Sealing element with pressure equalization option and container with this sealing element

The sealing element with a deflectable flap and channel addresses the challenge of pressure equalization in containers by ensuring a reliable and easy-to-reseal solution for pressure differences, maintaining a fluid-tight seal during and after equalization.

DE102023103791B4Active Publication Date: 2026-04-30WMF GROUP GMBH
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-02-16
Publication Date
2026-04-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing sealing solutions fail to reliably equalize pressure differences between a container volume and the environment with minimal effort, often leading to difficulties in opening containers due to vacuum formation or pressure imbalances.

Method used

A sealing element with a channel and a deflectable flap that can be closed in its rest position to prevent fluid flow, allowing pressure equalization by deflecting towards the container volume when pressure differences occur, ensuring a fluid-tight seal in both positions.

Benefits of technology

The solution effectively equalizes pressure differences, ensuring a reliable and fluid-tight seal while allowing easy resealing after pressure equalization, without requiring external forces to maintain the seal.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Sealing element (1) with pressure equalization option, comprising at least one passage area (10) with a channel (13) and a flap (20) that can be deflected from its rest position and with which the channel (13) can be closed, wherein - the channel (13) runs through the sealing element (1) and has a first channel opening (11) on the outside and a second channel opening (12) on the container volume side, - the flap (20) in its rest position closes the channel (13) in such a way that a container volume (3) is sealed fluid-tight from the environment (4), and - the flap (20) can be deflected from its rest position in the direction of the container volume (3) into a position that allows fluid transport between the container volume (3) and the environment (4).
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Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing element with a pressure equalization option, and to a container with a sealing element with a pressure equalization option.

[0002] In closed containers, pressure differences between the container volume enclosed by the container and the environment can occur in a variety of ways.

[0003] Pressure differences can arise, for example, from temperature changes in a fluid stored in a container, such as food or beverages. Cooling of the fluid can create a negative pressure, while heating can create a positive pressure within the container's volume.

[0004] Even when opening tightly sealed containers, a vacuum can form, for example, if the internal volume temporarily increases when the lid is removed. Since in some cases a fluid, such as ambient air, cannot immediately flow in, this can lead to a vacuum inside the container, making it difficult or even impossible to open.

[0005] Various solutions are known in the prior art, in which, for example, the contact of a seal with the lid or container of the vessel is temporarily prevented, allowing fluid to flow along the interrupted sealing surface between the container and the seal. While this can achieve pressure equalization, in some cases it cannot be guaranteed that the seal will subsequently return to the system on its own and a tight seal can be ensured.

[0006] For example, German patent application DE 10 2012 215 432 A1 describes a container with a corresponding lid that can be tightly connected to the container via an elastic sealing element. The sealing element has a radially outward-extending handle, and the lid has an axial section with a through-opening. A plug is arranged on the sealing element, projecting radially inward from the handle, and engages in a sealing manner in the through-opening on the axial section of the lid. Twisting the handle lifts the lid from the container and pulls the plug out of the through-opening, thus allowing pressure equalization.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a sealing element and / or a container with a sealing element that can reliably equalize pressure with minimal effort.

[0008] The problem is solved by a sealing element with a pressure equalization option and a container according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0009] A sealing element according to the invention with a pressure equalization option has at least one passage area with a channel and a flap that can be deflected from its rest position and with which the channel can be closed. According to the invention, the channel runs through the sealing element and has a first channel opening on the outside and a second channel opening on the inside of the container volume. This means that the channel is completely surrounded by the sealing element and is only interrupted by the first and second channel openings.

[0010] According to the invention, in its rest position, the flap closes the channel in such a way that the container volume is fluid-tight from the environment. According to the invention, the flap can be deflected from its rest position towards the container volume into a position that allows fluid transport between the container volume and the environment. Thus, when the flap is deflected, the fluid can be transported through the channel of the passage area, thereby equalizing pressure differences between the container volume and the environment.

[0011] It is particularly advantageous if the flap can only be deflected from its rest position in the direction of the container volume, and deflection in the opposite direction is prevented by one of the channel openings. This can be achieved, for example, by having one of the channel openings act as a stop for the flap.

