US20230348134A1

US20230348134A1 - Reusable container for liquid foods

Info

Publication number: US20230348134A1
Application number: US18/017,354
Authority: US
Inventors: Franz Hellmaier
Original assignee: B2b Getraenke Service GmbH
Current assignee: B2b Getraenke Service GmbH
Priority date: 2020-07-21
Filing date: 2020-07-21
Publication date: 2023-11-02
Also published as: EP4118002A1; WO2022017588A1; EP4118002B1; CN115836012A

Abstract

The present invention relates to a container for liquids, comprising a): a base body having at least one substantially cylindrical cavity for receiving liquid, wherein the cylindrical cavity comprises two opposite end faces and a circumferential shell face, wherein the shell face extends between the two end faces substantially along a longitudinal direction, and wherein at least one of the end faces defines at least one opening in the base body in order to provide access from the outside to the cavity, wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, and wherein the base body has at least one first magnetic connection means, and b): at least one lid which is adapted to close the opening, wherein the lid has at least one second magnetic connection means, wherein the lid is releasably engageable with the base body via a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connection means and the second magnetic connection means.

Description

1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a container for liquids.

2. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

For the packaging of liquids, for example liquid foodstuffs, in the prior art essentially glass disposable bottles, glass reusable bottles, PET disposable bottles, PET reusable bottles, aluminium cans, composite boxes (tetrapack) and plastic composite floor bags (pouches), plastic disposable drinking cups, cardboard disposable drinking cups and other containers for liquids are used. These have specific disadvantages depending on the material and all of them put a massive burden on our environment. Depending on the material, and depending on whether disposable or reusable packaging is used, the effort in the field of logistics and cleaning is considerable. However, the packaging all bears a substantial share of the worldwide waste.
Frequently, the containers for liquids from the prior art are difficult to clean or even not at all suitable for reuse. Furthermore, in the case of almost all containers which have a reclosable closure, plug-in or screw connections are provided. In the case of plug-in connections, it is substantially the shear forces which define a holding force. In this case, the desired shear force has to be fixed by matching the concentric diameters with inclusion of the respective seal. In the case of frequent use (opening/closing), this shear force becomes weaker as a result of material abrasion and thus the sealing capability decreases over time. In the case of screw mechanisms frequently used in the prior art, too, the possibilities of wear arise likewise in the case of frequent use. In particular in the case of threaded connections made of plastic, there is thus the risk of mechanical damage as a result of incorrect “placing on” and thus caused cutting. The threads are difficult to clean, which is disadvantageous when it comes to avoiding germs, in particular in the food sector.
The object of the present invention is to at least partially solve the above problems and to provide a container for liquid which enables a high reuse rate in order to be as raw material-saving as possible and to maintain the service life or use life of these packagings for as long as possible. Furthermore, simple cleanability and thus as local as possible reuse and refilling are to be made possible. As a result, complicated collecting and returning processes should be kept as low as possible. Furthermore, hygienic cleaning should be made possible which is simple and energy-efficient and at the same time largely reduces complicated chemical treatment. Furthermore, it should be made possible for as high a material purity as possible to be present at the end of the product cycle, so that a technical recycling rate close to 100% is possible.

