CLOSURE ARRANGEMENT FOR A BEVERAGE CONTAINER AND METHOD FOR REPEATEDLY CLOSING A BEVERAGE CONTAINER WITH A CLOSURE ARRANGEMENT

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a closure element for a closure arrangement of a beverage container, in particular a beverage can. The present invention further relates to a method for the repeatable closure of an opening of a beverage container with a closure arrangement, in particular with the described closure arrangement. The closure arrangement comprises at least one lid element with an opening and a closure element non-removably arranged on the lid element for the repeatable, in particular gas-tight, closure of the opening. The lid element is made in particular of metal. The beverage container serves to store a content, e.g., a fluid, wherein the beverage container is under excess pressure when closed.

[0002] Especially in the case of beverage cans with carbonated contents, the beverage container can be under an internal pressure of up to 6.2 bar before it is opened for the first time.

[0003] Both one-time opening and resealable closure assemblies are known for closing such beverage containers. The advantage of resealable closure assemblies is obvious. This allows a beverage container to be sealed, particularly gas-tight, even after partial emptying, thus preventing the fluid stored in the beverage container from escaping and, especially in the case of carbonated contents, preventing the carbonation from escaping. The known resealable closure assemblies often have complex components or complex processes for opening and closing the closure assembly.

[0004] In particular, a captive arrangement of the closure arrangement on the lid element or on the beverage container is desired so that all components of the beverage container can be recycled.

[0005] A resealable closure for a beverage can is known from US 2012 / 248113 A1. A lever, which rests on the can lid, pivots, pushing a flap into the beverage container. To secure the closure in an open position, the lever must then be positioned at least partially within the beverage container.

[0006] A resealable can end for beverage cans is known from each of DE 10 2016 103 801 A1 and US 2004 / 0159665 A1.

[0007] From the subsequently published DE 10 2020 114 863.1 a locking arrangement with a toggle lever mechanism is known.

[0008] From US 2012 / 0103987 A1 a container with a resealable closure and a closure element according to the preamble of claim 1 are known.

[0009] The object of the invention is to at least partially solve the problems existing with regard to the prior art and, in particular, to provide a closure assembly for a beverage container by means of which the beverage container can be repeatedly and, in particular, resealable in a gas-tight manner. The closure assembly should have as few individual parts as possible and / or be lightweight, i.e., be manufactured from as little material as possible. Furthermore, the stacking height of the closure assemblies should be as low as possible, so that logistics for such closure assemblies can be simplified. Furthermore, the closure assembly should be simple to manufacture and easy to use for consumers.

[0010] In particular, a closure element of the closure arrangement should be arranged or fastened to the beverage container in a captive manner.

[0011] Furthermore, it should be possible to reclose the beverage container by means of the closure arrangement even after it has been opened for the first time, whereby the tightness of the beverage container (with respect to atmospheric pressure) is ensured on the one hand at a low pressure in the beverage container and on the other hand even at a pressure within the beverage container of up to 6.2 bar.

[0012] In addition, there is a desire to provide a method that is as simple as possible for repeatedly closing an opening of a beverage container with a closure arrangement.

[0013] These objects are achieved with a closure element for a closure assembly according to the features of patent claim 1 and with a method according to the features of patent claim 16. Further advantageous embodiments of the closure assemblies and the method are specified in the dependent patent claims. Furthermore, the features specified in the patent claims are further specified and explained in the description, with further preferred embodiments of the invention being presented.

[0014] A closure assembly for a beverage container contributes to this. The closure assembly comprises at least one lid element with an opening and a closure element arranged on the lid element for repeatedly closing the opening. The lid element has an outer side and an inner side, and the opening has an opening edge and an opening plane formed by the opening edge. The closure element has at least or exclusively a base part, a lever, and a lid. The base part has a frame part arranged on the opening edge and having a window. The lever is connected to the frame part (exclusively) via a first axis of rotation (and so as to be pivotable about this). In an initial position of the closure assembly, the lid closes the window and is connected to the frame part (exclusively) via a second axis of rotation (and so as to be pivotable about this) or via a hinge.The lever is (directly) connected to the lid (and thereby) permanently (i.e., while the locking assembly is in a state intended for predetermined operation) via a guide device. The guide device allows the lid to be pivoted by pivoting the lever about the first axis of rotation, starting from the initial position about the second axis of rotation or about the hinge into an opening position of the locking assembly that releases the window, and then back to the initial position.

[0015] In a rotary axis, the connected components form, in particular, a shaft and a bearing. The shaft can rotate relative to the bearing. The components are thus only positively connected to one another via the rotary axis, but not firmly bonded. In the first rotary axis, the frame part forms the stationary bearing, and the lever forms the shaft that rotates relative to the bearing. In the second rotary axis, the frame part forms the stationary bearing, and the cover forms the shaft that rotates relative to the bearing.

[0016] In a hinge, the components that can move relative to one another (here, for example, the cover and frame part) are permanently connected (in particular, by a material bond) via an elastically deformable connection. This connection is formed, for example, by a particularly thin section of the components, which is therefore elastically deformable. In a hinge, rotation occurs around the hinge or around a hinge axis, which, however, does not necessarily have to be stationary. In particular, a translational movement of the components relative to one another is also possible here, although this translational movement can be limited to a minimum by design.

[0017] In particular, the lid element is a known lid, e.g., of a beverage can, which is connected or connectable to the beverage can. Preferably, the lid element is inseparably connected (only destructively) to the beverage container. In particular, the lid element consists of a metal or a metallic alloy.

[0018] The inside of the lid element forms the side of the lid element facing the contents of the beverage container, while the outside of the lid element forms the side of the lid element facing away from the contents.

[0019] The opening of the lid element is, in particular, simultaneously the (only) pouring opening for the contents of the beverage container. The shape of the opening is not specified. The opening is, in particular, not rotationally symmetrical. However, a rotationally symmetrical opening can also be closed using the closure element described here and is therefore encompassed by the term "opening."

[0020] A new condition of the locking element refers in particular to the condition of the locking element before the lever is actuated for the first time, i.e. pivoted.

[0021] When new, all components of the locking assembly are in their initial position, meaning the lever is also in its initial position, meaning it is not pivoted. If the lever is in its initial position, meaning it is not pivoted, the lid is not pivoted, and thus the window or opening is closed.