[0012] A container volume can be understood as a volume that is partially bounded by the sealing element. This could, for example, be a volume enclosed by a container with a receptacle and a lid, where the sealing element is clamped between the receptacle and the lid by a form-fit and / or force-fit connection. Thus, "container volume side" describes the side of the sealing element that bounds the container volume or faces the container volume. "Environment" can be understood as a volume located outside the container volume. "Environment side" describes the side of the sealing element that faces the environment.

[0013] The flap, in its resting position, thus prevents any fluidic connection between the first and second openings of the channel. In this position, the flap closes the channel in such a way that a fluid cannot successively pass through or be transported through the first opening, the channel itself, and the second opening. Therefore, the flap, in its resting position, prevents the passage of any fluid through the channel.

[0014] The channel can be closed by the flap resting on one of the channel openings, particularly the opening on the container side. Alternatively, embodiments are also possible in which the flap, for example, has a plug that fits snugly in the channel or against the channel wall, thereby closing the channel. A rest position, in this context, refers to a position of the flap in which no external forces act upon it. The flap may, for example, be pre-tensioned so that in its rest position it exerts a force on the channel and / or one of its openings, thus enabling it to close the channel even under force.

[0015] In an advantageous embodiment of the sealing element, the flap, in its rest position, completely covers the second opening of the channel and thus seals it. This can contribute to the reliable closure of the channel by the flap in its rest position. Furthermore, the second opening can be designed such that an edge of the opening forms a stop for the flap, so that the flap can only be deflected in the direction of the container volume and not in the direction of the channel.

[0016] Advantageous embodiments are possible in which the passage area has a groove and a projection that can be positively and / or force-fittedly connected when the flap is in its rest position. The groove is arranged on the flap, and the projection extends at least partially around the second channel opening, or the projection is arranged on the flap, and the groove extends at least partially around the second channel opening. Advantageously, the flap closes the second channel opening, and the groove or projection extends at least partially around the second channel opening. The groove and the projection can be designed as a tongue-and-groove combination and advantageously interlock positively. This increases the probability of a secure closure of the channel.Furthermore, this can at least reduce the possibility of the flap slipping in the plane of the second channel opening, which can lead to a secure hold of the flap over the corresponding channel opening.

[0017] It is also possible to design the sealing element in which the passage area has several grooves and several protrusions that can be arranged along the flap and around the channel opening. For example, a protrusion can be formed on a first section of the flap and a groove on a second section, and a corresponding groove and protrusion can be arranged section by section around the channel opening, so that the flap can rest on the channel opening in a form-fit or force-fit, and in particular fluid-tight, manner.

[0018] Further advantageous embodiments of the sealing element are possible, characterized in that the passage area has at least two flaps. The flaps overlap each other in their rest position in certain areas, or in their rest position, their end faces lie flat in certain areas, such that the channel is closed. The end faces of the flaps can, for example, be formed by the cross-sectional surfaces of a slot formed in the passage area of ​​the sealing ring. Advantageously, the passage area has three or four flaps. Four flaps can, for example, be formed by two intersecting slots in the passage area of ​​the sealing ring.

[0019] In particularly advantageous embodiments of the sealing element, the flap can be deflected by a force resulting from a pressure difference between the container volume and the environment. The pressure difference between the container volume and the environment is defined as the pressure inside the container volume minus the pressure outside the container volume, i.e., within the environment. If the ambient pressure is greater than the pressure inside the container volume, a negative pressure difference results. By opening the flap, fluid can flow from the volume with the higher pressure into the volume with the lower pressure. Once the pressure difference is equalized, no external force acts on the flap, and the flap returns to its rest position, closing the channel. It is particularly advantageous if the flap can be deflected solely by a force resulting from a negative pressure difference between the container volume and the environment.

[0020] Advantageous embodiments are possible in which the sealing element is annular and the passage is located on the ring body, extending between the outer and inner circumferences of the ring. The sealing element can be designed as a flat gasket or as an O-ring. The sealing element need not necessarily have a circular outline. The channel of the passage can advantageously extend from a top surface of the ring body to a bottom surface of the ring body and / or run parallel to an axis of symmetry of the ring. Advantageously, the sealing element and / or the channel of the passage can be adapted to the geometry of a container with which it is used. In further advantageous embodiments, the flap is deflectable in a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry of the ring.

