Container element with inclined side walls for dimensionally stable food containers

Abstract

The invention relates to a container element (700) comprising a non-planar assembly (701) wherein the container element (700) is designed to form a first portion of a container wall (1101) at least partially surrounding a container interior of a container (1100); wherein the non-planar assembly (701) comprises-a base member (702), and-a nozzle (703) arranged on the base member (702); wherein the base member (702) comprises-a base plate (704), and-at least three side walls (705); wherein the nozzle (703) is arranged on a first side of the base plate (704); wherein the side wall (705) is arranged on the other side of the base plate (704); wherein the side walls (705) are inclined towards each other in a longitudinal direction (708) of the non-planar assembly (701) such that each side wall (705) is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction (708) at an angle (712) in the range of 55 to 70 degrees. The invention further relates to a method (1500) of manufacturing said container element (700); a container (1100); wherein a container (1100) is obtained; and a use of the container element (700).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a container element comprising a non-planar component, wherein the container element is designed to form a first part of a container wall at least partially surrounding the container interior of the container; wherein the non-planar component comprises

[0002] - a base member, and

[0003] - a nozzle arranged on said base member;

[0004] The base member comprises

[0005] - base plate, and

[0006] - At least 3 side walls;

[0007] wherein the nozzle is arranged on a first side of the base plate; wherein the side walls are arranged on another side of the base plate opposite to the first side; wherein the side walls are inclined towards each other in a longitudinal direction of the non-planar component extending from the base member to the nozzle, so that each side wall is inclined at an angle in the range of 55 to 70° relative to the longitudinal direction. The invention further relates to a method of manufacturing the container element; a container; a method of obtaining the container therein; and a use of the container element.

[0008] For some time, food has been preserved by storing it in a can or in a jar closed by a lid, whether it is food for human consumption or an animal feed product. In this case, the shelf life can be increased by first sterilizing the food and the container (bottle or can) individually and fully in each case, then introducing the food into the container and sealing the container. However, these measures to increase the shelf life of food, which have been tried and tested for a long time, have a series of disadvantages, such as the need to sterilize again later. Cans and bottles have the disadvantage that it is impossible to achieve very dense and space-saving storage because they are basically cylindrical. In addition, cans and bottles have a considerable inherent weight, so that the energy consumption in transportation increases. In addition, the production of glass, tinplate or aluminum, even when the raw materials for this purpose are recycled, also requires a relatively high energy consumption. In the case of bottles, an aggravating factor is the increase in transportation expenses. Bottles are usually prefabricated in glass factories and then must be transported to the place where the food is distributed using a considerable transportation volume. In addition, bottles and cans can only be opened with considerable effort or with the help of tools and therefore in a quite laborious manner. In the case of cans, there is a high risk of injuries caused by sharp edges that appear when opening. In the case of bottles, it is a recurring situation that broken glass enters the food during the filling or opening of the already filled bottle, which in the worst case can cause internal injuries when the food is consumed. In addition, both cans and bottles have to be labeled in order to identify and promote the food contents. Bottles and cans cannot be directly printed with information and promotional information. Therefore, in addition to the actual printing, a substrate for this purpose, paper or a suitable film, is required, as well as fixing means, adhesives or sealants.

[0009] Other packaging systems are known from the prior art for the long-term storage of foods with minimal damage. These are containers made of planar or sheet-like composites, which are also often referred to as laminates. Such laminates 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 the laminate by the carrier layer, these containers are considered to be a further development of the above-mentioned bottles and cans compared to film bags and pouches.

[0010] Depending on the geometry of the container, certain areas of the laminate tend to form small defects in the production of prior art containers, such as cracks and breaks, as well as unsealed pockets or microchannels. These defects make the container less airtight. In addition, bacteria can settle in these defects. Both effects can lead to the food in the container being more susceptible to spoilage. This means that the shelf life of the container is shortened.

[0011] In general, one object of the present invention is to at least partially overcome the disadvantages presented by the prior art.

[0012] A further object of the present invention is to provide a dimensionally stable food container made from a laminate material which is characterized by an improved shelf life.

[0013] A further object of the invention is to provide a dimensionally stable food container made of a laminate material which, in particular by virtue of good stacking behavior, enables the most efficient utilization of the transport volume when supplying such food containers.

[0014] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a dimensionally stable food container made of a laminate material which can be produced in large quantities in a filling machine with as few production interruptions as possible.

[0015] According to another object of the invention, one of the above-mentioned advantageous food containers is particularly suitable for stationary household use, in particular due to its relatively large capacity. According to another object of the invention, one of the above-mentioned advantageous food containers is particularly suitable for mobile use, in particular due to its good grip stiffness.

[0016] According to a further object of the invention, one of the above-mentioned advantageous food containers is additionally characterized by good standing stability of the individual containers.

[0017] Any embodiment of the present invention contributes to at least partially achieving at least one, preferably more than one, of the above-mentioned objects.

[0018] A first embodiment of the present invention is a container element comprising a non-planar component, wherein the container element is designed to form a first portion of a container wall at least partially, preferably completely surrounding the container interior of the container; wherein the non-planar component comprises

[0019] - a base member, and

[0020] - a spout arranged on said base member;

[0021] The base member comprises

[0022] - base plate, and

[0023] - at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, most preferably exactly 4 side walls;

[0024] wherein the nozzle is arranged on a first side of the base plate; wherein the side walls are arranged on the other side of the base plate opposite to the first side; wherein the side walls are inclined toward each other in the longitudinal direction of the non-planar component extending from the base member to the nozzle so that each side wall is inclined at an angle in the range of 55 to 70°, preferably 55 to 69°, more preferably 55 to 68°, preferably 55 to 67°, more preferably 55 to 66°, more preferably 55 to 65°, more preferably 55 to 64°, more preferably 56 to 63°, more preferably 57 to 62°, more preferably 58 to 61°, and even more preferably 58.5 to 60.0° relative to the longitudinal direction.

[0025] Alternatively, preferably, the side walls are inclined toward each other in the longitudinal direction of the non-planar component extending from the base member to the nozzle so that each side wall is inclined at an angle in the range of 56 to 70°, more preferably 57 to 70°, more preferably 58 to 70°, more preferably 59 to 70°, more preferably 60 to 70°, more preferably 61 to 70°, more preferably 62 to 69°, more preferably 63 to 68°, more preferably 64 to 67°, and even more preferably 65.0 to 66.0° relative to the longitudinal direction.

[0026] Preferably, the longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the base plate. Alternatively or additionally preferred, the longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the non-planar component. Preferably, the non-planar component consists of a base member and a nozzle. Preferably, the non-planar component is designed as a first part of a container wall of a container. Preferably, the folded planar composite material forms another part of the container wall. Preferably, the non-planar component is designed to be joined to the planar composite material, preferably by sealing or gluing or both. Preferably, the sealing is performed using the material of the non-planar component as a sealant.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the container element, the bottom plate has a bottom surface in the form of a polygon.This preferred embodiment is a second embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the first embodiment of the invention.

[0028] Preferably the polygon is a regular polygon. Alternatively or additionally preferably the polygon has 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, most preferably exactly 4 corners. A preferred polygon with 4 corners is a rectangle. A preferred rectangle is a square. Preferably the side walls of the base member are as many as the corners of the polygon.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, each 2 side walls adjoining each other in the circumferential direction of the non-planar component abut each other to form the sides of the base member. This preferred embodiment is the third embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the first or second embodiment of the invention.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, at least one first sealant reservoir is arranged on the outside of at least one side wall, preferably on the outside of each side wall. This preferred embodiment is a fourth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on any of the preceding embodiments of the invention.

[0031] Preferably, the at least one first sealant reservoir, preferably each first sealant reservoir comprises a first polymer composition. More preferably, the at least one first sealant reservoir, preferably each first sealant reservoir consists of a first polymer composition. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the non-planar component comprises a first polymer composition. Preferably, the non-planar component consists of a first polymer composition. Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer or both. Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer or both together in a proportion in the range of 70 to 100 wt. %, preferably 80 to 99 wt. %, more preferably 90 to 98 wt. %, each based on the first polymer composition. Preferred condensation polymers are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. Preferred polyesters are polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Preferred polyolefins are polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Preferred polyethylene is HDPE. The preferred first polymer composition has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350°C, preferably 90 to 300°C, more preferably 90 to 280°C, more preferably 90 to 260°C, more preferably 90 to 240°C, more preferably 90 to 220°C, more preferably 100 to 200°C, more preferably 100 to 190°C, more preferably 100 to 180°C, more preferably 100 to 170°C, more preferably 100 to 160°C, more preferably 110 to 150°C, more preferably 120 to 140°C, still more preferably 125 to 140°C, most preferably 128 to 136°C.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the at least one first sealant reservoir is elongated in the circumferential direction of the non-planar component. The circumferential direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. This preferred embodiment is the fifth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the fourth embodiment of the invention.

[0033] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the at least one first sealant reservoir is formed as at least one lamella, preferably at least 2 lamellas, more preferably at least 3 lamellas. This preferred embodiment is the sixth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the fourth or fifth embodiment of the invention.

[0034] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, an additional sealant reservoir is arranged on at least one side of the base member, preferably on each side of the base member, respectively. This preferred embodiment is the seventh embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the third to sixth embodiments of the present invention.

[0035] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the further sealant reservoir is arranged and shaped to stand fin-like on the side.This preferred embodiment is an eighth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the seventh embodiment of the invention.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the nozzle comprises a screw thread.This preferred embodiment is a ninth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the preceding embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the base member and the nozzle are integrally formed with each other. Preferably, the non-planar component is integrally formed. This preferred embodiment is the tenth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on any of the preceding embodiments of the invention.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the container element further comprises a cap, preferably a screw cap, which is arranged at the non-planar component so that the cap covers the pouring hole of the spout. This preferred embodiment is the eleventh embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the preceding embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] Preferably, the cap is screwed onto the nozzle. Preferred caps comprise a second polymer composition. Preferably, the cap consists of a second polymer composition. Preferably, the second polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer or both. Preferably, the second polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer or both together in a proportion in the range of 70 to 100 wt. %, preferably 80 to 99 wt. %, more preferably 90 to 98 wt. %, each based on the second polymer composition. Preferred polyolefins are polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Preferred polyethylene is HDPE. Preferred condensation polymers are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. Preferred polyesters are polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Preferred second polymer compositions additionally comprise a colorant. The second polymer composition preferably has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350°C, preferably 90 to 300°C, more preferably 90 to 280°C, more preferably 90 to 260°C, more preferably 90 to 240°C, more preferably 90 to 220°C, more preferably 100 to 200°C, more preferably 100 to 190°C, more preferably 100 to 180°C, more preferably 100 to 170°C, more preferably 100 to 160°C, more preferably 110 to 150°C, more preferably 120 to 140°C, still more preferably 125 to 140°C, most preferably 128 to 136°C.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the container element further comprises an opening aid arranged at the spout, preferably in the spout. This preferred embodiment is a twelfth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on any of the previous embodiments of the invention. Preferably, the opening aid is designed and arranged as a pouring hole for opening the spout.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally preferably, the opening aid is arranged at the cap, preferably in the cap. Preferred opening aids are cutting aids or tearing aids or both. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the opening aid is annular. Preferred annular cutting aids are cutting rings. Preferred annular tearing aids are tearing rings.

[0042] The preferred opening aid comprises a third polymer composition. Preferably, the opening aid consists of a third polymer composition. Preferably, the third polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer or both. Preferably, the third polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer or both in a proportion in the range of 50 to 100 wt. %, more preferably 60 to 100 wt. %, more preferably 70 to 100 wt. %, even more preferably 80 to 100 wt. %, most preferably 90 to 100 wt. %, each based on the third polymer composition. Preferred polyolefins are polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Preferred polyethylene is HDPE. Preferred condensation polymers are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. Preferred polyesters are polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Preferred third polymer compositions additionally include a colorant. The third polymer composition preferably has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350°C, preferably 90 to 300°C, more preferably 90 to 280°C, more preferably 90 to 260°C, more preferably 90 to 240°C, more preferably 90 to 220°C, more preferably 100 to 200°C, more preferably 100 to 190°C, more preferably 110 to 180°C, most preferably 120 to 170°C.

[0043] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the opening aid is arranged and designed to open the pouring opening by removing the cap from the spout.This preferred embodiment is a thirteenth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the twelfth embodiment of the invention.

[0044] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the base member or the nozzle or both comprise the first polymer composition, preferably consist of the first polymer composition. Preferably, the non-planar component consists of the first polymer composition. This preferred embodiment is the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the preceding embodiments of the present invention.

[0045] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a polycondensate or both.This preferred embodiment is the fifteenth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the fourteenth embodiment of the invention.

[0046] Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a polycondensate or both in a proportion in the range of 70 to 100% by weight, preferably 80 to 99% by weight, more preferably 90 to 98% by weight, each based on the first polymer composition. Preferred polycondensates are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. Preferred polyesters are polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0047] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element the polyolefin is polyethylene or polypropylene or both.This preferred embodiment is the sixteenth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on the fifteenth embodiment of the invention.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the polyethylene is HDPE.This preferred embodiment is the seventeenth embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on the sixteenth embodiment of the invention.

[0049] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the first polymer composition comprises a colorant.This preferred embodiment is the eighteenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the fourteenth to seventeenth embodiments of the present invention.

[0050] Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises the colorant in a proportion in the range from 0.5 to 5% by weight, preferably from 0.5 to 4% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 3% by weight, based in each case on the first polymer composition.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the first polymer composition has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350° C., preferably 90 to 300° C., more preferably 90 to 280° C., more preferably 90 to 260° C., more preferably 90 to 240° C., more preferably 90 to 220° C., more preferably 100 to 200° C., more preferably 100 to 190° C., more preferably 100 to 180° C., more preferably 100 to 170° C., more preferably 100 to 160° C., more preferably 110 to 150° C., more preferably 120 to 140° C., still more preferably 125 to 140° C., most preferably 128 to 136° C. This preferred embodiment is the nineteenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the fourteenth to eighteenth embodiments of the present invention.

[0052] In a further preferred embodiment of the container element, the container element is designed to be joined to the folded planar composite material so that another part of the container wall is formed by the folded planar composite material. This preferred embodiment is the twentieth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on any of the previous embodiments of the invention.

[0053] A twenty-first embodiment of the present invention is a method of manufacturing a container element according to any one of the first to twentieth embodiments of the present invention, the method comprising the method steps of:

[0054] a) providing a first polymer composition; and

[0055] b) shaping the first polymer composition to obtain a non-planar component.

[0056] Preferably, the aforementioned method is a method of manufacturing the container element according to any one of the first to twentieth embodiments of the present invention.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the first polymer composition is provided in process step a) in granular or liquid form. The preferred liquid form of the first polymer composition is a melt. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-second embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on the twenty-first embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] In a further preferred embodiment of the process, the first polymer composition is at least partially, preferably completely liquefied, preferably melted, before process step b) and / or in process step b). This preferred embodiment is the twenty-third embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the twenty-first or twenty-second embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the shaping in method step b) is carried out as an additive manufacturing method. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-fourth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the twenty-first to twenty-third embodiments of the present invention.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, method step b) comprises molding the first polymer composition or 3D printing with the first polymer composition. Preferred molding is injection molding. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the twenty-first to twenty-fourth embodiments of the present invention.