[0022] In the initial position, the lever is located entirely on the outside of the cover element. In particular, in the initial position, the frame part and the cover element are arranged on both sides of the cover element, i.e., simultaneously on the inside and outside, or extend through the opening or window and / or are accessible from the other side via the opening or window.

[0023] During the pivoting of the lever between the starting position and the end position, the lever passes over the window and over the opening plane at least partially onto the inside of the cover element.

[0024] The lever, and thus also the cover, are pivotable, in particular, between the non-pivoted starting position and a pivoted end position, in particular a maximum pivoted end position. In the end position of the locking arrangement, the lever and the cover are each arranged in a pivoted position, in particular a maximum pivot position, and the window or opening is preferably fully open. Between the starting position and the end position, a variety of opening positions are possible, in which the lever and, if applicable, the additional cover are arranged in a pivoted position relative to the starting position, but not in the end position.

[0025] In particular, in the initial position, the contents of the beverage container are sealed, in particular gas-tight, from the environment of the beverage container, in particular against a pressure within the beverage container of at least 3 bar, preferably at least 5 bar, particularly preferably at least 6.2 bar. In particular, however, a seal also exists when the pressure within the beverage container corresponds to the ambient pressure.

[0026] The closure element is in particular designed as a single piece, i.e. the individual components base part, lever and cover are captively connected to one another (via the axes of rotation or the hinge, in particular only via the axes of rotation or the hinge). In particular, these components can be manufactured independently of one another and can be connected to one another during an assembly process. In particular, the base part and cover are integrally connected to one another via a hinge and are manufactured together, i.e. as a single piece. In particular, the closure element exclusively comprises the components base part, lever and cover. In particular, each of these components is dimensionally stable, i.e. non-deformable. The only exception are components of the components that are connected to one another in one piece, e.g. via hinges, e.g. the base part or the frame part and the cover.

[0027] In particular, only the components base part, lever and lid of the closure element are involved in the (repeatable) opening or closing of the opening of the lid element.

[0028] In particular, the locking element comprises only a cover in addition to the components base part, lever and lid.

[0029] In particular, the lever and the lid rotate between the initial position and the open position in a common direction of rotation about their axes of rotation, or about the first axis of rotation and the hinge. The lever and the lid thus rotate either together in a first direction of rotation or in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation.

[0030] In particular, the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation or the hinge are arranged parallel to each other and at a distance from each other.

[0031] In particular, the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation or the hinge are each arranged (essentially) stationary on the closure arrangement.

[0032] In particular, the frame part is fixed and immovable at the opening edge. The lever and the lid are connected to the lid element via the frame part. The lever and lid are arranged so that they can move relative to the frame part.

[0033] In particular, the frame part is arranged captively on the opening edge. In particular, the frame part is arranged on the opening edge via a positive connection and can only be removed from the opening edge by destroying the frame part. In particular, the frame part is mounted on the opening edge via plastic deformation of the frame part. The plastic deformation can be carried out, for example, by thermal treatment of the frame part, e.g., at least local heating.

[0034] In particular, the closure element enables repeatable gas-tight closure of the opening. In particular, the closure element enables not only a liquid-tight closure, but also a gas-tight closure of the opening. This allows for effective sealing of the opening, especially with carbonated liquids, even after the closure element has been opened for the first time.

[0035] The frame part forms, in particular, a frame enclosing the opening and thereby forming the window enclosed by the frame. After the frame part is arranged on the cover element, the opening through which a fluid can flow is thus reduced, in particular, to the window. The lever is arranged within the frame, at least in the region of the first rotation axis. During pivoting of the lever, at least a portion of the lever is displaced, starting from the outer side of the cover element, across the window and the opening plane, to the inner side of the cover element.

[0036] In particular, the frame part and the lid (exclusively) form a sealing surface in the initial position that closes the window. This ensures tightness even when the beverage container is repeatedly opened and closed via the repeatedly stressed sealing surface.

[0037] In particular, the guide device comprises at least one guide track arranged on the cover and at least one guide pin engaging in the guide track and arranged on the lever. As the lever and cover pivot, the guide pin is movable along the guide track. In particular, the cover has a guide track on each of its two opposite sides. In particular, the lever has two guide pins, each guide pin interacting with a respective guide track.

[0038] The guide pin is, in particular, a cylindrical or conical extension of the lever that extends at least partially into the guide track. The guide pin can also be designed as an element rotatably mounted on the lever, e.g., in the manner of a wheel. The guide pin is, in particular, fixedly mounted on the lever.

[0039] In particular, the guideways of the cover are arranged between the guide pins of the lever.

[0040] The at least one guide track and the at least one guide pin form a positive connection, particularly in both directions of rotation. Thus, pivoting the lever about the first axis of rotation can cause and control pivoting of the cover about the second axis of rotation or about the hinge.

[0041] In particular, the at least one guide pin is arranged in a (self-locking) locking position on the cover in the initial position. Alternatively or additionally, the guide pin forces the cover into a self-locking locking position on the frame part in the initial position. The guide pin only enters the guide track from the locking position when the lever is pivoted about the first axis of rotation, e.g., after exceeding an angular range of pivoting of at least 5 degrees, preferably of at least 10 degrees, about the first axis of rotation. The cover is then pivoted about the second axis of rotation or about the hinge only after the guide pin has entered the guide track.

[0042] In particular, the at least one guide track (preferably both guide tracks) extends in a direction transverse to the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation or the hinge. In the initial position and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation or the hinge and the at least one guide pin into the opening plane, the first axis of rotation is arranged between the second axis of rotation / the hinge and the guide pin, as well as the locking position.

[0043] In a maximum pivoted end position of the lever and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation or of the hinge and of the at least one guide pin into the opening plane, the guide pin is arranged in particular between the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation / the hinge or the second axis of rotation / the hinge is arranged between the guide pin and the first axis of rotation.

[0044] The projection is always performed in a direction perpendicular to the opening plane. This means that the positions of the pivot axes / hinge and guide pin are viewed from a position, for example, above the opening plane, with the viewing axis running perpendicular to the opening plane.

[0045] In particular, the guide device specifies a second position (e.g. pivoting about the second axis of rotation relative to the initial position) of the flap for a first position (e.g. pivoting about the first axis of rotation relative to the initial position) of the lever, and vice versa. In particular, the second position can vary by a maximum of 20 angular degrees for a specific first position (due to play between the various components). If, for example, the lever is pivoted by approximately 150 angular degrees relative to the initial position, i.e. the first position is 150 angular degrees, the flap is pivoted by 70 to 90 angular degrees relative to the initial position.