[0021] In advantageous embodiments, the sealing element is made of an elastomer, preferably silicone and / or EPDM. The elasticity of the elastomer facilitates a positive and force-fit connection of the sealing element to a sealing surface. Embodiments are also possible in which individual elements of the sealing element, in particular the flap, are made of a different material.

[0022] Advantageous embodiments are possible in which the sealing element has two, preferably three, and particularly preferably more than three passage areas. Multiple passage areas can be particularly advantageous when rapid pressure equalization between the container volume and the ambient volume is desired.

[0023] It can be advantageous if the sealing element is formed in one piece. This can mean, for example, that the sealing element is manufactured from a single piece. In particular, this can mean that the flap is bonded to the sealing element by a material-fit connection.

[0024] In other embodiments, the flap can be attached to at least one passage area or partially fixed in a recess that extends perpendicular to the direction of the channel in the sealing element. The flap can be made of the same or a different material as the rest of the sealing element. "Perpendicular" is understood to mean an angle of 90°, as well as deviations of up to 10° or preferably even up to 20°.

[0025] A container according to the invention for storing fluids comprises a vessel with an opening, a lid, and a sealing element. The opening of the vessel can be closed with the lid, and the sealing element is arranged such that the vessel, the lid, and the sealing element limit the container volume from the surroundings. According to the invention, the vessel, the lid, and the sealing element are designed such that the flap can be deflected from its rest position toward the container volume, and the container volume can be fluidically connected to the surroundings via the channel. Advantageously, the sealing element can be arranged between the vessel and the lid such that the sealing element contacts both the vessel and the lid. Embodiments are also possible in which the sealing element is arranged between the lid and the vessel and contacts only the lid or only the vessel.

[0026] The fact that the container volume is fluidically connected to the environment via the channel can mean that a fluid, for example a gas, especially air or water vapor, and / or a liquid can pass from the container volume through the channel into the environment or from the environment through the channel into the container volume.

[0027] In advantageous embodiments of the container, a section of the inner surface of the vessel, opposite the passage area of ​​the sealing element within the container volume, can be spaced away from the passage area, allowing the flap to deflect towards the container volume. This section on the inner surface of the vessel is thus designed such that it permits, and does not block, deflection of the flap to the extent necessary for fluid transport between the container volume and the opening of the sealing element on the outside, or the surrounding environment. Independently of this, a section of the inner surface of the lid, opposite the passage area of ​​the sealing element within the container volume, can also be spaced away from the passage area, allowing the flap to deflect towards the container volume.The section on the inside of the lid can therefore be designed in such a way that it allows the flap to deflect at least to the extent that fluid transport between the container volume and the surrounding opening of the sealing element or the surroundings is possible, and does not block it.

[0028] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the container, the sealing element rests continuously and at least linearly, preferably over a surface, against a surface of the vessel. This continuous and at least linear, preferably over a surface, contact of the sealing element against a surface of the vessel ensures a fluid-tight connection between the vessel and the sealing element. "Continuous" in this context means that the contact line (or contact surface) is uninterrupted. In the case of an annular sealing element, for example, there is a completely circumferential contact line / surface. The sealing element also rests continuously and at least linearly against a surface of the vessel even when the flap is deflected in the direction of the vessel volume.Since the sealing element itself does not move from its original position, but only the flap of the sealing element, a fluid-tight connection between the vessel and the sealing element is ensured at virtually all times. This allows for reliable resealing of the container after pressure equalization (i.e., after the flap has moved from its rest position).

[0029] In advantageous embodiments of the container, the sealing element rests continuously and at least linearly, preferably planarly, against a surface of the lid. Independently of this, the lid or the vessel can have a structure that fluidically connects the first opening of the channel to the environment. This structure preferably has a bore or a recess, or is formed by a bore or recess. Due to the structure in the lid or the vessel, in certain geometries of the container, pressure equalization can actually occur with the environment and not merely with a dead volume enclosed by the lid and sealing element, which has no fluidic connection to the environment.