[0061] In a further preferred embodiment of the process, the first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a polycondensate or both.This preferred embodiment is the twenty-sixth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the twenty-first to twenty-fifth embodiments of the present invention.

[0062] Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a polycondensate or both in a proportion in the range of 70 to 100% by weight, preferably 80 to 99% by weight, more preferably 90 to 98% by weight, each based on the first polymer composition. Preferred polycondensates are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. Preferred polyesters are polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0063] In a further preferred embodiment of the process the polyolefin is polyethylene or polypropylene or both.This preferred embodiment is the twenty-seventh embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on the twenty-sixth embodiment of the invention.

[0064] In a further preferred embodiment of the process the polyethylene is HDPE.This preferred embodiment is the twenty-eighth embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on the twenty-seventh embodiment of the invention.

[0065] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the first polymer composition comprises a colorant.This preferred embodiment is the twenty-ninth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the twenty-first to twenty-eighth embodiments of the present invention.

[0066] Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises the colorant in a proportion in the range from 0.5 to 5% by weight, preferably from 0.5 to 4% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 3% by weight, based in each case on the first polymer composition.

[0067] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the first polymer composition has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350° C., preferably 90 to 300° C., more preferably 90 to 280° C., more preferably 90 to 260° C., more preferably 90 to 240° C., more preferably 90 to 220° C., more preferably 100 to 200° C., more preferably 100 to 190° C., more preferably 100 to 180° C., more preferably 100 to 170° C., more preferably 100 to 160° C., more preferably 110 to 150° C., more preferably 120 to 140° C., still more preferably 125 to 140° C., most preferably 128 to 136° C. This preferred embodiment is the 30th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the 21st to 29th embodiments of the present invention.

[0068] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the method further comprises the method steps:

[0069] c) arranging the opening aid at the spout, preferably in the spout; or arranging the cap at the non-planar component such that the cap covers the pouring orifice of the spout; or both.

[0070] This preferred embodiment is the thirty-first embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the twenty-first to thirtieth embodiments of the present invention.

[0071] A thirty-second embodiment of the present invention is a container comprising

[0072] - a container element according to any one of the first to twentieth embodiments of the present invention, and

[0073] - folded planar composite;

[0074] wherein the container wall of the container at least partially, preferably completely surrounds the container interior; wherein a first portion of the container wall is formed by the container element; and wherein another portion of the container wall is formed by the folded planar composite material. Preferably, the first portion and the another portion together form the container wall to close the container. Preferably, the container according to the present invention is a food container.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment of the container, the folded planar composite material is joined, preferably directly joined, to at least one side wall, preferably each side wall, of the non-planar component. Preferably, the inner side of the planar composite material is joined to at least one side wall, preferably each side wall, of the non-planar component, preferably directly joined. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-third embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on the thirty-second embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the further part of the container wall is cup-shaped.This preferred embodiment is the thirty-fourth embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on the thirty-second or thirty-third embodiment of the invention.

[0077] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the container comprises a standing base and a head portion opposite to the standing base in a first direction along the length of the container. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the thirty-second to thirty-fourth embodiments of the present invention.

[0078] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the end portion comprises the first portion of the container wall. Preferably, the container element forms the top surface of the end portion of the container. The preferred top surface is the top surface of a regular truncated pyramid. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-sixth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the thirty-fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the upright base of the container is formed from a folded planar composite material.This preferred embodiment is the thirty-seventh embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the thirty-second to thirty-sixth embodiments of the invention.

[0080] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the container element defines a container interior in a first direction extending along the length of the container.This preferred embodiment is the thirty-eighth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the thirty-second to thirty-seventh embodiments of the present invention.

[0081] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the planar composite material delimits the container interior laterally or in another direction opposite to the first direction or in both.This preferred embodiment is the thirty-ninth embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on the thirty-eighth embodiment of the invention.

[0082] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the end portion comprises at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, most preferably exactly 4, preferably planar end side surfaces formed by the folded planar composite material, which are inclined relative to each other in a first direction so that the container tapers at least in sections in the end portion. This preferred embodiment is the 40th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the 35th to 38th embodiments of the present invention.

[0083] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the perimeter of each end side surface is formed by a plurality of side edges of the end portion, respectively; wherein each of the plurality of side edges comprises a bottom edge convexly curved toward the upright base relative to the perimeter of the end side surface formed by the side edges. Preferably, each of these bottom edges is an arcuate convex, more preferably a circular arcuate convex. This preferred embodiment is the 41st embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on the 40th embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the end side surfaces together substantially form the lateral surface of a regular truncated pyramid. This preferred embodiment is the 42nd embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on the 40th or 41st embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the right truncated pyramid has a bottom surface in the form of a polygon. This preferred embodiment is the forty-third embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on the forty-second embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Preferably the polygon is a regular polygon. Alternatively or additionally preferably the polygon has 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, most preferably exactly 4 corners. A preferred polygon with 4 corners is a rectangle. A preferred rectangle is a square. Preferably the end side of the end portion is as many as the corners of the polygon.

[0087] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the folded flat composite material comprises the following layers as a superposition of layer sequences in the direction from the outside of the folded flat composite material to the inside of the folded flat composite material:

[0088] A) Carrier layer

[0089] B) a barrier layer, and

[0090] C) Inner polymer layer.

[0091] This preferred embodiment is the forty-fourth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the thirty-second to forty-third embodiments of the present invention.

[0092] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the planar composite material additionally comprises an outer polymer layer; wherein the outer polymer layer is superimposed on the carrier layer on the side of the carrier layer facing away from the barrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the 45th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the 44th embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the outer polymer layer is adjacent to the carrier layer. The outer polymer layer preferably comprises 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 a polyolefin, preferably polyethylene or polypropylene or both, in each case based on the weight of the outer polymer layer.

[0094] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the outer polymer layer comprises at least 50 wt%, preferably at least 60 wt%, more preferably at least 70 wt%, even more preferably at least 80 wt%, most preferably at least 90 wt% LDPE, each based on the weight of the outer polymer layer. This preferred embodiment is the 46th embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on the 45th embodiment of the invention.

[0095] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the outer polymer layer is superimposed on the side of the outer polymer layer facing away from the carrier layer or on the side of the outer polymer layer facing the carrier layer, preferably a printed color application (a colour application), preferably a decoration (a decoration). This preferred embodiment is the 47th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the 45th or 46th embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] In both arrangements, the color application is preferably adjacent to the outer polymer layer. Preferably, the color application comprises at least one colorant, more preferably at least 2, more preferably at least 3, more preferably at least 4, even more preferably at least 5, most preferably at least 6 colorants. The colorants preferably each have a different color from each other. A preferred color application is a printed color application.

[0097] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the planar composite comprises an intermediate polymer layer between the carrier layer and the barrier layer.This preferred embodiment is the forty-eighth embodiment of the invention, which preferably depends on any one of the forty-fourth to forty-seventh embodiments of the invention.

[0098] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, a layer selected from the inner polymer layer, the middle polymer layer and the outer polymer layer, or a combination of at least two thereof, comprises a polyolefin, preferably polyethylene or polypropylene or a mixture of the two, preferably consists of a polyolefin, preferably polyethylene or polypropylene or a mixture of the two. This preferred embodiment is the 49th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the 44th to 48th embodiments of the present invention.

[0099] Preferably, one layer selected from the inner polymer layer, the intermediate polymer layer and the outer polymer layer, or a combination of at least two thereof, comprises a polyolefin, preferably polyethylene or polypropylene or a mixture thereof, in a proportion of at least 50 wt.-%, preferably at least 60 wt.-%, more preferably at least 70 wt.-%, even more preferably at least 80 wt.-%, most preferably at least 90 wt.-%, each based on the weight of the respective layer.

[0100] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the carrier layer comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof, preferably consists of one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof. This preferred embodiment is the fiftieth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the forty-fourth to forty-ninth embodiments of the present invention.

[0101] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the barrier layer comprises one selected from plastic, metal and metal oxide, or a combination of at least two thereof, and preferably consists of one selected from plastic, metal and metal oxide, or a combination of at least two thereof. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-first embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the forty-fourth to fiftieth embodiments of the present invention.

[0102] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the container contains food.This preferred embodiment is the fifty-second embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the thirty-second to fifty-first embodiments of the present invention.

[0103] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the planar composite material comprises at least 2 folds, preferably at least 3 folds, more preferably at least 4 folds. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-third embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the thirty-second to fifty-second embodiments of the present invention.

[0104] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the planar composite material comprises a first longitudinal margin and a further longitudinal margin opposite to the first longitudinal margin in the circumferential direction of the container; wherein the first longitudinal margin is joined to the further longitudinal margin to form a longitudinal seam of the container. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-fourth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the thirty-second to fifty-third embodiments of the present invention.

[0105] In a further preferred embodiment of the container, the capacity of the container interior is 100 to 2000 ml, preferably 100 to 1500 ml, more preferably 100 to 1200 ml, more preferably 100 to 1000 ml, more preferably 100 to 900 ml, more preferably 100 to 800 ml, more preferably 100 to 700 ml, more preferably 100 to 600 ml, more preferably 100 to 500 ml, more preferably 100 to 480 ml, more preferably 100 to 460 ml. More preferably, the range of 100 to 360ml is 150 to 360ml, more preferably 160 to 360ml, more preferably 170 to 360ml, more preferably 180 to 360ml, more preferably 190 to 360ml, more preferably 200 to 360ml, more preferably 210 to 360ml, more preferably 220 to 360ml, more preferably 230 to 360ml, more preferably 240 to 360ml, more preferably 250 to 360ml, more preferably 260 to 360ml, more preferably 270 to 360ml, more preferably 280 to 360ml, more preferably 290 to 360ml, more preferably 300 to 360ml, more preferably 310 to 360ml, more preferably 320 to 360ml, more preferably 330 to 360ml, more preferably 340 to 360ml, more preferably 350 to 360ml, more preferably 360 to 360ml, more preferably 370 to 360ml. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the thirty-second to fifty-fourth embodiments of the present invention.

[0106] Further preferably, the capacity of the container interior is in the range of 150 to 2000ml, more preferably 200 to 2000ml, more preferably 250 to 2000ml, more preferably 300 to 2000ml, more preferably 350 to 2000ml, more preferably 400 to 2000ml, more preferably 420 to 2000ml, more preferably 440 to 2000ml, more preferably 460 to 2000ml, more preferably 480 to 2000ml, more preferably 480 to 1800ml, more preferably 480 to 1600ml, more preferably 480 to 1400ml, more preferably 480 to 1200ml, most preferably 480 to 1150ml, more preferably 480 to 1100ml, and still more preferably 490 to 1100ml.

[0107] A fifty-sixth embodiment of the present invention is a method comprising the following method steps:

[0108] a. Provide

[0109] - a container element according to any one of the first to twentieth embodiments of the present invention, and

[0110] - planar composite materials;

[0111] b. Folding the planar composite material and joining the planar composite material to the non-planar component to obtain a container.

[0112] The planar composite material is preferably formed according to one of the embodiments of the container according to the invention. Preferably, the method is a method of manufacturing a container, preferably said container. Preferred containers are food containers. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the method is a method of manufacturing a container according to the invention according to one of its embodiments.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the joining in method step b. is carried out in the form of gluing or sealing or both. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-seventh embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the fifty-sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Preferred seals are heat seals or ultrasonic seals or both.Preferred heat seals involve heating the planar composite or non-planar component or both by contact with a heated solid or hot gas or both.

[0115] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the sealing is performed with a sealant at least partly provided by the non-planar component.This preferred embodiment is the fifty-eighth embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on the fifty-seventh embodiment of the invention.

[0116] Preferably, the sealant is at least partly provided by said at least one first sealant reservoir or by said further sealant reservoir or by both.Preferably, in addition to the non-planar component, the sealant is partly provided by the planar composite material, preferably by the inner polymer layer.

[0117] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the non-planar component is partially melted for joining in method step b. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-ninth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the fifty-sixth to fifty-eighth embodiments of the present invention.

[0118] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, in method step b., a preferably closed end portion of the container is obtained. The container obtained in method step b. is preferably open at the end opposite to the end portion. This preferred embodiment is the sixtieth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the fifty-sixth to fifty-ninth embodiments of the present invention.

[0119] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the method additionally comprises the method steps:

[0120] c. Folding and joining the folded surfaces of the planar composite material to obtain an upright base.

[0121] This preferred embodiment is the sixty-first embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the fifty-sixth to sixtieth embodiments of the present invention.

[0122] Preferably, in method step c. the container is closed. Preferably, the upright base is arranged at the end of the container opposite the head portion. Preferably, in method step c. a container according to the invention according to one of its embodiments is obtained.

[0123] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the method comprises filling the container with the food after method step b. and preferably before method step c. This preferred embodiment is the sixty-second embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the fifty-sixth to sixty-first embodiments of the present invention.

[0124] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the joining of the planar composite material and the non-planar component in method step b. comprises pressing the planar composite material and the non-planar component to each other under a first contact pressure in a first pressing step and under another contact pressure in another pressing step; wherein the first contact pressure is less than the other contact pressure, preferably at least 100 mbar less, more preferably at least 200 mbar less, more preferably at least 300 mbar less, more preferably at least 400 mbar less, more preferably at least 500 mbar less, more preferably at least 600 mbar less, more preferably at least 700 mbar less, more preferably at least 800 mbar less, even more preferably at least 900 mbar less, and most preferably at least 1,000 mbar less. This preferred embodiment is the sixty-third embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any one of the fifty-sixth to sixty-second embodiments of the present invention.

[0125] Preferably, the first pressing step is performed before the other pressing step. Alternatively, the first pressing step is performed after the other pressing step. Alternatively, the first pressing step is performed overlapping in time with the other pressing step, or simultaneously with the other pressing step. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the first pressing step comprises pressing in one or two first pressing directions, and the other pressing step comprises pressing in one or two further pressing directions different from the first pressing directions. In the case of two first pressing directions, these are preferably opposite to each other. In the case of two further pressing directions, these are preferably opposite to each other. Preferably, each first pressing direction is substantially perpendicular to each further pressing direction. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the first contact pressure is in the range of 800 to 3,000 mbar, preferably 1,000 to 2,800 mbar, more preferably 1,200 to 2,600 mbar. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the further contact pressure is in the range of 2,000 to 4,000 mbar, preferably 2,200 to 3,800 mbar, more preferably 2,400 to 3,600 mbar. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in a first pressing step, the planar composite material and the non-planar component are pressed against each other on a first pair of opposite sides of the non-planar component. Here, preferably, none of the sides of the first pair of opposite sides of the non-planar component are pressed against the longitudinal seam of the planar composite material under a first contact pressure in the first pressing step. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in a first pressing step, the planar composite material is pressed against two side walls of the base member that are opposite to each other. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in another pressing step, the planar composite material and the non-planar component are pressed against each other on another pair of opposite sides of the non-planar component. The sides of the other pair of opposite sides are different from the sides of the first pair of opposite sides. Preferably, in another pressing step, the non-planar component is pressed against the longitudinal seam of the planar composite material under another contact pressure. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in another pressing step, the planar composite material is pressed against two side walls of the base member that are opposite to each other.