[0046] In particular, the base part additionally has a cover attached to it, which can be pivoted relative to the frame part by the lever. The cover forms, in particular, a flat element (either rigid, such as a plate, or deformable, such as a film) that primarily serves to cover the lid, which pivots into the beverage container when the closure assembly is opened. This is intended to prevent contamination of the side of the lid facing the outside of the lid element, particularly before the lever is first actuated.

[0047] When the lever is operated for the first time, the cover is contacted by the lever and pivoted along with it. The maximum pivoting of the lever shifts the cover into a particularly self-locking end position, in which it remains, regardless of further operation of the lever. In particular, the self-locking effect is achieved through an interaction between the cover and the frame part.

[0048] The cover can be connected to the frame part via a (film) hinge, in particular by a material bond. If necessary, the cover and the frame part are constructed as a single piece, i.e., the individual components, frame part and cover, are permanently connected to each other (via a hinge or a third pivot axis). In particular, these components can be manufactured independently of each other and connected to each other during a single assembly process.

[0049] In a hinge, both a rotational and a translational movement of the cover relative to the frame part is possible, for example, with a film hinge. In a film hinge, the cover and frame part are connected via an elastically deformable section.

[0050] In particular, the lid can also be connected to the frame part via a hinge instead of the second rotation axis.

[0051] In particular, the cover is only connected to the base part via a sealing element in a non-pivoted starting position. When the cover is pivoted for the first time, the connection formed by the sealing element is or will be destroyed. In particular, when the lever is actuated, the connection formed by the sealing element is destroyed before the lid moves. In particular, the destruction occurs, for example, when the lever is rotated around the first axis of rotation, starting from the starting position, by at least one angular degree, in particular by between 2 and 4 angular degrees.

[0052] In particular, the sealing element on the lever is formed or comprises a materially bonded connection between the lever and the base part or between the lever and the lid. When the lever is pivoted for the first time, the connection formed by the sealing element is or will be destroyed. In particular, when the lever is actuated, the connection formed by the sealing element is only destroyed during or after a movement of the lid. In particular, the destruction occurs, for example, when the lever is rotated about the first axis of rotation, starting from the initial position, by at least one angular degree, in particular by between 2 and 4 angular degrees.

[0053] The sealing element serves to indicate the condition of the closure element or the beverage container. An undamaged sealing element indicates that the closure element has not been activated yet, meaning the beverage container has not been opened. A damaged sealing element, on the other hand, indicates that the closure element has been activated at least once, meaning the beverage container has been opened at least once.

[0054] In particular, the lid is (only) arranged in a (previously) non-pivoted initial position, protected from the surroundings by the cover.

[0055] In particular, a first seal surrounding the opening is arranged between the inner side and a contact surface of the frame part. In particular, the contact surface is oriented at least partially parallel to a partial surface of the inner side of the cover element. The first seal is arranged in particular in the region of this partial surface. In particular, the first seal is fastened to the frame part and is arranged on this partial surface during assembly of the frame part to the cover element. In particular, the first seal can be produced or is produced together with the frame part using a two-component injection molding process.

[0056] In particular, a second seal is arranged between the frame part and the cover, which, at least in the initial position, surrounds the window. This second seal enables sealing of the window or opening through a sealing connection between the cover and the frame part. In particular, the second seal is arranged on the frame part or on the cover. In particular, the second seal can be manufactured or is manufactured together with the frame part, and optionally also with the cover, using a two-component injection molding process.

[0057] In particular, the frame part and / or the lever and / or the lid and / or the cover is made of a plastic with a modulus of elasticity of at least 1100 MPa [megapascals], in particular of at least 1300 MPa, preferably of at least 1600 MPa.

[0058] Preferably, the first seal and / or the second seal is made of a plastic having a Shore A hardness of at most 60, in particular of at most 45, preferably of at most 35.

[0059] In particular, the frame part is arranged captively on the opening edge.

[0060] In particular, the closure element enables repeatable gas-tight closure of the opening.

[0061] In particular, the closure element, preferably the lid or the frame part, has a venting element, wherein, upon the first pivoting of the lever, a fluidic connection is formed between the inside and the outside by the venting element. In particular, venting, i.e., pressure equalization between the interior of the beverage container and the surroundings of the beverage container, can take place via the venting element.

[0062] The pivoting of the lever, in particular, causes a deformation of the venting element. In particular, the venting element is arranged on the frame part or on the cover. In particular, the venting element is integrally connected to the frame part or to the cover. In particular, the venting element can be manufactured or is manufactured together with the frame part and / or the cover using a two-component injection molding process. In particular, the venting element is formed by the second seal or by the first seal.

[0063] In particular, the venting element is tubular or channel-like and enables a fluidic connection between the interior of the beverage container and the surrounding area of ​​the beverage container. In particular, the venting element has a preferably constant minimum opening cross-section of 1 to 4 mm² along the tubular or channel-like shape. In particular, this minimum opening cross-section is at least locally reduced to zero in the deformed state of the venting element or is closed by another component, so that when the lever is arranged in the non-pivoted initial position, the fluidic connection is blocked and thus no venting via the venting element is possible.

[0064] Alternatively, the venting element can be designed, e.g., rigidly, so that the lever closes the minimum opening cross-section via a closing element of the lever by arranging the closing element in the minimum opening cross-section.

[0065] In particular, the venting element is formed by a channel in the first seal or in the second seal. In particular, the channel extends through an opening in the frame part that is aligned therewith and the first seal, in particular arranged on the frame part, or through an opening in the cover that is aligned therewith and the second seal arranged thereon. In particular, the channel or the minimum opening cross-section in the first or second seal is closed by a closing element of the lever.

[0066] In particular, when the lever is actuated, the connection formed by the sealing element is destroyed before venting and before the lid moves. In particular, venting occurs before the lid moves. In particular, venting occurs, for example, when the lever is rotated about the first axis of rotation, starting from the initial position, by at least two degrees, in particular by at least five degrees, preferably up to a maximum of ten degrees.

[0067] In particular, venting takes place via the venting element before the lid is pivoted, so that the lid does not have to be moved against the internal pressure that may be present in the beverage container.

[0068] A closure element for the described closure arrangement is further proposed. The closure element has at least a base part, a lever, and a cover. The base part has a frame part with a window, wherein the lever is pivotably connected to the frame part via a first pivot axis. In an initial position of the closure arrangement, the cover closes the window and is pivotably connected to the frame part via a second pivot axis or a hinge. The lever is permanently connected to the cover via a guide device.

