Liquid-tight container, method of production and use thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a container comprising a container wall at least partially surrounding the interior of the container and a first engagement element; wherein the sheath element and the first end element each form a region of the container wall; wherein at least one first plane extending parallel to the length of the container through the interior of the container comprises a first bonding layer sequence, with respect to which the sheath element, the first bonding element and the first end element directly contact one another as a layer over the entire lateral extent thereof, and wherein at least one second plane extending parallel to the length of the container through the interior of the container comprises a second bonding layer sequence, with respect to which the sheath element, the first bonding element and the first end element directly contact one another as a layer; wherein the first engagement element has a first surface contacting the first end element and a second surface contacting the sheath element; wherein an imaginary first straight line connects two end points of a first line formed by the first surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first joining layer sequence; wherein an imaginary second straight line connects two end points of a second line formed by the second surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first joining layer sequence; wherein the first straight line and the second straight line form a first acute angle. The invention further relates to a method and a device for producing said container and to the use of said container, to the use of a sheet-like composite material and to the use of a joining tool.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid-tight container, comprising a container wall at least partially surrounding the interior of the container and a first engaging element; wherein the sheath element and the first end element each form a region of the container wall; wherein the sheath element

[0002] - is at least partially formed from a first sheet-like material,

[0003] - laterally bounds the container interior relative to the length of the liquid-tight container, and

[0004] - comprising a first edge region having a first edge;

[0005] The first sheet material

[0006] - comprising a first cardboard, and

[0007] - having a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN;

[0008] wherein the first edge region is arranged at the first end of the liquid-tight container; wherein the first end element comprises, preferably consists of, a central region and another edge region surrounding the central region, in particular laterally surrounding the central region and having another edge; wherein the central region defines the container interior at the first end of the liquid-tight container in a first direction along the length of the liquid-tight container relative to the length of the liquid-tight container; wherein the other edge region is connected to the sheath element in a material-bonded manner by means of a first joining element; wherein the other edge forms a closed curve with a perimeter; wherein the other edge region has an edge width extending from the other edge to the central region at each point of the closed curve; wherein the first edge region protrudes beyond the other edge region at each point of the closed curve so that the first edge region has an overhang width (overhand) from the other edge to the first edge width); wherein the overhang width is measured on the side of the first edge region facing away from the first end element; wherein along at least 50% of the circumference, the overhang width is at least 30% of the edge width; wherein at least one first plane extending through the interior of the container parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container comprises a first bonding layer sequence, and over its entire lateral extent, relative to the first bonding layer sequence, the sheath element, the first bonding element and the first end element are directly connected to each other as layers; wherein the first bonding element has a first surface contacting the first end element and a second surface contacting the sheath element; wherein an imaginary first straight line connects the two end points of a first line formed by the first surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence; wherein an imaginary second straight line connects the two end points of a second line formed by the second surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence; wherein the first straight line forms a first acute angle with the second straight line. The present invention further relates to a method and an apparatus for producing the container and the use of the container, the use of the sheet-like composite material and the use of a bonding tool.

[0009] For a long time, food, whether it is food for human consumption or animal feed products, has been preserved by storing it in cans or in glass bottles sealed with lids. Cans and bottles have many disadvantages. For example, cans and bottles have a considerable dead weight, so that the energy consumption during transportation increases. In addition, the production of glass, tinplate or aluminum requires relatively high energy, even if the raw materials used come from recycling. In the case of bottles, the situation is complicated by additional transportation costs. Bottles are usually prefabricated in glass factories and then have to be transported to the factory where the food is filled using considerable transport volumes. In addition, bottles and cans can only be opened with considerable force or with the help of tools, so that their opening is rather cumbersome. In the case of cans, there is also a high risk of injuries caused by sharp edges that occur during opening. In the case of glass bottles, it often happens that glass fragments enter the food when filling or opening the filled bottle, which in the worst case can cause internal injuries when the food is consumed. In addition, cans and bottles must be labeled to identify and advertise the food content. Bottles and cans cannot be easily printed directly with information and advertising images. In addition to the actual printing, a substrate, paper or a suitable film, as well as a fixing agent, adhesive or sealant are required.

[0010] Other packaging systems are known from the prior art for the long-term storage of foods with as little damage as possible. These are containers made of sheet-like composite materials, which are also often referred to as laminates. Such sheet-like composite materials usually consist of a thermoplastic layer, a carrier layer, usually made of cardboard or paper, which imparts dimensional stability to the container, an adhesion promoter layer, a barrier layer and a further plastic layer. Due to the dimensional stability imparted to the containers made of laminates by the carrier layer, these containers can be regarded as a further development of the above-mentioned bottles and cans compared to film bags.

[0011] One-piece dimensionally stable food containers made from laminated materials are usually substantially cuboid in shape (see Fig. 20). These containers are made by folding and sealing a continuous sheet of laminate. The formation of the container bottom and the container head usually requires particularly sharp and numerous folds, which sometimes also intersect with each other. This accumulation of folds always tends to impair the particularly long shelf life of the food in the container. On the one hand, the barrier layer can be damaged at the sharp fold edges or fold intersections. This is especially true in the case of metal foil as a barrier layer. If the barrier layer is damaged, the airtightness of the container is impaired. Oxygen entering the container shortens its shelf life. On the other hand, the carrier layer is foldable, but also rigid enough to give the container dimensional stability. This usually means that it is not possible to make as many sharp folds as needed in a small area. Especially in the case of the container bottom, many folded layers of laminate are usually superimposed on each other. Since the accumulated folds cannot be formed perfectly sharp and neatly and it is also usually impossible to apply the required amount of sealant locally, it often happens that the layers of the laminate are not completely sealed together. This may therefore lead to the formation of cavities between the layers. Bacteria can colonize in such cavities and are difficult to eliminate even by enhanced disinfection measures during the container production process. Furthermore, such cavities can form channels through the layer sequence of the laminate material, so that gases and liquids can be transported through the layer sequence and can thus significantly impair the tightness of the container.

[0012] These shelf life problems of one-piece containers can be solved by reducing the number of folds. To this end, the container can be constructed in multiple pieces, i.e. with a separate lid and / or bottom. The lid or bottom is then made from a separate sheet of laminate, which is joined to the sheet of laminate forming the container side wall during the container production process. Such a multi-piece container has significantly fewer sharp folds than a single-piece laminate container. As a result, fewer leakage problems occur in the unloaded container and a longer shelf life can be achieved more reliably.

[0013] However, the tightness of these multi-piece containers depends largely on the connecting seam between the lid / bottom and the side wall of the container. Therefore, such multi-piece containers are more susceptible to losing their tightness due to mechanical impacts, such as those that occur when the container is dropped or when filled containers are stacked.

[0014] In general, one object of the present invention is to at least partially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0015] A further object of the present invention is to provide a dimensionally stable, liquid-tight food container made of a laminate material, characterized by an improved shelf life, in particular after mechanical impacts such as being dropped. Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide a dimensionally stable, liquid-tight food container made of a laminate material, having a tighter container bottom and a tighter container head or both, in particular after mechanical impacts such as being dropped. A further object of the present invention is to provide a dimensionally stable, liquid-tight food container made of a laminate material, characterized by improved mechanical stability, in particular against being dropped. A further object of the present invention is to provide a method particularly designed for producing and preferably also filling one of the above-mentioned advantageous food containers.

[0016] The independent claims help to at least partially achieve at least one, preferably several, of the above objects. The dependent claims provide preferred embodiments that help to at least partially achieve at least one of the objects.

[0017] Embodiment 1 of a liquid-tight container contributes to achieving at least one of the objects of the present invention, the liquid-tight container comprising a container wall and a first joining element that at least partially, preferably completely surrounds the interior of the container; wherein the sheath element and the first end element each form a region of the container wall; wherein the sheath element is at least partially, preferably completely, formed by a first sheet material,

[0018] - laterally bounds the container interior relative to the length of the liquid-tight container, and

[0019] - comprising a first edge region having a first edge;

[0020] The first sheet material

[0021] - comprising a first cardboard, and

[0022] - having a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN, preferably 50 to 500 mN, more preferably 55 to 480 mN, more preferably 60 to 460 mN, still more preferably 65 to 440 mN, most preferably 70 to 420 mN;

[0023] wherein the first edge region is arranged at the first end of the liquid-tight container; wherein the first end element comprises a central region and another edge region surrounding the central region and having another edge; wherein the central region defines the interior of the container at the first end of the liquid-tight container in a first direction along the length of the liquid-tight container relative to the length of the liquid-tight container; wherein the other edge region is connected to the sheath element in a material-bonded manner by means of a first joining element; wherein the other edge forms a closed curve having a perimeter; wherein the other edge region has an edge width extending from the other edge to the central region at each point of the closed curve; wherein the first edge region extends beyond the other edge region at each point of the closed curve so that the first edge region has an overhang width from the other edge to the first edge; wherein the overhang width is measured on the side of the first edge region facing away from the first end element; wherein at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80% along the perimeter , more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, most preferably 100%, the overhang width is at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, even more preferably 70% of the edge width; wherein at least one, preferably each first plane extending through the interior of the container parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container comprises a first bonding layer sequence, and over its entire lateral range, relative to the first bonding layer sequence, the sheath element, the first bonding element and the first end element are directly connected to each other as layers; wherein the first bonding element has a first surface contacting the first end element and a second surface contacting the sheath element; wherein an imaginary first straight line connects the two end points of a first line formed by the first surface in the at least one first plane and located in the first bonding layer sequence; wherein an imaginary second straight line connects the two end points of a second line formed by the second surface in the at least one first plane and located in the first bonding layer sequence; wherein the first straight line forms a first acute angle with the second straight line.

[0024] Preferably, along at least 50% of the perimeter, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, most preferably 100%, the overhang width is 30 to 100%, preferably 40 to 100%, more preferably 50 to 100%, even more preferably 60 to 100%, most preferably 70 to 100% of the edge width. Preferably, but not necessarily, the first edge region is in contact with the other edge region, preferably along at least 50% of the overhang width, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, most preferably 100%. To this end, the first edge region is preferably folded around the other edge so that the first edge is directed toward the central region. More preferably, the first edge region is connected to the other edge region, preferably along at least 50% of the overhang width, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, most preferably 100%. Here, the folded area of ​​the first edge area is preferably connected to the further edge area, preferably sealed or welded. This ensures that neither the first edge nor the further edge points in the first direction and is therefore exposed to a potentially humid environment. In this respect, the skilled person will refer to this as curling.

[0025] The preferred first cardboard has a thickness of 50 to 500 g / m 2 , preferably 100 to 500 g / m 2 , more preferably 100 to 450 g / m 2 , more preferably 150 to 450 g / m 2 , and more preferably 170 to 420 g / m 2 , most preferably 190 to 400 g / m 2 Basis weight within the range of.

[0026] In embodiment 2 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 1, wherein in the at least one first plane, at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, particularly preferably at least 98%, and most preferably 100% of the surface area of ​​the first joining element is located between the first straight line and the second straight line. Preferably, the first joining element has a triangular or quadrilateral shape in the at least one first plane. The preferred quadrilateral in this case is a trapezoid. The preferred trapezoid is not a parallelogram. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the first joining element has the shape of a cross-section of a wedge in the at least one first plane, wherein the tip of the wedge has a first acute angle. The shape of the wedge can be a triangle here. However, the end of the wedge that tapers toward the first acute angle may also be missing.

[0027] In embodiment 3 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 1 or 2, wherein for at least 10% of the outer circumference of the sheath element, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95%, there is at least one first plane parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container extending through the interior of the container and the outer circumference of the sheath element, the first plane containing a first bonding layer sequence so that an imaginary first straight line connects the two end points of a first line formed by the first surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence, and an imaginary second straight line connects the two end points of a second line formed by the second surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence, wherein the first straight line forms a first acute angle with the second straight line. In other words, preferably for at least 10% of the outer circumference of the sheath element, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95%, there is at least one first plane parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container extending through the interior of the container and the outer circumference of the sheath element, in which the first straight line defined in embodiment 1 of the liquid-tight container forms a first acute angle with the second straight line.

[0028] In embodiment 4 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first acute angle is in the range of 0.5 to 10.0°, preferably 1.0 to 9.0°, more preferably 1.5 to 8.0°, more preferably 2.0 to 7.5°, more preferably 2.5 to 7.0°, more preferably 3.0 to 6.5°, more preferably 3.2 to 6.4°, more preferably 3.5 to 6.4°, more preferably 4.0 to 6.4°, even more preferably 4.5 to 6.4°, and most preferably 5.0 to 6.4°.

[0029] In embodiment 5 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of the above embodiments, wherein the vertex of the first acute angle is located behind the side of the first acute angle in the first direction. The first acute angle forms an arrow pointing away from the interior of the container.

[0030] In embodiment 6 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first straight line forms an angle with the first direction in the range of 1.3 to 13.5°, preferably 2.0 to 13.0°, more preferably 3.0 to 12.0°, more preferably 4.0 to 11.0°, even more preferably 5.0 to 10.0°, and most preferably 5.8 to 9.9°. Alternatively or additionally, the second straight line preferably forms an angle with the first direction in the range of 0.4 to 5.0°, preferably 0.5 to 4.5°, more preferably 0.6 to 4.0°, even more preferably 0.7 to 3.7°, and most preferably 0.8 to 3.5°. Alternatively or additionally, the area of ​​the first end element contacting the first surface is preferably angled relative to the first direction, based on the liquid-tight container laterally inward or outward (this is more preferred), preferably at an angle in the range of 1.3 to 13.5°, preferably 2.0 to 13.0°, more preferably 3.0 to 12.0°, more preferably 4.0 to 11.0°, even more preferably 5.0 to 10.0°, most preferably 5.8 to 9.9°. Alternatively or additionally, the area of ​​the sheath element contacting the second surface is preferably angled relative to the first direction, based on the liquid-tight container laterally inward or outward (this is more preferred), preferably at an angle in the range of 0.4 to 5.0°, preferably 0.5 to 4.5°, more preferably 0.6 to 4.0°, even more preferably 0.7 to 3.7°, most preferably 0.8 to 3.5°.

[0031] In embodiment 7 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of the preceding embodiments thereof, wherein the sheath element at least partially, preferably laterally completely, surrounds the first end element.

[0032] In embodiment 8 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first cardboard has a thickness of 50 to 500 g / m 2 , preferably 100 to 500 g / m 2 , more preferably 100 to 450 g / m 2 , more preferably 150 to 450 g / m 2 , and more preferably 170 to 420 g / m 2 , most preferably 190 to 400 g / m 2 Basis weight within the range of.

[0033] In embodiment 9 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of the aforementioned embodiments thereof, wherein the first sheet material has a first material direction and another material direction, wherein the first material direction is perpendicular to the other material direction and perpendicular to the thickness of the first sheet material at each point on the surface of the first sheet material, wherein the first sheet material satisfies one or more, preferably each, of the following criteria:

[0034] A] the first sheet material has an extensibility in the first material direction in the range of 2.5 to 10%, preferably 3.5 to 9%, more preferably 4.5 to 8%;

[0035] B] the first sheet material has an extensibility in the direction of the other material in the range of 1 to 6%, preferably 1.5 to 5.5%, more preferably 2 to 4.5%;

[0036] C] the first sheet material has an elastic modulus in the first material direction in the range of 800 to 4000 MPa, preferably 1000 to 3500 MPa, more preferably 1250 to 2500 MPa;

[0037] D] The first sheet material has an elastic modulus in the direction of the further material in the range of 1500 to 6000 MPa, preferably 2000 to 5000 MPa, more preferably 2500 to 4500 MPa.

[0038] Preferably, the first material direction extends in the liquid-tight container according to the invention along the first direction. In a further preferred embodiment, the further material direction extends in the liquid-tight container according to the invention along the first direction.

[0039] In embodiment 10 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of the aforementioned embodiments thereof, wherein the first sheet material has a first material direction and another material direction, wherein the first material direction is perpendicular to the another material direction and perpendicular to the thickness of the first sheet material at each point on the surface of the first sheet material, wherein the extensibility of the first sheet material in the first material direction is greater than the extensibility of the first sheet material in the another material direction. Alternatively or additionally, the elastic modulus of the first sheet material in the first material direction is less than the elastic modulus of the first sheet material in the another material direction.

[0040] In embodiment 11 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first sheet material is a first sheet composite material comprising a first layer sequence; wherein the first layer sequence preferably comprises a first carrier layer over its entire surface.

[0041] In embodiment 12 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 11 thereof, wherein the first carrier layer comprises, preferably consists of, a first cardboard.

[0042] In embodiment 13 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 11 or 12 thereof, wherein the first carrier layer in the first layer sequence is superimposed with a first polymer inner layer on the side facing the container interior, preferably over its entire surface.

[0043] In embodiment 14 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 13, wherein the first joining element is at least partially formed by the first polymer inner layer. Alternatively or preferably, the other joining element is at least partially formed by the first polymer inner layer. To this end, it is possible that the first polymer inner layer softens or melts in certain areas and the first joining element can be formed by the softened or melted area. In this case, the transition between the first polymer inner layer and the first joining element is preferably continuous. In addition, the first joining element preferably also contains the material constituting the first polymer inner layer.