[0126] A sixty-fourth embodiment of the present invention is use of the container element according to any one of the first to twentieth embodiments of the present invention for manufacturing a food container.

[0127] In a preferred embodiment of this use, the food container comprises, in addition to the container element, a folded planar composite material. This preferred embodiment is the sixty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the sixty-fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Preferably, the container element forms a first part of a container wall of the food container, and the folded planar composite material forms another part of the container wall.Preferably, the first part and the another part together form the container wall to close the container.

[0129] Features described as preferred in one category of the invention (e.g., according to container elements) are similarly preferred in embodiments according to other categories of the invention (e.g., containers, methods, and uses). In addition, the features described below are preferred for each category of the invention.

[0130] Planar composite materials

[0131] All references to planar composite materials hereinafter relate in particular to the folded planar composite material of the container according to the invention. This is not limited to the section "planar composite material".

[0132] All laminates that are conceivable in the context of the present invention and that appear to be suitable in the context of the present invention for producing dimensionally stable food containers, in particular sheet-like laminates, are considered to be planar composite materials. Planar composite materials for the manufacture of food containers are also referred to as laminates. Such planar composite materials have a sequence of layers superimposed on each other in a planar manner. The planar composite material is usually composed of a thermoplastic polymer layer (referred to herein as an outer polymer 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 an intermediate polymer layer and / or an optional adhesion promoter layer), a barrier layer and a further thermoplastic polymer layer (referred to herein as an inner polymer layer).

[0133] In general, the term "planar composite material" is a general term which includes semi-endless coils and blanks of such coils. The blanks are preferably designed for producing a single container. The folded planar composite material of the container according to the invention is such a blank. Thus, the folded planar composite material is a blank which is cut to size to provide another part of the container wall. The planar composite material can be a plane or a three-dimensional object. The latter is in particular the case when the planar composite material has been folded or rolled up. In any case, the planar composite material is sheet-like. Therefore, the planar composite material can also be referred to as sheet-like composite material.

[0134] The layers of the planar composite material constituting the layer sequence are joined to each other over their entire surface. The two layers are joined together when the adhesion of the two layers to each other exceeds the van der Waals attraction. Preferably, the layers joined to each other are selected from one of joining to each other by coating, laminating together, sealing together, gluing together and pressing together, or a combination of at least two thereof. The layers joined to each other by coating are preferably joined to each other by melt coating or by vapor deposition. Preferred melt coating is melt extrusion coating.

[0135] Unless otherwise stated, in a layer sequence, the layers may follow each other indirectly, i.e. with one or at least two intermediate layers, or directly, i.e. without intermediate layers. This is particularly true in formulations where one layer is superimposed on another. A formulation in which the layer sequence comprises listed layers means that at least the specified layers are present in the specified order. Such a formulation does not necessarily mean that the layers follow each other. A formulation in which two layers are adjacent to each other means that the two layers follow each other, thus without intermediate layers. However, such a formulation does not specify whether the two layers are joined. On the contrary, the two layers may be in contact with each other. However, preferably, the two layers are joined to each other, preferably in a planar manner.

[0136] Outer side

[0137] The outer side of the planar composite material is the surface of the planar composite material which, in a container made of the planar composite material, is intended to come into contact with the environment of the container. This does not exclude the fact that in individual areas of the container, the outer surfaces of different areas of the composite material are folded over each other or joined to each other, for example sealed to each other.

[0138] Inner side

[0139] The inner side of the planar composite material is the surface of the planar composite material which, in a container made of the planar composite material, is intended to come into contact with the container contents, preferably foodstuffs.

[0140] Polymer layer

[0141] In the following, the term "polymer layer" refers in particular to an inner polymer layer, an intermediate polymer layer and an outer polymer layer. The polymer layers are each based on a polymer or a polymer blend, i.e. the polymer layer comprises a polymer or a polymer blend for the most part. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers, more preferably polyolefins. The polymer layers are preferably bonded or applied to the planar composite material in an extrusion process, preferably by melt extrusion coating. In addition to the polymer or polymer blend, each polymer layer may also contain additional components. The additional ingredients of the polymer layer are preferably ingredients that do not adversely affect the behavior of the polymer melt when applied as a layer. Additional ingredients can be, for example, inorganic compounds, such as metal salts, or other plastics, such as other thermoplastics.

[0142] Typically, suitable polymers for polymer layers are those that are easily processed due to good extrusion behavior. Among them, polymers obtained by chain polymerization are suitable, especially polyolefins, among which cyclic olefin copolymers (COC), polycyclic olefin copolymers (POC), especially polyethylene and polypropylene are particularly preferred, and polyethylene is 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 blends of at least two thereof are preferred. Suitable polymers preferably have a melt flow rate (MFR) in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably in the range of 2 to 20 g / 10 min, and particularly preferably in the range of 2.5 to 15 g / 10 min. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the density of the suitable polymer layer is 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, more preferably in the range of 95 to 135°C.

[0143] Inner polymer layer

[0144] The inner polymer layer is based on at least one thermoplastic polymer, wherein the inner polymer layer may contain particulate inorganic solids. However, it is preferred that the inner polymer 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 inner polymer layer. Preferably, the density of the polymer or polymer blend of the inner polymer layer (according to ISO 1183-1:2004) is in the range of 0.900 to 0.980 g / cm 3 In the range of 0.900 to 0.960 g / cm 3 In the range of 0.900 to 0.940 g / cm 3 Preferably, the polymer is a polyolefin. Preferably, the inner polymer layer comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Here, a particularly preferred polyethylene is LDPE.

[0145] Preferably, the inner polymer layer comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both together in a proportion of at least 30% by weight, more preferably at least 40% by weight, and most preferably at least 50% by weight, each based on the total weight of the inner polymer layer. Additionally or alternatively, the inner polymer layer preferably comprises HDPE, preferably in an amount of at least 5% by weight, more preferably at least 10% by weight, more preferably at least 15% by weight, and most preferably at least 20% by weight, each based on the total weight of the inner polymer layer. As a supplement or alternative to one or more of the above-mentioned polymers, the inner polymer layer preferably comprises a polymer made with the aid of a metallocene catalyst, preferably mPE. Preferably, the inner polymer layer comprises mPE in a proportion of at least 3% by weight, more preferably at least 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the inner polymer layer in each case. Here, the inner polymer layer may comprise 2 or more, preferably 2 or 3, of the above-mentioned polymers in a polymer blend, such as at least a certain proportion of LDPE and mPE, or at least a certain proportion of LDPE and HDPE. Further preferably, the inner polymer layer may comprise 2 or more, preferably 3, sublayers superimposed on each other, which preferably form the inner polymer layer. These sublayers are preferably layers obtained by coextrusion.

[0146] In a preferred embodiment, the inner polymer layer comprises, in the direction from the outer side of the planar composite to the inner side of the planar composite, a first sublayer and a further sublayer, the first sublayer comprising LDPE in an amount of 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, each based on the weight of the first sublayer; the further sublayer comprises a blend, wherein the blend comprises LDPE in a proportion of at least 30% by weight, preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, most preferably at least 65% by weight and mPE in a proportion of at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 15% by weight, more preferably at least 20% by weight, most preferably at least 25% by weight, in each case based on the weight of the blend. In this case, the further sublayer preferably comprises this blend in a proportion of 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, in each case based on the weight of the further sublayer. Particularly preferably, the further sublayer consists of this blend.

[0147] In a further preferred embodiment, the inner polymer layer comprises, in the direction from the outer side of the planar composite to the inner side of the planar composite, a first sublayer, a second sublayer and a third sublayer, the first sublayer comprising an amount of HDPE of at least 30 wt.-%, preferably at least 40 wt.-%, more preferably at least 50 wt.-%, more preferably at least 60 wt.-%, most preferably at least 70 wt.-%, and an amount of LDPE of at least 10 wt.-%, preferably at least 15 wt.-%, more preferably at least 20 wt.-%, in each case based on the weight of the first sublayer; the second sublayer comprising an amount of LDPE of at least 50 wt.-%, preferably at least 60 wt.-%, more preferably at least 70 wt.-%, even more preferably at least 80 wt.-%, most preferably at least 90 wt.-%, in each case based on the weight of the second sublayer; the third sublayer comprising a blend, wherein the blend comprises an amount of LDPE of at least 30 wt.-%, preferably at least 40 wt.-%, more preferably at least 50 wt.-%, even more preferably at least 60 wt.-%, most preferably at least 65 wt.-% and a proportion of mPE of at least 10 wt.-%, preferably at least 15 wt.-%, more preferably at least 20 wt.-%, most preferably at least 25 wt.-%, each based on the weight of the blend. Here, the third sublayer preferably contains 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 this blend, in each case based on the weight of the third sublayer. Particularly preferably, the third sublayer consists of this blend.

[0148] Outer polymer layer

[0149] The outer polymer layer preferably comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Preferred polyethylenes are LDPE and HDPE and mixtures thereof. Preferred outer polymer layers comprise at least 50 wt.-%, preferably at least 60 wt.-%, more preferably at least 70 wt.-%, even more preferably at least 80 wt.-%, most preferably at least 90 wt.-% of one or more LDPEs, based in each case on the weight of the outer polymer layer.

[0150] Intermediate polymer layer

[0151] The intermediate polymer layer preferably comprises at least one polyethylene or at least one polypropylene or both. Here, a particularly preferred polyethylene is LDPE. Preferably, the intermediate polymer layer comprises at least one polyethylene or at least one 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, in each case based on the total weight of the intermediate polymer layer. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate polymer layer preferably comprises HDPE, preferably in a proportion of at least 10% by weight, more preferably 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, each based on the total weight of the intermediate polymer layer. Here, the intermediate polymer layer preferably comprises the above polymers in a polymer blend.

[0152] Barrier layer

[0153] The barrier layer can be any material that appears suitable for this purpose to the skilled person and that has a sufficient barrier effect, in particular a barrier effect against oxygen. For this purpose, the barrier layer preferably has a thickness of less than 50 cm 3 / (m 2. sky . atm), preferably less than 40 cm 3 / (m 2. sky . atm), more preferably less than 30 cm 3 / (m 2. sky . atm), more preferably less than 20 cm 3 / (m 2. sky . atm), more preferably less than 10 cm 3 / (m 2. sky . atm), and more preferably less than 3 cm3 (m 2. sky . atm), most preferably no greater than 1 cm 3 (m 2. sky . Atm) oxygen permeation rate. The barrier layer preferably also exhibits a barrier effect on water vapor. Therefore, the barrier layer is preferably an oxygen barrier layer, and further preferably is 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.

[0154] The barrier layer is preferably selected from

[0155] a. Plastic layer;

[0156] b. Metal layer;

[0157] c. oxide layer; or

[0158] A combination of at least two of da to c.

[0159] If the barrier layer according to alternative a. is a plastic layer, this 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 suitable for packaging containers. Plastics, in particular thermoplastics, which come into consideration here are N- or O-containing plastics per se and mixtures of two or more thereof. According to the invention, it may prove advantageous if the melting temperature of the plastic 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.

[0160] Further preferably, the basis weight of the plastic 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 , more preferably 6 to 30 g / m 2 In the range of . Further preferably, the plastic layer is obtainable from a melt, for example by extrusion, in particular layer extrusion. Furthermore, preferably, the plastic layer can also be introduced into the planar composite material by lamination. In this case, the film is preferably incorporated into the planar composite material. According to another embodiment, a plastic layer can also be selected which can be obtained by deposition from a solution or dispersion of the plastic.

[0161] Suitable polymers are preferably those having a weight average molecular weight of 3.10 3 to 1.10 7g / 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 5 Suitable polymers are in particular 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 the person skilled in the art come into consideration.

[0162] All EVOHs which appear to the skilled person to be suitable for use according to the invention may be considered as EVOH. Examples of these are available under the trade name EVAL from EVAL Europe NV, Belgium. TM In various versions, such as level EVAL TM F104B or EVAL TM LR171B is available. The preferred EVOH has at least one, two, more or all of the following properties:

[0163] - an ethylene content in the range of 20 to 60 mol %, preferably 25 to 45 mol %;

[0164] -1.0 to 1.4 g / cm 3 , preferably 1.1 to 1.3 g / cm 3 Density within the range of

[0165] - a melting point in the range of greater than 155°C and up to 235°C, preferably from 165 to 225°C;

[0166] - MFR value in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably 2 to 20 g / 10 min (when T S(EVOH )<210℃210℃ / 2.16kg; when 210℃ <T S(EVOH ) <230℃ / 230℃ / 2.16kg);

[0167] - 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.

[0168] Preferably, at least one polymer layer, more preferably the inner polymer 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 formed from plastic. In this case, the melting temperature of the at least one polymer layer, in particular the inner polymer 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 selected only so high that it does not lead to melting of the barrier layer, in particular not to melting of the plastic layer, during the folding process.

[0169] According to alternative b., the barrier layer is a metal layer. In principle, all metal-containing layers known to the skilled person and capable of producing high 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. Preferably, the metal layer is an uninterrupted 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.

[0170] Preferred metals are aluminum, iron or copper. For example, a steel layer in the form of a foil can be preferably used as the iron layer. Further preferably, the metal layer is an aluminum-containing layer, preferably an aluminum layer, and further preferably an aluminum foil. 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 97.5% or higher, preferably 98.5% or higher. In a particular embodiment, the metal layer consists of aluminum foil. Suitable aluminum foils have a ductility greater than 1%, preferably greater than 1.3%, particularly preferably greater than 1.5%, and / or greater than 30N / 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 names EN AW 1200, EN AW 8079 or EN AW 8111. In the case of a metal layer as barrier layer, an adhesion promoter layer can be provided on one or both sides of the metal layer, preferably adjacent to the metal layer on its respective side.

[0171] In addition, according to alternative c., an oxide layer can be selected as a barrier layer. All oxide layers familiar to those skilled in the art and that appear to be suitable for achieving a barrier effect against light, vapor and / or gas can be considered as oxide layers. Preferred oxide layers are semi-metal oxide layers or metal oxide layers or both. Preferred semi-metal oxide layers are layers (SiOx layers) based on one or more silicon oxide compounds. Preferred metal oxide layers are layers based on the aforementioned metal aluminum, iron or copper, as well as such 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. Exemplarily, a deposited oxide layer is manufactured by vapor deposition of an oxide layer on a barrier substrate. Preferred methods for this are physical vapor deposition (PVD) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD), preferably plasma-assisted. The oxide layer is preferably an uninterrupted layer.

