Container for products, in particular used plastic bottles and cans

Abstract

The present invention relates to a container (10) for holding products, in particular used bottles and / or used cans, the container (10) comprising: - a housing (14) defining a compartment (16) for holding the products, wherein the housing (14) comprises an outer wall and an opening in the outer wall, wherein the products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening, - an opening-closing device (22) which is located at the opening and is configured to open or close the opening, wherein the opening-closing device (22) comprises a flexible tubular member (24), the flexible tubular member (24) having a first end portion (26), a second, opposite end portion (28) and an intermediate portion (30) between the first and second end portion, wherein the first end portion and second end portion are rotatable relative to one another between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state the flexible tubular member defines an open through passage (32), wherein in the closed state the flexible tubular member (24) comprises a twisted part (25) which closes the opening, wherein in the closed state, the outer wall of the housing surrounds the twisted part and extends outwardly away from the twisted part.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for storing products, in particular used bottles and used cans. The container is in particular for domestic use. Containers for used plastic bottles and cans are known.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Plastic bottles and cans are often recycled after use. There is a trend that more and more plastic bottles and cans are recycled. This trend is caused by a shifting general attitude towards a greener and more circular economy, resulting in changing regulations on deposits for plastic bottles and cans.

[0003] As a consequence, more and more households have a desire to store used plastic bottles and cans in house in a container that is separate from other waste containers, so that the used bottles can later be handed in in exchange for the deposit.

[0004] In the present invention, it was recognized that a high-quality and user-friendly container for storing used bottles and cans in house does not exist yet. One of the technical requirements is that the container should have a high-quality entry opening which is practical and user-friendly in use. It was further recognized that the entry opening should not be larger than necessary and should preferably be round, because most bottles are round.OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is an object of the invention to provide a container for used bottles and cans, wherein the container is constructed for domestic use, wherein the container has an entry that is safe, practical, user-friendly, round and visually appealing and allows insertion of used bottles and cans into the container.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In order to achieve at least one object, a container is provided for holding products, in particular for used bottles and / or used cans, the container comprising: a housing defining a compartment for holding the products, wherein the housing comprises an outer wall and an opening in the outer wall, wherein the outer wall of the housing surrounds the opening and extends over a radial distance away from the opening, wherein the products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening, an opening-closing device which is located at the opening and is configured to open or close the opening, wherein the opening-closing device comprises a flexible tubular member, the flexible tubular member having a first end portion, a second, opposite end portion and an intermediate portion between the first and second end portion, wherein the first end portion and second end portion are rotatable relative to one another between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state the flexible tubular member defines an open through passage, wherein in the closed state the flexible tubular member comprises a twisted part which closes the opening, and wherein the outer wall of the housing surrounds the twisted part and extends over a radial distance away from the twisted part.

[0007] It was found that the container with the opening-closing device provides a simple and effective way of storing products. The opening-closing device is also visually appealing to users. The opening is round, which is a same shape as the shape of most bottles and cans and therefore a suitable shape. The portion of the outer wall which surrounds the opening extends outwardly away from the twisted part when viewed from the outside in a direction orthogonal to the twisted part.

[0008] The opening-closing devices uses a principle which is sometimes referred to as a hyperboloid or hyperboloid valve. Opening-closing devices based on the hyperboloid principle are known for regulating the flow of a gas or liquid or the flow of a granulate material. Also, this principle is known for a drinking cup. An example is provided in US9371163B2.

[0009] In the present invention, it was recognized that such an opening-closing device may be used for a container for storing discrete products such as bottles or cans and to do so in an effective and visually appealing way. Rather than closing or opening a passage for a fluid, the opening-closing device is used for the passage of discrete product. The opening-closing device provides a reliable and user-friendly mechanism and advantageously seals off the compartment.

[0010] In some embodiments, the twisted part is parallel or substantially parallel with a portion of the outer wall which surrounds the opening. This provides a visually appealing closure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the opening-closing device comprises a support tube comprising a first tube end and a second opposite tube end, wherein a gap is defined between the first tube end and the outer wall, wherein the flexible tubular member comprises: an inner section which is located within the support tube, a bend at the gap, wherein the flexible tubular member makes a U-turn around the first tube end and transitions into an outer section, and the outer section which is located outside the support tube and in particular extends along the outer side of the support tube in an opposite direction as the inner section, wherein the first end portion is part of the inner section, wherein the second end portion is part of the outer section.