[0044] In embodiment 15 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 11 to 14, wherein the first carrier layer in the first layer sequence is superimposed with a first polymer outer layer on the side facing away from the container interior, preferably over its entire surface.

[0045] In embodiment 16 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 13 to 15, wherein the first layer sequence comprises a first barrier layer between the first carrier layer and the first polymer inner layer, preferably over its entire surface.

[0046] In embodiment 17 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 13 to 16, wherein the first carrier layer has at least one through hole, which is at least covered by the first polymer inner layer. As an alternative or in addition to the first polymer inner layer, the at least one through hole in the first carrier layer is covered by the first barrier layer.

[0047] In embodiment 18 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its previous embodiments, wherein the first end element is at least partially, preferably completely, formed by a second sheet material. The second sheet material may be different from the first sheet material in its structure. Preferably, the second sheet material has the same structure as the first sheet material.

[0048] In embodiment 19 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 18 thereof, wherein the second sheet material comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof, preferably consists of them, preferably on the entire surface thereof. Preferably, the second sheet material comprises a second cardboard. Preferably, the second cardboard has one or more properties described above for the first cardboard.

[0049] In embodiment 20 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 18 or 19 thereof, wherein the second sheet material is a second sheet composite material comprising a second layer sequence; wherein the second layer sequence comprises a second carrier layer, preferably over its entire surface. The structure of the second carrier layer may be different from that of the first carrier layer. Preferably, the second carrier layer has the same structure as the first carrier layer.

[0050] In embodiment 21 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 20, wherein the second carrier layer comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof, preferably consisting of it. Preferably, the second carrier layer comprises a second cardboard. In addition, the second carrier layer is preferably composed of a second cardboard. Preferably, the second cardboard has one or more properties described above for the first cardboard.

[0051] In embodiment 22 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 20 or 21 thereof, wherein the second carrier layer in the second layer sequence is superimposed with a second polymer inner layer on the side facing the interior of the container, preferably on its entire surface. The second polymer inner layer can differ from the first polymer inner layer, for example, in its material or its basis weight. Preferably, the second polymer inner layer has the same structure as the first polymer inner layer, i.e., is in particular made of the same material and has the same basis weight.

[0052] In embodiment 23 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 22 thereof, wherein the first joining element is at least partially formed by the second polymer inner layer. To this end, it is possible that the second polymer inner layer softens or melts in certain areas and the first joining element can be formed by the softened or melted areas. In this case, the transition between the second polymer inner layer and the first joining element is preferably continuous. In addition, the first joining element preferably also contains the material constituting the second polymer inner layer. In addition, the first joining element is preferably formed by the first polymer inner layer and the second polymer inner layer.

[0053] In embodiment 24 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 20 to 23, wherein the second carrier layer in the second layer sequence is superimposed with a second polymer outer layer on the side facing away from the interior of the container, preferably on its entire surface. The second polymer outer layer can differ from the first polymer outer layer, for example, in its material or its basis weight. Preferably, the second polymer outer layer has the same structure as the first polymer outer layer, i.e., is in particular made of the same material and has the same basis weight.

[0054] In embodiment 25 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 22 to 24, wherein the second layer sequence comprises a second barrier layer between the second carrier layer and the second polymer inner layer, preferably over its entire surface. The second barrier layer may differ from the first barrier layer, for example, in its material or its basis weight. Preferably, the second barrier layer has the same structure as the first barrier layer, i.e., is in particular made of the same material and has the same basis weight.

[0055] In embodiment 26 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 22 to 25, wherein the second carrier layer has at least one through hole, which is covered by at least the second polymer inner layer. As an alternative or in addition to the second polymer inner layer, the at least one through hole in the second carrier layer is covered by the second barrier layer. Preferably, the first end element closes the liquid-tight container at the first end, and the first end is preferably a container head, which is opposite to the container bottom along the length of the liquid-tight container.

[0056] In embodiment 27 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first end element is concavely curved relative to the interior of the container, i.e. curved toward the interior of the container, or convexly curved, i.e. curved away from the interior of the container.

[0057] In embodiment 28 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its previous embodiments, wherein the first end element is arranged at a first end of the liquid-tight container relative to the length of the liquid-tight container; wherein the sheath element additionally defines the container interior in another direction opposite to the first direction. Preferably, the first end element closes the liquid-tight container at the first end. Alternatively or additionally, the sheath element preferably closes the liquid-tight container at another end opposite to the first end relative to the length of the liquid-tight container.

[0058] In embodiment 29 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the first end element is arranged at the first end of the liquid-tight container relative to the length of the liquid-tight container; wherein the other end element forms another area of ​​the container wall; wherein the other end element defines the interior of the container in another direction opposite to the first direction; wherein the other end element is arranged at the other end of the liquid-tight container opposite to the first end relative to the length of the liquid-tight container; and wherein the other end element is connected to the sheath element.

[0059] In embodiment 30 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 29, wherein the liquid-tight container further includes another joining element; wherein the other end element is connected to the sheath element by means of another joining element in a material-bonded manner; wherein at least one, preferably each other plane extending through the interior of the container parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container includes another joining layer sequence, and over its entire lateral range, relative to the other joining layer sequence, the sheath element, the other joining element and the other end element are directly connected to each other as layers; wherein the other joining element has a third surface contacting the other end element and a fourth surface contacting the sheath element; wherein an imaginary third straight line connects the two end points of a third line formed by the third surface in the at least one other plane and located within the other joining layer sequence; wherein an imaginary fourth straight line connects the two end points of a fourth line formed by the fourth surface in the at least one other plane and located within the other joining layer sequence; wherein the third straight line forms another acute angle with the fourth straight line.

[0060] In embodiment 31 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 30, wherein in the at least one other plane, at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, particularly preferably at least 98%, and most preferably 100% of the surface area of ​​the other joining element is located between the third straight line and the fourth straight line. Preferably, the other joining element has a triangular or quadrilateral shape in the at least one other plane. The preferred quadrilateral in this case is a trapezoid. The preferred trapezoid is not a parallelogram. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the other joining element has the shape of a cross-section of a wedge in the at least one other plane, wherein the tip of the wedge has a first acute angle. The shape of the wedge can be a triangle here. However, the end of the wedge that tapers toward the first acute angle may also be missing.

[0061] In embodiment 32 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 30 or 31, wherein for at least 10% of the outer circumference of the sheath element, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95%, there is at least one other plane parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container extending through the interior of the container and the outer circumference of the sheath element, the other plane containing another bonding layer sequence so that an imaginary third straight line connects the two end points of a third line formed by the third surface in the at least one plane and located within the other bonding layer sequence, and an imaginary fourth straight line connects the two end points of a fourth line formed by the fourth surface in the at least one plane and located within the other bonding layer sequence, wherein the third straight line forms another acute angle with the fourth straight line. In other words, preferably for at least 10% of the outer circumference of the sheath element, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95%, there is at least one other plane parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container extending through the interior of the container and the outer circumference of the sheath element, in which the third straight line defined in embodiment 32 of the liquid-tight container forms another acute angle with the fourth straight line.

[0062] In embodiment 33 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of embodiments 29 to 32 thereof, wherein the first end element closes the liquid-tight container at the first end; wherein the other end element closes the liquid-tight container at the other end.

[0063] In embodiment 34 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of embodiments 28 to 33 thereof, wherein

[0064] A) the first end is a container bottom and the other end is a container head; or

[0065] B) The first end is a container head and the other end is a container bottom.

[0066] In embodiment 35 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 30 to 34, wherein the other acute angle is in the range of 0.5 to 10.0°, preferably 1.0 to 9.0°, more preferably 1.5 to 8.0°, more preferably 2.0 to 7.5°, more preferably 2.5 to 7.0°, more preferably 3.0 to 6.5°, more preferably 3.2 to 6.4°, more preferably 3.5 to 6.4°, more preferably 4.0 to 6.4°, even more preferably 4.5 to 6.4°, and most preferably 5.0 to 6.4°.

[0067] In embodiment 36 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 30 to 35, wherein the vertex of the other acute angle is located behind the side of the other acute angle in the other direction. The other acute angle forms an arrow pointing away from the interior of the container.

[0068] In embodiment 37 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of embodiments 30 to 36 thereof, wherein the third straight line forms an angle with the first direction in the range of 1.3 to 13.5°, preferably 2.0 to 13.0°, more preferably 3.0 to 12.0°, more preferably 4.0 to 11.0°, even more preferably 5.0 to 10.0°, and most preferably 5.8 to 9.9°. Alternatively or additionally, the fourth straight line preferably forms an angle with the first direction in the range of 0.4 to 5.0°, preferably 0.5 to 4.5°, more preferably 0.6 to 4.0°, even more preferably 0.7 to 3.7°, and most preferably 0.8 to 3.5°. Alternatively or additionally, the area of ​​the other end element contacting the third surface is preferably angled relative to the first direction, based on the liquid-tight container laterally inward or outward (this is more preferred), preferably at an angle in the range of 1.3 to 13.5°, preferably 2.0 to 13.0°, more preferably 3.0 to 12.0°, more preferably 4.0 to 11.0°, even more preferably 5.0 to 10.0°, most preferably 5.8 to 9.9°. Alternatively or additionally, the area of ​​the sheath element contacting the fourth surface is preferably angled relative to the first direction, based on the liquid-tight container laterally inward or outward (this is more preferred), preferably at an angle in the range of 0.4 to 5.0°, preferably 0.5 to 4.5°, more preferably 0.6 to 4.0°, even more preferably 0.7 to 3.7°, most preferably 0.8 to 3.5°.

[0069] In embodiment 38 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of embodiments 29 to 37 thereof, wherein the sheath element at least partially, preferably laterally completely, surrounds the other end element.

[0070] In embodiment 39 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 29 to 38, wherein the other end element is at least partially, preferably completely formed by a third sheet material. The third sheet material may be different from the first sheet material or the second sheet material or both in its structure. Preferably, the second sheet material has the same structure as the first sheet material or the second sheet material or both. Alternatively, the other end element is preferably at least partially, preferably completely formed by a molded body. The preferred molded body is made of plastic. Preferably, the molded body includes a pouring hole.

[0071] In embodiment 40 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 39 thereof, wherein the third sheet material comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof, preferably consists of them, preferably on the entire surface thereof. Preferably, the third sheet material comprises a third cardboard. Preferably, the third cardboard has one or more properties described above for the first cardboard.

[0072] In embodiment 41 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 39 or 40 thereof, wherein the third sheet material is a third sheet composite material comprising a third layer sequence; wherein the third layer sequence comprises a third carrier layer. The structure of the third carrier layer may be different from the structure of the first carrier layer or the second carrier layer or both. Preferably, the third carrier layer has the same structure as the first carrier layer or the second carrier layer or both.

[0073] In embodiment 42 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 41 thereof, wherein the third carrier layer comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof, preferably consisting of the same. Preferably, the third carrier layer comprises a third cardboard. In addition, the second carrier layer is preferably composed of a third cardboard. Preferably, the third cardboard has one or more properties described above for the first cardboard.

[0074] In embodiment 43 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to embodiment 41 or 42 thereof, wherein the third carrier layer in the third layer sequence is superimposed with a third polymer inner layer on the side facing the interior of the container, preferably on its entire surface. The third polymer inner layer can be different from the first polymer inner layer or the second polymer inner layer or both, for example in terms of its material or its basis weight. Preferably, the third polymer inner layer has the same structure as the first polymer inner layer or the second polymer inner layer or both, i.e., is in particular made of the same material and has the same basis weight.

[0075] In embodiment 44 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to its embodiment 43, wherein the other joining element is at least partially formed by the third polymer inner layer. Alternatively or preferably, the other joining element is at least partially formed by the first polymer inner layer. To this end, it is possible that the first or third polymer inner layer or both soften or melt in certain areas and the other joining element can be formed by the softened or melted area. In this case, the transition between the first and / or third polymer inner layer and the first joining element is preferably continuous. In addition, the first joining element preferably also contains the material constituting the first and / or third polymer inner layer.

[0076] In embodiment 45 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 41 to 44, wherein the third carrier layer in the third layer sequence is superimposed with a third polymer outer layer on the side facing away from the container interior, preferably on its entire surface. The third polymer outer layer can differ from the first polymer outer layer or the second polymer outer layer or both, for example in terms of its material or its basis weight. Preferably, the third polymer outer layer has the same structure as the first polymer outer layer or the second polymer outer layer or both, i.e., is in particular made of the same material and has the same basis weight.

[0077] In embodiment 46 according to the invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 43 to 45, wherein the third layer sequence comprises a third barrier layer between the third carrier layer and the third polymer inner layer, preferably over its entire surface. The third barrier layer can be different from the first barrier layer or the second barrier layer or both, for example in terms of its material or its basis weight. Preferably, the third barrier layer has the same structure as the first barrier layer or the second barrier layer or both, i.e., is in particular made of the same material and has the same basis weight.

[0078] In embodiment 47 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its embodiments 43 to 46, wherein the third carrier layer has at least one through hole, which is covered by at least a third polymer inner layer. As an alternative or in addition to the third polymer inner layer, the at least one through hole in the third carrier layer is covered by a third barrier layer. Preferably, the other end element closes the liquid-tight container at the other end, wherein the other end is preferably a container head, which is opposite to the container bottom along the length of the liquid-tight container.

[0079] In embodiment 48 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of embodiments 29 to 47 thereof, wherein the other end member is curved concavely or convexly relative to the interior of the container.

[0080] In embodiment 49 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of the above embodiments, wherein the liquid-tight container, preferably the container wall, completely surrounds the container interior. In other words, the liquid-tight container is preferably closed.

[0081] In embodiment 50 according to the present invention, the liquid-tight container is designed according to one of its previous embodiments, wherein the container contains a liquid inside. Preferably, the liquid is a food or a component of a food. Alternatively, the liquid is preferably a cosmetic or a component of a cosmetic. Preferably, the liquid, food or cosmetic occupies at least 50% of the volume inside the container, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90%.

[0082] Embodiment 1 of a method 1 for producing a liquid-tight container according to the invention according to one of its embodiments contributes to achieving at least one of the objects according to the invention, said method comprising the following method steps a) providing

[0083] i) a sheathing element, which is at least partially, preferably completely, formed from the first sheet material,

[0084] ii) a first end element,

[0085] iii) a first bonding tool, and

[0086] iv) a second bonding tool,

[0087] The first sheet material

[0088] - comprising a first cardboard, and

[0089] - having a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN, preferably 50 to 500 mN, more preferably 55 to 480 mN, more preferably 60 to 460 mN, still more preferably 65 to 440 mN, most preferably 70 to 420 mN;

[0090] b) Make

[0091] i) the first end element is in contact with at least a first tool surface of the first joining tool, and

[0092] ii) the sheath element is in contact with at least a second tool surface of the second engagement tool; and

[0093] c) Connecting the first end element to the sheath element in a materially bonded manner.

[0094] Preferred elements for obtaining a liquid-tight container according to the invention according to method 1 are designed according to embodiments of the method as described for the embodiments of the liquid-tight container according to the invention. Preferably, but not necessarily, after method step c), the sheathing element is crimped.

[0095] The first tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the first joining tool which faces the second joining tool and contacts the first end element in method step b). The second tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the second joining tool which faces the first joining tool and contacts the sheath element in method step b). Preferably, either the first tool surface or the second tool surface or both are designed as a truncated cone surface or a truncated pyramid surface.

[0096] In this case, the method steps of the method follow one another according to the order of their ordinal letters. The consecutive method steps can be performed one after another, overlapping in time or simultaneously.

[0097] In embodiment 2 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to its embodiment 1, wherein in method step b), preferably also in method step c), the first tool surface and the second tool surface form a first acute tool angle.

[0098] In embodiment 3 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to its embodiment 2, wherein the first tool acute angle is in the range of 0.5 to 10°, preferably 0.5 to 8°, more preferably 0.5 to 6°, more preferably 0.5 to 4°, even more preferably 0.5 to 3°, and most preferably 1 to 2°.

[0099] In embodiment 4 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to embodiment 2 or 3 thereof, wherein the vertex of the first tool acute angle is located behind the edge of the first tool acute angle in the first direction. The first tool acute angle thus forms an arrow pointing away from the interior of the container.

[0100] In embodiment 5 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein in method step b), preferably also in method step c), the first tool surface forms an angle in the range of 5 to 20°, preferably 6 to 18°, more preferably 7 to 16°, even more preferably 9 to 14°, most preferably 10 to 12° with the direction of the length of the sheath element. The direction of the length of the sheath element is preferably equal to the direction of the length of the liquid-tight container.

[0101] In embodiment 6 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein in method step b), preferably also in method step c), the sheath element at least partially, preferably laterally completely, surrounds the first end element.

[0102] In embodiment 7 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein in method step b), preferably also in method step c), the first joining tool is at least partially surrounded by the second joining tool. Alternatively or additionally, in method step b), preferably also in method step c), the first and second joining tools are preferably joined to each other.