3. Description of the Invention

The above problems are solved by a container according to claim 1.
The present invention relates to a container for liquids, comprising a): a base body having at least one substantially cylindrical cavity for receiving liquid, wherein the cylindrical cavity comprises two opposite end faces and a circumferential shell face, or is delimited/defined by these, wherein the shell face extends between the two end faces substantially along a longitudinal direction, and wherein at least one of the end faces defines at least one opening in the base body in order to provide access from the outside to the cavity, wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, and wherein the base body has at least one first magnetic connection means, and b): at least one lid which is adapted to close the opening, wherein the lid has at least one second magnetic connection means, wherein the lid is releasably engageable with the base body via a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connection means and the second magnetic connection means.
The container according to the invention can be used in the field of the packaging of liquid foodstuffs, but can also be used for the accommodation of other suitable liquids (e.g. cosmetics, detergents, etc.). In this case, the containers according to the invention can be produced and used in any desired volume sizes (e.g. 300, 500, 1000 ml). They can be used both as packaging and container for cold liquids, and also, in the double-walled version, for the presentation and the consumption of hot beverages as (closable) cups for coffee, tea, etc. The base body can be simply filled through the opening, which has a corresponding minimum opening size, and can be cleaned without residue and simply, even in household-standard dishwashers. It can thus be ensured by the large opening according to the invention that, on the one hand, sufficient cleaning liquid can enter the cavity, and on the other hand it can be made possible that running cleaning liquid can run off quickly and does not accumulate in the cavity, which otherwise can lead to a settling of particles transported in the cleaning liquid and thus negatively influence the cleaning result. The outer contour of the lid can be designed to be m substantially free, preferably it is designed in the same geometric shape as the base body. In the lid, ergometric indentations or depressions can be incorporated into the lid contour, which for example can facilitate gripping and rotation. It is noted that “substantially cylindrical” is in no way to be understood to be limited to a pure circular cylinder, even if a circular cylindrical shape of the cavity can be particularly preferred, but comprises all cylindrical shapes, for example also elliptical or any other cylinder shape. Likewise, the shell face cannot extend coaxially to a longitudinal axis of the cylinder, but can taper or flare, so that it describes a funnel or truncated cone shape. A cross-sectional area can be understood to be the area of a cross section of the cylinder perpendicular to the cylinder axis. The base body and the lid can be formed in one piece. This can increase the robustness of the parts thus formed and simplify their production.
The magnetic connection means, which enable a magnetic connection of the components of the container, i.e. for example lid and base body, can for example each comprise permanent magnets, which have an opposite polarity, so that they attract each other. Also, only one magnetic connection means of one component can have a permanent magnetic field and an oppositely arranged other magnetic connection means of the other component can have no permanent magnetic field, such as for example a non-magnetised iron part, which, however, can be attracted by the magnetic field of the opposite magnetic connection means, in order thus to allow a magnetic connection. This enables a flexibility in the design of the magnetic connection between the components of the container and can save costs in production.
The lid can be securely fastened to the base body via the magnetic connection, in order thus to enable a storage of liquid in the base body. The container according to the invention can provide a wear-free type of connection compared to purely mechanical connections, such as for example conventional rotary closures. Thus, a secure connection can also be ensured after many reuses. Likewise, the use of adhesives for connection can thus be dispensed with, which can age over time, which can optionally be accelerated by corresponding cleaning processes, which impairs the reliability of the connection. Essential advantages of the magnetic connection according to the invention compared to conventional plug-in connections arise from the fact that the holding forces of magnetic connections allow precise fine tuning of the holding forces and of the sealing possibilities associated therewith. It can be constant in its holding force over the entire product life cycle and therefore remain permanently tight. Furthermore, it can be kept absolutely smooth at the transition surfaces and thus enable simple and hygienic cleaning. It is thus possible to avoid undercuts or beads which provide space for deposits and bacteria. Finally, the magnetic connection of the lid or of the insert adapters described below can provide a convenience advantage for the consumer. In particular, a self-finding positioning and closing can be made possible, which facilitates the closing of the connections between the components of the container and enables a faster closing with less expenditure of force. That is to say, the magnetic connection can be such that magnetic forces of the magnetic connecting means are oriented such that the magnetic connecting means move independently into a defined position, for example a completely closed end position, as soon as they have been brought closer to one another. Likewise, such a so-called defined end or sealing point can be automatically reached, which prevents too little or too much force being expended erroneously, so that the desired end or sealing point can be perfectly reached in any case.
All elements of the container according to the invention can be cleaned very simply and completely both in conventional and in professional dishwashers. This has the effect that all collecting, transporting and industrial cleaning processes which put a burden on the environment are omitted and the ecological balance of the container according to the invention with respect to containers according to the prior art can be improved by a high number of reuse cycles. In this way, the service life of the container according to the invention can also be extended with up to 1000 reuses or more, with corresponding use.
The external shaping of the container can correspond here to forms known to the person skilled in the art for conventional beverage cardboard packagings, in order to make it easy for the consumer to handle an already well-known and permanently used packaging form without changing over to unfamiliar and not “learned” use sequences. The outer contours of the body can also be supplemented with corresponding ergometric shaping. Furthermore, the outer contour can be adapted to allow stackability of the containers. For this purpose, correspondingly congruent openings and/or projections can be provided on the outer side of the container, which interengage next to one another and/or one above the other during stacking or storage of the containers. For example, the container can have at least one depression and/or at least one projection on its outer side, wherein the depression and/or the projection are shaped in such a way as to engage in a fitting manner in at least one depression and/or at least one projection of an outer side of at least one further, adjacently arranged container. The external shape can also be designed here to be round or cylindrical, for example circular cylindrical. Correspondingly, the areas of the end faces of the external shape can have a rectangular, square or round shape.
In a preferred embodiment, the shell face is formed by an inner wall of the base body and defines a shell inner wall, wherein the shell inner wall is free from a region in which the shell inner wall extends with an inclination angle of >70° with respect to the longitudinal direction, preferably of >55° with respect to the longitudinal direction, more preferably >40°, more preferably >25°, more preferably >10°. Most preferably, the shell inner wall has no regions with an inclination angle with respect to the longitudinal direction.
An inclination of the shell inner wall comprises both the inclination into the interior of the cavity and away from it, which leads to a formation of corresponding projections or depressions in the shell inner wall. It can thus be avoided according to the invention that disadvantageous steep projections or depressions are provided in the shell inner wall, so that, for example, an introduction of cleaning liquid, such as for example rinsing water, is not impeded during a rinsing process. A simple running off of introduced cleaning liquid is also made possible in this way. The container according to the invention has no undercuts or other difficult-to-access geometric cavities or angles which can promote a collection of liquid, or impede an inflow and outflow of liquid into and out of the cavity. This improves the cleanability of the container according to the invention, for example in dishwashers, and can thus enable residue-free and hygienic cleaning.