[0172] The barrier substrate can consist of any material that appears suitable to the skilled person for use as a barrier substrate according to the present invention. In this case, 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 2 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. Furthermore, the barrier substrate preferably exhibits 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), more preferably 0.3 to 30 cm 3 / (m 2·d· within the range of (bar). Preferred barrier substrates include cellulose or polymers or both, more preferably consisting of cellulose or polymers or both. Preferred polymers herein are oriented polymers. Preferably, the oriented polymer is uniaxially or biaxially oriented. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers. Preferably, the barrier substrate consists of a polymer. Preferably, the barrier substrate comprises, based on the weight of the barrier substrate each, 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 the group consisting of polycondensates, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol or a combination of at least two thereof. More preferably, the barrier substrate consists of the above polymers. Preferred polypropylene is oriented, especially uniaxially oriented (oPP) or biaxially oriented (BoPP). Preferred polycondensates are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. Preferred polyesters are one selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactide (PLA) and vinyl polymers, or a combination of at least two thereof. Preferred vinyl polymers are ethylene alcohol copolymers or polyvinyl alcohol or both. Preferred polyvinyl alcohol is an ethylene alcohol copolymer. Preferred ethylene alcohol copolymers are ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymers.

[0173] Carrier layer

[0174] The carrier layer can be any material suitable for this purpose to those skilled in the art, having sufficient strength and rigidity to impart sufficient stability to the container so that the container substantially maintains its shape during filling. In particular, this is a necessary feature of the carrier layer because the present invention relates to the technical field of dimensionally stable containers. Such dimensionally stable containers are fundamentally different from bags and pouches usually made of films. In addition to many plastics, plant-based fiber materials, especially cellulose, preferably sized, bleached and / or unbleached cellulose are preferred, with paper and cardboard being particularly preferred. Therefore, the preferred carrier layer comprises multiple fibers. The basis weight of the carrier layer is preferably in the range of 120 to 450 g / m 2 within the range, more preferably in the range of 130 to 400 g / m 2 within the range, 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 top 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, 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, which are referred to as "paper coatings" by technicians, on the surface facing the environment. In addition, preferred cardboard has a relative humidity 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) in the range of . The above range enables the provision of a composite material that can be used to fold containers with high compactness, easily and with low tolerance.

[0175] The carrier layer preferably has a bending stiffness in a first direction in the range of 70 to 700 mN, more preferably 80 to 650 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 another direction perpendicular to the first direction in the range of 10 to 350 mN, more preferably 20 to 300 mN. The preferred planar composite material with a carrier layer has a bending stiffness in a first direction in the range of 100 to 700 mN. Further preferably, the above-mentioned planar composite material has a bending stiffness in another direction in the range of 50 to 500 mN.

[0176] Preferably, the carrier layer comprises at least 2, more preferably at least 3, particularly preferably exactly 3 or 5 sublayers, each made of a fiber-containing material, wherein the sublayers are superimposed on each other and bonded to each other. The fiber-containing materials of the individual sublayers may be at least partially different from each other, or may be all the same. A further particularly preferred carrier layer comprises the following layers as superimposed and interconnected sublayers of a sublayer sequence (preferably in the direction from the outside of the carrier layer to the inside of the carrier layer): a first sublayer containing a fiber material, a second sublayer containing a fiber material, and a third sublayer containing a fiber material. The fiber-containing materials of the first to third sublayers may be the same or different from each other. In addition, in addition to the above-mentioned layer sequence, the preferred carrier layer also includes at least one covering layer as an additional sublayer. Preferably, the layer sequence of the first to third sublayers superimposes at least one covering layer on the outside of the carrier layer as an additional sublayer. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the layer sequence of the first to third sublayers superimposes at least one covering layer on the inside of the carrier layer as an additional sublayer. Preferably, the average fiber length of the plurality of fibers of the fibrous material of the first sub-layer is smaller than the average fiber length of the plurality of fibers of the fibrous material of the third sub-layer, preferably 0.1 to 3 mm smaller, more preferably 0.5 to 2.5 mm smaller, most preferably 1 to 2.0 mm smaller. Cover layer

[0177] A preferred covering layer is a "paper coating". In papermaking, a "paper coating" is a covering layer comprising inorganic solid particles, preferably pigments and additives. The "paper coating" is preferably applied to the surface of the paper- or cardboard-containing layer as a liquid phase, preferably as a suspension or dispersion. A preferred dispersion is an aqueous dispersion. A preferred suspension is an aqueous suspension. Another preferred liquid phase comprises inorganic solid particles, preferably pigments; a binder; and additives. Preferred pigments are selected from calcium carbonate, kaolin, talc, silicates, plastic pigments and titanium dioxide. Preferred kaolin is calcined kaolin. Preferred calcium carbonate is one selected from marble, chalk and precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), or a combination of at least two thereof. Preferred silicates are layered silicates. Preferred plastic pigments are spherical, preferably hollow spherical. Preferred binders are one selected from styrene-butadiene, acrylates, acrylonitrile, starch and polyvinyl alcohol, or a combination of at least two thereof, preferably acrylates. Preferred starch is one selected from cationically modified starch, anionically modified starch and fragmented starch, or a combination of at least two thereof. Preferred additives are one selected from rheology modifiers, shading dyes, fluorescent whitening agents, carriers, flocculants, deaerators and surface energy modifiers, or a combination of at least two thereof. Preferred deaerators are coating color deaerators, preferably silicone-based or fatty acid-based or both. Preferred surface energy modifiers are surfactants.

[0178] Fiber Materials

[0179] Herein, the terms "fibrous material" and "fibre-containing material" are synonymous and include any material or layer, such as a preferred carrier layer, comprising a plurality of fibres. Thus, the fibrous material comprises a plurality of fibres and preferably at least one additional component. A preferred additional component is a sizing agent. A preferred sublayer of the fibrous material comprises a plurality of fibres and at least one sizing agent.

[0180] fiber

[0181] The fibers of the fibrous material may be any fibers which appear suitable for use according to the invention to the skilled person, in particular any fibers known in the manufacture of paper, cardboard or paperboard. A fiber is a linear longitudinally extending structure having a ratio of length to diameter or thickness of at least 3:1. For some fibers, the above ratio is not greater than 100:1. For use herein, long fibers have an average fiber length in the range of 3 to 4 mm, while short fibers have an average fiber length in the range of 0.4 to 2 mm.

[0182] Preferred fibers are plant fibers. Plant fibers are a general term for fibers of plant origin, i.e. fibers obtained from plants. Plant fibers are present in plants as conducting bundles in stems or trunks, in bark (e.g. as bast) and as seed appendages. According to DIN 60001-1:2001-05 Textile fibre materials-Part 1: "Natural fibres and abbreviations", Beuth Verlag, Berlin 2001, page 2, they are subdivided into seed fibers, bast fibers and hard fibers, or according to DIN EN ISO 6938:2015-01 "Textiles-Natural fibres-Generic names and definitions", Beuth Verlag, Berlin 2015, page 4, they are subdivided into seed fibers, bast fibers, leaf fibers and fruit fibers, which therefore constitute a subdivision of hard fibers. In the present invention, preferred plant fibers are mainly produced from tree wood. In this respect, preferred wood is coniferous wood, i.e. wood of coniferous trees, or deciduous wood, i.e. wood of deciduous trees. In the case of coniferous wood, tracheids are preferred. In the case of deciduous wood, libriforms are preferred.

[0183] In the present invention, the preferred fibers include cellulose pulp or wood pulp or both, and the fibers are preferably composed thereof. The preferred wood pulp is one selected from groundwood pulp, pressure groundwood pulp and thermo-mechanical pulp (TMP), or a combination of at least two thereof. The preferred thermo-mechanical pulp is chemical thermo-mechanical pulp (CTMP). In this case, the wood pulp is characterized by a greater proportion of lignin than cellulose pulp, which can be detected by red coloring with a phloroglucin solution. In the present invention, the preferred fibers are obtained from wood of trees selected from spruce, pine, birch and eucalyptus or a combination of at least two thereof. The fibers in the plurality of fibers of the preferred fibrous material have at least one of the following properties:

[0184] A) an average fiber length in the range of 0.2 to 6 mm, preferably 0.2 to 4.5 mm, more preferably 0.5 to 4.0 mm, more preferably 1.0 to 4.0, even more preferably 2.0 to 4.0, most preferably 3.0 to 4.0 mm,

[0185] B) a coarseness in the range of 50 to 400 μg / m, preferably 100 to 300 μg / m, more preferably 120 to 300 μg / m, still more preferably 120 to 250 μg / m, most preferably 130 to 200 μg / m,

[0186] C) an average wall thickness in the range of 2 to 10 μm, preferably 3 to 9 μm, more preferably 4 to 9 μm, more preferably 5 to 8 μm, even more preferably 6 to 8 μm, most preferably 6 to 7 μm,

[0187] D) a mean outer diameter in the range of 10 to 50 μm, more preferably 10 to 45 μm, more preferably 20 to 45 μm, more preferably 25 to 45 μm, more preferably 30 to 45 μm, still more preferably 30 to 40 μm, most preferably 32 to 40 μm.

[0188] Here, the properties under the above-mentioned point A) are particularly preferred.

[0189] Polyolefins

[0190] 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 mPolyolefin (polyolefin made with the aid of 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 / or in the range of 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 .

[0191] mPolymer

[0192] mPolymer is a polymer made with the aid of a metallocene catalyst. Metallocene is an organometallic compound in which the central metal atom is located between two organic ligands such as cyclopentadienyl ligands. Preferred mPolymers are mPolyolefins (mpolyolefins), preferably mPolyethylene (mpolyethylene) or mPolypropylene (mpolypropylene) or both. Preferred mPolyethylene is one selected from mLDPE, mLLDPE and mHDPE, or a combination of at least two thereof. Preferred mPolyolefins are characterized by at least a first melting temperature and a second melting temperature. Preferably, mPolyolefins are characterized by a third melting temperature in addition to the first and second melting temperatures. The preferred first melting temperature is in the range of 84 to 108°C, preferably 89 to 103°C, more preferably 94 to 98°C. The preferred second melting temperature is in the range of 100 to 124°C, preferably 105 to 119°C, more preferably 110 to 114°C.

[0193] Adhesion / adhesion promoter layer

[0194] The adhesion promoter layer is a layer of a planar composite material including 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 comprises 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 planar composite material that are not directly adjacent to each other, preferably between the barrier layer and the inner polymer layer. Suitable adhesion promoters in the adhesion promoter layer are all plastics that are suitable for forming ionic bonds or covalent bonds with the surfaces of the respective adjacent layers by functionalization with the aid of suitable functional groups to produce a strong bond. Preferably, these 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 Nucrel or by ExxonMobile Chemicals under the trade name Escor 6000 sell.

[0195] Ethylene-alkyl acrylate copolymers are also preferred as adhesion promoters. The alkyl group preferably selected is methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl or amyl. Further 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.

[0196] According to the present invention, it is preferred that the adhesion between the carrier layer, the polymer layer or the barrier layer and the respective 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 present 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. In addition, 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 one embodiment, the adhesion between the individual layers is so strong that the adhesion test leads to tearing of the carrier layer, in particular in the case of cardboard as carrier layer, to so-called tearing of the cardboard fibers.

[0197] Container Precursor

[0198] The container precursor is the initial stage of the container, which is made during the production process of the (preferably closed) container. In this case, the container precursor comprises a planar composite material. The planar composite material can be unfolded or folded. The preferred container precursor is cut to size and designed to produce a single (preferably closed) container. The preferred container precursor cut to size and designed to produce a single container is also referred to as a sleeve. Here, the sleeve comprises a folded planar composite material, preferably folded along at least 2 longitudinal folds, more preferably along 4 longitudinal folds. These longitudinal folds are preferably but not necessarily arranged and configured to form the longitudinal edges of the container formed in part by the container precursor. In addition, the sleeve comprises a longitudinal seam, along which the first longitudinal boundary of the planar composite material is joined to another longitudinal boundary. Here, the sleeve is open in the top area and the bottom area. The preferred container precursor is integrally formed.

[0199] container

[0200] The container according to the present invention is preferably selected from one of a closed container, a food container, a dimensionally stable container and a liquid-tight container, or a combination of at least two thereof. The container wall of the container according to the present invention is therefore preferably dimensionally stable, i.e., it substantially maintains its shape during the filling of the container and the operation for transportation and storage. Preferably, the container according to the present invention comprises an upright base and an end portion opposite to the upright base in the longitudinal direction of the container. Preferably, the central portion is arranged between the upright base and the end portion. Preferably, the central portion is at least partially, preferably completely, a basic prism-shaped, preferably a rectangular parallelepiped shape. Preferably, the end portion is at least partially substantially in the shape of a right truncated pyramid. Preferably, the upright base is adjacent to the central portion. Alternatively or preferably in addition, the central portion is adjacent to the end portion. Preferably, the container interior of the container according to the present invention contains food. Preferably, the container wall is liquid-tight.

[0201] The container wall can be composed of different materials. The container wall comprises a folded planar composite material and a non-planar component. A preferred non-planar component is a molded component preferably made of plastic. The container wall may comprise one or more additional non-planar components, such as one or more additional molded components, which are preferably made of plastic. Such additional molded components can be used in particular in the end portion or the upright base. However, in any case, it is preferred that at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, particularly preferably at least 80%, and more preferably at least 90% of the surface of the container wall facing away from the interior of the container (outer surface) is composed of a planar composite material.

[0202] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the folded planar composite material has a bending stiffness in a first composite direction that is greater than a bending stiffness in another composite direction perpendicular to the first composite direction; wherein the folded planar composite material comprises a first transverse margin and a further transverse margin opposite to the first transverse margin in the longitudinal direction of the container; wherein the further transverse margin is joined to the non-planar component; wherein the edge of the further transverse margin extends along at least 50%, 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% of its length around the first composite direction at an angle within an angular range of ±30°, preferably ±25°, more preferably ±20°, more preferably ±15°, more preferably ±10°, more preferably ±5°, even more preferably ±3°, most preferably 0°. Preferably, the further transverse margin, preferably the edge of the further transverse margin, surrounds the non-planar component, preferably surrounds the non-planar component along the entire perimeter of the non-planar component.

[0203] The edge of the further transverse boundary referred to here is preferably a cut edge of the folded planar composite material. The cut edge is to be distinguished from the edge formed by the folding. Preferably, the end portion of the container has an opening surrounded by the edge. Preferably, the edge forms the periphery of this opening. In the container, the opening is preferably closed by the container element. Typically, the first composite direction and the further composite direction are located in the plane of planar extension of the folded planar composite material.

[0204] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the folded planar composite material comprises a carrier layer, the carrier layer comprising a plurality of fibers; wherein the plurality of fibers have an orientation in the first composite direction. Alternatively or additionally preferably, at least 55% of the length of the fibers of the plurality of fibers extends around the first composite direction within an angular range of ±30°, more preferably ±25°, more preferably ±20°, more preferably ±15°, more preferably ±10°, more preferably ±5°, even more preferably ±3°, and most preferably 0°.

[0205] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the bending stiffness of the folded planar composite material has a maximum for bending in a first composite direction relative to the bending direction of the folded planar composite material.

