Insulated Containers and Their Manufacturing Methods

Abstract

The present invention provides a heat-insulating container in which the weld marks are inconspicuous when the degassing gap is sealed by welding. The heat-insulating container (1A) has a metal outer container (2) with one end open and an inner container, which are joined together at their open ends with the inner container being housed inside the outer container (2), and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container (2) and the inner container. The heat-insulating container has weld marks formed by sealing the degassing gap (S) provided on the bottom surface of the outer container (2) by welding. The weld marks are provided along the outline of or near the recess (5) provided on the bottom surface of the outer container (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to heat-insulating containers and their manufacturing methods. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, there is an insulated container that has an open-end metal outer container and an inner container, with their open ends joined together so that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container. Such insulated containers are widely used in beverage containers such as kettles and mugs with heat preservation and cold preservation functions, food containers with heat preservation functions, and cooking equipment.

[0003] In the aforementioned insulated container, the outer container and the inner container are joined together by welding so that their open ends are aligned. Furthermore, within the depressurized (vacuumed) chamber, a degassing hole on the bottom surface of the outer container is sealed using brazing filler metal, thereby forming a vacuum insulation layer between the outer container and the inner container.

[0004] On the other hand, in the following Patent Document 1, as a method for forming a vacuum insulation layer, a method is proposed to seal the degassing gap provided in the outer container by welding under depressurization.

[0005] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0231145

[0006] However, the appearance of gaps sealed by welding is worsened by the weld marks. On the other hand, if the width and length of the gap are reduced to make the weld marks less noticeable, the time required for degassing through the gap increases, thus reducing manufacturing efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention is made in view of the above-mentioned existing situation, and aims to provide an insulating container and a method thereof that makes the welding marks inconspicuous when sealing the degassing gap by welding.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following solutions.

[0009] [1] A heat-insulating container having an outer metal container and an inner container open at one end, wherein the open ends of the two containers are joined together such that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container.

[0010] The aforementioned heat-insulating container is characterized in that,

[0011] It has weld marks formed by sealing a degassing gap provided on the bottom surface of the outer container by welding, and the weld marks are provided along or near the outline of a recess provided on the bottom surface of the outer container.

[0012] [2] The heat-insulating container according to [1] above is characterized in that,

[0013] The aforementioned welding marks are provided along the outer periphery of the stepped portion that forms the outline of the aforementioned recess.

[0014] [3] The heat-insulating container according to [1] above is characterized in that,

[0015] The aforementioned recess is arranged in a ring shape on the bottom surface of the outer container.

[0016] The aforementioned welding marks are provided along the inner circumference of the stepped portion that forms the inner contour of the aforementioned recess.

[0017] [4] The heat-insulating container according to any one of [1] to [3] above, characterized in that,

[0018] The aforementioned welding marks are provided in multiple locations along or near the outline of the aforementioned recess.

[0019] [5] A heat-insulating container having a metal outer container and an inner container open at one end, wherein the open ends of the two containers are joined together such that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container.

[0020] The aforementioned heat-insulating container is characterized in that,

[0021] It has weld marks formed by sealing the degassing gaps provided in the outer container by welding.

[0022] The aforementioned welding marks are set along the outline of a pattern consisting of words, numbers, symbols, graphics, or combinations thereof.

[0023] [6] A heat-insulating container having an outer metal container and an inner container open at one end, wherein the open ends of the two containers are joined together such that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container.

[0024] The aforementioned heat-insulating container is characterized in that,

[0025] It has weld marks formed by sealing the degassing gaps provided in the outer container by welding.

[0026] The aforementioned welding marks were covered by the cover component.

[0027] [7] The heat-insulating container according to any one of [1], [5], and [6] above, characterized in that,

[0028] The aforementioned outer container and the aforementioned inner container are made of titanium, aluminum, magnesium, or alloys thereof.

[0029] [8] A method for manufacturing an insulated container, wherein the insulated container has a metal outer container and an inner container with one end open, the open ends of the two containers are joined together such that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container.