[0012] It was found that this provides a robust mechanical opening-closing device with a well controlled twisting of the flexible tubular member. The gap is annular and extends around the opening closing device When the opening-closing device closes the opening, the gap may remain. In other words, the flexible tubular member may or may not engage the edge of the opening.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first or second end portion is configured to make a helical movement which comprises two components of movement: a rotary movement, and an axial movement in a direction of a main axis of the support tube, wherein during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, the first or second end portion moves toward the first tube end, wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the first or second end portion moves away from the first tube end.

[0014] It was found that this allows a proper deformation of the flexible tubular member.

[0015] In some embodiments, during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the inner section wherein the outer section becomes shorter and the inner section becomes longer, allowing the inner section to become twisted, and wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the second end portion moves away from the first tube end, wherein material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the outer section, wherein the outer section becomes longer and the inner section becomes shorter.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second end portion is rotary and configured to make the helical movement, and wherein in particular the first end portion is fixed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the container comprises a drive assembly configured to apply a rotational movement to the first or second end portion in order to rotate that end portion relative to the other end portion from the open state to the closed state or vice versa. The drive assembly allows the opening-closing device to be opened and closed without a need for a user to manually rotate the opening-closing device. This provides a more user- friendly solution.

[0018] The drive assembly is provided on an inner side of the housing. This contributes to the visually appealing property.

[0019] In some embodiments, the drive assembly comprises an electromotor having a drive shaft, a first gear and a second gear, wherein the first gear is connected to the drive shaft of the electromotor and the second gear is connected to the second end portion. It was found that this is an effective drive.

[0020] In some embodiments, the container comprises an operating member operable by a user, wherein: a) the operating member is connected to the drive assembly in order to rotate the first or second end portion relative to the other end portion, or b) the container does not comprise a drive assembly and the operating member is mechanically connected to the first or second end portion to rotate the first and second end portion relative to one another manually.

[0021] Advantageously, the opening-closing device can be operated in a simple way by the user.

[0022] In some embodiments, the container comprises a sensor which senses the presence of a user, a bottle or a can and which activates the drive assembly to open the opening-closing device when a user, bottle or can is present. This makes insertion of used bottle or other products very easy.

[0023] In some embodiments, the support tube and the second gear are engaged, the second gear extending around the support tube, wherein one of the support tube and the second gear comprises a helical cam track and the other of the support tube and the second gear comprises a cam which is engaged in the helical cam track, wherein during a rotation of the second gear relative to the support tube, the second gear makes the combined rotary and axial movement as a result of the cam moving through the cam track.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second end of the support tube is connected to the housing via one or more intermediate walls. This allows the gap at the opening.

[0025] In some embodiments, in the closed state, the twisted part is flush with the outer wall or less than 20 mm recessed or raised relative to the outer wall, in particular less than 10mm recessed or raised.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first gear is a worm gear and the second gear is a spur gear.

[0027] In some embodiments, the operating member is a foot pedal configured to activate the drive assembly and / or wherein the sensor is a proximity sensor configured to activate the drive assembly when the user or the bottle or can is close to the opening.

[0028] In some embodiments, the intermediate portion is made of rubber or leather, wherein in particular the entire flexible tubular member is made of rubber or leather. It was found that these materials are very suitable.

[0029] In some embodiments, the through-passage extends at right angles to the wall of the housing.