[0206] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the folded planar composite material has a first bending stiffness for bending in a first composite direction and another bending stiffness for bending in said another composite direction. Preferably, the ratio of the other bending stiffness to the first bending stiffness is in the range of 1:10 to 1:1.5, preferably 1:9 to 1:1.5, more preferably 1:8 to 1:1.5, more preferably 1:7 to 1:1.5, more preferably 1:6 to 1:1.5, even more preferably 1:5 to 1:1.5, most preferably 1:5 to 1:2. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the first bending stiffness is at least 10 mN higher than the other bending stiffness, more preferably at least 20 mN higher, more preferably at least 30 mN higher, more preferably at least 40 mN higher, more preferably at least 50 mN higher, more preferably at least 60 mN higher, more preferably at least 70 mN higher, more preferably at least 80 mN higher, more preferably at least 90 mN higher, even more preferably at least 100 mN higher, most preferably at least 150 mN higher.

[0207] Alternatively or additionally preferably, the first bending stiffness is in the range of 50 to 800 mN, more preferably 50 to 750 mN. Alternatively preferably, the first bending stiffness is in the range of 60 to 800 mN, more preferably 70 to 800 mN, more preferably 80 to 800 mN, more preferably 90 to 800 mN, more preferably 100 to 800 mN, most preferably 100 to 750 mN. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the other bending stiffness is in the range of 50 to 750 mN, more preferably 100 to 700 mN.

[0208] Preferably, the container comprises an upright base comprising a first transverse boundary, and a terminal portion opposite the upright base in the longitudinal direction of the container comprising said further transverse boundary.Preferably, the upright base is formed entirely of a folded planar composite material.

[0209] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the container comprises an upright base and an end portion opposite to the upright base in a longitudinal direction extending along the length of the container; wherein the end portion comprises at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4, preferably planar end side surfaces formed by the folded planar composite material, wherein the end side surfaces are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the container so that each end side surface is at an angle in the range of 55 to 70°, preferably 55 to 69°, more preferably 55 to 68°, more preferably 55 to 67°, more preferably 55 to 66°, more preferably 55 to 65°, more preferably 55 to 64°, more preferably 56 to 63°, more preferably 57 to 62°, more preferably 58 to 61°, and even more preferably 58.5 to 60.0° relative to the longitudinal direction of the container. Alternatively, preferably, the aforementioned angle is in the range of 56 to 70°, more preferably 57 to 70°, more preferably 58 to 70°, more preferably 59 to 70°, more preferably 60 to 70°, more preferably 61 to 70°, more preferably 62 to 69°, more preferably 63 to 68°, more preferably 64 to 67°, and even more preferably 65.0 to 66.0°.

[0210] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the container comprises an upright base and an end portion opposite to the upright base in a longitudinal direction extending along the length of the container; the end portion comprises at least 3, preferably 4, preferably planar end side surfaces formed by the folded planar composite material, the end side surfaces being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction so that the container tapers gradually in at least a section of the end portion; wherein the periphery of each end side surface is respectively formed by a plurality of side edges of the end portion; wherein each of the plurality of side edges comprises a pair of steep edges opposite to each other in a circumferential direction of the container perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; wherein each end side surface The steep edges of each pair of steep edges are located in the plane of their respective end side surfaces and extend at an angle relative to each other in the plane of their respective end side surfaces in the range of 40 to 60°, preferably 41 to 59°, more preferably 42 to 58°, more preferably 43 to 57°, more preferably 44 to 57°, more preferably 45 to 57°, more preferably 46 to 57°, more preferably 47 to 57°, more preferably 48 to 57°, more preferably 49 to 57°, more preferably 50 to 57°, more preferably 51 to 57°, more preferably 52 to 57°, more preferably 53 to 56°, more preferably 53.5 to 55.5°, and even more preferably 54.0 to 55.0°.

[0211] Alternatively, preferably, the steep sides of each pair of steep sides of each end head side surface are located in the plane of the respective end head side surface and extend at an angle relative to each other in the plane of the respective end head side surface in the range of 43 to 56°, more preferably 43 to 55°, more preferably 43 to 54°, more preferably 43 to 53°, more preferably 43 to 52°, more preferably 43 to 51°, more preferably 43 to 50°, more preferably 43 to 49°, more preferably 43 to 48°, more preferably 43 to 47°, more preferably 44.0 to 46.0°, and even more preferably 44.5 to 45.5°.

[0212] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container has 4 longitudinal edges, each of which extends along the length of the container from an upright base to a termination, wherein the container has a square cross section at least in sections along its length between the upright base and the termination, wherein the shortest longitudinal edge of the 4 longitudinal edges has a length l, wherein the ratio of the length l to the length of side a of the square cross section is in the range of 1.3 to 2.95, preferably 1.35 to 2.95, more preferably 1.38 to 2.8, most preferably 1.39 to 2.8. The length l is the height of the container excluding its termination. Preferably, the 4 longitudinal edges have equal lengths. However, in principle, it is also possible that, for example, 2 longitudinal edges are shorter than the other two longitudinal edges. In this case, the length l represents a shorter longitudinal edge.

[0213] Non-planar component

[0214] In principle, any component which appears suitable in the context of the present invention to a person skilled in the art and which is non-planar, i.e. non-sheet-like, can be used as the non-planar component. The non-planar component is three-dimensional, i.e. not planar or sheet-like. A preferred non-planar component is a molded component. A preferred molded component is an injection molded component. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the non-planar component is made of plastic. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the non-planar component is integrally molded. Preferably, the non-planar component forms the top surface of the end portion of the container. A preferred top surface is the top surface of a right truncated pyramid.

[0215] The non-planar component comprises a base member and a nozzle arranged on the base member. The nozzle is a component whose shape is intended to facilitate directional pouring of liquid. The preferred nozzle is in the form of a tube. Preferably, the tube includes a thread on its outer side. Preferably, the nozzle has a pouring hole closed by a closure element. The preferred closure element is planar. The preferred planar closure element is a laminate or foil. The preferred foil is a plastic foil. The base member comprises a base plate, and at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, more preferably 3 or 4, most preferably exactly 4 side walls; the nozzle is arranged on a first side of the base plate; the side wall is arranged on the other side of the base plate opposite to the first side. Preferably, the other side of the base plate in the container faces the interior of the container, and the first side of the base plate in the container faces away from the interior of the container. The base plate preferably has a base surface in the form of a polygon. The preferred polygon here is a regular polygon. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the polygon has 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, most preferably exactly 4 corners. A preferred polygon with 4 corners is a rectangle. A preferred rectangle is a square. Preferably, the side walls of the base member are as many as the corners of the polygon. Preferably, every 2 side walls that follow each other in the circumferential direction of the non-planar component are adjoined to form the side of the base member. Preferably, the base member and the nozzle are integral with each other.

[0216] Preferably, the folded planar composite material and the non-planar component are glued or sealed together, or both. Preferably, the other lateral boundary of the planar composite material is glued and / or sealed to the non-planar component. Preferably, the planar composite material is joined to one of the side walls of the non-planar component, preferably each side wall, preferably directly joined. Preferably, the non-planar component, preferably the nozzle, comprises a thread. Preferably, the pouring hole of the nozzle is closed. Preferably, the opening aid is arranged in the nozzle. In this case, the container preferably also includes an opening aid. Preferably, the opening aid is designed and arranged to open the pouring hole of the nozzle. The preferred opening aid is a cutting aid or a tearing aid or both. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the opening aid is annular. The preferred annular cutting aid is a cutting ring. The preferred annular tearing aid is a tearing ring. Preferably, a cap, preferably a screw cap, is arranged on the non-planar component so that the pouring hole of the nozzle is covered by the cap. Preferably, the cap is screwed onto the nozzle. In this case, the container preferably also includes the cap.

[0217] Joining

[0218] In the context of the present invention, any joining method which appears to the skilled person to be suitable for use according to the invention and by which a sufficiently strong connection can be obtained can be considered. Preferred joining methods are material-to-material joining methods. A material-to-material joint is understood in this context to be a joint between joining partners which is produced by attractive forces between or within the materials. A distinction must be made between this and form-fitting and friction-fitting joints which are formed, in particular, by geometry or friction. Preferred material-to-material joining methods can be one selected from sealing, welding, gluing and pressing, or a combination of at least two thereof. In the case of sealing and welding, the joint is formed with the aid 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, which forms the joint. In the case of sealing, welding or gluing, it is usually advantageous to press the surfaces to be joined together. The preferred pressing of the two layers is to press the corresponding 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 joining is sealing or welding. Preferred sealing or welding comprises contacting, heating and pressing as steps, wherein these steps are preferably carried out in this order. Another order is also possible, in particular the order of heating, contacting and pressing.

[0219] 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. Further preferred heating is heating a non-planar component, preferably at least one side wall of a base member, preferably heated to a temperature higher than the melting temperature of the first polymer composition. Preferred heating can be carried out by friction, by radiation, by hot gas, by hitting solid contact, by mechanical vibration (preferably by ultrasound), by convection or by a combination of at least two thereof.

[0220] Extrusion / Extruder

[0221] Every extruder known to the skilled person and which appears suitable for the purpose of the present invention is considered in the present invention. An extruder is a device for shaping a material, preferably a polymer material, by extruding through a forming hole. A preferred extruder is a screw extruder. Melt extrusion coating is the application of a material to a substrate by extruding a melt of the material through a forming hole of an extruder to obtain a planar layer of the material superimposed on the substrate. In the case of a polymer composition as a material, the material is preferably melted for extrusion coating. During extrusion, the polymer is usually heated to a temperature of 210 to 350° C., measured at the molten polymer film below the outlet at the extruder die. Extrusion can be carried out by means of commercially available extrusion tools known to those skilled in the art, such as an extruder, an extruder screw, a feed block, etc. Preferably, there is a hole at the end of the extruder through which the polymer melt is extruded. The hole can have any shape capable of extruding a polymer melt. For example, the hole can be angular, oval or circular. Preferably, the hole has the shape of a slot of a funnel. After the molten layer has been applied to the substrate by means of the above-described method, the molten layer is allowed to cool for heat setting, preferably by contact with a surface maintained at a temperature of 5 to 50° C., more preferably 10 to 30° C., for quenching. Subsequently, at least the flanks are separated from the surface. The separation can be carried out in any manner familiar to the skilled person and which appears suitable for separating the flanks quickly, as accurately as possible and cleanly. Preferably, the separation is carried out by means of a knife, a laser beam or a water jet or a combination of two or more thereof, wherein a knife, in particular a pot knife, is particularly preferably used.

[0222] Laminating

[0223] According to the invention, the superposition of the carrier layer and the barrier layer can be carried out by lamination. In this case, the prefabricated carrier layer and the barrier layer are joined by means of a suitable laminating agent. A preferred laminating agent comprises an intermediate polymer composition, preferably consists of an intermediate polymer composition, preferably an intermediate polymer layer is obtained from it.

[0224] food

[0225] All food products known to the skilled person for human consumption 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.

[0226] Edges

[0227] Edges are defined in this context as linear areas of the container wall of the container according to the invention, which are formed by folding the planar composite material and at which two (preferably flat) areas of the planar composite material adjoin each other in each case, and edges which delimit the dimensions of the planar composite material. The first-mentioned edges are the folded edges. These include the side edges of the end portion of the container according to the invention and its longitudinal edges. The second-mentioned edges are the cut edges. These include in particular the edges of the further transverse boundary. The term "cut edges" in this context does not necessarily mean that the planar composite material has been cut with a knife. Instead, the planar composite material can also be punched out of a web, for example.

[0228] direction

[0229] The longitudinal direction of the container extends from the upright base to the end portion. Here, the longitudinal direction extends along a straight line. Preferably, the longitudinal direction of the container extends along the height of the container. The circumferential direction of the container is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Since the circumferential direction extends along the perimeter of the container, it does not follow a straight line. The planar composite material has a direction corresponding to the longitudinal direction and the circumferential direction of the container. On the planar composite material, if it is unfolded into a flat state, the longitudinal direction and the circumferential direction are still perpendicular to each other, but here both directions extend along a straight line that lies in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material.

[0230] The first composite direction and the further composite direction are perpendicular to each other. Both composite directions lie in the plane of planar extension of the planar composite material. The plane of planar extension of the planar composite material is not necessarily a plane in Cartesian coordinates. In particular, if the planar composite material is bent or folded, the plane follows this bending or folding. This is particularly true for the folded planar composite material of the container according to the invention.

[0231] The longitudinal direction of the non-planar component extends from the base element to the nozzle in a straight line. Preferably, the longitudinal direction of the non-planar component extends along the height of the non-planar component. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the longitudinal direction of the non-planar component extends along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the longitudinal direction of the non-planar component is perpendicular to the base plate. The circumferential direction of the non-planar component is perpendicular to its longitudinal direction. Since the circumferential direction extends along the circumference of the non-planar component, it does not follow a straight line. Preferably, in the container according to the present invention, the longitudinal directions of the container and the non-planar component are the same. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in the container according to the present invention, the circumferential directions of the container and the non-planar component are the same.

[0232] Method steps

[0233] The method steps of the method according to the invention are carried out in the order of their symbols. In principle, method steps with immediately consecutive symbols can be carried out one after another, simultaneously or with temporal overlap.

[0234] Colorants

[0235] Solid and liquid colorants known to those skilled in the art and suitable for use in the present invention are contemplated. According to DIN 55943:2001-10, colorant is a general term for all coloring substances, in particular dyes and pigments. Preferred colorants are pigments. Preferred pigments are organic pigments. Pigments worthy of attention in the present invention are in particular those described in DIN 55943:2001-10 and "Industrial Organic Pigments, 3rd edition". (Willy Herbst, Klaus Hunger 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KgaA, Weinheim ISBN: 3-527-30576-9). Pigments are colorants which are preferably insoluble in the application medium. Dyes are colorants which are preferably soluble in the application medium.

[0236] Measurement method

[0237] 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%.

[0238] Separating individual layers

[0239] 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 sample pieces of the laminate to size. For this purpose, use the unfolded and ungrooved areas of the laminate, unless otherwise specified. The sample pieces should be 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 pieces in an acetic acid bath heated to 60° C. (30% acetic acid solution: 30% by weight CHCOOH3, remainder to 100% by weight H2O) for 30 minutes. 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 peeled off well enough, use new sample pieces instead and treat them 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. the outer polymer layer or the intermediate polymer layer) (especially in the case of a cardboard layer as the carrier layer), remove these carefully with a brush. From each of the three films thus prepared, a sample of sufficient size for testing 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.

[0240] MFR value

[0241] MFR values ​​are measured according to ISO 1133-1:2012, method A (mass determination method, at 190° C. and 2.16 kg unless otherwise stated).

[0242] density

[0243] Density is measured according to ISO 1183-1:2013.

[0244] Scott Bond Value

[0245] Determination of Scott Bond value according to Tappi 569

[0246] Melting temperature

[0247] Melting temperature was determined using DSC method ISO 11357-1, -3. The apparatus was calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions using the following measurements:

[0248] - Temperature Indium-Onset Temperature,

[0249] -Heat of fusion Indium,

[0250] -Temperature Zinc-Onset Temperature.