[0030] The manufacturing method of the above-mentioned heat-insulating container is characterized by comprising:

[0031] The process of forming a degassing slit on the bottom surface of the aforementioned outer container; and

[0032] The process of sealing the aforementioned gaps by welding under depressurized conditions.

[0033] The aforementioned slit is formed along or near the contour of the recess provided on the bottom surface of the outer container.

[0034] [9] The method for manufacturing the heat-insulating container according to [8] above is characterized in that,

[0035] The aforementioned slit is formed along the outer periphery of the stepped portion that forms the outline of the aforementioned recess.

[0036]

[10] The method for manufacturing the heat-insulating container according to [8] above is characterized in that,

[0037] An annular recess is formed on the bottom surface of the outer container.

[0038] The aforementioned slit is formed along the inner periphery of the stepped portion that forms the inner side of the recess.

[0039]

[11] The method for manufacturing the heat-insulating container according to any one of [8] to

[10] above, characterized in that,

[0040] Multiple slits are formed along or near the outline of the aforementioned recess.

[0041]

[12] A method for manufacturing an insulated container, wherein the insulated container has a metal outer container and an inner container with one end open, the open ends of the two containers are joined together such that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container.

[0042] The manufacturing method of the above-mentioned heat-insulating container is characterized by comprising:

[0043] The process of forming a degassing gap in the outer container mentioned above; and

[0044] The process of sealing the aforementioned gaps by welding under depressurized conditions.

[0045] The aforementioned gaps are formed along the outline of a pattern consisting of words, numbers, symbols, graphics, or combinations thereof.

[0046]

[13] The method for manufacturing the heat-insulating container according to [8] or

[12] above is characterized in that,

[0047] The aforementioned gaps are sealed using laser welding.

[0048]

[14] The method for manufacturing the heat-insulating container according to [8] or

[12] above is characterized in that,

[0049] The aforementioned outer container and the aforementioned inner container are made of titanium, aluminum, magnesium, or alloys thereof.

[0050] As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an insulating container and a method thereof that makes welding marks inconspicuous when sealing the degassing gap by welding. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the heat-insulating container according to the first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above.

[0052] Figure 2 Viewed from below Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional view of the insulated container.

[0053] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows a bottom view of the structure of the insulated container.

[0054] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the structure of the insulated container.

[0055] Figure 5 It is Figure 4 The image shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the bottom side of the insulated container.

[0056] Figure 6 Viewed from below Figure 1 A perspective view of other structures of the insulated container shown.

[0057] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the heat-insulating container according to the second embodiment of the present invention, viewed from below.

[0058] Figure 8 It means Figure 7The diagram shows a bottom view of the structure of the insulated container.

[0059] Figure 9 It means Figure 7 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the structure of the insulated container.

[0060] Figure 10 It is Figure 7 The image shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the bottom side of the insulated container.

[0061] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the heat-insulating container according to the third embodiment of the present invention, viewed from below.

[0062] Figure 12 It means Figure 11 The diagram shows a bottom view of the structure of the insulated container.

[0063] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the heat-insulating container according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0065] 1A, 1B, 1C… Insulated container; 2… Outer container; 3… Inner container; 4… Vacuum insulation layer; 5, 5A, 5B… Recess; 6, 61, 62… Stepped section; 7… Protrusion; 10… Shoulder component; F… Pattern; S… Gap. Detailed Implementation

[0066] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] (First Implementation)

[0068] First, as a first embodiment of the present invention, for example, regarding... Figures 1-5 The heat-insulating container 1A shown herein and its manufacturing method are described.

[0069] also, Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of the insulated container 1A viewed from above. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the heat-insulating container 1A from below. Figure 3 This is a bottom view showing the structure of the heat-insulating container 1A. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the heat-insulating container 1A. Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view obtained by enlarging the bottom side of the heat-insulating container 1A.

[0070] like Figures 1-4As shown, the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment includes a metal outer container 2 with one open end and an inner container 3. The heat-insulating container 1A has a vacuum insulation structure, which is formed by joining the open ends of the outer container 2 with the inner container 3 housed inside the outer container 2 and providing a vacuum insulation layer 4 between the outer container 2 and the inner container 3.