[0030] It is noted that with the words "domestic use" are used to distinguish the present container from a container constructed as a collection point for a neighbourhood.SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0031] These and other aspects of the invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts. Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a container according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows the opening-closing device in the open state. Fig. 3 shows the opening-closing device in the closed state. Fig. 4 shows a further view of the opening-closing device in the closed state. Fig. 5 shows an exploded isometric view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 6 shows an exploded side view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 7 shows a side view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 8 shows a top view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 9 shows an isometric view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 10 shows another isometric view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 11 shows a side view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 12 shows a view of an embodiment of an operating member. Fig. 13 a view of another embodiment of an operating member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0032] Turning to figures 1 through 4, a container 10 for holding products 12 is shown. The products may in particular be used bottles and / or used cans. The container comprises a housing 14 defining a compartment 16 for holding the products. The housing comprises an outer wall 18 and an opening 20 in the outer wall. The products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening. The housing is rigid. The outer wall 31 of the housing surrounds the opening and extends over a radial distance 23 away from the opening. In the shown embodiment the outer wall is flat. Obviously, the outer wall may have different shapes and be curved, in particular concave or convex or be straight, flat or conical. Any of these shapes allows the outer wall 31 to extend over a radial distance 23 away from the opening.

[0033] The container 10 comprise an opening-closing device 22 which is located at the opening 20 and is configured to open or close the opening.

[0034] The opening-closing device 22 comprises a flexible tubular member 24. In the open state the flexible tubular member defines an open through passage 32. The through-passage 32 has a circular cross-section. If the diameter of the flexible tubular member is large enough, square bottles and bottles with other non-standard sizes and shapes can also be inserted.

[0035] In the closed state the flexible tubular member is twisted and closes the opening. In the closed state, the flexible tubular member comprises a twisted part 25. A main axis 47 extends through a center of the twisted part 25 and extends orthogonally to the twisted part. The outer wall 31 of the housing surrounds the opening. A portion 29 of the outer wall extends over a radial distance 23 away from the opening. The radial distance is measured orthogonal to the main axis 47. The main axis 47 extends at an angle of greater than 85 degrees and preferably orthogonal to the portion 29 of the outer wall surrounding the opening 20. In the closed state, the outer wall of the housing surrounds the twisted part and extends outwardly away from the twisted part.

[0036] In the closed state, the twisted part 25 may be parallel or substantially parallel with the portion 29 of the outer wall which surrounds the opening. An outer contour of the portion 29 is indicated with a dashed line The twisted part is flush with the outer wall or less than 10 mm recessed or raised relative to the outer wall.

[0037] The intermediate portion may be made of rubber or leather, wherein in particular the entire flexible tubular member is made of rubber or leather. The flexible tubular member preferably does not allow odours to exit the container, but this is optional. The flexible tubular member may be entirely flexible or only the central portion may be flexible.

[0038] The container has a bottom and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom. The container has two compartments 16, two openings 20, and two doors 23 on a front side 27. Each door 23 is associated with a respective compartment 16. The door allows emptying of the bottle / can compartment by a user.

[0039] The compartment may have a sack holder which holds a sack. When the container is full, a user can simply exchange the full sack for an empty sack. The sack holder may be connected to the door of the container.

[0040] It is also possible that an upper wall 31 of a housing is a lid which can be opened to empty the container when full.

[0041] The container comprises an opening-closing device 22 for each opening 20. The opening-closing device 22 is provided within the housing. In another embodiment, the container may comprise a single compartment 16, a single opening 20 and a single opening-closing device 22. Also, the container may comprise an additional compartment for different waste, in particular common household waste, or for different products. The additional compartment then may have a different kind of entry than the opening 20 with opening-closing device 22, for instance a regular lid.

[0042] The opening 20 is provided in the upper wall 31 of the housing, the upper wall facing upwards. The upper wall may be horizontal or inclined. The upper wall forms part of the outer wall.

[0043] The container comprises an operating member 60 operable by a user. The operating member can be a foot pedal 62 and / or a switch or the like.

[0044] Turning to figures 4 - 11, the opening-closing device comprises a support tube 34 comprising a first tube end 36 and a second opposite tube end 38. The support tube is aligned with the main axis 47. The second tube end 38 of the support tube is connected to the housing via one or more intermediate walls 39. The intermediate wall may form an internal housing which separates the mechanical parts from the products. The support tube is rigid and may be short or long. The second tube end is located further from the outer wall than the first tube end. The support tube extends downward and away from the outer wall.

