder (23) defining an opening (24) of the container (R) to be plugged is provided with at least one member in the shape of a tooth (37) on its inner periphery. 16. The tooth profile is configured to facilitate crushing of the pierceable cap (3) upon sufficient deformation of the deformable membrane (2) of the capsule (1). 30. The stopper according to any one of items 1 to 28.   A container with a neck or neck for supplying a liquid or paste product, in particular mineral water, characterized in that it comprises a capsule (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.   30. Container according to claim 30, characterized in that the capsule (1) is attached to a stopper according to any one of claims 14 to 29.

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