[0069] In particular, the base part is a one-piece injection-molded part which is formed by at least two materials, namely a material for the at least one seal and / or the venting element and another material for at least one of the frame part and the cover and, if applicable, the lid.

[0070] In particular, the closure element comprises (exclusively) three injection-molded parts: the base part, the lever, and the cover, which are assembled to form the closure element. In particular, these components are captively connected to one another (via the rotation axes, in particular only via the rotation axes).

[0071] In particular, the closure element comprises (exclusively) two injection-molded parts: the base part and the lid as a single injection-molded part connected by a hinge, and the lever as a separate injection-molded part, which are assembled to form the closure element. In particular, these components are captively connected to one another (via the rotation axes / the hinge, in particular only via the rotation axes / the hinge).

[0072] Furthermore, a use of the described closure element for the repeatable, fluid-tight closing (and opening) of a beverage container, in particular a beverage can, is proposed.

[0073] A method for repeatedly closing an opening of a beverage container with a closure arrangement, in particular with the described closure arrangement, is further proposed. The closure arrangement has at least one lid element with an opening and a closure element arranged on the lid element for repeatedly closing the opening. The lid element has an outer side and an inner side, and the opening has an opening edge and an opening plane formed by the opening edge. The closure element has at least (or exclusively) a base part, a lever, and a lid. The base part has a frame part arranged on the opening edge and having a window. The lever is pivotably connected to the frame part via a first pivot axis. The lid is pivotably connected to the frame part via a second pivot axis or a hinge.The lever is permanently connected to the cover via a guide device. Starting from an initial position in which the window is closed by the cover, the method comprises at least the following steps: . a) pivoting the lever about the first axis of rotation and thereby triggering, b) pivoting the cover about the second axis of rotation or about the hinge until an opening position of the locking arrangement is reached which releases the window; and c) pivoting the lever and the cover back to reclose the window.

[0074] During steps a) to c), the pivoting of the lever is converted into a pivoting of the lid by the guide device.

[0075] In particular, the guide device specifies a second position of the flap for a first position of the lever, and vice versa. In particular, the second position can vary by a maximum of 20 angular degrees for a specific first position (due to the play between the various components). For example, if the lever is pivoted by approximately 150 angular degrees relative to the initial position, i.e., the first position is 150 angular degrees, the flap is pivoted by 70 to 90 angular degrees relative to the initial position.

[0076] In particular, the closure element has a venting element, wherein upon initial pivoting of the lever from the non-pivoted initial position, and in particular upon subsequent pivoting, the venting element creates a fluidic connection between the inside and the outside, thus equalizing the pressure of the beverage container with the surroundings. The pivoting of the lever, in particular, causes a deformation of the venting element.

[0077] In particular, in the non-pivoted initial position of the lever, the lid forms a fluid-tight connection with the frame part. Upon pivoting of the lever, the fluid-tight connection is broken by the resulting pivoting of the lid. Any leakage of the contents of the beverage container into the environment occurs exclusively through the breaking of the fluid-tight connection between the lid and the frame part.

[0078] The statements regarding the closure arrangement apply equally to the closure element, the use of the closure element and the method and vice versa.

[0079] The use of indefinite articles ("a," "an," "one," and "another"), particularly in the patent claims and the description reproducing them, is to be understood as such and not as a numeral. Terms or components introduced accordingly are therefore to be understood as being present at least once and, in particular, as being able to be present multiple times.

[0080] As a precaution, it should be noted that the numerals used here ("first", "second", ...) primarily serve (only) to distinguish between several similar objects, quantities, or processes, and therefore do not necessarily specify any interdependence and / or sequence of these objects, quantities, or processes. Should a dependence and / or sequence be required, this is explicitly stated here or will be obvious to the person skilled in the art upon studying the specifically described embodiment. To the extent that a component can occur multiple times ("at least one"), the description of one of these components may apply equally to all or part of the majority of these components, but this is not mandatory.

[0081] The invention and the technical environment are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the invention is not intended to be limited by the exemplary embodiments cited. In particular, unless explicitly stated otherwise, it is also possible to extract partial aspects of the facts explained in the figures and combine them with other components and findings from the present description. In particular, it should be noted that the figures, and in particular the proportions shown, are only schematic. They show: Fig. 1: a beverage container with a lid element in a perspective view; Fig. 2: a closure arrangement in an initial position in a perspective view; Fig. 3: the closure arrangement according to Fig. 2 in an end position in a perspective view; Fig. 4: the closure arrangement according to Fig. 3in a perspective view in section; Fig. 5: the closure arrangement according to Fig. 2 and 3 in an open position, in a side view in section; Fig. 6: the closure arrangement according to Fig. 2 to 5 in a pivoted back starting position in perspective view; Fig. 7: the closure arrangement according to Fig. 6 in a perspective view in section; Fig. 8: the closure arrangement according to Figs. 6 and 7 in a side view in section; Fig. 9: a frame part of a closure element of the closure arrangement according to Fig. 2 to 8 in a perspective view; Fig. 10: the frame part according to Fig. 9 in a perspective view in section; Fig. 11: the frame part according to Figs. 9 and 10 in a plan view from an outside; Fig. 12: the frame part according to Fig. 9 to 11 in a plan view from an inside; Fig. 13: a cover of a closure element of the closure arrangement according to Fig. 2 to 8in a perspective view; Fig. 14: the lid after Fig. 13 in a perspective view in section; Fig. 15: the lid according to Figs. 13 and 14 in a plan view from an outside; Fig. 16: a lever of a closure element of the closure arrangement according to Fig. 2 to 8 in a perspective view; Fig. 17: the lever Fig. 16 in a plan view from an outside; Fig. 18: the lever after Figs. 16 and 17 in a plan view from an inside; Fig. 19: a cover of a closure element of the closure arrangement according to Fig. 2 to 8 in a perspective view; Fig. 20: a part of another closure element in a view from an outside; Fig. 21: the part according to Fig. 20 in a side view in section; Fig. 22: the part according to 20 and 21 in a view from an inside; Fig. 23: a lever for the closure element according to Fig. 20 in a perspective view; Fig. 24: the other closure element according to Fig. 20in a perspective view in section; Fig. 25: the closure element according to Fig. 24 in a side view in section; and Fig. 26: an enlarged detail of the Fig. 25 .