[0103] In embodiment 8 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first joining tool vibrates at a frequency in the range of 15 to 50 kHz, preferably 15 to 40 kHz, more preferably 20 to 35 kHz in method step c). Alternatively or additionally, the first joining tool preferably vibrates in method step c) with an amplitude in the range of 3 to 60 μm, preferably 5 to 50 μm, more preferably 10 to 45 μm. The preferred first joining tool is a sonotrode. The preferred second joining tool is an anvil, which is designed as a counter tool of the sonotrode. The first joining tool is preferably designed as a one-piece. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the first joining tool is in the shape of a truncated pyramid or a truncated cone. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the second joining tool is annular.

[0104] In a ninth embodiment according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein the connection by material bonding in method step c) is performed by welding, preferably by friction welding.

[0105] In embodiment 10 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its aforementioned embodiments, wherein the first end element is arranged at the first end of the liquid-tight container relative to the length of the liquid-tight container; wherein the method further comprises method step d) closing the container at the other end opposite to the first end relative to the length of the container.

[0106] Preferably, the first end element closes the container at the first end.

[0107] In an embodiment 11 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to its embodiment 10, wherein after the closing in method step d), the container, preferably the container wall, completely surrounds the container interior.

[0108] In embodiment 12 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to embodiment 10 or 11 thereof, wherein

[0109] A) the first end is a container bottom and the other end is a container head; or

[0110] B) The first end is a container head and the other end is a container bottom.

[0111] In embodiment 13 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its embodiments 10 to 12, wherein the closing in method step d) is carried out with the sheath element so that the sheath element delimits the container interior in another direction opposite to the first direction. Here, in method step d), a container according to claim 28 is preferably obtained.

[0112] In embodiment 14 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to embodiment 13 thereof, wherein method step d) comprises sub-steps

[0113] i) folding the sheath element; and

[0114] ii) Connecting regions of the sheath element to one another.

[0115] In embodiment 15 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to one of embodiments 10 to 12 thereof, wherein method step d) comprises sub-steps

[0116] i) bringing the other end element into contact with at least a third tool surface of a third joining tool, and bringing the sheath element into contact with at least a fourth tool surface of a fourth joining tool; and

[0117] ii) Connecting the further end element to the jacket element in a materially bonded manner to obtain a container according to one of claims 29 to 50.

[0118] The third tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the third joining tool that faces the fourth joining tool and contacts the further end element in method step d) i). The fourth tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the fourth joining tool that faces the third joining tool and contacts the sheath element in method step d) i). Preferably, the third tool surface or the fourth tool surface or either of the two is designed as a truncated cone surface or a truncated pyramid surface.

[0119] In embodiment 16 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to its embodiment 15, wherein in method step d)i), preferably also in method step d)ii), the third tool surface and the fourth tool surface form a further acute tool angle.

[0120] In embodiment 17 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to its embodiment 16, wherein the acute angle of the other tool is in the range of 0.5 to 10°, preferably 0.5 to 8°, more preferably 0.5 to 6°, more preferably 0.5 to 4°, even more preferably 0.5 to 3°, and most preferably 1 to 2°.

[0121] In embodiment 18 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to embodiment 16 or 17 thereof, wherein the vertex of the other tool acute angle is located behind the edge of the other tool acute angle in the other direction. The other tool acute angle thus forms an arrow pointing in a direction away from the interior of the container.

[0122] In embodiment 19 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its embodiments 15 to 18, wherein in method step d)i), preferably also in method step d)ii), the third tool surface forms an angle in the range of 5 to 20°, preferably 6 to 18°, more preferably 7 to 16°, even more preferably 9 to 14°, and most preferably 10 to 12° with the direction of the length of the open container.

[0123] In embodiment 20 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its embodiments 15 to 19, wherein in method step d)i), preferably also in method step d)ii), the sheath element at least partially, preferably laterally completely, surrounds the sheath element.

[0124] In embodiment 21 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its embodiments 15 to 20, wherein in method step d)i), preferably also in method step d)ii), the third joining tool is at least partially surrounded by the fourth joining tool. Alternatively or additionally, in method step d)i), preferably also in method step d)ii), the third and fourth joining tools are preferably joined to each other.

[0125] In embodiment 22 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its embodiments 15 to 21, wherein the third joining tool vibrates at a frequency in the range of 15 to 50 kHz, preferably 15 to 40 kHz, more preferably 20 to 35 kHz in method step d) ii). Alternatively or additionally, the third joining tool preferably vibrates at an amplitude in the range of 3 to 60 μm, preferably 5 to 50 μm, more preferably 10 to 45 μm in method step d) ii). The preferred third joining tool is an ultrasonic welding electrode. The preferred fourth joining tool is an anvil, which is designed as a counter tool of the ultrasonic welding electrode. The third joining tool is preferably designed as a one-piece. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the third joining tool is in the shape of a truncated pyramid or a truncated cone. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the fourth joining tool is annular.

[0126] In embodiment 23 according to the invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its embodiments 15 to 22, wherein the connection by material bonding in method step d) ii) is performed by welding, preferably by friction welding.

[0127] In embodiment 24 according to the present invention, method 1 is designed according to one of its previous embodiments, wherein the container

[0128] a} after process step c) and before process step d); or

[0129] b) after method step d); or

[0130] c}Both

[0131] Filling with liquid. In case b}, the container, preferably the sheath element, the first end element or the other end element, has a through hole through which filling is performed. After filling, the through hole is preferably closed. For example, a pull tab can be applied, preferably glued or sealed. Preferably, the liquid is a food or a component of a food. Alternatively, the liquid is preferably a cosmetic or a component of a cosmetic. Preferably, after filling the container, the liquid, food or cosmetic occupies at least 50% of the volume inside the container, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 80%, most preferably at least 90%.

[0132] Embodiment 1 of method 2 for producing a liquid-tight container according to the invention according to one of embodiments 28, 34, 49 and 50 contributes to achieving at least one of the objects according to the invention, said method comprising the following method steps

[0133] a. Provide

[0134] i. a sheathing element, which is at least partially, preferably completely, formed from a first sheet material,

[0135] ii. The terminal element,

[0136] iii. a first bonding tool, and

[0137] iv. a second bonding tool,

[0138] The first sheet material

[0139] - comprising a first cardboard, and

[0140] - having a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN, preferably 50 to 500 mN, more preferably 55 to 480 mN, more preferably 60 to 460 mN, still more preferably 65 to 440 mN, most preferably 70 to 420 mN;

[0141] b. closing the sheath element at one of its ends relative to the length of the sheath element, thereby obtaining an open container;

[0142] c. Make

[0143] i. the end element is in contact with at least a first tool surface of the first joining tool, and

[0144] ii. the sheath element contacts at least a second tool surface of the second engagement tool; and

[0145] d. Connecting the terminal element to the sheath element in a materially bonded manner.

[0146] Preferred elements for obtaining a liquid-tight container according to the invention according to method 2 are designed according to an embodiment of the method as described for the embodiment of the liquid-tight container according to the invention. Preferably, but not necessarily, after method step d., the sheathing element is crimped.

[0147] The first tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the first joining tool which faces the second joining tool and contacts the end element in method step c. The second tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the second joining tool which faces the first joining tool and contacts the sheath element in method step c. Preferably, either the first tool surface or the second tool surface or both are designed as a truncated cone surface or a truncated pyramid surface.

[0148] The method steps of method 2 also follow one another according to the order of their ordinal letters. The consecutive method steps can be carried out one after another, overlapping in time or simultaneously.

[0149] In embodiment 2 according to the invention, method 2 is designed according to embodiment 1 thereof, wherein in method step c., preferably also in method step d., the first tool surface and the second tool surface form an acute tool angle.

[0150] In embodiment 3 according to the present invention, method 2 is designed according to its embodiment 2, wherein the tool acute angle is in the range of 0.5 to 10°, preferably 0.5 to 8°, more preferably 0.5 to 6°, more preferably 0.5 to 4°, even more preferably 0.5 to 3°, and most preferably 1 to 2°.

[0151] In embodiment 4 according to the present invention, method 2 is designed according to its embodiment 2 or 3, wherein the vertex of the tool acute angle is located behind the edge of the tool acute angle in the other direction. The tool acute angle thus forms an arrow pointing away from the interior of the container.

[0152] In embodiment 5 according to the present invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its aforementioned embodiments, wherein in method step c., preferably also in method step d., the first tool surface forms an angle with the direction of the length of the open container in the range of 5 to 20°, preferably 6 to 18°, more preferably 7 to 16°, even more preferably 9 to 14°, and most preferably 10 to 12°.

[0153] In embodiment 6 according to the invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein the container obtained in method step d., preferably the container wall, completely surrounds the container interior.

[0154] In embodiment 7 according to the invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein in method step c., preferably also in method step d., the sheath element at least partially, preferably laterally completely, surrounds the end element.

[0155] In embodiment 8 according to the invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein in method step c., preferably also in method step d., the first joining tool is at least partially surrounded by the second joining tool. Alternatively or additionally, in method step c., preferably also in method step d., the first and second joining tools are preferably joined to each other.

[0156] In embodiment 9 according to the present invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its previous embodiments, wherein method step b. comprises sub-steps

[0157] i. Folding the sheath element; and

[0158] ii. Connecting regions of the sheath element to each other.

[0159] In embodiment 10 according to the present invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its previous embodiments, wherein the first joining tool vibrates at a frequency in the range of 15 to 50 kHz, preferably 15 to 40 kHz, more preferably 20 to 35 kHz in method step d. Alternatively or additionally, the first joining tool preferably vibrates at an amplitude in the range of 3 to 60 μm, preferably 5 to 50 μm, more preferably 10 to 45 μm in method step d. The preferred first joining tool is a sonotrode. The preferred second joining tool is an anvil, which is designed as a counter-tool to the sonotrode. The first joining tool is preferably designed as a one-piece. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the first joining tool is in the shape of a truncated pyramid or a truncated cone. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the second joining tool is annular.

[0160] In embodiment 11 according to the invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its preceding embodiments, wherein the connection by material bonding in method step d. is carried out by welding, preferably by friction welding.

[0161] In embodiment 12 according to the present invention, method 2 is designed according to one of its previous embodiments, wherein

[0162] a] an open container after method step b. and before method step c.; or

[0163] b] the container after method step d.; or

[0164] c] Both

[0165] Filling with liquid. In case b], the container, preferably the sheath element or the end element, has a through hole through which filling is performed. After filling, the through hole is preferably closed. For example, a pull tab can be applied, preferably glued or sealed. Preferably, the liquid is a food or a component of a food. Alternatively, the liquid is preferably a cosmetic or a component of a cosmetic. Preferably, after filling the container, the liquid, food or cosmetic occupies at least 50% of the volume inside the container, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 80%, most preferably at least 90%.

[0166] Embodiment 1 of the device for producing a container in a process flow contributes to achieving at least one of the objects according to the present invention, the device comprising the following components

[0167] a] a first closing device comprising a first joining tool and a second joining tool; and b] a further closing device arranged downstream of the first closing device, comprising a third joining tool and a fourth joining tool;

[0168] in

[0169] A. In each case of method 1 according to one of its embodiments 10 to 24, the first closure device is designed and arranged to carry out method steps b) and c), and the further closure device is designed and arranged to carry out method step d); or

[0170] B. In each case of method 2 according to one of its embodiments, the first closure device is designed and arranged to carry out method step b. and the further closure device is designed and arranged to carry out method steps c. and d.

[0171] In a preferred embodiment, in each case according to one of its embodiments, the device is designed and arranged to carry out method 1 or 2. Preferably, according to the above-mentioned alternative A., the first closing device is designed and arranged to additionally crimp the sheath element at the first end. According to alternative A., the first closing device is preferably designed and arranged to additionally crimp the sheath element around the edge of the first end element, or the further closing device is preferably designed and arranged to additionally crimp the sheath element around the edge of the further end element, or both. According to alternative B., the further closing device is preferably designed and arranged to additionally crimp the sheath element around the edge of the end element.

[0172] In embodiment 2 of the present invention, the device is designed according to embodiment 1, wherein the device further comprises a filling device, wherein the filling device

[0173] i] is arranged between said first closure device and said further closure device and is arranged and designed to fill an open container with food; or

[0174] ii] is arranged downstream of the further closure device and is arranged and designed to fill the container with food.

[0175] In embodiment 3 according to the invention, the device is designed according to embodiment 1 or 2 thereof, wherein the device is a filling machine.

[0176] Embodiment 1 of the use of a container according to the invention for storing or transporting a liquid according to one of its embodiments contributes to achieving at least one of the objects of the present invention. Preferably, the liquid is a food or a component of a food. Alternatively, the liquid is preferably a cosmetic or a component of a cosmetic.

[0177] Embodiment 1 of the use 2 of the sheet-like composite material for producing a container according to the present invention according to one of its embodiments contributes to achieving at least one of the objects of the present invention; wherein one selected from the sheathing element, the first end element and the other end element, or a combination of at least two thereof, is at least partially, preferably completely, formed by the sheet-like composite material. In a preferred embodiment of use 2, one selected from the sheathing element, the first end element and the other end element, or a combination of at least two thereof, is designed as described for the embodiment of the container according to the present invention. The preferred sheet-like composite material has a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN, preferably 50 to 500 mN, more preferably 55 to 480 mN, more preferably 60 to 460 mN, even more preferably 65 to 440 mN, and most preferably 70 to 420 mN.

[0178] In embodiment 2 according to the invention, use 2 is designed according to embodiment 1 thereof, wherein the sheet-like composite material comprises a layer sequence of layers superimposed on one another; wherein the layer sequence comprises a carrier layer.

[0179] In the third embodiment according to the present invention, the use 2 is designed according to its second embodiment, wherein the carrier layer comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof, preferably consisting of the same. The preferred cardboard has a density of 50 to 500 g / m 2 , preferably 100 to 500 g / m 2 , more preferably 100 to 450 g / m 2 , more preferably 150 to 450 g / m 2 , and more preferably 170 to 420 g / m 2 , most preferably 190 to 400 g / m 2 Basis weight within the range of.

[0180] In embodiment 4 according to the invention, use 2 is provided according to embodiment 2 or 3 thereof, wherein the carrier layer in the layer sequence is superimposed on a first side with a polymer inner layer.

[0181] In embodiment 5 according to the invention, use 2 is provided according to embodiment 4 thereof, wherein the carrier layer in the layer sequence is superimposed with a polymer outer layer on a side opposite to the first side.

[0182] In embodiment 6 according to the invention, use 2 is configured according to embodiment 4 or 5 thereof, wherein the layer sequence comprises a barrier layer between the carrier layer and the polymer inner layer.

[0183] In embodiment 7 according to the present invention, use 2 is designed according to one of its embodiments 2 to 6, wherein the carrier layer has at least one through hole, which is at least covered by the polymer inner layer. As an alternative or in addition to the polymer inner layer, the at least one through hole in the carrier layer is covered by a barrier layer.

[0184] Embodiment 1 of the use of the first joining tool and the second joining tool for forming a container bottom or a container head of a container contributes to achieving at least one of the objects according to the present invention by a}

[0185] i} a first end element is in contact with at least a first tool surface of said first joining tool, and

[0186] ii) the sheath element is in contact with at least a second tool surface of the second engagement tool, and

[0187] b} The first end element is connected to the sheath element in a materially bonded manner, thereby obtaining a container according to the invention according to one of its embodiments.

[0188] The first tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the first bonding tool facing the second bonding tool and in contact with the first end element according to the use. The second tool surface preferably constitutes at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% of the exact part of the total surface of the second bonding tool facing the first bonding tool and in contact with the sheath element according to the use. Preferably, either the first tool surface or the second tool surface or both is designed as a truncated cone surface or a truncated pyramid surface. In a preferred embodiment of use 3, step a} is carried out according to a step selected from step b of method 1, step di) described for embodiment 15 of method 1 and step c. of method 2, or according to a plurality thereof. Alternatively or additionally, step b) is preferably carried out according to a step selected from step c) of method 1 , step dii) described for embodiment 15 of method 1 and step d) of method 2, or according to a plurality thereof.

[0189] Features described as preferred in one category according to the invention (e.g. a container according to the invention) are also preferred in an embodiment of another category according to the invention, e.g. an embodiment of method 1 or 2 according to the invention or uses 1 to 3 according to the invention. In addition, the features described below are preferred for each category.

[0190] container

[0191] The container according to the invention is preferably a food container. Preferably, the interior of the container according to the invention contains food. The container wall is preferably waterproof. In addition, the container is preferably dimensionally stable. This means that the container wall substantially retains its shape when filled. Various different shapes of the container wall can be considered here. Preferably, the container wall at least partially, preferably at least in the region of the container head or the container bottom or both, and more preferably substantially completely has the shape of a prism or a cylinder. Preferred prisms here are right prisms or oblique prisms. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the prism is regular or irregular. The term "basic shape" here means that the container wall or its corresponding part does not have to have the shape of a geometrically precise prism or a geometrically precise cylinder. For example, the polygon forming the bottom surface of the prism has rounded corners so that the prism has rounded edges. Here, the container wall with this shape also has the shape of a prism. Another preferred container has a container wall that at least partially, preferably at least in the region of the container head or the container bottom or both, and more preferably substantially completely has the shape of a geometric body that can be obtained by parallel displacement of a flat bottom surface with a rounded shape. A preferred flat bottom surface with rounded shape is kidney-shaped.