The smaller the inclination angle provided, the easier a liquid can flow off on the shell inner wall. Depending on the field of use and type of cleaning provided, different, matching inclination angles can thus be provided in the container according to the invention. The inclination angle is not formed here with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder or an axis which is coaxial to the latter, but is formed with respect to the substantially longitudinal direction of extent of the shell inner wall, which can also extend inclined to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. The substantially longitudinal direction of extent of the shell inner wall can, however, naturally also extend coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. In any case, the inclination angle should be 70°, since this allows a rapid outflow of liquid which is infiltrated into the cavity.
In a preferred embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least 80% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, preferably at least 90%, more preferably at least 95% and most preferably at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity. The corresponding end face area in which this opening is located consists in such a case for the most part of the opening.
Thus, a sufficient size of the opening with respect to the narrowest point of the cavity can be ensured, which allows a facilitated filling and cleaning of the container according to the invention. In particular, in the case when the cross-sectional area of the opening is at least the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity, a smooth transition can be provided without any edges along a transition from the cavity to the opening. In this case, the circular cylindrical shaped cavity can correspond to a shape of a tube open at one side.
In a preferred embodiment, the base body has four rectangular outer faces which extend substantially coaxially to the longitudinal direction, wherein longitudinally extending edges of the outer faces are arranged adjacent to each other to define a circumferential cuboid shell face. Particularly preferably, the base body is substantially cuboid, i.e. the body has six faces which consist of rectangles which are at right angles to each other.
The base body can have any desired base area, but is preferably rectangular or round, and the base area dimensions can each be aligned with the required filling volume. Preferably, the outer dimensions (length, width, height) can be adapted to formal norms and conditions of commercially available output devices (filling devices) for liquids, as well as refrigerators and shelving systems.
In a preferred embodiment, the base body further has at least one end face outer face which is arranged at an end face of the cuboid shell outer face, wherein the end face outer face is preferably square.
Thus, the base body can be delimited and closed to the outside on five sides by quadrangular faces and can have an opening on its sixth side. The outer contour of the base body can in this respect be dependent on the shape of the substantially cylindrical cavity. For example, a cuboid outer contour of the base body can be defined by a circle diameter of the substantially cylindrical cavity and a square end face outer face comprising the circle accordingly. The walls can all be formed in one piece, for example cast, which increases the mechanical robustness of the container. One or more corners of the base body which are formed by the outer faces can have a rounded shape. In addition to the cleanability of the outer face, this also increases the gripping and holding comfort for a user.
In a preferred embodiment, another one of the end faces of the cylindrical cavity forms an inner wall of the base body and defines an end face inner wall or another one of the end faces of the cylindrical cavity defines at least one further opening in the base body for providing access from the outside to the cylindrical cavity.
In the first alternative, the end face at which the previously described opening is not defined in the base body can be formed in a closed manner. Thus, a cavity with only one opening is provided. All walls delimiting the cavity can be formed in one piece, which increases the robustness and simplifies production. In the second alternative, the provision of a further opening provides a substantially cylindrical cavity with two openings at the oppositely disposed end faces, which enables the possibility of a cleaning or filling or emptying of the cylindrical cavity from both end faces. Both openings can then be closed via corresponding lids. The lids can be the same or different here, for example in the form and/or material used, which provides flexibility in the design of the container according to the invention.
In a preferred embodiment, the lid has a top side and a bottom side, wherein the bottom side has a base which is shaped to fittingly engage the shell inner wall of the cylindrical cavity and/or wherein the top side is shaped to be flush with the outer faces of the base body, wherein the top side preferably has a square shape.
Thus, the lid can be formed such that it ends in a form-fitting manner with both the outer contour of the base body and in a form-fitting manner with the inner contour of the cylindrical cavity. Despite a possibly different design of the inner cavity and the outer contour of the base body, both a suitable sealing of the cavity and a suitable outer contour of the container can thus be provided, in order for example to enable a storage of a plurality of containers according to the invention next to or one above the other. For example, in the case of a rectangular or square outer contour of the lid, a rotating movement thereof can be made possible in that a substantially round base is formed on the bottom side of the lid, which base, in the case of a closed state of the container, protrudes concentrically into the cavity of the base body. The transition from the lid to the container can preferably be provided with a sealing means, such as an O-ring, so that a corresponding sealing can be provided between base body and lid. The sealing can be correspondingly secured by a magnetic connection of the magnetic connection means of the base body and of the lid.
In a preferred embodiment, at least one corner which is defined in at least one inner wall of the cylindrical cavity is rounded and has a radius of 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm, wherein preferably all corners which are defined in or on the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity are rounded and have a radius of 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm.
A suitable rounding of the corners can facilitate the cleaning of the cavity and prevent liquid from being able to settle in the corners. The rounded corners can also be correspondingly more easily dried after cleaning, for example by hot air.
In a preferred embodiment, the lid has at least one third magnetic connection means and at least one lid opening, wherein the container further comprises: at least one insert which is shaped to engage the lid opening, wherein the insert has at least one fourth magnetic connection means, wherein the insert is releasably engageable with the lid via a magnetic connection between the third magnetic connection means and the fourth magnetic connection means.
Differently functional inserts can be used in one or more lid openings. These lid openings can likewise be provided with the magnetic connection means described above, which allows simple, secure and rapid insertion and changing of the inserts. An insert can likewise have a round base element which is introduced into the lid opening in order to close and seal the latter. The base element of the respective insert thus introduced into the lid opening can be sealed by means of a sealing element, for example an O-ring, and the seal can be ensured via a corresponding magnetic connection between the lid and the insert.
Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the provision of the third magnetic connection means can also be dispensed with. In the case, a magnetic connection between the fourth magnetic connection means of the insert and the second magnetic connection means of the lid can be provided. The insert can be formed in one piece. This can increase the robustness of the insert and simplify its production. If a base body with two openings and two lids is provided, the respective lids can have identical or different inserts. Thus, the flexibility in the usability of the container according to the invention can be increased. The base body can have at least one first magnetic connection means on an upper edge of an outer side, which is cast into a polymer of the base body. Furthermore, the lid can have at least one second magnetic connection means, which is cast into a polymer of the lid, wherein the magnetic connection means of the base body and of the lid are arranged opposite one another during a complete engagement of the base body with the lid. Thus, a maximum adhesive force can be achieved, since the magnets are arranged at as small a distance as possible from one another. For example, the lid can have at least one third magnetic connection means, which is cast into a polymer of the lid and the insert can have at least one fourth magnetic connection means, which is cast into a polymer of the insert, wherein the magnetic connection means of the lid and of the insert are arranged opposite one another during a complete engagement of the lid with the insert.