[0082] Fig. 1shows a beverage container 2 with a lid element 3 in a perspective view. The lid element 3 has an outer side 6 and an inner side 7 as well as an opening 4. The opening 4 has an opening edge 8 and an opening plane 9 formed by the opening edge 8. The lid element 3 is connected or connectable to the beverage container 2. The lid element 3 is inseparably connected (only destructively) to the beverage container 2. The inner side 7 of the lid element 3 forms the side of the lid element 3 facing the contents of the beverage container 2, with the outer side 6 of the lid element 3 forming the side of the lid element 3 facing away from the contents and facing an environment 28. The opening 4 of the lid element 3 is the only pouring opening for a content of the beverage container 2.

[0083] Fig. 2 shows a closure arrangement 2 in an initial position in a perspective view. Fig. 3shows the locking arrangement 2 after Fig. 2 in an end position 25 in a perspective view. Fig. 4 shows the locking arrangement 2 after Fig. 3 in a perspective view in section. Fig. 5 shows the locking arrangement 2 after Fig. 2 and 3 in an opening position 19 in a side view in section. Fig. 6 shows the locking arrangement 2 after Fig. 2 to 5 in a pivoted back starting position 16 in perspective view. Fig. 7 shows the locking arrangement 2 after Fig. 6 in a perspective view in section. Fig. 8 shows the locking arrangement 2 after Figs. 6 and 7 in a side view in section. The Fig. 2 to 8 are described together below. The explanations for Fig. 1 is referred to.

[0084] The closure arrangement 1 comprises a lid element 3 with an opening 4 and a closure element 5 arranged on the lid element 3 for repeatedly closing the opening 4. The lid element 3 has an outer side 6 and an inner side 7 and the opening 4 has an opening edge 8 and an opening plane 9 formed by the opening edge 8.

[0085] The closure element 5 has a base part 10, a lever 11, and a cover 12. The base part 10 has a frame part 13 arranged on the opening edge 8 and having a window 14. The lever 11 is connected to the frame part 13 exclusively via a first pivot axis 15 and is pivotable about this axis. In an initial position 16 of the closure assembly 1, the cover 12 closes the window 14 and is connected to the frame part 13 exclusively via a second pivot axis 17 and is pivotable about this axis. The lever 11 is permanently connected to the cover 12 via a guide device 18, i.e., while the closure assembly 1 is in a state intended for predetermined operation.Via the guide device 18, the cover 12 can be pivoted, starting from the starting position 16, by pivoting the lever 11 about the first axis of rotation 15, about the second axis of rotation 17 into an opening position 19 of the closure arrangement 1 which releases the window 14 and back again into the starting position 16.

[0086] The lever 11 and thus also the cover 12 can be pivoted between the non-pivoted starting position 16 and a maximally pivoted end position 25. In the end position 25 of the closure assembly 1, the lever 11 and the cover 12 are each arranged in a maximally pivoted position, and the window 14 or the opening 4 is maximally open. Between the starting position 16 and the end position 25, a plurality of opening positions 19 are possible, in which the lever 11 and, if applicable, also the cover 12 are arranged in a pivoted position relative to the starting position 16, but not in the end position 25.

[0087] The lever 11 and the cover 12 rotate between the starting position 16 and the opening position 19 in a common direction of rotation 32 about their axes of rotation 15, 17. The lever 11 and the cover 12 therefore rotate either together in a first direction of rotation or in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation.

[0088] The first rotation axis 15 and the second rotation axis 17 are arranged parallel to each other and at a distance 20 from each other. The first rotation axis 15 and the second rotation axis 17 are each arranged in a fixed position on the closure arrangement 1. Instead of the second rotation axis 17, a hinge 33 (see Fig. 8 , indicated there; otherwise Fig. 20 to 22 as well as Figs. 24 and 25 ) by means of which the components frame part 13 and cover 12 are firmly connected to one another.

[0089] The frame part 13 forms a frame enclosing the opening 4 and thereby forms the window 14 enclosed by the frame. The lever 11 is arranged within the frame, at least in the region of the first rotation axis 15. During the pivoting of the lever 11, a part of the lever 11 is displaced, starting from the outer side 6 of the cover element 3, across the window 14 and the opening plane 9, toward the inner side 7 of the cover element 3.

[0090] In the initial position 16, the frame part 13 and the lid 12 form a sealing surface 21 that closes the window 14. This ensures tightness even when the beverage container 2 is repeatedly opened and closed via the repeatedly stressed sealing surface 21.

[0091] The guide device 18 has two guide tracks 22 arranged on the cover 12 and two guide pins 23 engaging in the guide tracks 22 and arranged on the lever 11. As the lever 11 and the cover 12 pivot, each guide pin 23 is movable along the respective guide track 22. The cover 12 has a guide track 22 on each of its two opposite sides. The lever 12 has two guide pins 23, each guide pin 23 interacting with a respective guide track 22.

[0092] The guide pin 23 is a cylindrical extension of the lever 11, which extends at least partially into the guide track 22.

[0093] The guide tracks 22 of the cover 12 are arranged between the guide pins 23 of the lever 11.

[0094] The guide track 22 and the guide pin 23 form a positive connection in both directions of rotation 32. Thus, pivoting of the lever 11 about the first axis of rotation 15 can cause and control pivoting of the cover 12 about the second axis of rotation 17.

[0095] In the initial position 16, the guide pin 23 is arranged in a detent position 24 on the cover 12. The guide pin 23 only enters the guide track 22 from the detent position 24 when the lever 11 is pivoted about the first axis of rotation 15, e.g., after exceeding a pivoting angle of at least 5 degrees around the first axis of rotation 15. The pivoting of the cover 12 then occurs about the second axis of rotation 17 only after the guide pin 23 enters the guide track 22. When the cover 12 is pivoted back to the initial position 16, the guide pin 23 forces the cover 12 into a self-locking detent position 24 on the frame part 13. Therefore, when pivoting back, shortly before reaching the initial position 16, a local actuating force maximum must be exceeded so that the cover 12 "locks" into the frame part 13.Even when the cover 12 is pivoted from the starting position 16 to the opening position 19, this self-locking locking position 24 must first be left.

[0096] The guide tracks 22 extend in a direction transverse to the first axis of rotation 15 and the second axis of rotation 17. In the starting position 16 and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation 15, 17 and the guide pins 23 into the opening plane 9, the first axis of rotation 15 is arranged between the second axis of rotation 17 and the guide pins 23 as well as the locking position 24.