[0071] In this embodiment, the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 are joined together by welding with their open ends aligned. Additionally, in... Figure 4 Although the diagram shows the mating portion (boundary) between the outer container 2 and the inner container 3, this mating portion is melted by welding after joining, thereby forming a weld seam throughout the entire circumference of the mating portion. In addition, this weld seam is finally processed into a smooth surface by grinding and polishing after welding.

[0072] In addition to stainless steel, which is commonly used, the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 are made of metals such as titanium, aluminum, magnesium, or their alloys. Furthermore, the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 are joined using welding methods such as laser welding.

[0073] In the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, the aforementioned vacuum insulation structure enables it to perform functions such as heat preservation and cold preservation. Furthermore, in the heat-insulating container 1A, the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 are constantly under tension due to the difference between internal pressure (vacuum pressure) and external pressure (atmospheric pressure), thereby increasing the mechanical strength of the outer container 2 and the inner container 3. Therefore, even if the thickness of the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 is reduced, the rigidity of the heat-insulating container 1A can be improved, thus achieving a lightweight design for the heat-insulating container 1A.

[0074] In this embodiment, the heat-insulating container 1A serves as the main body of a lidded container, and the upper opening of the heat-insulating container 1A can be opened and closed using a lid (not shown) that is detachable from the heat-insulating container 1A by screwing it on.

[0075] Furthermore, while the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment has a generally cylindrical shape with a bottom, the shape of the heat-insulating container 1A is not particularly limited and can be appropriately modified in combination with size, design, etc. Additionally, coating, printing, etc., can be applied to the outer surface of the outer container 2.

[0076] However, in the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, a degassing gap S is formed on the bottom surface of the outer container 2, and the gap S is sealed by welding under depressurization, thereby forming a vacuum heat-insulating layer 4 between the outer container 2 and the inner container 3.

[0077] The gap S can be formed, for example, by laser irradiation. Furthermore, the gap S can be sealed, for example, by welding methods such as laser welding.

[0078] The width of the gap S is preferably 0.02 mm to 1.0 mm, and particularly preferably 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm. Furthermore, the width of the gap S is preferably 80% or less of the thickness of the base plate of the outer container 2, and particularly preferably 30% or less. On the other hand, if the width of the gap S is 80% or less of the thickness of the base plate of the outer container 2, sealing the gap S does not take time, and the gap S can be sealed by melting the base plate of the outer container 2 itself. Therefore, for example, a sealing filler material such as a welding rod is not required.

[0079] In addition, Figures 2-4 The diagram illustrates a gap S, but after sealing the gap S by welding, a weld is formed along the gap S. Furthermore, this weld can be finished into a smooth surface by grinding and lapping after welding.

[0080] Therefore, the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment has weld marks on the bottom surface of the outer container 2, which are formed by sealing the degassing gap S through welding. Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, the weld marks are formed at the same location as the gap S.

[0081] In the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, in order to make the welding mark inconspicuous, a gap S is formed along the outline of the recess 5 provided on the bottom surface of the outer container 2 or in its vicinity, thereby providing a welding mark formed by sealing the gap S by welding.

[0082] Specifically, the heat-insulating container 1A has a recess 5 formed so that the center of the bottom surface of the outer container 2 appears circular when viewed from above. A gap S is provided along or near the contour of the recess 5. Therefore, weld marks are formed along or near the contour of the recess 5.

[0083] Therefore, in the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, when the degassing gap S is sealed by welding, the weld mark follows the outline of the recess 5 or its vicinity, thus making the weld mark inconspicuous. Furthermore, since the recess 5 is located at the center of the bottom surface of the outer container 2, compared to the outer periphery of the bottom surface of the outer container 2, which is more likely to be impacted when the heat-insulating container 1A is dropped, the risk of damage such as deformation of the welded portion due to impacts such as falling can be avoided.

[0084] In the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, a plurality of slits S (two in this embodiment) are provided along or near the contour of the recess 5. The two slits S are provided symmetrically along or near the contour of the recess 5.