Furthermore, the outer contour of the container can be adapted accordingly, in order to receive an outwardly protruding insert of an adjacent container. For example, the base body can have at least one depression on its outer side, which is shaped in order to receive a correspondingly protruding insert of at least one adjacently arranged container.
Furthermore, the magnetic connection means of the container, during a complete engagement of the components of the container engageable via the magnetic connection means, in particular base body, lid and/or insert, can have an adhesive force which is suitably large in order to prevent an unintentional release of the components. The adhesive force is understood to be that force which a magnet can exert perpendicularly on a plate, for example an iron plate, and which provides a corresponding magnetic connection to the magnet. The adhesive force can, for example, be dependent on the material, magnetization, the geometry and the volume of the magnet. In order to achieve a release of a magnet perpendicularly from the plate, a force directed opposite to the adhesive force must be applied, which is greater than the adhesive force. In practice, adhesive forces are also frequently indicated as weight, which a corresponding magnet is capable of holding at a maximum. The adhesive force of the container according to the invention should in this case be sufficiently great to prevent the liquid from leaking out of the cavity of the base body and thus also defines its holding force. The adhesive force should also be sufficiently large, so that an unintentional release of the lid, for example during transport, can be excluded. The required adhesive force, in order to prevent an unintentional release, can in this case also be dependent on the filling volume and the weights and forces associated therewith. The adhesive force of the components of the container that are engageable via the magnetic connection means, i.e. for example base body, lid and/or insert, can be formed with different strengths, depending on the design and purpose of use of the container and the individual components.
In a preferred embodiment, the base body does not have any mechanical connection means, in particular plug and/or screw connection means, for connection with the lid.
Thus, the magnetic connection means can be the only connection means via which the individual components of the container, i.e. for example the base body, lid and/or insert, are connected to each other. In this way, smooth surfaces can advantageously be formed on the components of the container which enable simple and thorough cleaning. Mechanical connection means are understood to be all connections which enable a connection of two or more components to each other via a mechanical engagement, and in particular sealing connections. This is frequently achieved via corresponding shapes in the walls of the components, for example via a screw thread in the outer or inner wall of a base container and a corresponding screw thread in the outer or inner wall of a lid which are shaped congruently to one another and enable an engagement of the components with each other.
A screw connection is understood to be an arrangement in which a connection is achieved via an opposite rotation of the components, incl. so-called bayonet connections. A plug-in connection is understood to be an arrangement in which a connection is achieved via an opposite, substantially linear movement of the components. In this case, a component can have one or more corresponding recessed shapes, for example undercuts, into which correspondingly arranged and shaped protruding shapes, for example projections, of the other component can engage and lock when the two components are plugged into each other. The previously mentioned screw or plug-in connections are in this case only two examples of mechanical connection means and many other formations and arrangements of mechanical connection means are conceivable which can be avoided by the container according to the invention. All disadvantageous mechanical connection means have in common that they do not enable a smooth shape of the surfaces of the components and are thus generally worse to clean. A person skilled in the art understands that these statements can apply to all connections between the components of the container, i.e. for example also to connections between lid and insert.
In a preferred embodiment, the components of the container engageable via magnetic connection means, in particular base body, lid and/or insert, further comprise at least one integrated release aid which is configured such that the release of the magnetic connection means is facilitated by a user.
Thus, a user can manually release the lid from the base body, although the adhesive force provided actually prevents a release of the lid, for example a perpendicular lifting. Advantageously, the aid is provided integrated with the container according to the invention, so that no separate tools have to be used in order to enable a release. Thus, the use of the container according to the invention is simplified. The integrated release aid can consist here of one or more elements which, in the case of a manual actuation of a user, enable a separation of the magnetic connection. For example, the respective components of the container can provide at their connection edges suitable means for a relative displacement of the components, for example via suitable shapes in the walls, which enables a guided movement of the components. Thus, a user can apply shear forces, for example via a rotation or translation of one or more components with respect to one another, whereby magnetic connection means lying opposite one another can be displaced with respect to one another, which leads to a corresponding reduction of the force between the magnetic connection means. Thus, a user can finally separate the components from one another. For example, a lid and a base body can be designed in such a way that a user can first rotate the lid and then subsequently lift it off. The integrated release aid should preferably be designed here in such a way that it does not impair the cleanability and refillability of the container according to the invention. It should therefore likewise have no undercuts or edges in which liquid can collect. Correspondingly, the integrated release aid can also be provided for releasing the magnetic connection between the lid opening and the insert.
In a preferred embodiment, the integrated release aid comprises at least one oblique run-on ramp which is shaped and arranged such that, upon a relative rotational movement of engaged components with respect to each other, it allows a successive separation of the magnetic connection means perpendicular to the plane of movement with progressive relative rotational movement.
At least one oblique run-on ramp can be provided on one component, for example on the underside of a lid, so that it can contact an opposite face, for example a face of the upper side of the base body. In this case, when the lid is in a closed state, the one or more run-on ramps can be received in corresponding depressions on the upper side of the base body, so that the underside of the lid and the upper side of the base body lie one on top of the other and contact each other. In this state, the lid is then fixedly connected to the base body via the magnetic connection. When the lid is now rotated, the oblique run-on ramp can be moved out of the depression, so that the lid is moved by a rotation at the same time perpendicular to the surface of the base body. Thus, the m lid can be lifted off the base body during a rotation. As a result of the air gap thus produced between the magnetic connection means, an exponential decrease in the magnetic attraction force occurs and the lid can thus be removed from the base body with little expenditure of force. In an analogous manner of action, one or more integrated run-on ramps can also be provided for releasing the magnetic connection between the lid opening and the insert. The specific number and arrangement of the run-on ramps and the corresponding depressions are not limited here to the above example, but can be provided in a suitable number and shape on the components of the container in order to achieve a magnetic decoupling, for example by means of a rotational movement. The integrated release aid can also be designed in such a way that the application of corresponding shear forces takes place via a translational movement or a combined rotational and sliding movements.
In a preferred embodiment, the insert is shaped as at least one of from:

- a. a closure adapter to allow a closure of the lid opening, and/or
- b. a drinking adapter to allow a drinking of liquid contained in the container, and/or
- c. a speed bottle adapter to allow a dosed dispensing of liquid contained in the container.

A closure adapter can allow a comprehensive sealing and thus also allow a transport of a container according to the invention filled with liquid over long distances. It can likewise prevent the penetration of air and thus also optionally increase the durability of perishable contents. A drinking adapter can be sized and shaped to allow a drinking of the liquid contained in the container. For example, for this purpose the closure adapter can be replaced by a drinking adapter. For example, the drinking adapter can be provided with an additional air opening, which prevents the build-up of a negative pressure in the container during the drinking and thus allows a comfortable drinking directly from the container. A so-called speed bottle container (or also dosing dispensing container) is used in the professional gastronomic environment and allows a dosing directly during the dispensing of the liquid from the container. By inserting the speed bottle adapter, this functionality can also be made possible for the container according to the invention in a comfortable and simple way. Also, during the connection between the inserts described above and the lid opening, the previously described magnetic connections and the release aids can be provided correspondingly in order to allow a corresponding connection and release of the inserts. The previously described advantages and considerations with regard to the provision of the magnetic connections according to the invention apply correspondingly.
In a preferred embodiment, the container is made of at least one, preferably at least partially transparent, polymer.
One or more components of the container according to the invention can be made of polymer. This comprises all common polymers known to a person skilled in the art, such as e.g. PE and PET. This enables a repeated cleaning of the container and can allow a reusability and. A suitable polymer can depend on the purpose of use of the container, for example depending on the liquid which is to be received in the container. In the case of a foodstuff, for example a polymer suitable for the storage of foodstuffs can be used. Also, the use of polymer allows the container to be produced in a large range of shapes and sizes, since these can be adapted almost arbitrarily to the specific use, depending on the intended use. Likewise, a light and complete recyclability of the entire container can be enabled via a suitable polymer. The use of a transparent polymer can also allow a simple recognition of the fill level of the content. It is also possible to use identical or different polymers for different components of the container according to the invention, for example for lids and base bodies, in order to achieve a desired rigidity or flexibility. Also, the base body can be designed arbitrarily graphically by means of the so-called inmould foil technology.
In a preferred embodiment, at least one, preferably all, magnetic connection means are arranged in the polymer, preferably completely enclosed by the polymer.
The arrangement of the magnetic connection means in the respective component of the container, i.e. base body, lid or insert, can take place during the production process, for example during the casting of the component. Also, the magnetic connection means can be introduced subsequently into the respective component, for example by providing corresponding recesses, in which the magnetic connection means can be arranged. The enclosing of the magnetic connection means can take place during the production process of the components by pouring in. The arrangement of the magnetic means in the polymer can preferably take place here such that a contact of the liquid stored in the container with the magnetic connection means is excluded. This prevents a contact between the magnetic connection means and the contained liquid and thus prevents, on the one hand, a contamination, for example of a foodstuff, by the magnetic connection means and, on the other hand, this also avoids a negative influence of the liquid on the magnetic connection means, for example by an accelerated corrosion.
Furthermore, the container can have at least one electronic identification means, for example an RFID chip. The electronic identification means can be integrated into one or more of the components of the container. This can take place, for example, during the injection molding in order to achieve a complete enclosure of the identification means and thus protect it from any damage during cleaning processes or other mechanical processes. With the aid of this identification means, correspondingly equipped filling devices can possibly also recognise containers according to the invention in a contact-free manner. The provision of such an identification means can also allow an integration into digital processes. For example, the content stored on a freely programmable RFID chip can vary and be adapted to the respective application. For example, this can be a serial number to be defined. Thus, the containers according to the invention can be recognised digitally and can be further processed, for example, without personal data in various service and marketing processes.

4. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

For a better understanding of the present invention and in order to clarify the practical applicability, figures are provided below and reference is made thereto. It should be understood that the figures represent an exemplary embodiment and thus in no way limit the scope of the claimed invention.

FIG. 1 shows a container for liquids according to the present invention in various views.

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 7 shows an insert for a lid of a container for liquids according to the present invention in various views.

5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

In the following, the present invention is described in detail with reference to the attached figures, which represent exemplary embodiments of the present invention. However, it is possible that the present invention is also designed in various ways, so that the embodiments listed below are not to be understood as limiting the scope of protection of the invention. Rather, the embodiments listed should clarify to a person skilled in the art by way of example the scope of the invention. Identical reference numbers in the following figures denote identical elements. If no reference numbers are provided on an element in different views, this is merely due to the clarity of the illustrations represented. A person skilled in the art will, however, be able to readily gather the arrangement and design of the corresponding elements from the various views.
FIG. 1 shows a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in various views. The container 1 is in this case represented in different views when viewed from the outside, namely a.) in a view from below, b.) to d.) in side views and e.) in a view from above. The viewing direction is in this case and below always to be understood in relation to the longitudinal direction 100 in which the container 1 extends. The container 1 consists of a base body 3 and a lid 25 arranged on the upper side, which ends in a form-fitting manner with the outer contour of the base body 3. The base body 3 in this case has four rectangular outer faces 27 which are connected at their longitudinal edges 29 and which form a shell face 31 in the form of a cuboid. The base body 3 is in this case closed on the underside and open on the upper side. On an end face outer face 33 on the underside of the base body 3, a recess 53 is provided which is suitable for an insert 47 which is shown here in the form of a closure adapter 47A which is provided on the upper side 37 of the lid 25, so that the closure adapter 47A of another container 1 can correspondingly engage in the recess 53. The upper side of the base body 3 has an opening (not shown) which is closed by the lid 25. In the lid 25, gripping means 51 in the form of depressions are provided, in which a user can engage in order to grip and rotate the lid 25 more easily. On an edge of the cuboid shell outer face 31, such as for example on the right longitudinal edge 29, as shown in FIG. 1 d , a gripping contour is also provided which facilitates gripping and holding of the container 1.
FIG. 2 shows the base body 3 for a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in various views. In this case, the base body 3 is shown without a lid 25. FIG. 2 a shows a view from below, as already shown in FIG. 1 a . FIG. 2 d corresponds to the previous view of FIG. 1 c , wherein no lid 25 is provided on the upper side. FIG. 2 e shows a view from above of the base body 3.
It is clear in this respect that the base body 3 forms a cylindrical cavity 5. Viewed from above, a circular opening 23 is provided in an end face 7 of the base body 3 which allows an access from the outside to the cylindrical cavity 5 of the base body 3. At the bottom of the cylindrical cavity 5, which is formed by the end face inner wall 35 of the opposite end face 9 of the base body 3, the recess 53 is shown which projects into the cylindrical cavity 5 corresponding to a projection. Furthermore, two release aids 49 in the form of depressions 49B are shown on the end face 7. FIG. 2 f shows a view corresponding to FIG. 2 e . FIGS. 2 b and 2 c show corresponding cross-sectional views along the sectional lines G-G or F-F of FIG. 2 f . A shell face 11 of the cylindrical cavity 5 is in this case formed by a shell inner wall 13 and the end face 9 of the cylindrical cavity 5 is formed by an end face inner wall 35 of the base body 3. Examples of corners 43 of the cylindrical cavity 5 are depicted in FIG. 2 c . The further corners 43 of the cylindrical cavity 5 are, for the sake of clarity, not designated separately, but, as represented, correspondingly shaped like the corners 43 represented. Furthermore, first magnetic connection means 15 are shown in FIG. 2 c , which are provided on the upper end face 7 in the wall of the base body 3. The first magnetic connection means 15 are in this case completely enclosed by the wall of the base body 3. In FIG. 2 b , an inclination of the shell inner wall 13 with the angle α is also shown on the upper side of the base body 3. The wall inclines from the longitudinal direction of extent 100 of the wall in the direction of the interior of the cylindrical cavity 5.
FIG. 3 shows a lid 25 for a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in various views. In this case, FIGS. 3 d and 3 g show views from above. FIG. 3 b shows a view from below. FIGS. 3 c and 3 e show side views of the lid 25. FIG. 3 f shows a view obliquely from above and FIG. 3 h shows a view obliquely from below. FIG. 3 a shows a cross-sectional view along the line E-E, which is shown in FIG. 3 g . In this case, a lid opening 45 is shown in the lid 25 which runs from the underside 39 of the lid 25 to the upper side 37 of the lid 25 and which allows an access from the outside to the cylindrical cavity 5. Furthermore, two fourth magnetic connection means 21 are shown which are arranged on the outer side of the lid 25 and which are provided completely enclosed in the lid 25. FIG. 2 b shows the view of the lid 25 from below. In this case, two release aids 49 in the form of oblique run-on ramps 49A are shown which are