[0097] In a maximum pivoted end position 25 of the lever 11 and in a projection of the positions of the rotation axes 15, 17 and the guide pins 23 into the opening plane 9, the guide pins 23 are arranged between the first rotation axis 15 and the second rotation axis 17.

[0098] The projection is carried out in a direction transverse to the opening plane 9. This means that the positions of the rotation axes 15, 17 and the guide pins 23 are viewed from a position, for example, above the opening plane 9, with the viewing axis running perpendicular to the opening plane 9.

[0099] The base part 10 additionally has a cover 26 attached thereto, which can be pivoted relative to the frame part 13 by the lever 11. The cover 26 forms a flat element that primarily serves to cover the lid 12, which is pivoted into the beverage container 2 when the closure assembly 1 is opened. This is intended to prevent contamination of the side of the lid 12 oriented toward the outer side 6 of the lid element 3 before the lever 11 is first actuated.

[0100] When lever 11 is actuated for the first time, the cover 26 is contacted by the lever 11 and pivoted along with it. The maximum pivoting of the lever 11 moves the cover 26 into a self-locking end position, in which it remains regardless of further actuation of the lever 11. The self-locking action is achieved through an interaction between the cover 26 and the frame part 13.

[0101] The cover 26 is connected to the base part 10 via a sealing element 27 only in a non-pivoted starting position 16. When the cover 26 is pivoted for the first time, the connection formed by the sealing element 27 is or will be destroyed.

[0102] The sealing element 27 serves to indicate the condition of the closure element 5 or the beverage container 2. An undamaged sealing element 27 signals that the closure element 5 has not yet been activated, i.e., the beverage container 2 has not been opened. A damaged sealing element 27, on the other hand, signals that the closure element 5 has been activated at least once, i.e., the beverage container 2 has been opened at least once.

[0103] A first seal 30 is arranged between the inner side 7 and a contact surface 29 of the frame part 13, surrounding the opening 4. The contact surface 29 is oriented parallel to a partial surface of the inner side 7 of the cover element 3. The first seal 30 is arranged in the region of this partial surface. The first seal 30 is attached to the frame part 13 and is arranged on this partial surface during assembly of the frame part 13 to the cover element 3.

[0104] A second seal 31 is arranged between the frame part 13 and the cover 12, which surrounds the window 14, at least in the initial position 16. This second seal 31 enables sealing of the window 14 or the opening 4 by means of a sealing connection between the cover 12 and the frame part 13.

[0105] The cover 12 has a venting element 34, wherein, upon the first pivoting of the lever 11, a fluidic connection is formed between the inner side 7 and the outer side 6 by the venting element 34. The venting element 34 is formed by the second seal 31.

[0106] The venting element 34 is designed like a channel and enables a fluid connection between the interior of the beverage container 2 and an environment 28 of the beverage container 2. Venting, i.e., pressure equalization between the interior of the beverage container 2 and the environment 28 of the beverage container 2, can take place via the venting element 34. The venting element 34 is designed such that the lever 11 closes the minimum opening cross-section of the venting element 34 via a closing element 35 of the lever 11, by arranging the closing element 35 in the minimum opening cross-section.

[0107] The venting element 34 is formed by a channel 38 in the second seal 31. The channel 38 extends through an opening in the cover 12 arranged in alignment therewith and the second seal 31 arranged thereon. The channel 38, or the minimum opening cross-section in the second seal 31, is closed by a closing element 35 of the lever 11.

[0108] Fig. 9 shows a frame part 13 of a closure element 5 of the closure arrangement 2 according to Fig. 2 to 8 in a perspective view. Fig. 10 shows the frame part 13 Fig. 9 in a perspective view in section. Fig. 11 shows the frame part 13 Figs. 9 and 10 in a plan view from an outside 6. Fig. 12 shows the frame part 13 Fig. 9 to 11 in a top view from an inside 7. The Fig. 9 to 12 are described together below. The explanations regarding the Fig. 1 to 8 is referred to.

[0109] The frame part 13 forms a frame enclosing the opening 4 of the cover element 3 and thereby forms the window 14 enclosed by the frame. The lever 11 is arranged within the frame at least in the region of the first rotation axis 15. During the pivoting of the lever 11, a part of the lever 11 is displaced, starting from the outer side 6 of the cover element 3, across the window 14 and the opening plane 9, toward the inner side 7 of the cover element 3.

[0110] The first rotation axis 15 and the second rotation axis 17 are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart by a distance 20. The first rotation axis 15 and the second rotation axis 17 are each fixedly arranged on the frame part 13. Instead of the second rotation axis 17, a hinge 33 (only indicated here) can also be provided, via which the components frame part 13 and cover 12 are integrally connected to each other.

[0111] A first seal 30 is arranged between the inner side 7 and a contact surface 29 of the frame part 13, surrounding the opening 4. The contact surface 29 is oriented parallel to a partial surface of the inner side 7 of the cover element 3. The first seal 30 is arranged in the region of this partial surface. The first seal 30 is attached to the frame part 13 and is arranged on this partial surface during assembly of the frame part 13 to the cover element 3.

[0112] In the initial position 16, the frame part 13 and the lid 12 form a sealing surface 21 that closes the window 14. This ensures tightness even when the beverage container 2 is repeatedly opened and closed via the repeatedly stressed sealing surface 21.

[0113] Fig. 13 shows a cover 12 of a closure element 5 of the closure arrangement 1 according to Fig. 2 to 8 in a perspective view. Fig. 14 shows the cover 12 Fig. 13in a perspective view in section. Fig. 15 shows the cover 12 Figs. 13 and 14 in a plan view from an outside 6. The Fig. 13 to 15 are described together below. The explanations regarding the Fig. 1 to 8 is referred to.

[0114] The guide device 18 has two guide tracks 22 arranged on the cover 12 and two guide pins 23 engaging in the guide tracks 22 and arranged on the lever 11 (see Fig. 16 to 18 ). As the lever 11 and the cover 12 pivot, each guide pin 23 is movable along the respective guide track 22. The cover 12 has a guide track 22 on each of its two opposite sides. The lever 12 has two guide pins 23, each guide pin 23 interacting with a respective guide track 22.

[0115] The guideways 22 extend in a direction transverse to the first axis of rotation 15 and the second axis of rotation 17.