[0085] In the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, by providing multiple slits S, the time required for degassing through the multiple slits S during the formation of the vacuum insulation layer 4 can be shortened. Furthermore, compared to providing a single, larger slit, the weld marks after sealing the slit S by welding are less noticeable. Moreover, multiple slits S are not necessary; one may be provided depending on the situation.

[0086] Furthermore, regarding the length of the gap S, when it is formed as an arc along or near the outline of the circular recess 5 provided on the bottom surface of the outer container 2, the length varies depending on the size of the radius of the recess 5. However, it is preferable that the length has an angle range of 180° (half a circumference) or less, and it is particularly preferable that the length has an angle range of 90° (1 / 4 circumference) or less.

[0087] If the angle range of the arc-shaped gap S is less than 180° (half a circumference), the inner part of the bottom surface of the outer container 2 that contains the gap S (the inner part of the recess 5) is difficult to deform in a way that separates from the outer part (the outer part of the recess 5) and shifts in the thickness direction of the substrate, thus making it easier to seal the gap S in the next process.

[0088] In addition, in the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, in order to make the welding marks inconspicuous, a gap S is provided along the outer periphery of the stepped portion 6 that forms the contour of the recess 5.

[0089] As in Figure 5 As shown in the enlarged view, the step portion 6 connects the bottom surface of the outer container 2 and the bottom surface of the recess 5. The outer peripheral side of the step portion 6 is convexly curved in the connection portion 6a with the bottom surface of the outer container 2. The inner peripheral side of the step portion 6 is concavely curved in the connection portion 6b with the bottom surface of the recess 5. A gap S is provided along the connection portion 6a of the outer peripheral side of the step portion 6.

[0090] The stepped portion 6 experiences less deformation due to the tension applied to the outer container 2, making it suitable for providing the gap S. Furthermore, the outer periphery of the stepped portion 6 is easier to grind and polish after welding compared to its inner periphery.

[0091] On the other hand, the inner circumference of the step portion 6 does not directly contact the mounting surface on the bottom surface of the outer container 2, so the risk of breakage is relatively small. Depending on the situation, a structure in which a gap S is provided along the connecting portion 6b of the inner circumference of the step portion 6 can also be formed.

[0092] When forming the gap S, the heat insulation container 1A is rotated around its central axis while a laser is irradiated along or near the contour of the recess 5 provided on the bottom surface of the outer container 2. This allows the gap S to be formed with high precision along or near the contour of the recess 5.

[0093] Furthermore, when sealing the gap S, the heat-insulating container 1A, before sealing, is housed in a chamber that has been depressurized (evacuated), and degassing is achieved between the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 through the gap S. In this state, a laser is irradiated onto the heat-insulating container 1A inside the chamber from the outside through a window provided in the chamber.

[0094] At this time, while rotating the heat-insulating container 1A around its central axis, a laser is irradiated along the slit S provided on the bottom surface of the outer container 2. This allows for a high-precision seal of the slit S along or near the contour of the recess 5.

[0095] Furthermore, the formation and sealing of the gap S can be achieved by moving the heat insulation container 1A relative to the fixed laser irradiation position, or by scanning the laser relative to the fixed heat insulation container 1A.

[0096] However, for the conventional method of sealing the degassing holes on the bottom of the outer container by using brazing filler metal in a depressurized (vacuumed) chamber, the insulated container needs to be heated in order to melt the brazing filler metal.

[0097] For example, when pure titanium, which is lighter than stainless steel, is used for both the outer and inner containers, the brazing filler metal suitable for pure titanium needs to be heated to around 800°C to melt it. In this case, the mechanical strength of the outer and inner containers is reduced due to annealing, making it difficult to maintain mechanical strength with the same thickness as stainless steel.

[0098] Therefore, in existing sealing methods, the outer container and inner container need to be thicker than when stainless steel is used to ensure the mechanical strength of the outer container and inner container.

[0099] In contrast, in the manufacturing method of the heat-insulating container 1A according to this embodiment, it is not necessary to heat the heat-insulating container 1A when sealing the gap S, thus avoiding the annealing process required when using pure titanium for the outer container 2 and the inner container 3. Therefore, the thickness of the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 can be reduced. In addition, the electricity and time required for heating the heat-insulating container 1A are not needed.