[0192] The container wall can be made of different materials. It is conceivable that in addition to sheet materials, in particular sheet composite materials, other materials are used, for example one or more molded parts made of plastic. Such molded parts can be used in particular in the container head or the container bottom. However, it is preferred that the container wall is composed of one or more sheet materials, in particular sheet composite materials, to an extent of at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, particularly preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90% of its surface facing away from the container interior (outer surface). Alternatively or additionally, at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, particularly preferably at least 80%, further preferably at least 90% of the outer surface of the container wall is formed by the jacket element and the first and / or the further end element.

[0193] The container according to the invention is preferably a closed container. The container may have a device for emptying the contents (opening aid). This may be formed, for example, from a polymer or a mixture of polymers and attached to the outside of the container. It is also conceivable to integrate the device into the container by "direct injection molding".

[0194] Sheath components

[0195] The sheath element forms an area of ​​the container wall of the container according to the present invention. This area is preferably a lateral area of ​​the container wall, i.e. an area of ​​the container wall that is lateral relative to the length of the container. Accordingly, the sheath element laterally delimits the interior of the container. The container wall area formed by the sheath element preferably has the shape of the side surface of a prism or a cylinder. Preferred prisms here are straight prisms or oblique prisms. Alternatively or preferably in addition, the prisms are regular or irregular. The sheath element comprises a first sheet material, which the sheath element preferably consists of. Here, the first sheet material preferably has a first edge and an opposite other edge, wherein the first edge and the other edge are connected to each other, preferably sealed. Preferred sheath elements are integrally formed.

[0196] End element

[0197] The first end element is preferably a cover element or a bottom element. If the first end element is a cover element and the container contains another end element, the other end element is preferably a bottom element. If the first end element is a bottom element and the container contains another end element, the other end element is preferably a cover element. If the container wall has the shape of a prism or a cylinder, the first end element and (if present) preferably the other end element also each form the end face of a prism or a cylinder. The first end element defines the interior of the container in a first direction along the length of the container. If the other end element is present, it defines the interior of the container in a direction opposite to the first direction. In other words, the first end element and the other end element axially define the interior of the container. The container wall area formed by the first end element preferably has the shape of a polygonal surface or a circular surface. Alternatively or preferably in addition, the container wall area formed by the other end element has the shape of a polygonal surface or a circular surface. A preferred polygonal surface is a surface of a regular polygon or a non-regular polygon.

[0198] Preferably the first end element is integrally formed or has no connection point, in particular no seam, or both.Alternatively or additionally preferably the further end element is integrally formed or has no connection point, in particular no seam, or both.

[0199] Joining elements

[0200] The statements below about "joining element" relate in each case to the first joining element or another joining element or both. The joining element is preferably formed essentially by a polymer or a polymer mixture. "Essentially" here particularly means that the joining element may also contain gas inclusions, such as bubbles. Preferred polymers and polymer blends are those listed below. Relative to the sheath element and the first end element and, if applicable, the other end element, the joining element may be an additional element of the container, which is, for example, introduced into the container as a sealant. However, preferably, the first joining element is formed by at least one polymer layer, preferably at least a polymer inner layer, of the sheath element or the first end element or both. The other joining element is preferably formed by at least one polymer layer, preferably at least a polymer inner layer, of the sheath element or the other end element or both. For this purpose, it is possible that the at least one polymer layer softens or melts in certain areas and the joining element can be formed by a softened or melted polymer. Therefore, the at least one polymer layer in the container can be continuously fused into the joining element. The preferred first joining element is annular. The cross-sectional area of ​​the annular first joining element, preferably each cross-sectional area, has a first acute angle. The preferred other joining element is annular. The cross-sectional area of ​​the annular further engaging element, preferably each cross-sectional area has another acute angle. The above cross-sectional area is preferably a triangular or trapezoidal area. The preferred engaging element is wedge-shaped. Preferably, the first engaging element is arranged between the sheath element and the first terminal element, wherein the first engaging element is preferably arranged around the sheath element in the lateral circumferential direction or more preferably around the first terminal element. The further engaging element is preferably arranged between the sheath element and the further terminal element, wherein the further engaging element is preferably arranged around the sheath element in the lateral circumferential direction or more preferably around the further terminal element.

[0201] Sheet materials / sheet composite materials

[0202] In the following, "sheet material" refers to each of the first sheet material to the third sheet material. Similarly, "sheet composite material" refers to each of the first sheet composite material to the third sheet composite material. All planar materials (especially sheet-like) that are conceivable within the scope of the present invention and that appear suitable for use in the production of dimensionally stable food containers according to the present invention in the opinion of a person skilled in the art can be considered as sheet materials. The sheet material preferably comprises a carrier layer. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier layer is superimposed on one side with color application, preferably printing. In a further preferred embodiment, the sheet material exists as a sheet composite material. Sheet composite materials for producing food containers are also referred to as laminates. Such sheet composite materials have a sequence of layers superimposed on each other in a sheet-like manner. The sheet composite material is generally composed of a thermoplastic polymer layer (referred to herein as a polymer outer layer), a carrier layer (usually made of cardboard or paper, which imparts dimensional stability to the container), an optional thermoplastic polymer layer (referred to herein as a polymer intermediate layer) and / or an optional adhesion promoter layer, a barrier layer and an additional thermoplastic polymer layer (referred to herein as a polymer inner layer). The layers constituting the sequence of layers of the sheet composite material are preferably connected to each other in a planar manner. If the adhesion of two layers to each other exceeds the van der Waals attraction, the two layers are connected to each other. The layers connected to each other are preferably selected from one of sealing, gluing and pressing each other, or a combination of at least two of them. Unless otherwise specified, the layers in the layer sequence can be connected to each other indirectly, that is, with one or at least two intermediate layers, or directly connected to each other, that is, without intermediate layers. This is especially true in a formulation where one layer is superimposed on another layer. The formulation in which the layer sequence includes the listed layers means that at least the specified layers exist in a specified order. This formulation does not necessarily mean that these layers are directly connected to each other. The formulation in which two layers are adjacent to each other means that the two layers are directly connected to each other, so there is no intermediate layer. However, this formulation does not mention whether the two layers are connected. On the contrary, the two layers may contact each other. However, preferably, the two layers are connected to each other, preferably connected to each other in a planar manner. The first to third sheet materials mentioned in the present invention, in particular the first to third sheet composite materials, can be constructed identically or differently from each other. In a preferred embodiment, the second and third sheet materials have the same structure. In a further preferred embodiment, the first and second sheet materials have the same structure. In a further preferred embodiment, the first and third sheet materials have the same structure. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first to third sheet materials have the same structure.

[0203] Polymer layer

[0204] In the following, the term "polymer layer" refers in particular to a polymer inner layer, a polymer intermediate layer and a polymer outer layer. The polymer layers are each based on a polymer or a polymer mixture. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers, more preferably polyolefins. The polymer layer is preferably combined or applied to the sheet-like composite material in an extrusion process, preferably by layer extrusion. In addition to the polymer or polymer mixture, each polymer layer may also contain additional components. The other components of the polymer layer are preferably components that do not adversely affect the behavior of the polymer melt when applied as a layer. Other components can be, for example, inorganic compounds, such as metal salts, or other plastics, such as other thermoplastics. Suitable polymers for the polymer layer are particularly those that are easy to process due to good extrusion behavior. Suitable polymers are those obtained by chain polymerization, particularly polyolefins, wherein cyclic olefin copolymers (COC), polycyclic olefin copolymers (POC), particularly polyethylene and polypropylene are particularly preferred, and polyethylene is very particularly preferred. Among polyethylenes, HDPE (high density polyethylene), MDPE (medium density polyethylene), LDPE (low density polyethylene), LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene) and VLDPE (very low density polyethylene) and mixtures of at least two thereof are preferred. Suitable polymer layers have a melt flow rate (MFR—melt flow rate) in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably in the range of 2 to 20 g / 10 min, particularly preferably in the range of 2.5 to 15 g / 10 min, and a MFR of 0.890 g / cm 3 Up to 0.980g / cm 3 In the range of 0.895 g / cm 3 Up to 0.975g / cm 3 In the range of 0.900 g / cm 3 Up to 0.970g / cm 3 The polymer layer preferably has at least one melting temperature in the range of 80 to 155°C, preferably in the range of 90 to 145°C, particularly preferably in the range of 95 to 135°C.

[0205] Polymer inner layer

[0206] The polymer inner layer is based on at least one thermoplastic polymer, wherein the polymer inner layer may contain particulate inorganic solids. However, it is preferred that the polymer inner layer contains at least 70% by weight, preferably at least 80% by weight, particularly preferably at least 95% by weight, of one or more thermoplastic polymers, in each case based on the total weight of the polymer inner layer. Preferably, the polymer or polymer mixture of the polymer inner layer has a density (according to ISO 1183-1:2004) of 0.900 to 0.980 g / cm 3 In the range of 0.900 to 0.960 g / cm3 In the range of 0.900 to 0.940 g / cm 3 Preferably, the polymer is a polyolefin. The inner polymer layer preferably comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both. A particularly preferred polyethylene is LDPE.

[0207] Polymer outer layer

[0208] The polymer outer layer preferably comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both. LDPE and HDPE and mixtures of these are preferred as polyethylene. Preferred polymer outer layers contain at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, most preferably at least 90% by weight of LDPE, based in each case on the weight of the polymer outer layer.

[0209] Polymer middle layer

[0210] The polymeric intermediate layer preferably comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Particularly preferred polyethylene is LDPE. Preferably, the polymeric intermediate layer comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both together in a proportion of at least 20% by weight, more preferably at least 30% by weight, more preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, more preferably at least 80% by weight, most preferably at least 90% by weight, based in each case on the total weight of the polymeric intermediate layer.

[0211] Barrier layer

[0212] Any material known to the person skilled in the art to be suitable for this purpose and having a sufficient barrier effect, in particular a barrier effect against oxygen, can be used as the barrier layer. For this purpose, the barrier layer preferably has a thickness of less than 50 cm 3 / (m 2 ·day·atm), preferably less than 40cm 3 / (m 2 ·day·atm), preferably less than 30cm 3 / (m 2 ·day·atm), preferably less than 20cm 3 / (m 2 ·day·atm), preferably less than 10cm 3 / (m 2 ·day·atm), and more preferably less than 3cm 3 / (m 2 ·day·atm), most preferably no more than 1cm 3 / (m 2The barrier layer preferably also has a barrier effect on water vapor. Therefore, the barrier layer is preferably an oxygen barrier layer, and more preferably also a water vapor barrier layer. In addition, the barrier layer preferably has a barrier effect on visible light, that is, it is also a light barrier layer.

[0213] The barrier layer is preferably selected from

[0214] a. Plastic barrier layer;

[0215] b. Metal layer;

[0216] c. oxide layer; or

[0217] A combination of at least two of da to c.

[0218] If the barrier layer according to alternative a. is a plastic barrier layer, it preferably contains at least 70% by weight, particularly preferably at least 80% by weight, most preferably at least 95% by weight of at least one plastic known to the person skilled in the art for this purpose, in particular due to its aroma or gas barrier properties for packaging containers. As plastics, in particular thermoplastics, N- or O-containing plastics per se and mixtures of two or more are suitable. According to the invention, it may prove advantageous if the melting temperature of the plastic barrier layer is in the range of more than 155 to 300° C., preferably in the range of 160 to 280° C., particularly preferably in the range of 170 to 270° C.

[0219] More preferably, the basis weight of the plastic barrier layer is between 2 and 120 g / m 2 In the range of 3 to 60 g / m 2 In the range of 4 to 40 g / m 2 , further preferably 6 to 30 g / m 2 In addition, the plastic barrier layer is preferably obtainable from a melt, for example by extrusion, in particular by layer extrusion. In addition, the plastic barrier layer can also be introduced into the sheet-like composite material, preferably by lamination. Here, the film is preferably incorporated into the sheet-like composite material. According to another embodiment, a plastic barrier layer can also be selected which is obtainable by deposition from a solution or dispersion of the plastic.

[0220] Suitable polymers are preferably those having a weight average molecular weight of 3.10 3 to 1.10 7 g / mol, preferably in the range of 5.10 3 to 1.10 6 g / mol, particularly preferably in the range of 6.10 3 to 1.10 5Suitable polymers include polyamides (PA) or polyethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) or mixtures thereof. Among the polyamides, all PAs which appear suitable for use according to the invention to a person skilled in the art are suitable.

[0221] All EVOHs which appear to the person skilled in the art to be suitable for use according to the invention may be considered as EVOH. Examples thereof are available under the trade name EVAL from EVAL Europe NV, Belgium. TM In various versions, such as EVAL TM F104B or EVAL TM LR171B is available. The preferred EVOH has at least one, two, more or all of the following properties:

[0222] - an ethylene content in the range of 20 to 60 mol %, preferably 25 to 45 mol %;

[0223] -1.0 to 1.4 g / cm 3 , preferably 1.1 to 1.3 g / cm 3 Density within the range of

[0224] - a melting point in the range of greater than 155 to 235°C, preferably 165 to 225°C;

[0225] - MFR values ​​in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably 2 to 20 g / 10 min (if T S(EVOH) <210℃, 210℃ / 2.16kg; if 210℃ <T S(EVOH) <230°C, 230°C / 2.16kg); - at 0.05 to 3.2 cm 3 ·20μm / (m 2 ·day·atm), preferably in the range of 0.1 to 1 cm 3 ·20μm / (m 2 ·day·atm) range.

[0226] Preferably, at least one polymer layer, more preferably the polymer inner layer, or preferably all polymer layers has a melting temperature below the melting temperature of the barrier layer. This is particularly true if the barrier layer is made of a polymer. In this case, the melting temperature of the at least one polymer layer, in particular the polymer inner layer, and the melting temperature of the barrier layer preferably differ by at least 1 K, particularly preferably by at least 10 K, even more preferably by at least 50 K, even more preferably by at least 100 K. The temperature difference should preferably be chosen only so high that it does not lead to melting of the barrier layer, in particular not to melting of a plastic barrier layer, during the folding process.

[0227] According to alternative b., the barrier layer is a metal layer. In principle, all metal-containing layers known to the person skilled in the art and which can provide a high degree of light and oxygen impermeability are suitable as metal layers. According to a preferred embodiment, the metal layer can be present as a foil or as a deposited layer, for example after physical vapor deposition. The metal layer is preferably a continuous layer. According to a further preferred embodiment, the thickness of the metal layer is in the range of 3 to 20 μm, preferably in the range of 3.5 to 12 μm, particularly preferably in the range of 4 to 10 μm.

[0228] The metal preferably selected is aluminum, iron or copper. As an iron layer, a steel layer in the form of a foil, for example, may be preferred. In addition, the metal layer preferably represents an aluminum-containing layer. The aluminum layer can suitably consist of an aluminum alloy, such as AlFeMn, AlFe1.5Mn, AlFeSi or AlFeSiMn. Based on the entire aluminum layer, the purity is generally above 97.5%, preferably above 98.5%. In a special design, the metal layer consists of an aluminum foil. Suitable aluminum foils have a ductility of greater than 1%, preferably greater than 1.3%, particularly preferably greater than 1.5%, and greater than 30 N / mm 2 , preferably greater than 40N / mm 2 , especially preferably greater than 50N / mm 2 A suitable aluminum foil exhibits a drop size of more than 3 mm, preferably more than 4 mm, particularly preferably more than 5 mm in the pipette test. Suitable alloys for producing the aluminum layer or foil are commercially available from Hydro Aluminium Deutschland GmbH or Amcor Flexibles Singen GmbH under the designations EN AW 1200, EN AW 8079 or EN AW 8111. In the case of a metal foil as barrier layer, an adhesion promoter layer can be provided on one or both sides of the metal foil between the metal foil and the nearest polymer layer.

[0229] In addition, according to alternative c., an oxide layer can be preferably selected as a barrier layer. Oxide layers familiar to those skilled in the art and that appear suitable for achieving a barrier effect against light, vapor and / or gas can be considered as oxide layers. Preferred oxide layers are semi-metallic oxide layers or metal oxide layers or both. Preferred semi-metallic oxide layers are layers based on one or more silicon oxide compounds (SiOx layers). Preferred metal oxide layers are layers based on the aforementioned metals aluminum, iron or copper, and metal oxide layers based on titanium oxide compounds, wherein aluminum oxide layers (AlOx layers) are particularly preferred. According to a preferred embodiment, the oxide layer can exist as a deposited layer. For example, a deposited oxide layer is produced by vapor deposition of an oxide layer on a barrier substrate. The preferred method for this is physical vapor deposition (PVD) or preferably plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The oxide layer is preferably a continuous layer.