[0116] The guide track 22 and the guide pin 23 form a positive connection in both directions of rotation 32. Thus, pivoting of the lever 11 about the first axis of rotation 15 can cause and control pivoting of the cover 12 about the second axis of rotation 17.

[0117] In the initial position 16, the guide pin 23 is arranged in a detent position 24 on the cover 12. The guide pin 23 only enters the guide track 22 from the detent position 24 when the lever 11 is pivoted about the first axis of rotation 15, e.g., after exceeding a pivoting angle of at least 5 degrees about the first axis of rotation 15. The pivoting of the cover 12 then occurs about the second axis of rotation 17 only after the guide pin 23 enters the guide track 22. When the cover 12 is pivoted back to the initial position 16, the guide pin 23 forces the cover 12 into a self-locking detent position 24 on the frame part 13. Therefore, when pivoting back, shortly before reaching the initial position 16, a local actuating force maximum must be exceeded so that the cover 12 "locks" into the frame part 13.Even when pivoting the lid 12 from the initial position 16 to the open position 19, this self-locking locking position 24 must first be left. The self-locking action is enabled by an elastically deformable locking element 36 on the lid 12.

[0118] A second seal 31 is arranged between the frame part 13 and the cover 12, which surrounds the window 14, at least in the initial position 16. This second seal 31 enables sealing of the window 14 or the opening 4 by means of a sealing connection between the cover 12 and the frame part 13.

[0119] The lid 12 has a venting element 34, wherein upon the first pivoting of the lever 11, a fluidic connection is formed between the inner side 7 and the outer side 6 by the venting element 34. The venting element 34 is formed by the second seal 31. The venting element 34 is designed in a channel-like manner and enables a fluidic connection between the interior of the beverage container 2 and an environment 28 of the beverage container 2. Venting, i.e. pressure equalization between the interior of the beverage container 2 and the environment 28 of the beverage container 2, can take place via the venting element 34. The venting element 34 is designed such that the lever 11 can be closed via a closing element 35 of the lever 11 (see Fig. 18 ) closes the minimum opening cross-section of the venting element 34 by arranging the closing element 35 in the minimum opening cross-section.

[0120] The venting element 34 is formed by a channel 38 in the second seal 31. The channel 38 extends through an opening in the cover 12 arranged in alignment therewith and the second seal 31 arranged thereon. The channel 38, or the minimum opening cross-section in the second seal 31, is closed by a closing element 35 of the lever 11.

[0121] Fig. 16 shows a lever 11 of a closure element 5 of the closure arrangement 1 according to Fig. 2 to 8 in a perspective view. Fig. 17 points the lever 11 to Fig. 16 in a plan view from an outside 6. Fig. 18 points the lever 11 to Figs. 16 and 17 in a top view from an inside 7. The Fig. 16 to 18 are described together below. The explanations regarding the Fig. 1 to 8 is referred to.

[0122] The lever 11 is U-shaped. At the ends of each of the lateral arms, the lever 11 has inward-facing guide pins 23. In the center of the lateral arms, the lever has outward-facing shafts for forming the first rotation axis 15. These shafts extend into the bearings formed as openings on the frame part 13. Furthermore, the lever has a closing element 35 for closing the venting element 34.

[0123] Fig. 19 shows a cover 26 of a closure element 5 of the closure arrangement 2 according to Fig. 2 to 8 in a perspective view. The explanations on the Fig. 1 to 8 is referred to.

[0124] The cover 26 forms a flat element that primarily serves to cover the lid 12, which is pivoted into the beverage container 2 when the closure assembly 1 is opened. The cover 26 is integrally connected to the frame part 13 via contact points 37. When the lever 11 is actuated for the first time, the cover 26 is contacted by the lever 11 and pivoted along with it. The cover 26 is only connected to the base part 10 via a sealing element 27 in a non-pivoted starting position 16. When the cover 26 is pivoted for the first time, the connection formed by the sealing element 27 is or will be destroyed.

[0125] Fig. 20 shows a part of another closure element 5 in a view from an outer side 6. Fig. 21 shows the part after Fig. 20 in a side view in section. Fig. 22 shows the part according to 20 and 21 in a view from an inside 7. Fig. 23shows a lever 11 for the locking element 5 according to Fig. 20 in a perspective view. Fig. 24 the other closure element 5 points to Fig. 20 in a perspective view in section. Fig. 25 shows the closure element 5 Fig. 24 in a side view in section. Fig. 26 shows an enlarged detail of the Fig. 25 . The Fig. 20 to 26 are described together below. The explanations regarding the Fig. 1 to 19 is referred to.

[0126] The other closure element 5 according to the Fig. 20 to 26 In contrast to the closure element 5 according to the Fig. 2 to 19a one-piece assembly consisting of frame part 13 and cover 12. The closure element thus comprises only two injection-molded parts: base part 10 and cover 12 as a common injection-molded part connected via a hinge 33, and the lever 11 as a separate injection-molded part, which are combined to form the closure element 5. These components are captively connected to one another via the first rotation axis 15 and the hinge 33.

[0127] In the hinge 33, the relatively movable components, cover 12 and frame part 13, are permanently connected to one another via an elastically deformable connection, in this case a material bond. This connection is formed by a particularly thin section of the components, which is therefore elastically deformable. In the hinge 33, the rotation occurs around the hinge 33 or around an axis of the hinge 33, which, however, does not necessarily have to be stationary. In particular, a translational movement of the components relative to one another is also possible here, whereby this translational movement can be limited to a minimum by design.

[0128] In the closure element 5 according to the Fig. 20 to 26The venting element 34 is formed by a channel 38 in the first seal 30. The channel 38 extends through an opening in the frame part 13 arranged in alignment therewith and the first seal 30 arranged on the frame part 13. The channel 38 or the minimum opening cross-section of the venting element 34 in the first seal 30 is closed by a closing element 35 arranged on the lever 11 (see Fig. 26 ). List of reference symbols

[0129] 1 Closure arrangement 2 Beverage container 3 Lid element 4 Opening 5 Closure element 6 Outside 7 Inside 8 Opening edge 9 Opening level 10 Base part 11 Lever 12 Lid 13 Frame part 14 Window 15 First rotation axis 16 Starting position 17 Second rotation axis 18 Guide device 19 Opening position 20 Distance 21 Sealing surface 22 Guide track 23 Guide pin 24 Locking position 25 End position 26 Cover 27 Sealing element 28 Surroundings 29 Contact surface 30 First seal 31 Second seal 32 Direction of rotation 33 Hinge 34 Venting element 35 Closing element 36 Locking element 37 Contact point 38 Channel