[0030] Advantageously, the continuous and at least linear, preferably linear, contact of the sealing element with a surface of the lid ensures a fluid-tight connection between the lid and the sealing element. The sealing element maintains continuous and at least linear contact with a surface of the lid even when the flap is deflected towards the container volume. Since the sealing element itself does not move from its original position, but only the flap of the sealing element, a fluid-tight connection between the lid and the sealing element is ensured at virtually any time. This allows for reliable resealing of the container after pressure equalization (i.e., after the flap has deflected from its rest position).

[0031] In particularly advantageous embodiments, the vessel and the lid can be connected to each other by means of a twist lock. This allows for easy connection or closure of the vessel to the lid. Preferably, the lid has an external thread and the vessel an internal thread.

[0032] In further advantageous embodiments of the container, the sealing element is fixedly arranged on the lid. This simplifies, for example, the secure closing of the container, as no relative movement between the lid and the sealing element is possible.

[0033] The invention will be illustrated below with reference to five figures. These figures serve only for illustrative purposes and do not limit the scope of protection to their depictions. Combinations of the elements shown in the figures are also possible.

[0034] It shows: Fig. 1 A first embodiment of a sealing element in various schematic views. Fig. 2 A first embodiment of a container with a sealing element in various schematic views. Fig. Three further embodiments of a sealing element in different schematic views. Fig. 4 Another embodiment of a container with another embodiment of a sealing element in various schematic views. Fig. 5 Another embodiment of a container with another embodiment of a sealing element in various schematic views.

[0035] The Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. Figure 1c shows schematic representations of a first embodiment of a sealing element 1. The sealing element has a passage 10 with a channel 13 and a flap 20 that can be deflected from its rest position. The channel runs through the sealing element 1 from a first channel opening 11 on the environment side to a second channel opening 12 on the container volume side. The flap 20 is designed such that, in its rest position (not shown in this group of figures), it closes the channel 13 in such a way that a container volume 3 can be sealed fluid-tight from the environment. This means that a fluid cannot pass through or be transported successively through the first channel opening 11, the channel 13, and the second channel opening 12 when the flap 20 is in its rest position.In other words, the flap 20, in its rest position, prevents a fluidic connection running through the channel 13 between the first channel opening 11 and the second channel opening 12.

[0036] The flap 20 can be deflected from its rest position in such a way that fluid transport through channel 13 becomes possible. This means that a fluid can, for example, pass or be transported successively first through the first channel opening 11, then through channel 13, and finally also through the second channel opening 12.

[0037] The sealing element 1 is formed in one piece. The sealing element 1 shown is ring-shaped and has an annular body 17 extending between an outer circumference 16 and an inner circumference 15. The annular body 17 has a top and a bottom surface. The first channel opening 11 is arranged in the same plane as the top surface of the annular body 17. The bottom surface of the annular body is offset towards the top surface of the annular body 17 in the area of ​​the second channel opening 12. The second channel opening 12 and the flap 20 are designed such that, in its rest position, the flap 20 essentially forms a flat surface with the bottom surface of the annular body 17.

[0038] The passage area 10 of the sealing element 1 of the Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 1c has a groove 14 and a projection 21 which can be positively and / or force-fit connected in the rest position of the flap 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 21 is arranged on the flap 20 and the groove 14 extends at least partially around the second channel opening 12.

[0039] The Fig. Figure 2a shows a cross-sectional view of a container 2 with a vessel 30, a lid 40, and a sealing element 1. An opening of the vessel can be closed with the lid. The sealing element 1 is arranged between the vessel and the lid such that the vessel 30, the lid 40, and the sealing element 1 limit the container volume 3 from the surroundings 2. Advantageously, the vessel 30 and the lid can be substantially cylindrically symmetrical. In the illustrated embodiment, the vessel 30 and the lid 40 can be connected to each other by a thread. The lid 40 has an external thread, and the vessel 30 has an internal thread. The sealing element 1 is fixedly attached in a groove circumferential to the lid 40.