[0230] The barrier substrate can consist of any material that appears suitable for use as a barrier substrate according to the present invention to a person skilled in the art. The barrier substrate is preferably suitable for being coated with an oxide layer. Preferably, the surface of the layer is sufficiently smooth for this purpose. Further preferably, the thickness of the barrier substrate is in the range of 3 to 30 μm, preferably 2 to 28 μm, more preferably 2 to 26 μm, more preferably 3 to 24 μm, more preferably 4 to 22 μm, and most preferably 5 to 20 μm. In addition, the barrier substrate preferably has a barrier effect against oxygen or water vapor or both. Preferably, the barrier effect of the barrier substrate against oxygen permeation is greater than the barrier effect of the oxide layer against oxygen permeation. Preferably, the oxygen permeability of the barrier substrate is in the range of 0.1 to 50 cm 3 / (m 2 ·d·bar), preferably 0.2 to 40 cm 3 / (m 2 ·d·bar), preferably 0.3 to 30 cm 3 / (m 2·d·bar). Preferably, the barrier substrate comprises cellulose or a polymer or both, more preferably consists of cellulose or a polymer or both. The preferred polymer herein is an oriented polymer. Preferably, the oriented polymer is uniaxially or biaxially oriented. A further preferred polymer is a thermoplastic polymer. Preferably, the barrier substrate consists of a polymer. Preferably, the barrier substrate comprises, in each case based on the weight of the barrier substrate, at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, more preferably at least 80% by weight, most preferably at least 90% by weight of a polymer selected from polycondensates, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol or a combination of at least two thereof. Preferably, the barrier substrate consists of the above polymers. The preferred polypropylene is oriented, in particular longitudinally stretched (oPP) or biaxially stretched (BoPP). The preferred polycondensates are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. The preferred polyesters are one selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactide (PLA), and / or a combination of at least two thereof. The preferred vinyl polymers are ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymers or polyvinyl alcohol or both. The preferred polyvinyl alcohol is an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer. The preferred ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer is an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer.

[0231] Carrier layer

[0232] Any material known to those skilled in the art and suitable for this purpose can be used as the carrier layer, which has sufficient strength and stiffness to impart stability to the container so that the container substantially maintains its shape during filling. This is a particularly necessary feature of the carrier layer because the present invention relates to the technical field of dimensionally stable containers. Such dimensionally stable containers must be fundamentally different from bags and pouches typically made of thin foils. In addition to a range of plastics, plant-based fibrous materials, especially cellulose, preferably sized, bleached and / or unbleached cellulose are preferred, with paper and cardboard being particularly preferred. Thus, the preferred carrier layer comprises a plurality of fibers. The basis weight of the carrier layer is preferably in the range of 120 to 450 g / m 2 and particularly preferably in the range of 130 to 400 g / m 2 and most preferably in the range of 150 to 380 g / m 2The preferred cardboard generally has a single-layer or multi-layer structure and may be coated with one or more covering layers on one or both sides. In addition, the preferred cardboard has a residual moisture content of less than 20% by weight, preferably 2 to 15% by weight, and particularly preferably 4 to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the cardboard. Particularly preferred cardboard has a multi-layer structure. In addition, the cardboard preferably has at least one, but particularly preferably at least two covering layers on the surface facing the environment, which is referred to as "paper coating" by those skilled in the art. In addition, the preferred cardboard has a moisture content of 100 to 360 J / m 2 , preferably 120 to 350 J / m 2 , particularly preferably 135 to 310 J / m 2 The Scott bond value (according to Tappi 569) is in the range of . The above range enables to provide a composite material which can be used to fold a highly hermetic container easily and with low tolerance.

[0233] The carrier layer is characterized by a bending stiffness. The carrier layer preferably has a bending stiffness in a first direction in the range of 80 to 550 mN. In the case where the carrier layer comprises a plurality of fibers, the first direction is preferably the orientation direction of the fibers. The carrier layer comprising a plurality of fibers further preferably has a bending stiffness in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in the range of 20 to 300 mN. A preferred sheet-like composite material with a carrier layer has a bending stiffness in the first direction in the range of 100 to 700 mN. In addition, the above-mentioned sheet-like composite material has a bending stiffness in the second direction in the range of 50 to 500 mN.

[0234] Polyolefins

[0235] Preferred polyolefins are polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) or both. Preferred polyethylene is one selected from LDPE, LLDPE and HDPE, or a combination of at least two thereof. Another preferred polyolefin is m-polyolefin (polyolefin made using a metallocene catalyst). Suitable polyethylene has a melt flow rate (MFI-melt flow index = MFR-melt flow rate) in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably in the range of 2 to 20 g / 10 min, particularly preferably in the range of 2.5 to 15 g / 10 min, and a 0.910 g / cm 3 Up to 0.935g / cm 3 In the range of 0.912 g / cm 3 Up to 0.932g / cm 3 In the range of 0.915 g / cm 3 Up to 0.930g / cm 3 density within the range of .

[0236] M polymer

[0237] M polymers are polymers made using metallocene catalysts. Metallocenes are organometallic compounds in which the central metal atom is located between two organic ligands such as cyclopentadienyl ligands. Preferred m polymers are m polyolefins, preferably m polyethylene or m polypropylene or both. Preferred m polyethylene is one selected from mLDPE, mLLDPE and mHDPE, or a combination of at least two thereof. Preferred m polyolefins are characterized by at least a first melting temperature and a second melting temperature. Preferably, the m polyolefin is characterized by a third melting temperature in addition to the first and second melting temperatures. Preferred first melting temperatures are in the range of 84 to 108°C, preferably 89 to 103°C, more preferably 94 to 98°C. Preferred another melting temperature is in the range of 100 to 124°C, preferably 105 to 119°C, more preferably 110 to 114°C.

[0238] Adhesion / adhesion promoter layer

[0239] The adhesion promoter layer is a layer of a sheet-like composite material containing a sufficient amount of at least one adhesion promoter so that the adhesion promoter layer improves the adhesion between the layers adjacent to the adhesion promoter layer. For this reason, the adhesion promoter layer preferably contains an adhesion promoter polymer. Therefore, the adhesion promoter layer is preferably a polymer layer. The adhesion promoter layer can be located between layers of the sheet-like composite material that are not directly adjacent to each other, preferably between the barrier layer and the polymer inner layer. All plastics suitable for functionalization with suitable functional groups to form permanent connections by forming ionic bonds or covalent bonds with the surfaces of adjacent layers can be used as adhesion promoters in the adhesion promoter layer. Preferably, they are functionalized polyolefins, in particular acrylic copolymers obtained by copolymerization of ethylene with acrylic acids such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, crotonic acid, acrylates, acrylate derivatives or carboxylic anhydrides with double bonds (e.g., maleic anhydride) or at least two of them. Among them, polyethylene-maleic anhydride grafted polymers (EMAH), ethylene-acrylic acid copolymers (EAA) or ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers (EMAA) are preferred, which are, for example, commercially available from DuPont under the trade name and 0609HSA or ExxonMobileChemicals under the trade name 6000ExCo Distribution.

[0240] Ethylene-alkyl acrylate copolymers are also preferred as adhesion promoters. The alkyl group preferably selected is methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl or amyl. More preferably, the adhesion promoter layer may comprise a blend of two or more different ethylene-alkyl acrylate copolymers. Also preferably, the ethylene alkyl acrylate copolymer may have two or more different alkyl groups in the acrylate functionality, such as an ethylene alkyl acrylate copolymer in which both methyl acrylate units and ethyl acrylate units are present in the same copolymer.

[0241] According to the invention, it is preferred that the adhesion between the carrier layer, the polymer layer or the barrier layer and the next layer is at least 0.5 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 0.7 N / 15 mm, particularly preferably at least 0.8 N / 15 mm. In one embodiment according to the invention, it is preferred that the adhesion between the polymer layer and the carrier layer is at least 0.3 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 0.5 N / 15 mm, particularly preferably at least 0.7 N / 15 mm. Furthermore, it is preferred that the adhesion between the barrier layer and the polymer layer is at least 0.8 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 1.0 N / 15 mm, particularly preferably at least 1.4 N / 15 mm. In the case where the barrier layer indirectly follows the polymer layer via an adhesion promoter layer, it is preferred that the adhesion between the barrier layer and the adhesion promoter layer is at least 1.8 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 2.2 N / 15 mm, particularly preferably at least 2.8 N / 15 mm. In a special embodiment, the adhesion between the individual layers is so strong that the adhesion test results in tearing of the carrier layer, in the case of cardboard as carrier layer, so-called tearing of the cardboard fibers.

[0242] connect

[0243] Any connection that seems suitable for use according to the present invention and by which a sufficiently strong connection can be obtained by the skilled person can be considered as a connection. The preferred connection is in the case of material bonding. In the case of material bonding, connection is understood herein as a connection between joining partners formed by the attraction between or within the materials. It must be distinguished in particular from interlocking and frictional engagement connections formed by geometry or friction. The preferred connection in the case of material bonding can be one selected from sealing, welding, gluing and pressing, or a combination of at least two of them. The connection in the case of material bonding by means of a joining element is preferably sealing, welding or gluing, wherein the joining element acts as a sealant, welding additive or adhesive. In the case of sealing and welding, a connection is formed by means of a liquid and its solidification. In the case of gluing, a chemical bond is formed between the surfaces of the two objects to be joined at the interface or to form a connection. When sealing, welding or gluing, it is generally advantageous to press the surfaces to be sealed or glued together. The preferred pressing of the two layers is to press the first surface of the first layer of the two layers onto the second surface of the second layer facing the first surface on at least 20% of the first surface, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95%. Particularly preferred connections are sealing or welding. Preferred sealing or welding comprises contact, heating and pressing steps, wherein these steps are preferably performed in this order. Another sequence is also possible, in particular the sequence of heating, contacting and pressing. Preferred heating is heating a polymer layer, preferably a thermoplastic layer, more preferably a polyethylene layer or a polypropylene layer or both. Another preferred heating is heating the polyethylene layer to a temperature of 80 to 140°C, more preferably 90 to 130°C, most preferably 100 to 120°C. Another preferred heating is heating the polypropylene layer to a temperature of 120 to 200°C, more preferably 130 to 180°C, most preferably 140 to 170°C. Another preferred heating is heating to the sealing temperature of the polymer layer. Preferred heating can be achieved by friction, radiation, hot gas, thermal contact with solid, mechanical vibration (preferably ultrasound), convection or a combination of at least two of these measures. A particularly preferred heating method is by friction between the joining partners, or by exciting ultrasonic vibrations, or by both. In the latter case, friction can be generated in particular by exciting ultrasonic vibrations of one or two joining partners. Preferred welding is friction welding. Wherein, the joining partners move relative to each other under pressure, wherein the joining partners are in contact with each other. The friction generated causes heating. Relative motion can be generated, for example, by ultrasonic vibrations. In the case of connecting multilayer composite materials (laminated materials), this procedure is also referred to herein as friction welding.

[0244] food

[0245] All foods for human consumption known to the person skilled in the art as well as animal feed may be regarded as foods. Preferred foods are liquids above 5°C, such as dairy products, soups, sauces and preferably non-carbonated beverages.

[0246] Through Hole

[0247] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one through hole arranged in the carrier layer can have any form known to those skilled in the art and suitable for various purposes and for emptying the container. In addition, the through hole is preferably suitable for opening the container with a straw or an opening aid. Possible opening aids are pull tabs and screw caps. The through hole is preferably covered with a corresponding layer so that the through hole is preferably watertightly closed. In the present invention, a through hole for passing a straw is preferred. The preferred through hole has a two-dimensional and non-linear opening area. Preferably, the through hole is substantially circular, oval, elliptical or teardrop-shaped. The shape of the at least one through hole in the carrier layer also generally predetermines the shape of the opening made of an openable closure connected to the container and dispensed from the container after opening, or made of a straw in the container. Therefore, the opening of the opened container generally has a shape comparable to or even identical to the at least one through hole in the carrier layer. The container design with a single through hole in the carrier layer is mainly used to discharge the food contained in the container. Additional through holes can be provided in the carrier layer, particularly for container ventilation when discharging food. With regard to the covering of at least one through hole in the carrier layer, the area of ​​the through hole covered by the layer covering the same through hole is also referred to as the hole covering layer of the through hole. These hole covering layers are preferably at least partially connected to each other, preferably to the extent of at least 30%, preferably at least 70%, and particularly preferably at least 90% of the area formed by the at least one through hole. It is further preferred that the hole covering layers are connected to each other at the edge of the at least one through hole and preferably connected to the edge to achieve improved tightness by a connection extending over the entire hole surface. Typically, the hole covering layers are connected to each other through the area formed by the at least one through hole in the carrier layer. This brings about good tightness of the container formed by the composite material, and therefore brings about the desired long shelf life of the food stored in the container. Preferably, the diameter of the at least one through hole is in the range of 3 to 30 mm, more preferably 3 to 25 mm, more preferably 3 to 20 mm, more preferably 3 to 15 mm, and most preferably 3 to 10 mm. The diameter of the through hole here is the length of the longest straight line starting and ending at the edge of the through hole and passing through the geometric center of gravity of the through hole.

[0248] Opening / opening aid

[0249] In most cases, the opening in the container is made by at least partially destroying the hole covering layer covering at least one through hole. This destruction can be achieved by cutting, pressing into the container or pulling out from the container. The destruction can be achieved by an opening auxiliary piece connected to the container and arranged in the region of the at least one through hole, usually above the at least one through hole, such as by pushing a straw through the hole covering layer. In addition, it is preferred in an embodiment according to the present invention that an opening auxiliary piece is provided in the region of the at least one through hole. In this case, it is preferred that an opening auxiliary piece is provided on a surface representing the outside of the container. In addition, the container preferably includes a closure, such as a lid, on the outside of the container. Preferably, the closure covers the through hole at least partially, preferably completely. The closure therefore protects the less solid container wall compared to the area outside the at least one through hole from harmful mechanical influences. In order to open the hole covering layer covering at least one through hole, the closure usually includes an opening auxiliary piece. Suitable as it is a hook, for example, for tearing at least a part of the hole covering layer, an edge or cutting edge for cutting into the hole covering layer, or a spike for piercing the hole covering layer, or a combination of at least two of them. These opening aids are usually mechanically coupled to the screw cap or the cap of the closure, for example by a hinge, so that when the screw cap or the cap is turned, the opening aid acts on the hole-covering layer to open the closed container. Sometimes, in technical literature, such closure systems comprising a composite layer covering the through-holes and an openable closure with an opening aid are referred to as "overcoated holes" with "applied fitments".

[0250] Measurement method

[0251] The following measurement methods are used within the scope of the present invention. Unless otherwise stated, the measurements are carried out at an ambient temperature of 23° C., an ambient air pressure of 100 kPa (0.986 atm) and a relative humidity of 50%.

[0252] Separating individual layers

[0253] If individual layers of a laminate, such as a barrier layer, are to be examined, first separate the layer to be examined from the laminate as described below. Cut three samples of the sheet-like composite material to size. For this purpose, the unfolded and ungrooved areas of the sheet-like composite material are used, unless otherwise specified. The dimensions of the sample pieces are 4 cm×4 cm, unless otherwise specified. If other dimensions of the layer to be examined are necessary for the examination to be carried out, cut sufficiently large sample pieces from the laminate. Place the sample in an acetic acid bath heated to 60° C. for 30 minutes (30% acetic acid solution: 30% by weight CH3COOH, remainder to 100% by weight H2O). This separates the layers from one another. Here, if necessary, the layers can also be carefully peeled off from one another manually. If the desired layer cannot be removed well enough, use a new sample piece as an alternative and treat it in an ethanol bath (99% ethanol) as described above. If there are residues of the carrier layer on the layer to be examined (e.g. polymer outer layer or polymer intermediate layer) (especially in the case of a cardboard layer as carrier layer), remove these carefully with a brush. From each of the three films thus prepared, a sample of sufficient size for examination was cut (4 cm in area unless otherwise stated). 2 ). These samples are then stored at 23° C. for 4 hours and thereby dried. The three samples can then be checked. Unless otherwise stated, the test results are the arithmetic mean of the results of the three samples.

[0254] MFR value

[0255] MFR is measured according to ISO 1133-1:2012, method A (mass determination method, at 190°C and 2.16 kg unless otherwise stated).

[0256] density

[0257] Density was measured according to ISO standard 1183-1:2013.

[0258] Scott bond value

[0259] The Scott bond value was determined according to Tappi 569.

[0260] Melting temperature

[0261] Melting temperature was determined using DSC method ISO 11357-1, -5. The device was calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions using the following measurements:

[0262] -TemperatureIn-Starting Temperature,

[0263] - Melting hot indium,

[0264] -Temperature zinc - starting temperature.