[0100] As described above, in the heat-insulating container 1A of this embodiment, when the degassing gap S is sealed by welding, the welding marks can be made inconspicuous.

[0101] Furthermore, in the aforementioned heat-insulating container 1A, a circular recess 5 is provided at the center of the bottom surface of the outer container 2. However, the shape of the recess 5 is not limited to the shape described above. For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, it is also possible to form a structure with a recess 5A that makes the center of the bottom surface of the outer container 2 appear as an elongated oval shape when viewed from above.

[0102] In this case, a gap S is also formed along or near the contour of the recess 5A, and the gap S is sealed by welding. In particular, in the recess 5A, a gap S is formed from one end of the straight portion of the elongated circle to the other end, and the gap S is sealed by welding, thereby making the welding marks even less noticeable.

[0103] (Second Implementation)

[0104] Next, as a second embodiment of the present invention, for example, regarding... Figures 7-10 The heat-insulating container 1B shown herein and its manufacturing method are described.

[0105] also, Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the heat-insulating container 1B from below. Figure 8 This is a bottom view showing the structure of the heat-insulating container 1B. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the heat-insulating container 1B. Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by enlarging the bottom side of the insulation container 1B. Furthermore, in the following description, descriptions of parts equivalent to those in the insulation container 1A described above are omitted, and the same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings.

[0106] like Figures 7-9 As shown, the heat-insulating container 1B of this embodiment has a recess 5B formed by making the central part of the bottom surface of the outer container 2 into a circular annular recess, and a convex part 7 located inside the recess 5B that is circular in shape when viewed from above.

[0107] In the heat-insulating container 1B of this embodiment, a gap S is provided along or near the contour of the recess 5B to make the weld marks inconspicuous. Therefore, the weld marks are formed along or near the contour of the recess 5B.

[0108] Therefore, in the heat-insulating container 1B of this embodiment, when the degassing gap S is sealed by welding, the weld mark follows the outline of the recess 5B or its vicinity, thus making the weld mark inconspicuous. Furthermore, since the recess 5B is located at the center of the bottom surface of the outer container 2, compared to the outer periphery of the bottom surface of the outer container 2, which is more likely to be impacted when the heat-insulating container 1B is dropped, the risk of damage such as deformation of the welded portion due to impacts such as falling can be avoided.

[0109] In the heat-insulating container 1B of this embodiment, a plurality of slits S (two in this embodiment) are provided along or near the contour of the recess 5B. The two slits S are provided symmetrically along or near the contour of the recess 5B.

[0110] In the heat-insulating container 1B of this embodiment, by providing multiple slits S, the time required for degassing through the multiple slits S during the formation of the vacuum insulation layer 4 can be shortened. Furthermore, compared to providing a single, larger slit, the weld marks after sealing the slit S by welding are less noticeable. Moreover, multiple slits S are not necessary; one may be provided depending on the situation.

[0111] In the heat-insulating container 1B of this embodiment, in order to make the welding marks inconspicuous, a gap S is provided on the inner circumferential side of the stepped portion 61 that forms the inner side of the recess 5B.

[0112] As in Figure 10 As shown in the enlarged view, the step portion 61 is the part connecting the bottom surface of the protrusion 7 and the recess 5B. The inner peripheral side of the step portion 61 is convexly curved in the connection portion 6c with the protrusion 7. The outer peripheral side of the step portion 61 is concavely curved in the connection portion 6d with the bottom surface of the recess 5B. The gap S is provided along the connection portion 6c of the inner peripheral side of the step portion 61.

[0113] The stepped portion 61 experiences less deformation due to the tension applied to the outer container 2, making it suitable for providing the gap S. Furthermore, the inner circumference of the stepped portion 61 is easier to grind and polish after welding compared to its outer periphery.

[0114] On the other hand, the outer periphery of the step portion 61 does not directly contact the mounting surface on the bottom surface of the outer container 2, so the risk of breakage is relatively small. Depending on the situation, a structure in which a gap S is provided along the connecting portion 6d of the outer periphery of the step portion 61.