[0251] The recorded measurement curve can show multiple local maxima (melting peaks), i.e. multiple melting temperatures. If a melting temperature above a certain value is required in this context, this condition is met if one of the measured melting temperatures is above this value. In the context of the melting temperature of a polymer layer, polymer composition or polymer mentioned in this context, unless otherwise stated, in the context of multiple measured melting temperatures (melting peaks), the highest melting temperature is always referred to.

[0252] Viscosity of PA

[0253] The viscosity values ​​of PA are measured in 95% sulfuric acid according to standard DIN EN ISO 307 (2013).

[0254] Molecular weight distribution

[0255] Molecular weight distribution was measured by gel permeation chromatography using light scattering: ISO 16014-3 / -5 (2009-09).

[0256] Residual moisture content of cardboard

[0257] The residual moisture content of cardboard is measured according to ISO 287:2009.

[0258] Oxygen permeability

[0259] The oxygen permeability was determined according to ASTM D3985-05 (2010). The layer thickness of the sample was 90 μm ± 2 μm. The area of ​​the sample was 50 cm 2 The measurements were 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%. The tester was an Ox-Tran 2 / 22 from Mocon, Neuwied, Germany.

[0260] Colorant detection

[0261] According to "Industrial Organic Pigments, 3rd Edition" (Willy Herbst, Klaus Hunger The detection of organic colorants was carried out according to the method described in WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KgaA, Weinheim (ISBN: 3-527-30576-9, 2004).

[0262] Adhesion

[0263] In order 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 is attached to the pulling device to determine the pulling force. When 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 carried out, for example, mechanically, or by a specific pretreatment, for example by soaking the sample in 30% acetic acid warmed at 60°C for 3 minutes.

[0264] Bending stiffness

[0265] The flexural rigidity of sheet materials, in particular flat composite materials or cardboard, is determined using the following apparatus:

[0266] - Bending Tester L&W Bending Tester Code 160, Model 977682, from Lorentzen&Wettre, Sweden,

[0267] -Punch press for bending stiffness samples.

[0268] 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 in a standard climate. Specimens with a width of 38.1 mm and a length of 69.85 mm are punched out from the material to be tested. In the case of coils, specimens are taken at 5 locations distributed over the width of the web. In any case, for each bending direction of the material to be tested, 2 specimens with a length in the corresponding bending direction of the material are punched out from the material at each sampling location. Specimens can be taken only from areas of the material to be tested that have neither grooves nor folds.

[0269] In each bending direction to be considered, the bending stiffness (in mN) of the outside and the opposite inside is determined. To this end, the specimen is placed in the bending stiffness tester with the side to be measured facing forward and the measurement is started by pressing the green button. For each combination of bending direction and material side (outside or inside), the same number of specimens is measured. A 2-point bending test is carried out by means of a bending stiffness measuring device. In this test, a specimen clamped at one end is deflected through a bending angle of 15° at its other end by means of a measuring edge. Here, the direction in which the material has bending stiffness, i.e. the bending direction, is the direction of the straight line connecting the two points at which the bending force is applied to the specimen in the 2-point bending test. In the case of a bending stiffness tester, this direction is the direction of the shortest straight line from the clamp to the measuring edge. In this direction, the specimen forms a curve during the bending process. Perpendicular to this direction, a straight fold line will be formed if the specimen is bent far enough for this purpose. The free clamping length of the specimen is 50 mm. Each specimen can be used for only one measurement. It is not permitted to measure the outside and inside on the same specimen. The individual measured values ​​are read off from the display.

[0270] If several specimens are measured for each combination of bending direction and material side, the arithmetic mean of these specimens is calculated separately for each combination. The arithmetic mean is then used as the value for each combination of bending direction and material side. The bending stiffness in a specific bending direction is the geometric mean of the values ​​for the combination of this bending direction / outside and this bending direction / inside.

[0271] Liquid tightness

[0272] Crystal oil 60 from Shell Chemicals containing methylene blue is used as the test agent for the liquid tightness of test container. In order to determine whether a specific container type is liquid-tight, 250 identical containers of this container type are tested. Each of 250 containers is cut along its circumference to obtain the first opening cup-shaped container part containing the sealed container bottom and the second opening cup-shaped container part containing the sealed container top. First, the first container part with the container bottom and the second container part with the container top are emptied separately, and then filled with the test agent of the amount that is enough to cover the bottom of the corresponding cup-shaped container part completely. Then the container part is stored for 24 hours. After the storage time, the outside of each container part is checked with the naked eye to see whether the test agent has produced a blue discoloration here due to leakage. If no more than 1 of the 500 container parts of 250 identical containers in this test shows this discoloration, these containers are considered to be liquid-tight.

[0273] If the liquid tightness of the end portion of different container types is to be compared, for each of these container types, 1,000 identical containers are tested. Here, the second open cup-shaped container portion with the top of the container is prepared and filled with a certain amount of test agent as described above. The second container portion is then stored for 24 hours. After the storage time, the outside of each second container portion is visually inspected to see whether the test agent has produced a blue discoloration here due to leakage. For each type of container to be compared, in 1,000 second container portions, the quantity of the second container portion showing a blue discoloration is counted. The fewer the second container portion showing a blue discoloration, the better the corresponding container type performs in terms of liquid tightness.

[0274] Compression stability

[0275] For this test, 5 containers are produced and filled with water before closing. The test serves to determine the stability of the container to compression along its longitudinal axis and can be used to assess the load capacity of the filled containers in static storage and in dynamic transport. The test is carried out on the individual containers in accordance with DIN EN ISO 12048. The previous storage of the containers was carried out in accordance with DIN EN ISO 2233:2000. A TIRA test 28025 (Tira GmbH; Eisfelder Strasse 23 / 25; 96528 Schalkau, Germany) with a force sensor 1000 N is used as a measuring instrument. The mean value of the maximum breaking load (load value) is determined. This describes the value that leads to failure of the container. The test apparatus is shown in FIG. Fig. 20 Medium. Grip stiffness

[0276] In this test, 2 inelastic plastic balls clamp a closed container at opposing pressure points and apply a specified force to the container in the lateral direction. How far (distance in mm) the closed container is compressed laterally by this force is measured. This simulates the stiffness of the container during manual gripping.

[0277] The following tools were used for this experiment:

[0278] - Universal tensile testing machine TIRA test 28025 with force sensor 1000 N (Tira GmbH; EisfelderStrasse 23 / 25; 96528 Schalkau, Germany)

[0279] -XY coordinate workbench

[0280] - Non-elastic plastic ball with a diameter of 18 mm

[0281] The tensile testing machine is equipped with a plastic ball. This test is always used to compare containers of the same weight and fill level. The test setup is shown in Fig.21 middle.

[0282] For each type of container to be inspected, 10 containers are tested. The grip stiffness in the middle of the closed container relative to its total height is measured. The corresponding pressure points where the plastic ball is to be clamped are marked on the outside of the container before measurement. The two pressure points are located on opposite sides of the container, i.e. laterally in the middle of each side and in the middle of the total height of the container. After marking the pressure points, the container is aligned between the two non-elastic plastic balls on the XY coordinate table on the tensile testing machine. The container must not yet contact the fixed plastic ball. The result of the grip stiffness test is the distance traveled when a force corresponding to the weight force of the closed container multiplied by 1.5 is reached.

[0283] Angle(α)between steep edges

[0284] In order to measure the angle α formed between the steep edges of the pair of steep edges of the end side surface on the container, the container was prepared as follows.

[0285] The container is opened with a knife below its (possibly truncated pyramid-shaped) end portion by cutting transversely through three of its four sides and then emptied. In addition, the bottom of the container is unfolded. To this end, the seal of the ears on the bottom is first loosened manually. The seam closing the bottom of the container has not yet been opened. Next, the container is cut along its length with scissors. The cut is made on the side of the container opposite its longitudinal seam. The cut begins at the cut edge below the end portion obtained as described above. The cut is made in the direction of the bottom of the container. This Fig.18a ). Then, slowly loosen the seam of the closed bottom manually from the inside out. Fig.18b ) is shown in the figure. The sample thus obtained is Fig.18c ) is shown in FIG. In addition, Fig.18d ), on the side opposite to the longitudinal seam, the end portion is cut longitudinally with scissors to the element of the non-planar composite material or blank. Then, starting from this cut edge, the seam joining the composite material to the element is slowly untied manually. This is Fig.18e ). Now cut away the portion of the composite material below the end portion. The remaining sample is schematically shown in Fig.18f )middle.

[0286] The sample prepared as described above is now fixed flat on a piece of white paper. For this purpose, the composite material can be stapled to the paper. Then, with a pencil, the two grooves of the pair of steep edges are extended in a straight line on the paper so that the extensions intersect. Now, with a geometric set square, measure the angle between one groove and its extension on the one hand and the other groove and its extension on the other hand. Fig.19 Displays the measurement arrangement. Angle (β) of the inclination of the head side surfaces to the height of the container

[0287] To determine the angle of inclination β of the end side surface of a container (the side surface of a truncated pyramid), one side of the container is fixed flat on a piece of white paper. Then, one steep edge of the end side surface whose inclination angle is to be determined and the adjacent longitudinal edge of the container are transferred to the paper as straight lines using a pencil. Now use a geometric set square to measure the angle between the straight lines on the paper representing the steep edge and the longitudinal edge. Repeat this measurement process for the other steep edge of the same end side surface. The angle of inclination of the end side surface is then the average of the angles measured for the two steep edges.

[0288] Angle (γ) of the inclination of the side walls of the base member to its longitudinal direction

[0289] The inclination angle γ of the side wall of the base member of the non-planar member is measured relative to the longitudinal direction of the non-planar member extending from the base member to the nozzle. A flat object having a planar surface is positioned on the side wall of the base member so that the planar surface makes the same angle with the longitudinal direction as the side wall. In addition, the lower edge of a geometric set square is placed on the bottom side of the non-planar member (the side opposite the nozzle) so that the angle of the planar surface with the longitudinal direction can be read from the geometric set square as the angle γ.

[0290] The present invention is described in more detail below by examples and accompanying drawings, wherein examples and accompanying drawings do not imply any limitation of the present invention. In addition, unless otherwise specified, the accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0291] Laminated material structure

[0292] In the examples (according to the invention) and comparative examples (not according to the invention), laminates having the layer structure shown in Table 1 below were used for container production.

[0293]

[0294] Table 1: Structure of laminated materials of Examples and Comparative Examples

[0295] Laminate production

[0296] The laminates of the examples and comparative examples were produced using a melt extrusion coating line from Davis Standard. The extrusion temperature here was in the range of about 280 to 330° C. In a first step, for each container to be produced, holes are made in a carrier layer provided as a coil and then an outer polymer layer is applied to the entire surface of the carrier layer by melt extrusion coating. In addition, a barrier layer is applied together with an adhesion promoter layer as a laminating agent and an intermediate polymer layer over the entire surface of the carrier layer previously coated with the outer polymer layer. Subsequently, an inner polymer layer is extrusion coated over the entire surface of the barrier layer. In order to apply the individual layers by melt extrusion coating, the polymer is melted in an extruder. When the polymer is applied in layers, the resulting melt is transferred to a die via a feed block and extruded onto the carrier layer.

[0297] Container production

[0298] A groove pattern is introduced into the outer side of the web-shaped laminate obtained as described above. Each groove pattern consists of a plurality of grooves having 4 longitudinal grooves of equal length. In addition, the web-shaped laminate with grooves is divided into blanks for individual containers, each blank having one of the above-mentioned holes and one of the groove patterns. A sleeve-like container precursor is obtained from the blank by folding along the longitudinal grooves of the groove pattern of each blank and sealing the overlapping folded surfaces to each other.

[0299] A closed container was produced from the container precursor obtained as described above. Within the scope of the comparative examples and the embodiments, a container in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped and a container having a main body in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped and an end portion in the shape of a truncated pyramid arranged thereon were produced. The latter container shape is substantially shown in Fig.11 The bodies of these two container shapes have a square cross section with a side length a. For both container shapes, containers with a side length a=67.5 mm and a=47.5 mm were produced.

[0300] The following filling machines are used to produce various containers.

[0301]

[0302]

[0303] Table 2: Filling machines used for comparative examples and examples

[0304] In order to produce a rectangular parallelepiped container without a truncated pyramid-shaped end portion, a sleeve-shaped container precursor is first folded into a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a bottom area is formed by folding, which is closed by heat sealing with hot air. This makes a cup open at the top. The cup is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide. In addition, water is filled into the cup. The top area of ​​the cup containing the hole is closed by folding and ultrasonic sealing. The end portion is then formed by folding to obtain a closed container in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The fold protrusions (called ears) are sealed to the container body with hot air. The opening aid is glued to the container in the area of ​​the hole.

[0305] In order to produce a rectangular parallelepiped container with a truncated pyramid-shaped end portion, the sleeve-shaped container precursor is also first folded into a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The truncated pyramid-shaped end portion is then folded and joined to the rectangular parallelepiped by heat sealing with hot air. Figure 7a) and 7b) The invention relates to an injection molded part of the shape shown in FIG. In this process, a folded protrusion (called an ear) is sealed to the side surface of the end portion. The resulting container with an open bottom is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide. In addition, water is filled into the open container (inverted). The bottom area of ​​the container is closed by folding and ultrasonic sealing, thereby obtaining a closed container in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with an end portion in the shape of a truncated pyramid.

[0306] Evaluate

[0307] First, the influence of the length l of the longitudinal edge of the container formed along the longitudinal groove on the basic use properties of the container is studied while the side length a remains constant. The length l is measured as the length of the longitudinal groove in the groove pattern of the respective container. It represents the height of the container without any truncated pyramid-shaped end portion. The following table summarizes the results for containers with truncated pyramid-shaped end portions and containers without truncated pyramid-shaped end portions under the two side lengths a considered. The data on containers with side length a=67.5 mm in Table 3 therefore relate to both containers with truncated pyramid-shaped end portions and containers without truncated pyramid-shaped end portions. Similarly, the data on containers with side length a=47.5 mm relate to both containers with truncated pyramid-shaped end portions and containers without truncated pyramid-shaped end portions.

[0308] a[mm] l[mm] l / a Standing stability capacity Grip stiffness 67.5 87,5 1,296 ++ - + 67.5 94.0 1.393 + + + 67.5 189 2.8 + + + 67.5 202,5 3,0 - ++ + 47.5 61,5 1,295 ++ -- ++ 47.5 66 1.389 + 0 ++ 47.5 133 2.8 + 0 ++ 47.5 142,5 3,0 - + ++

[0309] Table 3: Effect of the height of the container body on the use properties of the container

[0310] It was found that a ratio l / a of less than 1.3 leads to low capacity. A ratio l / a greater than 2.95 always has an adverse effect on the standing stability of the container, i.e. the container tends to tip over easily. Containers with a ratio l / a in the range of 1.35 to 2.95 always stand stable enough and have sufficient capacity. Within this range, i.e. with sufficient standing stability, a larger side length a enables a larger capacity. On the other hand, a smaller side length a enables particularly good gripping stiffness under sufficient standing stability. These containers are particularly easy to handle. Containers with a larger side length a are particularly suitable for stationary household use, while containers with a smaller side length a are particularly suitable for mobile use.