[0040] The Fig. Figure 2b shows a detailed view of the passage area of ​​the sealing element 1 of the Fig. 2a. In this figure, the flap 20 is deflected from its rest position. The vessel 30, the lid 40, and the sealing element 1 are designed such that the flap 20 can be deflected from its rest position in the direction of the container volume 3. When the flap 20 is deflected from its rest position, the container volume 3 can be fluidically connected to the environment 2 via the channel 13. The flap 20 is designed such that it can be deflected by a force resulting from a pressure difference between the container volume 3 and the environment 4. This will equalize any negative pressure existing in the container volume 3.

[0041] The sealing element 1 rests continuously and at least linearly against a surface 31 of the vessel 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing element 1 even rests in a flat area against the surface 31 of the vessel 30 in some regions. The sealing element also rests continuously and at least linearly against a surface 41 of the lid 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing element 1 even rests in a flat area against the surface 41 of the lid 40 in some regions. "Continuously" here means that a contact line (or a contact area) is not interrupted. In the case of an annular sealing element 1, for example, there is a completely circumferential contact line / area.

[0042] The cover 40 has a structure 42 which, in the illustrated embodiment, is designed as a recess and which fluidically connects the first channel opening 11 with the environment 4. In the Fig. Figure 2a shows a volume that appears closed by the threaded connection between vessel 30 and lid 40. However, the threaded connection alone is usually not sufficient to achieve a fluid-tight seal.

[0043] In the embodiment shown, the Fig. 2a and Fig. Section 2b is a section 32 on the inside of the vessel 30, which is opposite the passage area 10 of the sealing element 1 within the container volume 3 and is spaced away from the passage area 10. This spacer can, for example, be in the form of a recess. The flap 20 is deflectable towards the container volume 3. Furthermore, a section 42 on the inside of the lid 40, which is opposite the passage area 10 of the sealing element 1 within the container volume 3, is also spaced away from the passage area 10. This spacer can, for example, be in the form of a recess. This allows the flap 20 to be deflected almost unhindered into the container volume 3. A deflected flap 20 can thus also return unhindered to its rest position and close the channel.

[0044] The Fig. Figures 3a, b, c, d, e and f show further embodiments of a sealing ring 1 according to the invention. The sealing ring 1 is designed such that the flap 20 of the passage area 10 can be fixed in a section 18, which extends perpendicular to the direction of extension of the channel 13 in the sealing element 1.

[0045] The Fig. Figure 3b shows an example of the position and design of the cut 18. The cut 18 extends between the upper and lower surfaces of the ring body 17 and runs from the channel 13 towards the outer circumference 16 of the ring body 17. Embodiments are also conceivable in which the cut 18 extends from the channel towards the inner circumference 15 of the ring body. Furthermore, embodiments are conceivable in which the cut forms an angle with the channel 13 that is less than 90°. Additionally, embodiments are conceivable in which the cut 18 does not penetrate the inner 15 and outer circumference 16. In the illustrated embodiment of the sealing ring 1, the second channel opening 12 has a chamfered area 19 that forms an angle with the channel that is greater than 90°.

[0046] The Fig. 3c and Fig. Figure 3D shows two exemplary embodiments of flaps 20, each in a sectional view, which can be fixed in the opening 18. The flap 20 can, for example, have a plug-in area 22 that can be positively and / or force-fitted to the opening 18 and / or inserted into the opening 18. The flap 20 can also have stop elements 23 that are wider and / or higher than the opening 18, so that the locking elements 23 can, for example, rest against the surface of the channel 13 when the flap 20 is fixed, thus improving the secure retention of the flap 20 in the opening 18. The locking elements 23 can be continuous in a direction perpendicular to the section plane or arranged only in sections.It is also possible to have embodiments of the incision 18 and flap 20 in which the stop elements 23 can serve as detent elements that can engage in corresponding recesses which can be formed along the incision 18.

[0047] The Fig. 3e and Fig. Figures 3f show a sealing element 1 in which the flap 20 is fixed in the notch 18 with a plug-in area 22. The sealing element is in the Fig. 3e and Fig. 3f arranged between a vessel 30 and a lid. In the Fig. Figure 3e shows the flap in its resting position, in which the channel is closed. Fig. 3f the flap is deflected from its rest position, creating a flow area 50 through which a fluid can flow into the channel 13 and through the first 11 and second channel opening 12.