[0265] The recorded measurement curve may have several local maxima (melting peaks), i.e. several melting temperatures. If a melting temperature above a certain value is desired, this condition is met if one of the measured melting temperatures is above this value. When the melting temperature of a polymer layer, polymer composition or polymer is mentioned in this document, this always refers to the highest melting temperature in the case of several measured melting temperatures (melting peaks), unless otherwise stated.

[0266] Viscosity of PA

[0267] The viscosity values ​​of PA were measured in 95% sulfuric acid according to DIN EN ISO 307 (2013).

[0268] Molecular weight distribution

[0269] The molecular weight distribution was measured according to gel permeation chromatography using light scattering: ISO 16014-3 / -5 (2009-09).

[0270] Moisture content of cardboard

[0271] The moisture content of cardboard is measured according to ISO 287:2009.

[0272] Adhesion

[0273] To determine the adhesion of two adjacent layers, they are fixed on a 90° peel test device, such as the "German rotating wheel fixture" from Instron, on a rotating roller that rotates at 40 mm / min during the measurement. The sample is pre-cut into 15 mm wide strips. On one side of the sample, the layers are separated from each other and the separated ends are clamped in a pulling device facing vertically upwards. A measuring device for determining the tensile force is attached to the pulling device. While the roller rotates, the force required to separate the layers from each other is measured. This force corresponds to the adhesion of the layers to each other and is given in N / 15 mm. The separation of the individual layers can be achieved, for example, mechanically or by targeted pretreatment, for example by soaking the sample in 30% acetic acid at 60°C for 3 minutes.

[0274] Bending stiffness

[0275] The bending stiffness of sheet materials, in particular sheet composite materials or cardboard, is determined using the following apparatus:

[0276] - Bending stiffness measuring device L&W Bending Tester Code 160, model 977682, from Lorentzen & Wettre, Sweden,

[0277] -Punch press for bending stiffness samples.

[0278] The material to be tested is conditioned for 24 hours in a standard climate (23°C, 50% relative humidity). The measurements are also carried out under standard climate. Samples with a width of 38.1 mm and a length of 69.85 mm are punched out from the material to be tested using a punch press. For coils, samples are taken at 5 positions distributed over the width of the web. For each position, 2 samples whose length is in the running direction (machine direction - MD) and 2 samples whose length is across the running direction (cross direction - CD) are taken to obtain a total of 10 MD samples and 10 CD samples. In any case, at least 4 samples should be taken, half of the sample's length in MD and the other half in CD. Samples may be taken only from the ungrooved and unfolded areas of the material to be tested.

[0279] The bending stiffness (in mN) of the outside and the opposite inside is determined both in MD and CD. To this end, the sample is placed in the test device with the side to be measured facing forward and the measurement is started by pressing the green button. For each combination: outside / MD, outside / CD, inside / MD and inside / CD, the same number of samples is measured. A 2-point bending test is carried out using a bending stiffness measuring device. The sample is clamped at one end and bent through a bending angle of 15° at the other end by the measuring edge. Here, the direction in which the material has bending stiffness is the direction of the straight line connecting the 2 points of force application of the 2-point bending test. In the case of a bending stiffness measuring device, this direction is the direction of the shortest straight line from the clamp to the measuring edge. In this direction, the sample forms a curve when it is bent. If the sample is bent far enough, a straight fold line perpendicular to this direction will be formed. The free clamping length of the specimen is 50 mm. Each sample can be used for only one measurement. Measurement of the outside and inside of the same sample is not allowed. The individual measured values ​​are read from the display.

[0280] If several samples are measured for each combination: outside / MD, outside / CD, inside / MD and inside / CD, the arithmetic mean of the samples is calculated for each combination individually. The arithmetic mean is then used as the value for each of these four combinations. The bending stiffness in MD or CD is the geometric mean of the values ​​of the combination: outside / MD and inside / MD or outside / CD and inside / CD, respectively. The direction-independent bending stiffness (hereinafter referred to as "bending stiffness") is the geometric mean of the values ​​of all 4 combinations: outside / MD, outside / CD, inside / MD and inside / CD.

[0281] angle

[0282] The sample was first treated with an ice spray. Next, a section through the sample was made using a microtome, with the cut plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container to be inspected. An image of the section position to be inspected was then taken using a Nikon E800 Eclipse microscope. The angles to be determined were measured on this image using Olympus Stream Essentials 2.4 software.

[0283] Extensibility and elastic modulus

[0284] Extensibility indicates how far a material can be stretched before it breaks or tears. The extensibility and elastic modulus of sheet materials such as laminates or cardboard are determined using the following tools:

[0285] -Lever safety cutting machine

[0286] -Circular cutter (50 or 100cm 2 )

[0287] -Analytical balance

[0288] -Thickness gauge

[0289] -Universal tensile testing machine TIRA test 28025 (force sensor: 1000N)

[0290] The measurements are carried out according to the German version of the standard EN ISO 1924-2:2008 (identical to DIN EN ISO 1924-2:2009-05). Therein, ductility is referred to as strain at break and the modulus of elasticity is referred to as modulus of elasticity. Sample preparation is described in the standard DIN EN 20187:1993. The following instructions supplement the instructions in this standard and replace the instructions in this standard where they deviate.

[0291] The material to be tested is acclimated for 24 hours in a standard climate (23°C, 50% relative humidity). The test is also carried out under standard climate. No pre-drying in the sense of paragraph 6.1 of DIN EN 20187:1993 is carried out. Five strip samples of the sheet material to be inspected are cut out using a lever-type safety cutter. If the sheet material contains a fiber layer with a fiber orientation direction, 5 samples are cut out with the strip length in the orientation direction (machine direction MD) and the strip length perpendicular to the orientation direction (cross direction CD). The strip width is 15 mm. The clamping length should be 180 mm so that the strip length is at least 220 mm. Tensile strain occurs in the direction of the strip length. For coils, samples are obtained distributed over the entire coil width.

[0292] In addition, a sample was taken with a circular cutter and weighed on an analytical balance. The result was converted to g / m 2 The thickness gauge is used to measure the thickness of round samples. The contact pressure for determining the thickness (Section 11i) of standard EN ISO 1924-2:2008) is 100 kPa.

[0293] Before measuring the strip sample, open the method for tensile strain for the type of material being investigated (e.g. composite material or cardboard) on the tensile testing machine. The test speed is 20 mm / min. Under "Versuchseinstellungen" (test settings) - "Abmessungen" (dimensions) - "Spezial" (special), enter the thickness of the sample. Then click on "prismatisch" (prism) and also enter the thickness of the sample. Then click on "Spezial" again and check the clamping length. It is important to make sure you go back to "Spezial", otherwise the basis weight will not be asked after the measurement starts.

[0294] Enter the data about the sample under "Versuchseinstellungen" - "Abmessungen". Once all data have been entered, the measurement can be started. The force must not exceed 0.1 N. The test is then started via the traffic light symbol. A window opens for entering the basis weight of the sample. After entering the sample, sample number and basis weight, start the measurement via "OK". This procedure is then repeated for the remaining 4 samples or for the remaining 4 samples of the same material direction (MD or CD).

[0295] After the last measurement, perform an Excel transfer via Excel symbol number 3 (select DIN-ISO 1924-2 version here) and save this file. Optionally, a PDF file can be created using "Seitenansicht" (Page View) and saved under the work card. The following values ​​should be recorded: FH [N] / AH [%] / M [MPa] / I [Nm / g]. The test result is the arithmetic mean of the individual results of 5 specimens with the same material orientation.

[0296] Falling simulation

[0297] For this purpose, the filled and closed container is inserted from above into a vertically suspended guide tube with a diameter adapted to the size of the container and then dropped. The tube has a length of approximately 1.5 m and is suspended 1 m above the ground. By guiding the container in the tube for the first 1.5 m of its fall, it is possible to have it fall reproducibly onto the container bottom or onto the container head, so that the effects on the container integrity can be studied.

[0298] Liquid tightness

[0299] Crystal oil 60 from Shell Chemicals containing methylene blue is used as a test agent for the leakage test of the container. According to the inspection standard, the container to be inspected can be subjected to a corresponding drop simulation. By cutting off the sheath element, the container is cut open along its circumference to obtain an open cup-shaped container part containing the bottom of the closed container and an open cup-shaped container part containing the head of the closed container. First, the first container part with the bottom of the container and the second container part with the head of the container are emptied separately, and then filled with a test agent of the amount sufficient to fully cover the bottom of the corresponding cup-shaped container part. In particular, any sealing seam between the sheath element and the terminal element should be completely covered by the test agent. The container part is then stored for 24 hours. After the storage period, the outside of each container part is visually inspected to determine whether the test agent has caused a blue discoloration due to leakage. If the first container part and the second container part do not show such a discoloration, the container is considered to be liquid-tight.

[0300] If the closure of the container head or container bottom of different containers is to be compared, 500 identical containers of each container type to be compared are checked as described above. The result of this test is the number of 500 identical containers that exhibit leakage after a storage period of 24 hours. These numbers are then compared for different containers.

[0301] Shelf life

[0302] tool:

[0303] The following tools are required for shelf life testing.

[0304] -Concentration of 10 8 Alcoholic solution of Bacillus atrophaeus at CFU / ml (colony forming units per ml, product number: SPE8102-8, from SIMICON GmbH, Munich, Germany) - Linden Grain medium

[0305] - Yeast extract-peptone-glucose medium (HPG, also known as plate count agar, Oxoid CM 325)

[0306] -Ethanol (purity: 99.9%)

[0307] -Multipette M4 from Eppendorf (the pipette must be conditioned with ethanol before inoculation so that precisely 10 μl can be withdrawn).

[0308] -Plastic Petri dish 9 cm in diameter

[0309] -Beaker

[0310] -Sponge tweezers

[0311] -Sterile cotton balls

[0312] - Incubator or incubator cabinet for 30°C incubation temperature

[0313] -microscope

[0314] -Sterile air workbench

[0315] -iron

[0316] Preparation of spore suspension:

[0317] A sufficient amount of the commercially available Bacillus atrophaeus spore suspension was diluted to 10 6 CFU / ml and 10 7 CFU / ml concentration. This was performed on a sterile air bench. In order to obtain 10 7 CFU / ml of spore suspension, add 9 ml of ethanol to every 1 ml of undiluted suspension. 6 CFU / ml spore suspension was diluted to 10 7 For every 1 ml of spore suspension of CFU / ml, an additional 9 ml of ethanol was added. Dilution and mixing were performed in a beaker.

[0318] Vaccination:

[0319] For each container type to be tested (containers with identically manufactured container bottoms), 300 open containers were inoculated with 10 μl of 10 6 CFU / ml of spore suspension. Another 300 containers of each container type to be tested were each inoculated with 10 μl of 10 7 The suspension was 1000 CFU / ml. The operation was performed on a sterile air bench to prevent cross contamination through the air.

[0320] The inoculation is carried out as a fixed-point inoculation on a sterile air bench. For this purpose, the container production is interrupted as soon as the container bottom is completed. The inoculation is therefore carried out on an open and still unfilled container with a sealed and crimped container bottom. For this purpose, 10 μl of the respective spore suspension are added to the interior of the open container with a pipette at a single point on the sealed seam of the container bottom, i.e. at the connection between the jacket element and the end element of the container bottom. After applying the spore suspension to a single point on the sealed seam of the container bottom, the container is twisted briefly so that the suspension can be distributed along the bottom seam. The inoculated open container is left on the sterile air bench until the inoculated suspension has dried.

[0321] For each spore concentration (10 6 CFU / ml and 10 7CFU / ml), 2 positive control containers and 2 negative control containers were also prepared. The negative control containers were not inoculated, but were treated in the same way as the test containers, i.e. they were also sterilized. The positive control containers were inoculated, but not sterilized. For this reason, the positive control containers were not placed in the filling machine for further processing after inoculation and drying, but directly entered the sterile air workbench at 30°C for 14 days.

[0322] Container completed:

[0323] The inoculated and dried open container was filled with Linden Grain medium and then sealed. The sealed container was cultured at 30°C for 14 days.

[0324] Microbiological Assessment:

[0325] The following operations are again carried out on a sterile air bench. Soak a cotton ball with ethanol. Wipe the head area of ​​the culture and closed container with the cotton ball and sterilize it with ethanol. Hold the cotton ball with sponge tweezers. Press the tip of a preheated soldering iron into the sterilized container head in order to open the container without contamination so that the culture medium contained therein can be removed.

[0326] In addition, 0.5 to 1 ml of culture medium was taken from each container and placed in a petri dish. 10 ml of HPG at 50°C was poured over the sample in the petri dish. The sample and HPG were mixed by gently moving the petri dish in a figure-8 motion on a smooth surface. After mixing, wait for the HPG to reach a gel-like consistency. The petri dish was then incubated at 30°C for 48 hours. The petri dish was incubated upside down to prevent condensation from forming on the culture medium. Spore growth was then determined.

[0327] Colonies of the test bacteria are usually brown to orange. The exact color can be determined from a Petri dish containing a sample from the positive control container. If in doubt, microscopic examination can be performed to confirm the test bacteria.

[0328] If no colonies of the test bacterium (Bacillus atrophaeus) are present in the petri dish, the container from which the sample was taken is considered sterile with respect to the test bacterium. If colonies of the test bacterium have formed in the petri dish, it is determined by counting whether the petri dish contains 10 or fewer colony-forming units of the test bacterium. If this is the case, contamination by air cannot be excluded. Therefore, these samples are discarded. If colonies of the test bacterium with more than 10 colony-forming units are present in the petri dish, the corresponding container is considered non-sterile.

[0329] For each container type examined, a ratio of the number of non-sterile containers to the total number of containers evaluated (i.e. not discarded) was obtained for each concentration of spore suspension used for inoculation. These ratios were compared for different container types at the same spore suspension concentration. The greater the ratio, the worse the rating of the shelf life of the respective container type. In the overall evaluation, the results of the two spore suspension concentrations were treated equally.

[0330] The present invention will be explained in more detail below by way of examples and drawings, which do not limit the present invention. In addition, unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are not to scale.

[0331] Laminate construction

[0332] In the examples (according to the invention) and comparative examples (not according to the invention), laminates having the layer structure given in Table 1 below were used to produce containers.

[0333]

[0334] Table 1: Structure of Laminated Materials of Examples and Comparative Examples

[0335] Laminate production

[0336] The laminates of the examples and comparative examples were produced using a melt coating system from Davis Standard. The extrusion temperature was in the range of about 280 to 330° C. In a first step, the outer polymer layer was applied to the entire surface of the carrier layer by layer extrusion. In a second step, the barrier layer was applied together with an adhesion promoter layer as a laminating agent and a polymer intermediate layer to the entire surface of the carrier layer previously coated with the outer polymer layer. The inner polymer layer was then extruded over the entire surface of the barrier layer. In order to apply the individual layers by extrusion, the polymer is melted in an extruder. When the polymer is applied in layers, the resulting melt is transferred to a nozzle via a feed block and extruded onto the carrier layer.

[0337] Container production

[0338] The elements of the container wall are separated by punching out from the laminate material obtained as described above. For each container, a rectangular jacket element and a circular end element are punched out. For each container having a three-piece container wall, a molded plastic part is also provided as an end element 108 for the container head (see Figure 6). In top view, this has a central pouring hole. Such an end element, which is circular in plan view, can be produced by injection molding. In the case of a container with a two-piece container wall, the jacket element of the container is provided with a groove on the outside (on the side of the polymer outer layer) before stamping, which predefines the folding line for forming and closing the container head (see Figure 2 ).

[0339] The sheath elements are formed into a plurality of sheath elements by overlapping, contacting and sealing the opposing longitudinal edges of each sheath element. Figure 4 Hollow cylindrical structure of the type shown in . Here, sealing is carried out as heat sealing by blowing with hot air and using a polymer inner layer as a sealant.

[0340] The hollow cylindrical structure thus obtained is placed in a precisely fitting cylindrical opening of a steel mold, the lower edge of the structure being flush with the edge of the opening. The end element for the bottom is now pressed into the opening with the polymer inner layer first by inserting a suitable tool into the opening, thus being bent concavely relative to the container interior. The end element thus formed has a central area and an edge surrounding the central area. In addition, as Fig.15 The end element is connected to the sheath element by ultrasonic friction welding as shown in . The exact geometry of the sealing seam thus obtained depends on the design of the ultrasonic welding electrode and the anvil used for welding, in particular the angle at which the tool surfaces of the engaging container parts are relative to each other during the sealing process. The seam shapes formed for the various examples and comparative examples are summarized in Table 2. In addition, any excess part of the sheath element is then curled using ultrasound, that is, folded over the edge of the end element and sealed thereto. The length of the excess part is here about 80% of the height of the edge of the end element.

[0341] In the case of a container with a two-piece wall, 1 liter of water is now filled in. The head area of ​​the container is then closed by folding the jacket element along the groove and connecting the folded surfaces using ultrasonic sealing.