arranged on the circumferential side of a base 41 of the lid 25. These oblique run-on ramps 49A are formed in such a way that they fit in a fitting manner in the depressions 49B, as are represented for example in FIG. 2 e . On account of the round base 41, which engages in a fitting manner in the opening 23 of the base body 3, the lid 25 can be rotated out of the closed position with the aid of the gripping means 51, which leads to the oblique run-on ramps 49A being moved out of the depressions 49B, which thus brings about lifting of the lid 25. Corresponding depressions 49B are also shown in FIG. 3 d , which depressions are provided on the circumferential side of the lid opening 45. For closing of the lid 25, the base 41 can be inserted into the opening of the base body 23 and then rotated in the correspondingly opposite direction until the oblique run-on ramps 49A are completely received in the depressions 49B. The outer contours of the lid 25 have rounded corners, as shown for example in FIG. 3 g . As shown in particular in FIGS. 3 a, 3 c and 3 e , the lid 25 has on its underside 39 a circumferential notch which is suitable for receiving a sealing O-ring. Thus, the lid 25 can close the opening 23 of the base body 3 in a leak-proof manner.
FIG. 4 shows a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in various views. In the embodiment represented, the lid 25 is connected to the base body 3, as can be seen in particular on the FIG. 4 e . In addition, a closure adapter 47A is connected to the lid 25. The closure adapter 47A closes the lid opening 45. FIG. 4 f shows a view from above and shows the sectional lines A-A to D-D for the corresponding cross-sectional views of the FIGS. 4 a to 4 d . In this case, in particular FIG. 4 a shows that an inclination angle α of the shell inner wall 13 is provided, which is different from an inclination angle α of the shell inner wall 13, as represented in FIG. 4 b . In particular, it is shown in FIG. 4 c that two first magnetic connection means 15 are arranged on the upper side of the base body 3 in the wall and that two opposite second magnetic connection means 17 are arranged in the lid 25, which provide a magnetic connection, so that the lid 25 is held on the base body 3. Furthermore, it is shown in FIG. 4 c that two third magnetic connection means 19 are provided on the outer circumferential side of the lid opening 45 in the lid 25 and that two opposite fourth magnetic connection means 21 are provided in the closure adapter 47A, which provide a magnetic connection, so that the closure adapter 47A is held on the lid 25. The completely closed state is achieved when the respective magnetic closure means are arranged exactly opposite, that is to say the highest possible magnetic connection strength is present.
FIG. 5 shows an insert for a lid 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in various views. The insert 47 is formed here in the form of a closure adapter 47A. In this case, FIG. 5 a shows a view of the closure adapter 47A from below, FIG. 5 b shows a view from the side, FIGS. 5 c and 5 e show views from above, FIG. 5 d shows a cross-sectional view along the line H-H of FIGS. 5 c and 5 f shows a view obliquely from below. In particular, oblique run-on ramps 49A are shown which are arranged on the underside of the closure adapter 47A. These are shaped in a fitting manner in order to be received by the depressions 49B on the upper side 37 of the lid 25. The closure adapter 47A can be rotated, which during rotation in the opening direction leads to the oblique run-on ramps 49A being moved out of the depressions 49B and thus bringing about lifting of the closure adapter 47A. For closing of the insert 47, the base-shaped underside of the insert 47 can be inserted into the lid opening 45 and then rotated in the opposite direction until the oblique run-on ramps 49A are completely received in the depressions 49B. On the underside of the closure adapter 47A a circumferential notch is provided which allows the reception of a sealing O-ring. Thus, the closure adapter 47A can close the lid opening 45 in a leak-proof manner.
FIG. 6 shows an insert 47 for a lid 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in various views. The insert 47 is formed here in the form of a speed bottle adapter 47B. In this case, a channel 55 is arranged in the speed bottle adapter which provides an access to the cylindrical cavity 5 via the lid opening 45, so that a user can dispense a liquid contained in the cylindrical cavity 5. On the underside of the speed bottle adapter 47B a circumferential notch is provided which allows the reception of an O-ring. Thus, the speed bottle adapter 47B can close the lid opening 45 in such a way that liquid can escape from the cylindrical cavity 5 only via the channel 55. All the release and connection elements previously described with reference to the insert 47 or the closure adapter 47A can be provided analogously. The speed bottle adapter can have here an extended spout tube for a facilitated pouring. Furthermore, the speed bottle adapter can comprise two components made of different material, for example a plastic base and a spout tube made of stainless steel.
FIG. 7 shows an insert 47 for a lid 25 of a container 1 for liquids according to the present invention in various views. The insert 47 is formed here in the form of a drinking adapter 47C. In this case, a channel 55 is arranged in the drinking adapter which provides an access to the cylindrical cavity 5 via the lid opening 45, so that a user can drink a liquid contained in the cylindrical cavity 5. On the underside of the drinking adapter 47C a circumferential notch is provided which allows the reception of an O-ring. Thus, the drinking adapter 47C can close the lid opening 45 in such a way that liquid can escape from the cylindrical cavity 5 only via the channel 55. All the release and connection elements previously described with reference to the insert 47 or the closure adapter 47A can be provided analogously. The drinking adapter can preferably have a ventilation hole which allows ventilation of the cavity during the drinking, so that a negative pressure is avoided.