[0048] The Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b and Fig. Figure 4c shows an embodiment in which the sealing element 1 has several passage areas 10. In this embodiment, the passage areas 10 each have more than one flap 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. The embodiment of Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b and Fig. Figure 4c represents exemplary embodiments with multiple passage areas 10 and / or passage areas 10 with multiple flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. Therefore, embodiments are also possible in which exactly one passage area 10 has multiple flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, in which at least one passage area 10 has exactly one flap 20 and the remaining passage areas 10 have multiple flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, or in which the sealing element has multiple passage areas 10 and each of the multiple passage areas 10 has a flap 20. Independently of these, embodiments are possible in which the sealing element 10 has exactly two, exactly three, exactly four, exactly five, or, for example, exactly six passage areas 10, all of which can be configured identically or differently.

[0049] Passage area 10, which leads into the Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b and Fig. Figure 4c shows four flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. The flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are designed such that, in their resting position, they partially overlap each other or, in their resting position, their end faces lie flat against each other in certain areas, thus closing the canal 13. The flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can, for example, be formed by slots 23a, 23b, with the end faces of the flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d subsequently being formed by the cross-sectional surfaces of the slots 23a, 23b.

[0050] The Fig. Figure 3c shows the sealing element with the multiple passage areas of the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b as part of a container 2. In this embodiment, the lid 40 and the vessel 30 are configured such that the lid 40 has at least two structures 42, which in the illustrated embodiment are designed as recesses and each fluidically connect a first channel opening 11 to the environment 4. Advantageously, the lid has a structure 43 for each passage area 10, which fluidly connects the first channel opening 11 of the corresponding passage area 10 to the environment 4. Furthermore, the lid 40 has at least two sections 42 on an inner surface of the lid 40, each of which is opposite one of the passage areas 10 of the sealing element 1 within the container volume 3 and is spaced apart from the corresponding passage area 10.The vessel 30 has at least two sections 32 on an inner side of the vessel 30, each of which is opposite one of the passage areas 10 of the sealing element 1 within the container volume 3 and is spaced apart from the corresponding passage area 10.

[0051] The Fig. 5a and Fig. Figure 5b shows a further embodiment of a sealing element 1 with four flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. The sealing element 1 of the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b has a circular outline. The channel 13 extends centrally through the sealing element 1. The flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are designed such that, in their rest position, they partially overlap each other or, in their rest position, their end faces lie flat against each other in such a manner that the channel 13 is closed. The flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can, for example, be formed by two slots 23a, 23b. The cross-sectional surfaces of the slots 23a, 23b can form the end faces of the flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0052] The Fig. Figure 5c shows the sealing element 1 of the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b as part of a container 2. The container 2 also has a vessel 30 and a lid 40, as well as a further seal 44. The sealing element 1 is in the Fig.5 is arranged between the vessel and the lid 40, and the vessel 30, the lid 40 and the sealing element 1 limit the container volume 3 from the environment 4. In this embodiment, the sealing element 1 only contacts the lid 40.

[0053] In this embodiment, the sealing element rests continuously and at least linearly against a surface 41 of the lid 40. In this embodiment, the sealing element 1 does not contact the vessel 30. The lid has a recessed section 42 on its inner side, which is opposite the passage area 10 of the sealing element within the vessel volume 3 and spaced apart from it. This allows the flap 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d to be deflected in the direction of the vessel volume. Furthermore, the lid has a structure 43 that fluidically connects the first channel opening 11 to the environment 4. An insulator element 45 is arranged on the upper side of the lid and is held above the second channel opening 11 by means of a retaining plate 46. The insulator element 45 is not fluid-tight, at least in some sections, connected to the rest of the lid 40.The retaining plate 46 has an opening 43, allowing a fluidic connection between the first channel opening 11 and the environment 4. The insulator element 45 and the retaining plate 46 with opening 43 thus together form a lid structure that fluidically connects the first opening of the channel 11 to the environment 4. When the flaps are deflected from their rest position, a fluidic connection between the container volume 3 and the environment 4 can therefore be established. It is also conceivable to have several sealing elements 1 as part of a container 2, so that, for example, several areas for a fluidic connection between the container volume 3 and the environment 4 can be achieved. Reference symbol list: 1 sealing element 2 containers 3 container volumes 4 Environment 10 Passage area 11 first opening 12 second opening Channel 13 14 gully 15 Inner circumference 16 External circumference 17 ring area 18 cut 19 beveled area 20 flap 20a flap 20b flap 21 Survey 22 locking element 23a,b slot 30 containers 31 contiguous installation area on vessel 32 spaced section of the vessel 40 lids 41 contiguous mounting surface on lid 42 spaced section of the lid 43 Structure 44 more seals 45 Insulating element 46 Mounting plate 50 Flow range