[0311] In the following, the angle α is considered to have a sufficient stability of the container compression stability and the folding protrusion ( Fig.11 The effect of the seal on the end portion 1106) (commonly referred to as ears by those skilled in the art). Angle α is the angle between the two steep sides of each side of the truncated pyramid-shaped end portion in the plane of the corresponding side. This angle is measured as described above. The containers with truncated pyramid-shaped end portions to be considered here all have a completely straight (i.e., non-curved) base of the end portion.

[0312] The results summarized in Table 4 show that the compression resistance of containers with truncated pyramid-shaped end portions and angles α within a specific range along their length is higher than that of conventional rectangular containers without truncated pyramid-shaped end portions. This makes such containers more suitable for stacking for transportation. This helps to transport the filled containers to retailers more efficiently. In addition, the selection of a suitable angle α improves the sealing of the ears. If the angle α is suitable, errors occur more frequently in the sealing of the ears, which can result in the ears not being fully attached. This can lead to production errors in the filling machine and thus production interruptions.

[0313]

[0314]

[0315] Table 4: Effect of angle α on compression stability and sealing of ears

[0316] In a further embodiment, the effect of the curvature of the base of the truncated pyramid-shaped end portion on the shelf life of the container and the sealing of the lugs and the effect on the above-mentioned production process was examined. For this purpose, containers with a truncated pyramid-shaped end portion having a straight base were compared with containers with a base convexly curved relative to the corresponding side surface of the end portion (see Fig.11 The angle β (see FIG. 1105 ) representing the inclination of the side surface of the truncated pyramid-shaped end portion of the container relative to the longitudinal direction (height) of the container is shown. Figure 8 802 in ) is always 55° here so that the influence of this angle on the inspection can be excluded (see also Tables 6 and 7). In each embodiment in Table 5, the angle γ (see Figure 7a 712) in is also set to 55°.

[0317]

[0318] Table 5: Effect of the curvature of the base of the truncated pyramid end portion on the shelf life and the sealing of the ear

[0319] Furthermore, the angle β (see FIG. 1 ) at which the side surface of the truncated pyramid-shaped end portion of the container is inclined relative to the longitudinal direction (height) of the container is considered. Figure 8 802 in the figure) on the shelf life of the container. For this purpose, containers with end portions in the shape of truncated pyramids with curved bottom edges were manufactured according to Examples 3, 4, 7 and 8, thereby changing their angle β. The angle γ of the molded component (see Figure 7a 712 in FIG. 7 reflects the angle β of the side surface of the end head. Angle γ represents the inclination of the side wall of the molded component relative to the longitudinal direction of the molded component (the same as the longitudinal direction of the container in the container).

[0320] a, l, l / a, α, base β and γ[°] Liquid tightness of the end part Comparative Example 1 See Example 3 54 - Example 9 See Example 3 55 + Example 10 See Example 3 59 ++ Embodiment 11 See Example 3 66 +++ Example 12 See Example 3 70 + Comparative Example 2 See Example 3 71 - Comparative Example 3 See Example 4 54 - Embodiment 13 See Example 4 55 + Embodiment 14 See Example 4 59 ++ Embodiment 15 See Example 4 66 +++ Example 16 See Example 4 70 + Comparative Example 4 See Example 4 71 -

[0321] Table 6: Effect of angles β and γ on the shelf life of containers with side length a=67.5 mm

[0322]

[0323]

[0324] Table 7: Effect of angles β and γ on the shelf life of containers with side length a=47.5 mm

[0325] It was found that angles β and γ in the range of 55 to 70° are beneficial to the shelf life of the container. Analysis of the containers showed that angles β and γ outside the above range promote the formation of so-called pockets, i.e. unsealed cavities, at the interface between the laminate and the molded part in the end section. Such cavities reduce the compactness of the end section. This can be demonstrated with the above-mentioned "liquid tightness" test. In addition, bacteria can increasingly reside and multiply in such cavities. Reduced compactness and increased bacterial growth both shorten the shelf life of the container.

[0326] In a further example, the effect of the orientation of the carrier layer in the container on the shelf life of the container was investigated. As shown in Table 1, the carrier layer is made of cardboard. The latter is a material with an orientation direction. The cardboard fibers are mainly oriented in the machine direction (MD) of the cardboard production. The carrier layer and therefore the laminate containing it has a higher bending stiffness in the orientation direction of the cardboard fibers than in a bending perpendicular thereto. More precisely, the bending stiffness of the laminate in the orientation direction has a maximum value related to the bending direction.

[0327] In the above examples and comparative examples of Tables 3 to 7, the orientation direction of the carrier layer is always parallel to the height of the container. In the following further examples, a cuboid container with an end portion in the shape of a truncated pyramid is considered, in which the main fiber direction of the carrier layer is oriented perpendicularly or parallel to the upper edge of the laminate. In this case, the upper edge of the laminate is the edge of the laminate extending around the molded part (see Figures 2 to 6 and 216 in 11).

[0328]

[0329]

[0330] Table 8: Effect of the orientation of the carrier layer in the container on its shelf life

[0331] It has been observed that an orientation of the fiber direction parallel to the upper edge of the laminate, i.e. perpendicular to the height of the container, has a beneficial effect on the shelf life of the container. In particular, it has been found that the seal between the laminate and the molded part is tighter when the fiber direction is aligned parallel to the upper edge of the laminate. This can be demonstrated with the above-mentioned "liquid tightness" test. The reason for this may be that there is less cardboard dust on the sealing surface. This dust from the inside of the cardboard can also cause contamination of the inside of the container. A reduction in the tightness of the seal between the laminate and the molded part and a contamination of the inside of the container with dust have an adverse effect on the shelf life of the container. Production tolerances in the orientation of the carrier layer show that the fiber direction does not need to be exactly parallel to the upper edge of the laminate to achieve a beneficial effect on the shelf life.

[0332] In Tables 3 to 8 above:

[0333] "++++" indicates a more favorable result than "+++".

[0334] "+++" indicates a more favorable result than "++",

[0335] "++" indicates a more favorable result than "+".

[0336] "+" indicates a more favorable result than "0",

[0337] "0" indicates a more favorable outcome than "-", and

[0338] “-” indicates a more favorable result than “--”.

[0339] Unless otherwise indicated in the description or in the corresponding drawings, the drawings show schematically and not to scale:

[0340] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a laminate in web form;

[0341] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of a planar composite material;

[0342] Figure 3 Figure 2 Another schematic diagram of a planar composite material;

[0343] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the container precursor;

[0344] Figure 5 Figure 4 Another schematic diagram of a container precursor;

[0345] Figure 6 Figure 4 Another schematic diagram of a container precursor;

[0346] Figure 7a ) a schematic perspective view of a container element according to the present invention;

[0347] Figure 7b ) Figure 7a ) is a schematic top view of a container element according to the present invention;

[0348] Figure 8 Figure 7a ) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a container element according to the present invention;

[0349] Figure 9a ) Figure 7a ) is a schematic partial view of another cross section of a container element according to the invention;

[0350] Figure 9b ) Figure 9a ) is a partial enlarged view;

[0351] Fig.10a ) With opening aid Figure 7a ) is a schematic diagram of a cap;

[0352] Fig.10b )From Fig.10a ) is a schematic diagram of an opening auxiliary member;

[0353] Fig.11 A schematic perspective view of a container according to the invention;

[0354] Figures 12a) to 12d) From Fig.11 A schematic side view of a container according to the present invention;

[0355] Fig.13a )From Fig.11 A schematic top view of a container according to the present invention;

[0356] Fig.13b )From Fig.11 A schematic bottom view of a container according to the present invention;

[0357] Fig.14 Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of a cross section of a laminate material in the shape of a web;

[0358] Fig.15 Flow chart of a method for manufacturing a container element of the present invention according to the present invention;

[0359] Fig.16 a flow chart of a method of making a container precursor;

[0360] Fig.17 Flow chart of the method for producing a container according to the present invention;

[0361] Figures 18a) to 18f) Illustration of the preparation of a closed container for determining the angle α of a pair of steep sides;

[0362] Fig.19 Illustration of the test method for determining the angle α of a pair of steep sides;

[0363] Fig. 20 Test apparatus for determining compression stability; and

[0364] Fig.21 Test apparatus for determining grip stiffness.

[0365] Figure 1 A schematic top view of a web-shaped laminate 100 is shown. The web-shaped laminate 100 is a semi-endless roll, only one section of which may be shown here. The web-shaped laminate 100 comprises a first plurality of grooves 101 and a further plurality of grooves 102 of greater than 50 groups.

[0366] Figure 2 A schematic plan view of a planar composite material 200 is shown. Figure 1 A blank of a laminated material 100 in a web shape. The blank is designed to produce Fig.11Container 1100. This production includes folding the blank to obtain a folded planar composite material 805. To this end, the planar composite material 200 comprises a first plurality of grooves 101. These grooves are arranged and configured so that by folding the planar composite material 200 along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101 and joining parts of the planar composite material 200, a Fig.11The first part of the container wall 1101 of the container 1100 of the embodiment of the present invention is a first part of the container wall 1101 of the container 1100. Such a container 1100 includes an upright base 1103 and an end portion 1102 opposite to the upright base 1103 in a longitudinal direction 201 extending along the length of the container 1100. Herein, the longitudinal direction 201 is also referred to as the first direction. The first plurality of grooves 101 includes grooves 204 in a first transverse boundary 207 to form the upright base 1103, and grooves 203 in another transverse boundary 208 to form the end portion 1102. In addition, the first plurality of grooves 101 includes exactly four longitudinal grooves 213, which are used to form four longitudinal edges 1107 of the container 1100. The container 1100 includes four end side surfaces 209 formed by the planar composite material 200. The end side surfaces 209 are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 201 so that the closed container 1100 gradually tapers in the end portion 1102. The four end side surfaces 209 together form a side surface of the end portion 1102, which is substantially in the shape of a right truncated pyramid with a square bottom. The four bases 1105 of the right truncated pyramid are convexly curved toward the upright base 1103 relative to their respective end side surfaces 209. The first plurality of grooves 101 includes four corresponding grooves 212 for forming the four bases 1105. The periphery of each of the four end side surfaces 209 is formed by a corresponding plurality of side edges of the end portion 1102. These plurality of side edges each include a pair of steep edges 1104 opposite to each other in a circumferential direction 202 of the container 1100 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 201. Each pair of steep edges 1104 is formed along a pair of grooves 210 of the first plurality of grooves 101. The grooves of each pair of grooves 201 extend at an angle 211 in the range of 40 to 60° relative to each other in the plane of extension of the planar composite material 200. Thus, in the container 1100, the steep sides of each pair of steep sides 1104 further comprise an angle 211 in the range of 40 to 60°. The angle 211 is also referred to herein as α. The planar composite material 200 comprises a first longitudinal boundary 205, another longitudinal boundary 206 opposite thereto in the circumferential direction 202, a first transverse boundary 207, and another transverse boundary 208 opposite thereto in the longitudinal direction 201. The first longitudinal boundary 205, the other longitudinal boundary 206, the first transverse boundary 207, and the other transverse boundary 208 each comprise a cut edge of the planar composite material 200. The bending stiffness of the planar composite material 200 when bending in the first composite direction 214 is greater than the bending stiffness when bending in the other composite direction 215 perpendicular to the first composite direction 214. The first composite direction 214 and the other composite direction 215 are located in the plane extension plane of the planar composite material 200. The further lateral boundary 208 is arranged and configured to provide a first portion of a head portion 1102 of the container 1100 by folding the further lateral boundary 208 along grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101 and joining portions of the further lateral boundary 208 to one another.The edge 216 of the other lateral boundary 208 surrounds the non-planar component 701 that forms another portion of the end portion 1102 in the container 1100. The edge 216 extends parallel to the first composite direction 214 along its entire length (see. Fig.11 ).

[0367] Figure 3 show Figure 2 Schematic perspective view of a planar composite material 200.

[0368] Figure 4 A schematic top view of a container precursor 400 is shown. This includes Figure 2 The planar composite material 200 is shown in FIG. Here, the planar composite material 200 has a first longitudinal fold 402 and a further longitudinal fold 403, both of which are along the longitudinal groove 213. The container precursor 400 is folded flat along these longitudinal folds. The first longitudinal edge 205 and the further longitudinal edge 206 of the planar composite material 200 are sealed together to form a longitudinal seam 401 of the container precursor 400.

[0369] Figure 5 show Figure 4 Another schematic top view of a container precursor 400 of FIG. Here, the container precursor 400 which continues to be folded flat can be seen from the side opposite to the longitudinal seam 401 .

[0370] Figure 6 show Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a container precursor 400 is shown.

[0371] Figure 7a ) shows a schematic perspective view of a container element 700 according to the present invention. This container element 700 comprises a non-planar component 701 and a cap 707. The non-planar component 701 is a molded component. The container element 700 is designed to form Fig.11 The first portion of the container wall 1101 of the container in the folded state Figure 2 The planar composite material 200 forms another part of the container wall 1101 (which is an open cup-shaped container), so that Fig.11 1100 is shown in the figure. The first part of the container wall 1101 is surrounded by the end portion 1102 of the container 1100. The non-planar component 701 defines the container interior in the longitudinal direction 201 of the container 1100 and forms the top surface of the end portion 1102 in the shape of a truncated pyramid. The non-planar component 701 is made of HDPE and includes a base member 702 and a nozzle 703 arranged thereon, and the pouring hole 804 of the nozzle 703 (see Figure 8) is closed by a cap 707. The cap 707 is screwed onto the nozzle 703. The cap 707 is also made of HDPE. The base member 702 comprises a bottom plate 704 and exactly four side walls 705. The nozzle 703 is arranged on a first side of the bottom plate 704. The side walls 705 are arranged on the other side of the bottom plate 704 opposite to the first side. In each case, two side walls 705 abut each other to form a side edge 706 of the base member 702. The non-planar component 701 is integrally formed and can be obtained by injection molding. Furthermore, the side walls 705 are inclined towards each other in a longitudinal direction 708 of the non-planar component 701 extending from the base member 702 to the nozzle 703, so that each side wall 705 is inclined at an angle γ712 in the range of 55 to 70° relative to the longitudinal direction 708. With regard to Fig.11 In the container 1100, the longitudinal direction 708 of the non-planar component 701 is the same as the longitudinal direction 201 of the container 1100. The circumferential direction 709 of the non-planar component 701 is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 708. The first sealant reservoirs 710 are respectively arranged on the outer side of each side wall 705. These first sealant reservoirs 710 are each elongated in the circumferential direction 709 of the non-planar component 701. In addition, the first sealant reservoirs 710 are each formed into 4 lamellae. Additional sealant reservoirs 711 are respectively arranged on each side edge 706 of the base member 702. The additional sealant reservoirs 711 are each arranged and formed to stand on the corresponding side edge 706 in a fin-like shape. Fig.11 , the non-planar component 701 has been heat sealed to the folded planar composite material 805 using a sealant provided at least in part by a first sealant reservoir 710 and an additional sealant reservoir 711 of the non-planar component 701 .