[0342] In the case of containers with three-part walls, the plastic molding is inserted into the head region of the jacket element with the finished container bottom. Fig.16 The molded part is connected to the sheath element by ultrasonic friction welding as shown in . The exact geometry of the sealing seam thus obtained depends on the design of the ultrasonic welding electrode and the anvil used for welding, in particular the angle at which the tool surfaces engaging the container parts are relative to each other during the sealing process. The seam shapes formed for the various examples and comparative examples are summarized in Table 2. The container is filled with 1 liter of water through the pouring hole in the molded part. The pouring hole is then closed by sealing an aluminum foil strip as a pull tab (which also constitutes the barrier layer and is coated on both sides with LDPE 23L430 from Ineos GmbH, Cologne, Germany).

[0343]

[0344]

[0345] Table 2: Selected properties of the containers of the comparative examples and examples

[0346] Evaluate

[0347] 500 containers of each embodiment and each comparative example were subjected to the above-mentioned simulation of falling to the bottom of the container. Another 500 containers of each embodiment and each comparative example were subjected to the above-mentioned simulation of falling to the head of the container. Another 500 containers of each embodiment and each comparative example were not subjected to any falling simulation. All these containers were subjected to the above-mentioned liquid tightness test. The results of these tests are summarized in Table 3. For each standard, +++ represents a better result than ++, ++ represents a better result than +, + represents a better result than 0, 0 represents a better result than -, and - represents a better result than -.

[0348]

[0349]

[0350] Table 3: Overview of advantages and disadvantages of the containers of the comparative examples and examples

[0351] Further research

[0352] For further investigations, containers with two-piece container walls were manufactured (see Figure 1 ). For this purpose, packaging sleeves of the type cb6 for packaging cuboid containers with a packaging volume of 350 ml, which are commercially available from SIGCombibloc GmbH, are used. The packaging sleeves consist of a laminate having the layer structure shown in Table 1. These packaging sleeves serve as sheathing elements for containers with a two-piece container wall. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Differently, no container with a circular cross section is manufactured. Instead, the container in a further embodiment has a rectangular cross section, wherein the rectangle has rounded corners.

[0353] As already described in the above embodiments, for each sheath element, an end element for the container bottom is punched out of a laminate material of the same construction as the sheath element. Here, the bottom element is rectangular and has such dimensions that the container bottom can be formed from it by inserting it into a CB6 packaging sleeve folded into a cuboid shape, welding it to the packaging sleeve and crimping it (in each case similarly to the description of "container production" above). For this purpose, the 4 corners of the end element are rounded with a radius of curvature of 15 mm. The tools (ultrasonic welding electrode and anvil) for welding the end element to the sheath element are designed in each case to obtain the acute angle of the wedge-shaped sealing seam connecting the sheath element to the end element as specified in Table 4 below.

[0354] The open container with welded and rolled bottom obtained in this way (see Figure 2 ) is subjected to the above-mentioned "shelf life" test method. The inoculated and dried containers are fed directly to the CFA 612 filling machine from SIG Combiloc GmbH in a sterile air workbench. For this reason, the respective containers are inserted into the cell chain behind the mandrel wheel of the filling machine. The bottom guide of the cell chain must be adjusted so that the upper edge of the container is at the height required for processing. The container is then sterilized in the filling machine, filled to at least half with Linden Grain culture medium, and the container head is formed and closed by folding and welding the sheath element as is common to cb6 containers. For sterilization with H2O2, the following settings are used:

[0355] -H2O2 concentration: 33%

[0356] -H2O2 temperature: 250℃

[0357] -H2O2 spray flow rate: 350μl / s

[0358] -Conveying air flow: 150l / min

[0359] -Preheating temperature: 165℃

[0360] - Drying temperature: 155℃

[0361] After incubation, the containers were subjected to microbiological evaluation as described in the “Shelf Life” test method.

[0362] For each of the further examples A to L, a further 500 containers with welded and crimped bottoms obtained as described above were filled with water and closed on a CFA 612 filling machine. These containers were subjected to the above-described simulation of falling onto the bottom of the container. After the falling simulation, the containers were subjected to the above-described liquid-tightness test. The liquid-tightness of the container bottom was investigated after the falling simulation.

[0363] The test results for the containers of the further examples are summarized in Table 4. In Table 4, for the respective standard, +++ indicates a better result than ++, ++ indicates a better result than +, + in turn indicates a better result than 0, and 0 in turn indicates a better result than -. These relative values ​​relate only to the results given in Table 4.

[0364]

[0365] Table 4: Overview of the acute angles of the wedge-shaped bottom seam of the container of further embodiments and advantages and disadvantages

[0366] Unless otherwise indicated in the description or in the corresponding drawings, the drawings show schematically and not to scale:

[0367] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0368] Figure 2 Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a precursor of a liquid-tight container;

[0369] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0370] Figure 4 Figure 3 An exploded view of a liquid-tight container 100;

[0371] Figure 5 Figures 1 to 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom of a liquid-tight container;

[0372] Figure 6 Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container head of a liquid-tight container;

[0373] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom of another liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0374] Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom of another liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0375] Fig. 9 Schematic cross-sectional view of a sheet-like composite material;

[0376] Fig.10 Microscope image of a cross section through a seam in a container bottom of a liquid-tight container according to the invention;

[0377] Fig.11 Fig.11 Magnified partial view of a microscope image;

[0378] Fig.12 a microscope image of a cross section through a seam in a container bottom of another liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0379] Fig.13 Fig.12 Magnified partial view of a microscope image;

[0380] Fig.14 Flow chart of a method for producing a liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0381] Fig.15 Diagram Fig.14 Schematic cross-sectional view of method steps b) and c) of the method;

[0382] Fig.16 Diagram Fig.14 Schematic cross-sectional view of method step d) of the method;

[0383] Fig.17 A flow chart of another method for producing a liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0384] Fig.18 A flow chart of another method according to the present invention;

[0385] Fig.19 A schematic diagram of an apparatus for producing a liquid-tight container according to the present invention;

[0386] Fig. 20 Prior art dimensionally stable food containers;

[0387] Fig.21 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom of a container not according to the invention; and

[0388] Fig. 22 Schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom of another container not according to the invention.

[0389] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a liquid-tight container 100 according to the present invention is shown, wherein a container wall 101 is formed of two parts. One area of ​​the container wall 101 surrounding the interior of the container is formed by a sheath element 102, and one area is formed by a first end element 105. Both the sheath element 102 and the first end element 105 are formed by Fig. 9The invention is composed of a sheet-like composite material 900 shown in . The first end element 105 defines the container interior in a first direction 106 along the length of the liquid-tight container 100. In addition, the first end element 105 seals the liquid-tight container 100 at a first end formed by the container bottom 104, relative to the length of the liquid-tight container 100. The sheath element 102 defines the container interior 201 laterally based on the length of the liquid-tight container 100 and in another direction opposite to the first direction 106. In addition, the sheath element 102 closes the liquid-tight container 100 at the other end opposite to the first end and formed by the container head 103 relative to the length of the liquid-tight container 100. To this end, the sheath element 102 is folded at the other end and the folded area of ​​the sheath element 102 is sealed together. Details of the container bottom 104 designed according to the present invention can be seen in Figure 5 .

[0390] Figure 2 show Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a precursor of a liquid-tight container 100 is shown. Figure 2 The container 100 is shown before being closed at the other end with the sheath element 102. Figure 1 In order to facilitate folding of the sheath element 102 to close the other end, the sheath element has a groove 201 which specifies the folding line to be introduced. By folding along the groove 201 and sealing the folded surfaces together, a Figure 1 A liquid-tight container 100. Figure 2 Also shown is the container bottom 104 cut away at the first end. It can be seen that the sheath element 102 completely surrounds the first end element 105 in the lateral direction.

[0391] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a liquid-tight container 100 of the present invention is shown, wherein a container wall 101 is formed of three parts. One area of ​​the container wall 101 surrounding the interior of the container is formed by a sheath element 102, one area is formed by a first end element 105, and one area is formed by another end element 301. Both the sheath element 102 and the first end element 105 are formed by Fig. 9100 is composed of a sheet composite material 900 shown in . The first end element 105 is formed by a circular sheet composite material 900, and the sheath element 102 is composed of a rectangular slice of the sheet composite material 900. The relative longitudinal edges of the slice are brought into contact with each other in an overlapping manner and sealed together. The seam thus obtained is called the longitudinal seam 303 of the liquid-tight container 100. The sheath element 102 defines the interior of the container laterally relative to the length of the liquid-tight container 100. The first end element 105 defines the interior of the container in a first direction 106 along the length of the liquid-tight container 100. In addition, the first end element 105, relative to the length of the liquid-tight container 100, closes the liquid-tight container 100 at the first end formed by the container bottom 104. The other end element 301 is a molded part made of plastic, which is circular in a plan view and has a central pouring hole. The other end element 301 defines the interior of the container in another direction opposite to the first direction 106. In addition, the liquid-tight container 100 has a closing cover 302. The pouring hole 606 of the other end element 301 is located below the closure lid 302. A pull-tab 607 made of an aluminum foil coated with LDPE on both sides is sealed on the pouring hole 606. The other end element 301 closes the liquid-tight container 100 together with the pull-tab 607 at the other end opposite to the first end with respect to the length of the liquid-tight container 100 and formed by the container head 103. After the liquid-tight container is opened by tearing off the pull-tab 607, the closure lid 302 provides the possibility of closing the liquid-tight container 100 again, although obviously not as tightly. Details of the container bottom 104 designed according to the present invention can be seen in Figure 5 The cross section of the container head 103 is shown in Figure 6 middle.

[0392] Figure 4 show Figure 3 An exploded view of the container 100 is shown.

[0393] Figure 5 show Figures 1 to 3 Schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom 104 of a liquid-tight container 100. These liquid-tight containers 100 further include a first joining element 505, by means of which the first end element 105 is connected to the sheath element 102 in a material-bonded manner. When the first end element 105 is connected to the sheath element 102, the first joining element 505 is formed by the first end element 105 and the polymer inner layer 902 of the sheath element 102 (see Fig. 9 )form. Figure 5A cross section through the bottom 104 of the container is shown, wherein the cutting plane is a first plane extending through the interior 501 of the container parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container 100. In this first plane, the sheath element 102, the first joining element 505 and the first end element 105 form layers of the first joining layer sequence. These layers are directly adjacent to each other over the entire lateral range relative to the first joining layer sequence. The first joining element 505 has a first surface that contacts the first end element 105 and a second surface that contacts the sheath element 102. An imaginary first straight line 503 connects the two endpoints of the first line formed by the first surface and located in the first joining layer sequence in the first plane. In addition, an imaginary second straight line 504 connects the two endpoints of the second line formed by the second surface and located in the first joining layer sequence in the first plane. The first straight line 503 forms a first acute angle 504 with the second straight line. The vertex of the first acute angle is located behind the edge of the first acute angle in the first direction 106. In addition, the first straight line 503 forms an angle in the range of 0.8 to 3.5° with the first direction 106. The second straight line 504 forms an angle in the range of 5.8 to 9.9° with the first direction 106. Furthermore, a region 506 of the first end element 105 contacting the first surface is angled laterally outward relative to the liquid-tight container 100. A region 507 of the sheath element 102 contacting the second surface is also angled laterally outward relative to the liquid-tight container 100. Furthermore, it can be seen that the first end element 105 is convex relative to the container interior 501, i.e., is bent outward from the container interior 501. The container bottom 104 is rotationally symmetric about the axis 502. Therefore, for 100% of the outer circumference of the sheath element 102, there is at least one first plane parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container 100 extending through the container interior 501 and the outer circumference of the sheath element 102, wherein the container bottom 104 is as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown in . Therefore, the first engagement element 505 is trapezoidal in each cross section. In space, the first engagement element 505 has the shape of an annular wedge. It is therefore wedge-shaped.

[0394] The sheath element 102 comprises a first edge region 508 having a first edge 509 at a first end of the liquid-tight container 100. The first end element 105 consists of a central region 510 and a further edge region 512 laterally surrounding the central region 510 and having a further edge 511. The central region 510 defines a container interior 501 at the first end of the liquid-tight container in a first direction 106 along the length of the liquid-tight container 100 relative to the length of the liquid-tight container 100. The further edge region 512 is connected to the sheath element 102 in a materially bonded manner by means of a first joining element 505. The further edge 511 forms a closed curve having a perimeter. The further edge region 511 has an edge width 513 extending from the further edge 511 to the central region 510 at each point of the closed curve. The first edge region 508 protrudes beyond the further edge region 512 at each point of the closed curve so that the first edge region 508 has an overhang width (514) from the further edge 511 to the first edge 509. This overhang width 514 is measured on the side of the first edge region 508 facing away from the first end element 105. Along the entire circumference, the overhang width 514 is at least 30% of the edge width 513. Figure 5 In the embodiment, the sheath element 102 has not been curled, ie the overhang width 514 is not folded around the further edge 511 and connected to the further edge region 512. Different from this, the liquid-tight container 100 according to the present invention is preferably curled.

[0395] Figure 6 show Figure 3 Schematic cross-sectional view of a container head 103 of a liquid-tight container 100. In the container head 103, the liquid-tight container 100 further comprises another joining element 603, which connects the other end element 301 to the sheath element 102 in a material-bonded manner. When the other end element 301 is connected to the sheath element 102, the other joining element 603 is formed by the polymer inner layer 902 (see Fig. 9 )form. Figure 6A cross section through the container head 103 is shown, wherein the cutting plane in the sense of the present invention is another plane which extends through the container interior 501 parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container 100 and contains another bonding layer sequence. This other bonding layer sequence consists of the sheath element 102, the other bonding element 603 and the other end element 301 as directly consecutive layers in its entire lateral extent relative to the other bonding layer sequence. The other bonding element 603 has a third surface that contacts the other end element 301 and a fourth surface that contacts the sheath element 102. An imaginary third straight line 601 connects the two end points of a third line formed by the third surface in the other plane and located within the other bonding layer sequence. An imaginary fourth straight line 602 connects the two end points of a fourth line formed by the fourth surface in the other plane and located within the other bonding layer sequence. The third straight line 601 forms another acute angle with the fourth straight line 602. The vertex of the other acute angle is located behind the side of the other acute angle in the other direction. Furthermore, the third straight line 601 forms an angle in the range of 0.8 to 3.5° with the first direction 106. The fourth straight line 602 forms an angle in the range of 5.8 to 9.9° with the first direction 106. Furthermore, a region 604 of the other end element 301 contacting the third surface is angled laterally outward relative to the liquid-tight container 100. Conversely, a region 604 of the sheath element 102 contacting the fourth surface is angled laterally inward relative to the liquid-tight container 100. Furthermore, it can be seen that the other end element 301 is recessed relative to the container interior 501, i.e., is bent towards the container interior 501. The container head 103 is also rotationally symmetric around the axis 502. Therefore, for 100% of the outer circumference of the sheath element 102, there is at least one other plane parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container 100 extending through the container interior 501 and the outer circumference of the sheath element 102, wherein the container head 103 is as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown in . Therefore, the other engaging element 603 is trapezoidal in each cross section. In space, the other engaging element 603 has the shape of an annular wedge. It is therefore wedge-shaped.

[0396] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom 104 of another liquid-tight container 100 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 7 The plane of the drawing is the first plane in the sense of claim 1. The bottom 104 of the container is shown with Figure 5 The difference between the container bottom 103 is the different arrangement of the first engagement element 505. In particular, Figure 7 The vertex of the first acute angle in is located before the side of the first acute angle in the first direction.

[0397] Figure 8A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom 104 of another liquid-tight container 100 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 8 The drawing plane is also the first plane in the sense of claim 1. The container bottom 104 is shown with Figure 5 The difference between the container bottom 103 and the first direction 106 is the angle between the first straight line 503 and the second straight line 504. In addition, the area 507 of the sheath element 102 that contacts the second surface is not angled relative to the liquid-tight container 100.

[0398] Fig. 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of a sheet-like composite material 900 is shown. , which consists of the following layers superimposed on one another over its entire surface from the outer surface 901 of the sheet-like composite material 900 to its inner surface 902: a polymer outer layer 903, a carrier layer 904, a polymer intermediate layer 905, an adhesive layer 906 and a polymer inner layer 908. Suitable materials and basis weights of the layers are given in Table 1 above.

[0399] Fig.10 Microscope image showing a cross section through a seam in a container bottom 104 of a liquid-tight container 100 according to the present invention. Fig.10 The plane of the drawing is the first plane in the sense of claim 1. Thus, in the lower right corner of the drawing, the container interior 501 can be seen. Furthermore, the first joining layer sequence consisting of the sheath element 102, the first joining element 505 and the first end element 105 can be seen.