[0115] When forming the gap S, the heat insulation container 1B is rotated around its central axis while a laser is irradiated along or near the contour of the recess 5B provided on the bottom surface of the outer container 2. This allows the gap S to be formed with high precision along or near the contour of the recess 5B.

[0116] Furthermore, when sealing the gap S, the heat-insulating container 1B before sealing is housed in a chamber that has been depressurized (evacuated), and degassing is performed between the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 through the gap S. In this state, a laser is irradiated onto the heat-insulating container 1B inside the chamber from the outside through a window provided in the chamber.

[0117] At this time, while rotating the heat-insulating container 1B around its central axis, a laser is irradiated along the slit S provided on the bottom surface of the outer container 2. This allows for a high-precision seal of the slit S along or near the contour of the recess 5B.

[0118] In the manufacturing method of the heat-insulating container 1B according to this embodiment, it is not necessary to heat the heat-insulating container 1B when sealing the gap S, thus avoiding the annealing process that occurs when the outer container 2 and inner container 3 are made of pure titanium. Therefore, the thickness of the outer container 2 and inner container 3 can be reduced. In addition, the electricity and time required for heating the heat-insulating container 1B are not needed.

[0119] As described above, in the heat-insulating container 1B of this embodiment, when the degassing gap S is sealed by welding, the welding marks can be made inconspicuous.

[0120] Furthermore, the aforementioned heat insulation container 1B has a structure in which a slit S is provided on the inner peripheral side of the stepped portion 61 that forms the inner side of the recess 5B, but it is also possible, similarly to the aforementioned heat insulation container 1A, to form a structure in which a slit S is provided on the outer peripheral side of the stepped portion 62 that forms the outer side of the recess 5B.

[0121] Furthermore, in a typical manufacturing process, after a gap S is formed on either of the aforementioned stepped portions 61 and 62, it is sealed by welding. However, if a defect occurs at the welded area, making proper degassing between the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 impossible, it becomes difficult to re-form the gap S at the same welded area and seal it by welding due to the physical properties of the metal. In this case, the product is discarded as a defective item, resulting in a decrease in yield.

[0122] Therefore, when a defect occurs at the welded area, it is preferable to provide a gap S on the other side of the aforementioned stepped portions 61 and 62, and then seal the gap S by welding. This eliminates the need to provide a gap S again at the same welded area, and avoids discarding the product as a defective item, thus preventing a decrease in yield.

[0123] Furthermore, when the height of the inner step portion 61 (protrusion 7) of the aforementioned step portions 61 and 62 is lower than the height of the outer step portion 62 (bottom surface of the outer container 2), it is preferable to provide a gap S along the inner step portion 61. In this case, since the outer step portion 62 (bottom surface of the outer container 2) is in contact with the surface to which it is provided, while the inner step portion 61 (protrusion 7) is not in contact with the surface to which it is provided, the risk of damage such as deformation of the welded part caused by contact with the surface to which it is provided can be avoided.

[0124] Furthermore, in the aforementioned heat-insulating container 1B, there is a structure in which an annular recess 5B is provided at the center of the bottom surface of the outer container 2, and a protrusion 7 is provided on its inner side. However, it is also possible to form a structure in place of the protrusion 7, in which a recess (not shown) is provided so that the center of the bottom surface of the recess 5B is circularly recessed.

[0125] (Third Implementation)

[0126] Next, as a third embodiment of the present invention, for example, regarding... Figure 11 and Figure 12 The heat-insulating container 1C shown herein and its manufacturing method are described.

[0127] also, Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the insulated container 1C from below. Figure 12 This is a bottom view showing the structure of the heat-insulating container 1C. Furthermore, in the following description, descriptions of parts equivalent to those in the heat-insulating container 1A described above are omitted, and the same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings.

[0128] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the heat-insulating container 1C of this embodiment has a pattern F on the bottom surface of the recess 5 provided on the bottom surface of the outer container 2. The pattern F is composed of text, numbers, symbols, graphics, or a combination thereof.