Claims

[1] Sealing element (1) with pressure equalization option, comprising at least one passage area (10) with a channel (13) and a flap (20) that can be deflected from its rest position and with which the channel (13) can be closed, wherein - the channel (13) runs through the sealing element (1) and has a first channel opening (11) on the outside and a second channel opening (12) on the container volume side, - the flap (20) in its rest position closes the channel (13) in such a way that a container volume (3) is sealed fluid-tight from the environment (4), and - the flap (20) can be deflected from its rest position in the direction of the container volume (3) into a position that allows fluid transport between the container volume (3) and the environment (4). [2] Sealing element (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the flap (20) in its rest position completely covers the second channel opening (12) and thereby seals it. [3] Sealing element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the passage area (10) has a groove (14) and a protrusion (21) which can be connected in a form-fit and / or force-fit manner when the flap (20) is in its rest position, wherein the groove (14) is arranged on the flap (20) and the elevation (21) extends at least partially around the second channel opening (12), or the elevation (21) is arranged on the flap (20) and the groove (14) is arranged at least sectionally around the second channel opening (12). [4] Sealing element (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the passage area (10) has at least two flaps (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) which overlap each other in their rest position in such a way or which lie flat against each other in such a way on their end faces in such a way that the channel (13) is closed. [5] Sealing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the flap (20) can be deflected by a force resulting from a pressure difference between container volume (3) and environment (4). [6] Sealing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sealing element (1) is ring-shaped and the passage area (10) is arranged on the ring body (17), which extends between the outer (16) and inner circumference (17) of the ring. [7] Sealing element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sealing element (1) is formed from an elastomer, preferably silicone and / or EPDM. [8] Sealing element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sealing element (1) has two, preferably three, particularly preferably more than three passage areas (10). [9] Sealing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sealing element (1) is formed in one piece. [10] Sealing element (1) according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized by , that the flap (20) can be placed on at least one passage area (10) or can be fixed in sections into a notch (18) which extends perpendicular to the direction of extension of the channel (13) in the sealing element (1). [11] Container (2) for storing fluids, comprising a vessel (30) with an opening, a lid (40) and a sealing element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening of the vessel can be closed with the lid and the sealing element (1) is arranged between the vessel and the lid such that the vessel (30), the lid (40) and the sealing element (1) limit the container volume (3) from the environment (4), wherein the vessel (30), lid (40) and sealing element (1) are designed such that the flap (20) can be deflected from its rest position in the direction of the container volume (3), and the container volume (3) can be fluidically connected to the environment (4) via the channel (13). [12] Container (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the sealing element (1) is in continuous and at least linear contact with a surface (31) of the vessel (30), and / or the sealing element (1) is in continuous and at least linear contact with a surface (41) of the lid (40). [13] Container (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a section (32) of an inner surface of the vessel (30) and / or a section (42) of an inner surface of the lid (40), which are opposite the passage area (10) of the sealing element within the container volume (3), is / are spaced away from the passage area (10) so that the flap (20) can be deflected in the direction of the container volume (3). [14] Container (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the lid (40) or the vessel (30) has a structure (43), preferably a bore or a recess, which fluidically connects the first opening of the channel (11) with the environment (4). [15] Container (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the vessel (30) and the lid (40) can be connected to each other by means of a screw closure, wherein preferably the lid (40) has an external thread and the vessel (30) has an internal thread. [16] Container (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized by, that the sealing element (1) is fixedly arranged on the lid (40).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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