[0400] Fig.11 show Fig.10 The enlarged partial view of the microscope image of the sheath element 102 and the first end element 105. Fig. 9 In the layer of the sheet-like composite material 900 shown in Fig.11The carrier layer 904, the slightly glossy barrier layer 907 and the polymer inner layer 908 can be clearly seen in the figure. In addition, it can be seen that the first bonding element 505 is formed by the polymer inner layer 908 of the sheath element 102 and the first end element 105. The vertical dot-dash lines mark the sides of the first bonding layer sequence. In other words: the first bonding layer sequence is located between the two vertical dot-dash lines. To the left of the left dot-dash line and to the right of the right dot-dash line, the first bonding element 505 is missing, so that the direct order of the layers is no longer given. The first surface of the first end element 105 forms a line in the plane of the figure shown. The intersection of this line with the dot-dash line is the end point 1101 of the first line formed by the first surface in the plane of the figure and located in the first bonding layer sequence. The first line is therefore exactly the part of the line formed by the first surface in the plane of the figure that is located in the first bonding layer sequence, that is, between the dot-dash lines. The first straight line 503 connects the two end points 1101. Similarly, the second straight line 504 connects the two end points 1102 of the second line formed by the second surface in the plane of the figure and located in the first bonding layer sequence. The first straight line 503 and the second straight line 504 form an acute angle of 5.7°.

[0401] Fig.12 Microscope image showing a cross section through a seam in a container bottom 104 of another liquid-tight container 100 according to the present invention. Fig.12 The plane of the drawing is the first plane in the sense of claim 1. Thus, in the lower right corner of the drawing, the container interior 501 can be seen. Furthermore, the first joining layer sequence consisting of the sheath element 102, the first joining element 505 and the first end element 105 can be seen.

[0402] Fig.13 show Fig.12 In other aspects, Fig.11 The description of is equally applicable here, wherein the first straight line 503 and the second straight line 504 form an acute angle of 6.3°.

[0403] Fig.14 According to the invention, the production Figure 3Flowchart of method 1400 for a liquid-tight container 100. In method step a) 1401, a sheath element 102, a first end element 105, another end element 301, a first joining tool 1501, a second joining tool 1502, a third joining tool 1601 and a fourth joining tool 1602 are provided. The first joining tool 1501 is an ultrasonic welding electrode for ultrasonic friction welding. The second joining tool 1502 is an anvil, which is designed as a counter-tool for the first joining tool 1501. In the subsequent method step b) 1402, the first end element 105 is brought into contact with the first tool surface of the first joining tool 1501, and the sheath element 102 is brought into contact with the second tool surface of the second joining tool 1502. In method step c) 1403, the first end element 105 is connected to the sheath element 102 by friction welding under material bonding. This forms a Figure 5 , the first joining element 505 is shown in . In addition, the container 100 is thereby closed at the first end. In the subsequent method step d) 1404, the container 100 is closed at the opposite end based on the length of the container 100. To this end, the other end element 301 is brought into contact with the third tool surface of the third joining tool 1601, and the sheath element 102 is brought into contact with the fourth tool surface of the fourth joining tool 1602. The third joining tool 1601 is an ultrasonic welding electrode for ultrasonic friction welding. The fourth joining tool 1602 is an anvil, which is designed as a counter-tool for the third joining tool 1601. In addition, in method step d) 1404, the other end element 301 is connected to the sheath element 102 by friction welding under material bonding. This forms a Figure 6 Another engagement element 605 is shown in FIG. In addition, Figure 3 A liquid-tight container 100.

[0404] Fig.15 Show Diagram Fig.14 Schematic cross-sectional view of method steps b) 1402 and c) 1403 of method 1400. The figure is rotationally symmetrical about axis 502. Therefore, the first joining tool 1501 shown is truncated cone-shaped. The second joining tool 1502 is annular. The arrow indicates the direction of the pressing force during the friction welding process. It can also be seen that the tangent 1503 located on the first tool surface and the tangent 1504 located on the second tool surface form a first tool acute angle.

[0405] Fig.16 Show Diagram Fig.14Schematic cross-sectional view of method step d) 1404 of method 1400. The figure is rotationally symmetrical about axis 502. Therefore, the third joining tool 1601 shown is truncated cone-shaped. The fourth joining tool 1602 is annular. The arrow indicates the direction of the pressing force during the friction welding process. It can also be seen that the tangent 1603 located on the third tool surface and the tangent 1604 located on the fourth tool surface enclose another tool acute angle.

[0406] Fig.17 According to the invention, the production Figure 1 Flow chart of another method 1400 for a liquid-tight container 100. The method 1400 comprises method steps a) 1401 to d) 1404. The method steps a) 1401 to c) 1403 are related to Fig.14 In method step c) 1403, first obtain Figure 2 , which is closed at a first end and open at the other end. Here, too, the container 102 is closed at the other end in method step d) 1404. For this purpose, the sheath element 102 is folded along the groove 202 and the folded areas are connected to each other by ultrasonic welding. This is produced Figure 1 A liquid-tight container 100.

[0407] Fig.18 According to the invention, the production Figure 1 Flow chart of another method 1800 of a liquid-tight container 100. In this method 1800, no liquid-tight container 100 is first made from Figure 2 In method step a.1801, a sheathing element 102, an end element 105, a first joining tool 1501 and a second joining tool 1502 are provided. In a subsequent method step b.1802, while maintaining the open container, the sheathing element 102 is closed at one of its ends relative to the length of the sheathing element 102. This is similar to Fig.17 In method step c.1803, the end element 105 is brought into contact with the first tool surface of the first joining tool 1501, and the jacket element 102 is brought into contact with the second tool surface of the second joining tool 1502. This is similar to Fig.17 Method step b) 1402 of method 1400 is carried out. In method step d. 1804d, the end element 105 is connected to the jacket element 102 by friction welding in a material-bonded manner. This is similar to Fig.17 Step c) 1403 of method 1400 is performed. Obtain Figure 1 A liquid-tight container 100.

[0408] Fig.19A schematic diagram of an apparatus 1900 according to the invention for producing a liquid-tight container 100 is shown in the method flow indicated by arrows in the figure. The apparatus 1900 is a filling machine designed and arranged to produce containers 100 and to fill the containers 100 with flowable food products. To this end, the apparatus 1900 comprises a first closing device 1901, a further closing device 1902 and a filling device (not shown). The first closing device 1901 comprises a first joining tool and a second joining tool. The further closing device 1902 is arranged downstream of the first closing device 1901 and comprises a third joining tool and a fourth joining tool. The first closing device 1901 is designed and arranged to carry out method steps b) 1402 and c) 1403, and the further closing device 1902 is designed and arranged to carry out method step d) 1404, in each case belonging to Fig.14 The filling device can be arranged between the first closing device 1901 and the further closing device 1902, or arranged downstream of the further closing device 1902.

[0409] Fig. 20 A prior art dimensionally stable food container 2000 is shown having a one-piece container wall.

[0410] Fig.21 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom 2100 of a container not according to the invention is shown. Figure 5 The difference shown in FIG. 1 is that the engagement element 2101 is Fig.21 The cross section shown in is rectangular. The first straight line 503 and the further straight line 504 are therefore parallel and do not form any angle. The first straight line 503 and the second straight line 504 are parallel to the first direction 106. In addition, the area 506 of the first end element and the area 507 of the sheath element 102 are not angled.

[0411] Fig. 22 A schematic cross-sectional view of a container bottom 2100 of another container not according to the present invention is shown. Figure 5 The difference shown in FIG. 1 is that the engagement element 2101 is Fig. 22 The cross section shown in FIG. 1 has the shape of a parallelogram. This can be clearly seen in the larger dotted circle showing the enlarged image segment located in the smaller dotted circle. Therefore, the first straight line 503 and the second straight line 504 are parallel to each other. They therefore do not form any angle. In addition, the first straight line 503 and the second straight line 504 form a parallelogram with the first direction 106. Figure 5 Different angles of the situation.

[0412] Reference numerals

[0413] 100 Liquid-tight container according to the present invention

[0414] 101 Container Wall

[0415] 102 Sheath element

[0416] 103 Container Header

[0417] 104 Container bottom

[0418] 105 First end element / end element

[0419] 106 First Direction

[0420] 201 Groove

[0421] 301 Another end element

[0422] 302 Closure cover

[0423] 303 Longitudinal seam

[0424] 501 Inside the container

[0425] 502 Axis

[0426] 503 First Straight Line

[0427] 504 Second Straight Line

[0428] 505 First bonding element

[0429] 506: area of ​​the first end element contacting the first surface

[0430] 507 Area of ​​the sheath element contacting the second surface

[0431] 508 First Edge Area

[0432] 509 First Edge

[0433] 510 Central Area

[0434] 511 The Other Edge

[0435] 512 Another marginal area

[0436] 513 Edge Width

[0437] 514 Overhang Width

[0438] 601 The third straight line

[0439] 602 Fourth Straight Line

[0440] 603 Another joint element

[0441] 604: area of ​​the other end element contacting the third surface

[0442] 605 Area of ​​the sheath element contacting the fourth surface

[0443] 606 pouring hole

[0444] 607 pull tab

[0445] 900 Sheet Composite Material

[0446] 901 External surface

[0447] 902 Inner surface

[0448] 903 Polymer outer layer

[0449] 904 Carrier layer

[0450] 905 Polymer Interlayer

[0451] 906 Adhesive layer

[0452] 907 Barrier layer

[0453] 908 polymer inner layer

[0454] 1101 End point of a first line located in the image plane and formed by the first surface

[0455] 1102 endpoint of a second line located in the image plane and formed by the second surface

[0456] 1400 Method for producing a liquid-tight container according to the present invention

[0457] 1401 Method step a)

[0458] 1402 Method step b)

[0459] 1403 Method step c)

[0460] 1404 Method step d)

[0461] 1501 First Bonding Tool

[0462] 1502 Second bonding tool

[0463] 1503 Tangent to the first tool surface

[0464] 1504 Tangent to the second tool surface

[0465] 1601 Third bonding tool

[0466] 1602 Fourth bonding tool

[0467] 1603 Tangent to the third tool surface

[0468] 1604 Tangent to the fourth tool surface

[0469] 1800 Method for producing a liquid-tight container according to the present invention

[0470] 1801 Method steps a.

[0471] 1802 Method Step b.

[0472] 1803 Method Step c.

[0473] 1804 Method step d.

[0474] 1900 Apparatus for producing a liquid-tight container according to the invention

[0475] 1901 First Closure Device

[0476] 1902 Another Closure Device

[0477] 2000 Dimensionally stable food containers of the prior art

[0478] 2100 Container bottom not according to the invention

[0479] 2101 Joining element not according to the invention

Claims

1. A liquid-tight container (100), comprising a container wall (101) at least partially surrounding a container interior (501) and a first engaging element (505); wherein the jacket element (102) and the first end element (105) each form a region of the container wall (101); wherein the sheath element (102) - is at least partially formed from a first sheet-like material, - laterally delimiting the container interior (501) relative to the length of the liquid-tight container (100), and - comprising a first edge region (508) having a first edge (509); The first sheet material - comprising a first cardboard, and - having a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN; wherein the first edge region (508) is arranged at a first end of the liquid-tight container (100); wherein the first end element (105) comprises a central region (510) and another edge region (512) surrounding the central region (510) and having another edge (511); wherein the central region (510) defines a container interior (501) at a first end of the liquid-tight container (100) in a first direction (106) along the length of the liquid-tight container (100) relative to the length of the liquid-tight container (100); wherein the further edge region (512) is connected to the sheath element (102) by means of a first joining element (505) in a materially bonded manner; wherein the other edge (512) forms a closed curve having a perimeter; wherein the other edge region (512) has an edge width (513) extending from the other edge (511) to the central region (510) at each point of the closed curve; wherein the first edge region (508) extends beyond the other edge region (512) at each point of the closed curve so that the first edge region (508) has an overhang width (514) from the other edge (511) to the first edge (509); wherein the overhang width (514) is measured on a side of the first edge region (508) facing away from the first end element (105); wherein along at least 50% of the perimeter, the overhang width (514) is at least 30% of the edge width (513); wherein at least one first plane extending through the container interior (501) parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container (100) comprises a first joining layer sequence, over the entire lateral extent of which, relative to the first joining layer sequence, the jacket element (102), the first joining element (505) and the first end element (105) directly adjoin one another as layers; wherein the first engaging element (505) has a first surface contacting the first terminal element (105) and a second surface contacting the sheath element (102); wherein an imaginary first straight line (503) connects two end points (1101) of a first line formed by the first surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence; wherein an imaginary second straight line (504) connects two end points (1102) of a second line formed by the second surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence; The first straight line (503) and the second straight line (504) form a first acute angle.

2. A liquid-tight container (100) according to claim 1, wherein for at least 10% of the outer circumference of the sheath element (102), there is at least one first plane parallel to the length of the liquid-tight container (100) extending through the container interior (501) and the outer circumference of the sheath element (102), which comprises a first bonding layer sequence so that an imaginary first straight line (503) connects two end points (1101) of a first line formed by the first surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence, and an imaginary second straight line (504) connects two end points (1102) of a second line formed by the second surface in the at least one first plane and located within the first bonding layer sequence, The first straight line (503) and the second straight line (504) form a first acute angle.

3. The liquid-tight container (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the vertex of the first acute angle is located behind the side of the first acute angle in the first direction (106).

4. The liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second straight line (504) forms an angle with the first direction (106) in the range of 0.4 to 5.0°.

5. A liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first sheet material has a first material direction and a further material direction, wherein at each point on the surface of the first sheet material the first material direction is perpendicular to the further material direction and to the thickness of the first sheet material, Wherein the first sheet material meets one or more of the following criteria: A] the first sheet material has an extensibility in the first material direction in the range of 2.5 to 10%; B] the first sheet material has an extensibility in the direction of the other material in the range of 1 to 6%; C] the first sheet material has a modulus of elasticity in the first material direction in the range of 800 to 4000 MPa; D] The first sheet material has a modulus of elasticity in the direction of the further material in the range of 1500 to 6000 MPa.

6. The liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first acute angle is in the range of 0.5 to 10.0°.

7. The liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first engagement element (505) has a triangular or quadrilateral shape in the at least one first plane.

8. The liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first end element (105) is arranged at a first end of the liquid-tight container (100) relative to the length of the liquid-tight container (100); The sheath element (102) further defines a container interior (501) in another direction opposite to the first direction (106).

9. A liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container interior (501) contains a liquid.

10. A method (1400) for producing a liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method (1400) comprising the following method steps: a) Provide i) a sheathing element (102) formed at least in part from a first sheet material, ii) a first end element (105), iii) a first bonding tool (1501), and iv) a second bonding tool (1502), The first sheet material - comprising a first cardboard, and - having a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN; b) Make i) the first end element (105) is in contact with at least a first tool surface of the first bonding tool (1501), and ii) the sheath element (102) is in contact with at least a second tool surface of the second bonding tool (1502); and c) Connecting the first end element (105) to the sheath element (102) in a materially bonded manner.

11. The method (1400) according to claim 10, wherein in method step b), the first tool surface and the second tool surface form a first acute tool angle. 12 . The method ( 1400 ) according to claim 10 , wherein the first joining tool ( 1501 ) is vibrated in method step c) at a frequency in the range of 15 to 50 kHz.

13. The method (1400) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the connection by material bonding in method step c) is performed by welding.

14. A method (1800) for producing a liquid-tight container (100) according to claim 8, the method (1800) comprising the following method steps: a. Provide i. a sheath element (102) formed at least in part from a first sheet material, ii. the end element (105), iii. a first bonding tool (1501), and iv. a second bonding tool (1502), The first sheet material - comprising a first cardboard, and - having a bending stiffness in the range of 50 to 600 mN; b. closing the sheath element (102) at one of its ends relative to the length of the sheath element (102), thereby obtaining an open container; c. Make i. the end element (105) is in contact with at least a first tool surface of the first joining tool (1501), and ii. the sheath element (102) contacts at least a second tool surface of the second bonding tool (1502); and d. Connecting the end element (105) to the sheath element (102) in a materially bonded manner.

15. An apparatus (1900) for producing a liquid-tight container in a method flow, the apparatus (1900) comprising the following components a] a first closing device (1901) comprising a first joining tool (1501) and a second joining tool (1502); and b] a further closing device (1902) arranged downstream of the first closing device (1901), comprising a third joining tool (1601) and a fourth joining tool (1602); in A. in each case of the method (1400) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, the first closing device (1901) is designed and arranged to carry out method steps b) and c), and the further closing device (1902) is designed and arranged to carry out method step d); or B. In each case of the method (1800) according to claim 14, the first closing device (1901) is designed and arranged to carry out method step b. and the further closing device (1902) is designed and arranged to carry out method steps c. and d.

16. Use of the liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 for storing or transporting liquids.

17. Use of the sheet-like composite material (900) for producing a liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; One selected from the sheath element (102), the first end element (105) and the other end element (301), or a combination of at least two thereof is at least partially, preferably completely, formed by the sheet-like composite material (900).

18. Use of a first bonding tool (1501) and a second bonding tool (1502) for forming a container bottom (104) or a container head (103) of a liquid-tight container by a} i} a first end element (105) is in contact with at least a first tool surface of the first joining tool (1501), and ii} the sheath element (102) is in contact with at least a second tool surface of the second bonding tool (1502), and b} The first end element (105) is connected to the sheath element (102) in a material-bonded manner, thereby obtaining a liquid-tight container (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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