Claims

1. Closure element (5) for a closure assembly (1) of a beverage container, wherein the closure assembly (1) comprises at least a lid element (3) having an opening (4) as well as the closure element (5) for repeatably closing the opening (4), which is disposed on the lid element (3); wherein the lid element (3) has an outer side (6) and an inner side (7) and the opening (4) has an opening edge (8) and an opening plane (9) formed by the opening edge (8); wherein the closure element (5) comprises at least one base part (10), a tab (11), and a cover (12); wherein the base part (10) comprises a frame part (13), which is disposed at the opening edge (8) and has a window (14); characterized in that the tab (11) is pivotably connected to the frame part (13) by a first axis of rotation (15); wherein the cover (12) in a starting position (16) of the closure assembly (1) closes the window (14) and is connected to the frame part (13) pivotably by a second axis of rotation (17) or pivotably by a hinge (33); wherein the tab (11) is connected permanently to the cover (12) by a guiding device (18), so that the cover (12) can pivot by a pivoting of the tab (11) about the first axis of rotation (15) from the starting position (16) about the second axis of rotation (17) or about the hinge to an opening position (19) of the closure assembly (1) which frees up the window (14) and back again to the starting position (16).

2. Closure element (5) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tab (11) and the cover (12) rotate between the starting position (16) and the opening position (19) each time in a common direction of turning (32) about their axes of rotation (15, 17) or about the hinge (33).

3. Closure element (5) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the first axis of rotation (15) and the second axis of rotation (17) or the hinge (33) are situated parallel to each other and at a spacing (20) from each other.

4. Closure element (5) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame part (13) and the cover (12) form a sealing surface (21) closing the window (14) in the starting position (16).

5. Closure element (5) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the guiding device (18) comprises at least one guide path (22) situated on the cover (12) and at least one guide pin (23) engaging with the guide path (22) and arranged on the tab (11), and the guide pin (23) is movable along the guide path (22) in the course of the pivoting of the tab (11) and the cover (12).

6. Closure element (5) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one guide pin (23) is situated in the starting position (16) in a locking position (24) on the cover (12), and the guide pin (23) only enters the guide path (22) upon pivoting of the tab (11) about the first axis of rotation (15) from the locking position (24), and the pivoting of the cover (12) about the second axis of rotation (17) occurs only after the entry of the guide pin (23) in the guide path (22).

7. Closure element (5) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the tab (11) is connected by a seal element (27) to the base part (10) only in a nonpivoted starting position (16); the connection by means of the seal element (27) being broken at the first instance of pivoting of the tab (11).

8. Closure assembly (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein a second seal (31) running around the window (14) at least in the starting position (16) is situated between the frame part (13) and the cover (12).

9. Use of a closure element (5) as claimed in one of the preceding claims for the repeatable, fluid-tight closing of a beverage can.

10. Closure assembly (1) for a beverage container (2), at least comprising a lid element (3) having an opening (4) as well as a closure element (5) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 1 to 8 for repeatably closing the opening (4), which is disposed on the lid element (3).

11. Closure assembly (1) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the guiding device (18) comprises at least one guide path (22) situated on the cover (12) and at least one guide pin (23) engaging with the guide path (22) and arranged on the tab (11), and the guide pin (23) is movable along the guide path (22) in the course of the pivoting of the tab (11) and the cover (12), wherein the at least one guide pin (23) is situated in the starting position (16) in a locking position (24) on the cover (12), and the guide pin (23) only enters the guide path (22) upon pivoting of the tab (11) about the first axis of rotation (15) from the locking position (24), and the pivoting of the cover (12) about the second axis of rotation (17) occurs only after the entry of the guide pin (23) in the guide path (22); wherein the guide path (22) extends in a direction transverse to the first axis of rotation (15) and either to the second axis of rotation (17) or to the hinge (33); wherein in the starting position (16) and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation (15, 17), the hinge (33), and the at least one guide pin (23) in the opening plane (9) the first axis of rotation (15) being situated between, on the one hand, the second axis of rotation (17) or the hinge (33), and on the other hand the guide pin (23) and the locking position (24).

12. Closure assembly (1) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the guide pin (23) in a maximum pivoted end position (25) of the tab (11) and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation (15, 17), the hinge (33), and the at least one guide pin (23) in the opening plane (9), is situated between, on the one hand, the first axis of rotation (15) and on the other hand the second axis of rotation (17), or the second axis of rotation (17) or the hinge (33) is situated between the guide pin (23) and the first axis of rotation (15).

13. Closure assembly (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 10 to 12, wherein a first seal (30) running around the opening (4) is situated between the inner side (7) and a bearing surface (29) of the frame part (13).

14. Closure assembly (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 10 to 13, wherein the frame part (13) is situated captively on the opening edge (8).

15. Closure assembly (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 10 to 15, wherein the closure element (5) makes possible a repeatable gas-tight closing of the opening (4).

16. Method for the repeatable closing of an opening (4) of a beverage container (2) having a closure assembly (1), wherein the closure assembly (1) comprises at least one lid element (3) having an opening (4) as well as a closure element (5) for repeatably closing the opening (4), which is disposed on the lid element (3); wherein the lid element (3) has an outer side (6) and an inner side (7) and the opening (4) has an opening edge (8) and an opening plane (9) formed by the opening edge (8); wherein the closure element (5) comprises at least one base part (10), a tab (11), and a cover (12); wherein the base part (10) comprises a frame part (13) having a window (14), arranged at the opening edge (8); characterized in that the tab (11) is pivotably connected to the frame part (13) by a first axis of rotation (15); wherein the cover (12) is connected to the frame part (13) pivotably by a second axis of rotation (17) or a hinge (33); wherein the tab (11) is connected permanently to the cover (12) by a guiding device (18); wherein the method, starting from a starting position (16) in which the window (14) is closed by the cover (12), involves at least the following steps: a) pivoting of the tab (11) about the first axis of rotation (15) and caused by this b) pivoting of the cover (12) about the second axis of rotation (17) or about the hinge (33) until an opening position (19) of the closure assembly (1) is reached, freeing up the window (14); and c) pivoting of the tab (11) and the cover (12) back in order to close the window once again (14); wherein during steps a) to c) the pivoting of the tab (11) is transformed by the guiding device (18) into a pivoting of the cover (12).