[0045] The flexible tubular member 24 has a first end portion 26, a second, opposite end portion 28 and an intermediate portion 30 between the first and second end portion. The first end portion 26 and second end portion 28 are rotatable relative to one another between an open state and a closed state.

[0046] A gap 40 is defined between the first tube end and the outer wall. The gap 40 is annular. The flexible tubular member comprises: an inner section 42 which is located within the support tube, a bend 44 at the gap, wherein the flexible tubular member makes a U-turn around the first tube end and transitions into an outer section, and the outer section 46 which is located outside the support tube and in particular extends along the outer side of the support tube in an opposite direction as the inner section.

[0047] The first end portion is part of the inner section, and the second end portion is part of the outer section. The bend 44 of the flexible tubular member may fill the gap and may contact an edge 41 of the outer wall, but it may also be that the flexible tubular member is thinner than the gap. Inthat case the flexible tubular member does not contact the edge 41 of the outer wall 20 and a annular small gap between the edge 41 of the outer wall and the flexible tubular member remains. This may be the case both for the open and closed state.

[0048] The first or second end portion 26, 28 is configured to make a helical movement which comprises two components of movement: a rotary movement, and an axial movement in a direction of the main axis of the support tube 34, wherein during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, the first or second end portion moves toward the first tube end, wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the first or second end portion moves away from the first tube end.

[0049] During a rotation from the open state to the closed state, material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end 36 to become part of the inner section, wherein the outer section becomes shorter and the inner section becomes longer, allowing the inner section to become twisted. During a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the second end portion moves away from the first tube end, wherein material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the outer section, wherein the outer section becomes longer and the inner section becomes shorter.

[0050] In the shown embodiment, the second end portion 28 is rotary and configured to make the helical movement, and the first end portion 26 is fixed. The first end portion is fixed to the inside of the support tube.

[0051] The container 10 comprising a drive assembly 50 configured to apply a rotational movement to the first or second end portion in order to rotate that end portion relative to the other end portion from the open state to the closed state or vice versa. The drive assembly is inside the housing.

[0052] The drive assembly 50 comprises an electromotor 52 having a drive shaft 54, a first gear 56 and a second gear 58. The first gear is connected to the drive shaft of the electromotor and the second gear is connected to the second end portion 28. The first gear is a worm gear and the second gear is a spur gear. The second gear 58 has a protruding rim 59 at the upper end. The second end portion 28 is connected to the second gear 58 via the protruding rim 59 and rotates with the second gear 58..

[0053] The support tube 34 and the second gear 58 are engaged, the second gear extending around the support tube. One of the support tube and the second gear comprises a helical cam track 55 and the other of the support tube and the second gear comprises a cam 57 which is engaged in the helical cam track. During a rotation of the second gear relative to the support tube, the second gear makes the combined rotary and axial movement as a result of the cam moving through the cam track. The drive shaft extends parallel to the outer wall in which the opening 20 is provided. The second end portion 28 makes the same helical movement as the second gear 59. During the axial movement, the second gear 59 stays engaged with the first gear. To this end the second gear has a height 61.

[0054] The operating member 60 is connected to the drive assembly 50 in order to rotate the first or second end portion 26, 28 relative to the other end portion. In an embodiment without a drive assembly, the operating member may be mechanically connected to the first or second end portion to rotate the first and second end portion relative to one another manually.

[0055] The container may comprise a sensor 70 which senses the presence of a user, a bottle or a can and which activates the drive assembly to open the opening-closing device when a user, bottle or can is present. The sensor 70 may be a proximity sensor and be integrated in the outer wall.

[0056] Turning to figures 12 -13, the operating member 60 may be a foot pedal 62 configured to activate the drive assembly or be a regular control panel (fig. 13).

[0057] The flexible tubular member may also have a non-circular cross-section, although this is not preferred, because the deformation becomes irregular and the through-passage may not be completely closed.

[0058] Although the present invention is considered suitable for bottles and cans, the skilled person will understand that other types of discrete products, in particular cylindrical, spherical or rounded products may also be stored in the container.