[0129] In the heat-insulating container 1C of this embodiment, gaps S are provided along the outline of the pattern F in order to make the weld marks inconspicuous. Therefore, the weld marks are formed along the outline of the pattern F.

[0130] Therefore, in the heat-insulating container 1C of this embodiment, when the degassing gap S is sealed by welding, the welding marks are inconspicuous. In addition, since the pattern F is provided on the bottom surface of the recess 5, compared with the outer periphery of the bottom surface of the outer container 2, the risk of damage such as deformation caused by impacts such as falling can be avoided.

[0131] In the heat-insulating container 1C of this embodiment, multiple slits S may also be provided along the outline of the pattern F. For example, the "R, O" of "THERMOS" and the "0, 9" of "2020 / 92" in the pattern F may be divided into two slits S. Otherwise, it may be formed by a single slit S.

[0132] In the heat-insulating container 1C of this embodiment, by providing a plurality of slits S that correspond to the pattern F described above, the time required for degassing through the plurality of slits S during the formation of the vacuum insulation layer 4 can be shortened. Furthermore, the slits S do not need to be provided along all of the pattern F, but can be provided along a portion of the pattern F.

[0133] When forming the gap S, a laser is used to scan and irradiate along the pattern F set on the bottom surface of the recess 5. The laser scanning can be performed by scanning the heat insulation container 1C relative to a fixed laser irradiation position, or by scanning the laser relative to a fixed heat insulation container 1C. As a result, the gap S can be formed with high precision along the contour of the pattern F.

[0134] Furthermore, when sealing the gap S, the heat-insulating container 1C, before sealing, is housed in a chamber that has been depressurized (evacuated), and degassing is performed between the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 through the gap S. In this state, a laser is irradiated onto the heat-insulating container 1C inside the chamber from the outside through a window provided in the chamber.

[0135] At this time, the laser scans and irradiates along the pattern F set on the bottom surface of the recess 5. The laser scanning can be performed by scanning the heat insulation container 1C relative to a fixed laser irradiation position, or by scanning the laser relative to a fixed heat insulation container 1C. As a result, the gap S can be sealed with high precision along the contour of the pattern F.

[0136] In the manufacturing method of the heat-insulating container 1C according to this embodiment, heating of the heat-insulating container 1C is not required. Therefore, when pure titanium is used for the outer container 2 and the inner container 3, the thickness of the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 can be reduced. In addition, the electricity and time required for heating the heat-insulating container 1C are not needed.

[0137] Furthermore, for example, when marking the batch number and company logo on the bottom surface of the insulated container 1C, currently, processes such as laser-based engraving and affixing stickers containing the batch number are required. In contrast, in the insulated container 1C of this embodiment, by forming the pattern F into the shape of the batch number and company logo, the above-mentioned processes are not required, thus reducing costs.

[0138] As described above, in the heat-insulating container 1C of this embodiment, when the degassing gap S is sealed by welding, the welding marks can be made inconspicuous.

[0139] Furthermore, in the aforementioned heat-insulating container 1C, a structure is formed in which a slit S is provided along the pattern F provided on the bottom surface of the aforementioned recess 5. However, the pattern F is not limited to the bottom surface of the outer container 2, but can also be provided on the outer peripheral surface (side surface) of the outer container 2. In this case, the slit S provided along the pattern F can also be sealed by welding, thereby making the welding marks inconspicuous.

[0140] (Fourth Implementation)

[0141] Next, as a fourth embodiment of the present invention, for example, regarding... Figure 13 The heat-insulated container 1D shown is described below.

[0142] also, Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the insulation container 1D. Furthermore, in the following description, descriptions of parts equivalent to those in the insulation container 1A described above are omitted, and the same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings.

[0143] like Figure 13As shown, the heat-insulating container 1D of this embodiment has a structure in which the above-mentioned gap S (welding mark) is set in a position that cannot be confirmed from the appearance of the outer container 2.

[0144] Specifically, the heat-insulating container 1D has a cover member (shoulder member) 10 that is installed all around the circumference of the upper part (shoulder) of the main body of the outer container 2.