6. LIST OF REFERENCES

- Container 1
- Base body 3
- Cylindrical cavity 5
- End face area 7
- End face area 9
- Shell face 11
- Shell inner wall 13
- first magnetic connection means 15
- second magnetic connection means 17
- third magnetic connection means 19
- fourth magnetic connection means 21
- Opening of the base body 23
- Lid 25
- Outer face 27
- Edges of the rectangular outer faces 29
- Cuboid shell outer face 31
- End face outer face 33
- End face inner wall 35
- Upper side of the lid 37
- Underside of the lid 39
- Base 41
- Corner of the inner wall 43
- Lid opening 45
- Insert 47
- Closure adapter 47A
- Speed bottle adapter 47B
- Drinking adapter 47C
- Release aid 49
- oblique run-on ramp 49A
- depression 49B
- gripping means 51
- recess 53
- channel 55
- longitudinal direction 100
- Inclination angle α

Claims

1. A container (1) for liquids, comprising:

a) a base body (3) having at least one substantially cylindrical cavity (5) for receiving liquid, wherein the cylindrical cavity (5) comprises two opposite end faces (7, 9) and a circumferential shell face (11), wherein the shell face (11) extends between the two end faces (7, 9) substantially along a longitudinal direction (100), and

wherein at least one of the end faces (7, 9) defines at least one opening (23) in the base body (3) for providing access from the outside to the cavity (5), wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening (23) is at least 70% of the smallest cross-sectional area of the cylindrical cavity (5), and

wherein the base body (3) has at least one first magnetic connection means (15),

b) at least one lid (25) adapted to close the opening (23),

wherein the lid (25) has at least one second magnetic connection means (17),

wherein the lid (25) is releasably engageable with the base body (3) via a magnetic connection between the first magnetic connection means (15) and the second magnetic connection means (17),

wherein the components of the container (1) engageable via magnetic connection means (15), in particular lid (25), further comprise at least one integrated release aid (49) which is configured such that the release of the magnetic connection means (15) is facilitated by a user, wherein the integrated release aid (49) comprises at least one oblique run-on ramp which is shaped and arranged such that, upon a relative rotational movement of engaged components with respect to each other, it allows a successive separation of the magnetic connection means (15) perpendicular to the plane of movement with progressive relative rotational movement.

2. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 1, wherein the shell face (11) is formed by an inner wall of the base body (3) and defines a shell inner wall (13), wherein the shell inner wall (13) is free from a region in which the shell inner wall (13) extends with an inclination angle (α) of >70° with respect to the longitudinal direction (100), preferably of >55° with respect to the longitudinal direction (100), more preferably >40°, more preferably >25°, more preferably >10° and most preferably has no regions with an inclination angle (α) with respect to the longitudinal direction (100).

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

4. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 1, wherein the base body (3) has four rectangular outer faces (27) which extend substantially coaxially to the longitudinal direction (100), wherein longitudinally extending edges (29) of the outer faces (27) are arranged adjacent to each other to define a circumferential cuboid shell outer face (31).

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

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

7. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 1, wherein the lid (25) has a top side (37) and a bottom side (39), wherein the bottom side (39) has a base (41) which is shaped to fittingly engage the shell inner wall (13) of the cylindrical cavity (5) and/or wherein the top side is shaped to be flush with the outer faces (27) of the base body (3), wherein the top side (37) preferably has a square shape.

8. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 1, wherein at least one corner (43) defined in at least one inner wall of the cylindrical cavity (5) is rounded and has a radius of 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm,

wherein preferably all corners (43) defined in or on the inner wall of the cylindrical cavity (5) are rounded and have a radius of 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 6 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm.

9. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 1,

wherein the lid (25) has at least one third magnetic connection means (19) and at least one lid opening (45),

wherein the container (1) further comprises:

at least one insert (47) shaped to engage the lid opening (45),

wherein the insert (47) has at least one fourth magnetic connection means (21), wherein the insert (47) is releasably engageable with the lid (25) via a magnetic connection between the third magnetic connection means (19) and the fourth magnetic connection means (21).

10. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 1, wherein the base body does not have any mechanical connection means, in particular plug and/or screw connection means, for connection with the lid.

11. (canceled)

12. (canceled)

13. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 9, wherein the insert (47) is shaped as at least one of:

a. a closure adapter (47A) to allow a closure of the lid opening (45), and/or

b. a drinking adapter (47B) to allow a drinking of liquid contained in the container (1), and/or

c. a speed bottle adapter (47C) to allow a dosed dispensing of liquid contained in the container (1).

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

15. Container (1) for liquids according to claim 14, wherein at least one, preferably all, magnetic connection means (15, 17, 19, 21) are arranged in the polymer, preferably completely enclosed by the polymer.