[0372] Figure 7b )show Figure 7a ) is a schematic top view of a container element 700.

[0373] Figure 8 show Figure 7a ) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a container element 700. Here, it can be seen that the container element 700 further comprises an opening aid 801 in the form of a cutting ring 801, which is arranged in the nozzle 703. The cutting ring 801 is made of PP. In addition, the non-planar component 701 here is joined to a Figure 2 The folded planar composite material 805 is obtained by folding the planar composite material 200 along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101. The container element 700 and the folded planar composite material 805 together form Fig.11Container 1100. It can be seen that the end side surfaces 209 of the container 1100 are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 201 so that they form an angle 802 of 55 to 70° with the longitudinal direction 201. This angle 802 is also referred to as β in this article. In addition, Figure 8 The nozzle 703 is shown to comprise a thread 803 in order to be screwed onto a cap 707. A pouring hole 804 of the nozzle 703 is covered by the cap 707. Furthermore, the pouring hole 804 is closed by a closure element 806 in the form of a plastic foil.

[0374] Figure 9a )show Figure 7a ) is a schematic partial view of another cross section of a container element 700 according to the present invention.

[0375] Figure 9b )show Figure 9a ) is a partial enlarged view of the circled area.

[0376] Fig.10a ) shows the opening aid 801 Figure 7a ) is a schematic diagram of the cap 707.

[0377] Fig.10b )Show from Fig.10a ) is a schematic diagram of an opening auxiliary component 801.

[0378] Fig.11 A schematic perspective view of a container 1100 according to the present invention is shown. The container 1100 is composed of Figure 7a ) and a folded planar composite material 805. The folded planar composite material 805 has been Figure 2The planar composite material 200 is obtained by folding along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101. The container wall 1101 completely surrounds the container interior. Therefore, the container 1100 is a closed and liquid-tight food container. The first part of the container wall 1101 is formed by the container element 700. Another part of the container wall 1101 is formed by the folded planar composite material 805. The folded planar composite material 805 and the non-planar component 701 of the container element 700 are joined to each other by heat sealing. The container 1100 includes an upright base 1103 and an end portion 1102 opposite to the upright base 1103 in the longitudinal direction 201 (also referred to as the first direction 201) extending along the length of the container 1100. The end portion 1102 includes exactly four end side surfaces 209 formed by the folded planar composite material 805, which are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 201 so that the container 1100 is gradually tapered in the end portion 1102 along the longitudinal direction 201. The periphery of each end head side surface 209 is formed by a plurality of side edges of the end head portion 1102. Each of these plurality of side edges includes a pair of steep edges 1104 that are opposite to each other in the circumferential direction 202 of the sealed container 1100 extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction 201. The steep edges of each pair of steep edges 1104 of each end head side surface 209 extend at an angle α in the range of 40 to 60° relative to each other in the plane of the respective end head side surface 209. This angle corresponds to Figure 2 The angle α211 in the Figures 18a) to 18f) 19. The container 1100 has four longitudinal edges 1107. Each end side surface 209 forms an angle β802 of 55 to 70° with the longitudinal direction 201 (see Figure 8 ). These four end side surfaces 209 together substantially form the side surface of the end portion 1102, which is substantially in the shape of a right truncated pyramid with a square base. The four bases 1105 of the right truncated pyramid are convexly bent toward the upright base 1103 relative to their respective end side surfaces 209. The folded protrusion 1106 (also called ear 1106) is sealed to the end side surface 209 by hot air sealing. Fig.11 The folding of the groove 203 along the first plurality of grooves 101 is shown. Figure 2 The first portion of the header portion 1102 is obtained by combining another lateral boundary 208 of the planar composite material 200 and joining parts of the other lateral boundary 208 to each other. In the container 1100, the edge 216 of the other lateral boundary 208 surrounds another portion of the header portion 1102. The other portion of the header portion 1102 is formed by the non-planar component 701. The edge 216 extends parallel to the first composite direction 214 along its entire length.

[0379] Figures 12a) to 12d) Show from Fig.11Schematic side view of the container 1100 of the present invention from all 4 sides. Fig.12c ) shows the longitudinal seam 401 of the container 1100.

[0380] Fig.13a )Show from Fig.11 Schematic top view of a container 1100 according to the present invention.

[0381] Fig.13b ) shows that according to the present invention Fig.11 Schematic bottom view of container 1100.

[0382] Fig.14 show Figure 1 Schematic partial view of a cross section of a web-shaped laminate 100. The web-shaped laminate 100 comprises the following layers as superposition of a layer sequence in a direction from an outer side 1401 of the web-shaped laminate 100 to an inner side 1402 of the web-shaped laminate 100: an outer polymer layer 1403, a carrier layer 1404, an intermediate polymer layer 1405, an adhesion promoter layer 1406, a barrier layer 1407 and an inner polymer layer 1408. Figure 2 The planar composite material 200 and Fig.11 The folded planar composite materials 805 each share the above-mentioned layer structure with the web-shaped laminate 100. The carrier layer 1404 consists of cardboard. The main fiber direction of the cardboard in the container 1100 extends approximately parallel to the edge 216 of the other transverse boundary 208. In addition, the carrier layer 1404 makes the container wall 1101 and therefore the container 1100 dimensionally stable.

[0383] Fig.15 Showing the manufacturing method according to the present invention Figure 7a ) is a flow chart of a method 1500 for preparing a container element 700 of the present invention. In method step a) 1501, a first polymer composition is provided. The first polymer composition consists of 93% by weight of HDPE, 5% by weight of a masterbatch containing a colorant, and 2% by weight of a lubricant. In method step b) 1502, the first polymer composition is formed by injection molding to obtain a non-planar component 701. Method step c) 1503 includes arranging an opening aid 801 in a nozzle 703 of the non-planar component 701 and screwing a cap 707 onto the nozzle 703 so that it covers the pouring hole 804.

[0384] Fig.16 Display production Figure 4 Flow chart of method 1600 of container precursor 400. In method step A.1601, provide Figure 2In method step B.1602, the planar composite material 200 is folded along its longitudinal groove 213. In method step C.1603, the first longitudinal boundary 205 and the further longitudinal boundary 206 are brought into contact with each other and joined together by heat sealing to obtain the longitudinal seam 401.

[0385] Fig.17 A flow chart showing a method 1700 for producing a container 1100 according to the present invention is shown. In method step a.1701, a Figure 7a ) of the container element 700 and Figure 2 Here, the planar composite material 200 is Figure 4 . The method step b.1702 comprises folding the planar composite material 200 along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101 and joining the planar composite material 200 to the non-planar component 701 to obtain an open container. To this end, the inner polymer layer 1408, the four first sealant reservoirs 710 and the four further sealant reservoirs 711 of the planar composite material 200 are softened by heating with hot air to provide a sealant. The method step b.1702 comprises a first pressing step and a further pressing step. In the first pressing step, the opposite side walls 705 of the base member 702 of the non-planar component 701 are pressed onto the planar composite material 200 at a first contact pressure of 1.7 bar. In the further pressing step, the other two opposite side walls 705 of the base member 702 of the non-planar component 701 are pressed onto the planar composite material 200 at another contact pressure of 2.8 bar. In a further pressing step, one of the side walls 705 is pressed under this further contact pressure onto the longitudinal seam 401 of the container precursor 400. Due to the heating with hot air and the first pressing step and the further pressing step, the inner side 1402 of the planar composite material 200 is joined to each of the four side walls 705 and each of the four side edges 706 of the base member 702 of the non-planar component 701 to obtain a container which is closed at its top and still open at its bottom. Subsequently, the open container is filled with food. In method step c.1703, the surface of the planar composite material 200 is folded and joined to obtain an upright base 1103, and thus a Fig.11 Container 1100.

[0386] Figures 18a) to 18f) A diagram showing preparation of a closed container for measuring an angle α211 of a pair of steep sides 1104 is shown.

[0387] Fig.19 A diagram showing a test method for determining the angle α211 of a pair of steep edges 1104.

[0388] Fig. 20A test device 2000 is shown for determining the compression stability of a container 1100 , which uses a universal tensile testing machine TIRA test 28025 with a force sensor of 1000 N as a measuring device 2001 .

[0389] Fig.21 The test device 2100 for determining the gripping rigidity of a container 1100 is shown, which uses a universal tensile testing machine TIRA test 28025 with a force sensor 1000 N as a measuring device 2001. For this purpose, the tensile testing machine is equipped with two non-elastic plastic balls 2101. The closed container 1100 is positioned by means of an XY coordinate table 2102.

[0390] Reference numerals

[0391] 100 Laminated materials in web form

[0392] 101 First Multiple Grooves

[0393] 102 Additional grooves

[0394] 200 Planar composite materials

[0395] 201 Longitudinal direction of container / first direction

[0396] 202 Circumferential direction of the container

[0397] 203 Groove for forming the end portion

[0398] 204 Grooves for forming upright bases

[0399] 205 First longitudinal boundary

[0400] 206 Another vertical boundary

[0401] 207 First lateral boundary

[0402] 208 Another Horizontal Boundary

[0403] 209 End side surface

[0404] 210 A pair of grooves for forming a pair of steep edges

[0405] 211 The angle α of the groove on the steep side

[0406] 212 Groove for forming bottom edge

[0407] 213 longitudinal groove

[0408] 214 First composite direction

[0409] 215 Another composite direction

[0410] 216 Edge of another horizontal boundary

[0411] 400 Container precursor according to the present invention

[0412] 401 Longitudinal seam

[0413] 402 First vertical fold

[0414] 403 Another vertical fold

[0415] 700 Container element according to the present invention

[0416] 701 Non-planar components

[0417] 702 Base member

[0418] 703 Nozzle

[0419] 704 Base Plate

[0420] 705 Sidewall

[0421] 706 Side

[0422] 707 Blocked

[0423] 708 Longitudinal direction of non-planar components

[0424] 709 Circumferential direction of non-planar components

[0425] 710 First sealant reservoir / layer

[0426] 711 Additional sealant reservoir

[0427] 712 Angle between the side wall and the longitudinal direction γ

[0428] 801 Opening aid / cutting ring

[0429] 802 Angle β between the end side surface and the longitudinal direction

[0430] 803 Thread

[0431] 804 pouring hole

[0432] 805 Folded planar composite material

[0433] 806 Closure element

[0434] 1100 Container according to the present invention

[0435] 1101 Container wall

[0436] 1102 End part

[0437] 1103 Upright Base

[0438] 1104 A pair of steep edges

[0439] 1105 bottom edge

[0440] 1106 Folding protrusion / ear

[0441] 1107 longitudinal edge

[0442] 1401 Outside

[0443] 1402 Inside

[0444] 1403 Outer polymer layer

[0445] 1404 Carrier layer

[0446] 1405 Intermediate polymer layer

[0447] 1406 Adhesion promoter layer

[0448] 1407 Barrier layer

[0449] 1408 Inner polymer layer

[0450] 1500 Method according to the invention for producing a container element according to the invention

[0451] 1501 Method step a)

[0452] 1502 Method step b)

[0453] 1503 Method step c)

[0454] 1600 Method of making a container precursor

[0455] 1601 Method Step A.

[0456] 1602 Method Step B.

[0457] 1603 Method Step C.

[0458] 1700 Method for manufacturing a container according to the present invention

[0459] 1701 Method steps a.

[0460] 1702 Method step b.

[0461] 1703 Method Step c.

[0462] 1900 Diagram of the test method for determining the angle of a pair of steep-sided grooves

[0463] 2000 Test device for determining compression stability

[0464] 2001 Universal tensile testing machine TIRA test 28025 with 1000N force sensor

[0465] 2100 Test device for determining grip stiffness

[0466] 2101 Non-elastic plastic balls

[0467] 2102 XY coordinate workbench

Claims

1. A container element (700) comprising a non-planar component (701), wherein the container element (700) is designed to form a first portion of a container wall (1101) at least partially surrounding a container interior of a container (1100); The non-planar component (701) comprises - a base member (702), and - a nozzle (703) arranged on said base member (702); The base member (702) comprises - a bottom plate (704), and - at least 3 side walls (705); wherein the nozzle (703) is arranged on a first side of the base plate (704); wherein the side wall (705) is arranged on another side of the bottom plate (704) opposite to the first side; Features The side walls (705) are inclined toward each other in a longitudinal direction (708) of the non-planar component (701) extending from the base member (702) to the nozzle (703) so that each side wall (705) is inclined at an angle (712) in the range of 55 to 70° relative to the longitudinal direction (708).

2. The container element (700) according to claim 1, wherein the container element (700) further comprises a cap (707) arranged at the non-planar component (701) so that the cap (707) covers the pouring hole (804) of the nozzle (703).

3. The container element (700) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container element (700) further comprises an opening aid (801) arranged at the nozzle (703).

4. The container element (700) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base member (702) or the nozzle (703) or both comprise a first polymer composition; Wherein the first polymer composition has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350°C.

5. The container element (700) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container element (700) is designed to be joined to a folded planar composite material (805) so that another part of the container wall (1101) is formed by the folded planar composite material (805).

6. A method (1500) for manufacturing a container element (700) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method (1500) comprising the method steps of: a) providing a first polymer composition; and b) shaping the first polymer composition to obtain said non-planar component (701).

7. A container (1100) comprising - a container element (700) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, and - a folded planar composite material (805); wherein the container wall (1101) of the container (1100) at least partially surrounds the interior of the container; wherein a first portion of the container wall (1101) is formed by the container element (700); Another part of the container wall (1101) is formed by the folded planar composite material (805).

8. The container (1100) of claim 7, wherein the folded planar composite material (805) is joined to at least one side wall (705) of the non-planar component (701).

9. The container (1100) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the container (1100) comprises an upright base (1103) and an end portion (1102) opposite to the upright base (1103) in a first direction (201) along the length of the container (1100); The end portion (1102) includes at least three end side surfaces (209) formed by the folded planar composite material (805), which are inclined relative to each other in a first direction (201) so that the container (1100) gradually tapers in at least a section in the end portion (1102).

10. The container (1100) according to claim 9, wherein the periphery of each end head side surface (209) is respectively formed by a plurality of side edges of the end head portion (1102); Each of the plurality of side edges includes a bottom edge (1105) that is convexly curved toward the upright base (1103) relative to its periphery, and a terminal side surface (209) formed by the side edges.

11. The container (1100) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the end side surfaces (209) together substantially form the side faces of a right truncated pyramid.

12. The container (1100) according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the folded planar composite material (805) comprises the following layers as a superposition of a layer sequence in a direction from an outer side (1401) of the folded planar composite material (805) to an inner side (1402) of the folded planar composite material (805): A) Carrier layer (1404) B) a barrier layer (1407), and C) Inner polymer layer (1408).

13. The container (1100) according to claim 12, wherein the carrier layer (1404) comprises one selected from the group consisting of cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two thereof.

14. A method (1700) comprising the following method steps: a. Provide - a container element (700) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, and - a planar composite material (200); b. Folding the planar composite material (200) and joining the planar composite material (200) to the non-planar component (701) to obtain a container.

15. Use of a container element (700) according to any one of claims 1 to 5 for producing a food container.

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