[0145] In the heat-insulating container 1D of this embodiment, the shoulder of the main body of the outer container 2, which is covered by the cover member 10, has weld marks formed by sealing the degassing gap S through welding. Thus, the weld marks are covered by the cover member 10.

[0146] Therefore, in the heat-insulating container 1D of this embodiment, when the degassing gap S is sealed by welding, the welding marks can be made inconspicuous (not visible thanks to the cover component 10).

[0147] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0148] For example, in the above embodiments, the case of applying the heat-insulating container of the present invention to the container body of the above-described lidded container is illustrated. However, the present invention can be widely applied to heat-insulating containers that can be applied to beverage containers such as kettles and mugs with heat-insulating and cold-insulating functions, food containers with heat-insulating functions, cooking equipment, etc.

Claims

1. An insulated container comprising a metal outer container and an inner container, both open at one end, wherein the open ends of the inner container are joined together, with the inner container being housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container. The heat-insulating container is characterized in that... It has weld marks formed by sealing the degassing gaps provided on the bottom surface of the outer container using laser welding. The welding marks are formed along the portion connecting the bottom surface of the recess to be provided on the bottom surface of the outer container and the bottom surface of the outer container, i.e., the step portion or its vicinity.

2. The heat-insulating container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The welding marks are provided along the outer periphery of the stepped portion.

3. The heat-insulating container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The recess is arranged in a ring shape on the bottom surface of the outer container. The weld marks are formed along the inner circumference of the inner side of the stepped portion.

4. The heat-insulating container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The welding marks are provided in multiple locations along or near the stepped portion.

5. An insulated container having an outer metal container and an inner container open at one end, wherein the open ends of the two containers are joined together such that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container. The heat-insulating container is characterized in that... It has weld marks formed by sealing the degassing gaps provided in the outer container using laser welding. The welding marks are set along the outline of a pattern consisting of words, numbers, symbols, graphics, or a combination thereof.

6. An insulated container having an outer metal container and an inner container open at one end, wherein the open ends of the two containers are joined together such that the inner container is housed inside the outer container, and a vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container. The heat-insulating container is characterized in that... It has weld marks formed by sealing the degassing gaps provided in the outer container using laser welding. The welding marks were covered by the cover component.

7. The heat-insulating container according to any one of claims 1, 5, and 6, characterized in that, The outer container and the inner container are made of titanium, aluminum, magnesium, or alloys thereof.

8. A method of manufacturing an insulating container, wherein, The insulated container has a metal outer container and an inner container, both open at one end, joined together at their open ends so that the inner container is housed inside the outer container. A vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container. The method for manufacturing the heat-insulating container is characterized by comprising: The process of forming a degassing slit on the bottom surface of the outer container; and The process of sealing the gap by laser welding under depressurized conditions. The gap is formed along the portion connecting the bottom surface of the recess to be provided on the bottom surface of the outer container and the bottom surface of the outer container, i.e., the step portion or its vicinity.

9. The method for manufacturing an insulated container according to claim 8, characterized in that, The gap is formed along the outer periphery of the stepped portion.

10. The method for manufacturing an insulated container according to claim 8, characterized in that, An annular recess is formed on the bottom surface of the outer container. The gap is formed along the inner periphery of the step portion on the inner side.

11. The method for manufacturing an insulated container according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, A plurality of the aforementioned gaps are formed along or near the stepped portion.

12. A method of manufacturing an insulated container, wherein, The insulated container has a metal outer container and an inner container, both open at one end, joined together at their open ends so that the inner container is housed inside the outer container. A vacuum insulation layer is provided between the outer container and the inner container. The method for manufacturing the heat-insulating container is characterized by comprising: The process of forming a degassing slit in the outer container; and The process of sealing the gap by laser welding under depressurized conditions. The slit is formed along the outline of a pattern consisting of words, numbers, symbols, graphics, or a combination thereof.

13. The method for manufacturing an insulated container according to claim 8 or 12, characterized in that, The outer container and the inner container are made of titanium, aluminum, magnesium, or alloys thereof.

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