[0059] It will be clear that the description above is intended to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments of the invention, and not to reduce the scope of protection of the invention. Starting from the above description, many embodiments will be conceivable to the skilled person within the inventive concept and scope of protection of the present invention.

[0060] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention. It will be recognized that a specific embodiment as claimed may not achieve all of the stated objects.

[0061] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0062] White lines between text paragraphs in the text above indicate that the technical features presented in the paragraph may be considered independent from technical features discussed in a preceding paragraph or in a subsequent paragraph.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0032]Turning to figures 1 through 4, a container 10 for holding products 12 is shown. The products may in particular be used bottles and / or used cans. The container comprises a housing 14 defining a compartment 16 for holding the products. The housing comprises an outer wall 18 and an opening 20 in the outer wall. The products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening. The housing is rigid. The outer wall 31 of the housing surrounds the opening and extends over a radial distance 23 away from the opening. In the shown embodiment the outer wall is flat. Obviously, the outer wall may have different shapes and be curved, in particular concave or convex or be straight, flat or conical. Any of these shapes allows the outer wall 31 to extend over a radial distance 23 away from the opening.

[0033]The container 10 comprise an opening-closing device 22 which is located at the opening 20 and is configured to open or close the opening.

[0034]The opening-closing device 22 com...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for storing products, in particular used bottles and used cans. The container is in particular for domestic use. Containers for used plastic bottles and cans are known.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Plastic bottles and cans are often recycled after use. There is a trend that more and more plastic bottles and cans are recycled. This trend is caused by a shifting general attitude towards a greener and more circular economy, resulting in changing regulations on deposits for plastic bottles and cans.

[0003] As a consequence, more and more households have a desire to store used plastic bottles and cans in house in a container that is separate from other waste containers, so that the used bottles can later be handed in in exchange for the deposit.

[0004] In the present invention, it was recognized that a high-quality and user-friendly container for storing used bottles and cans in house does not exist yet. One of the technical requirements is that the container should have a high-quality entry opening which is practical and user-friendly in use. It was further recognized that the entry opening should not be larger than necessary and should preferably be round, because most bottles are round.OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is an object of the invention to provide a container for used bottles and cans, wherein the container is constructed for domestic use, wherein the container has an entry that is safe, practical, user-friendly, round and visually appealing and allows insertion of used bottles and cans into the container.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In order to achieve at least one object, a container is provided for holding products, in particular for used bottles and / or used cans, the container comprising: a housing defining a compartment for holding the products, wherein the housing comprises an outer wall and an opening in the outer wall, wherein the outer wall of the housing surrounds the opening and extends over a radial distance away from the opening, wherein the products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening, an opening-closing device which is located at the opening and is configured to open or close the opening, wherein the opening-closing device comprises a flexible tubular member, the flexible tubular member having a first end portion, a second, opposite end portion and an intermediate portion between the first and second end portion, wherein the first end portion and second end portion are rotatable relative to one another between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state the flexible tubular member defines an open through passage, wherein in the closed state the flexible tubular member comprises a twisted part which closes the opening, and wherein the outer wall of the housing surrounds the twisted part and extends over a radial distance away from the twisted part.

[0007] It was found that the container with the opening-closing device provides a simple and effective way of storing products. The opening-closing device is also visually appealing to users. The opening is round, which is a same shape as the shape of most bottles and cans and therefore a suitable shape. The portion of the outer wall which surrounds the opening extends outwardly away from the twisted part when viewed from the outside in a direction orthogonal to the twisted part.

[0008] The opening-closing devices uses a principle which is sometimes referred to as a hyperboloid or hyperboloid valve. Opening-closing devices based on the hyperboloid principle are known for regulating the flow of a gas or liquid or the flow of a granulate material. Also, this principle is known for a drinking cup. An example is provided in US9371163B2.

[0009] In the present invention, it was recognized that such an opening-closing device may be used for a container for storing discrete products such as bottles or cans and to do so in an effective and visually appealing way. Rather than closing or opening a passage for a fluid, the opening-closing device is used for the passage of discrete product. The opening-closing device provides a reliable and user-friendly mechanism and advantageously seals off the compartment.

[0010] In some embodiments, the twisted part is parallel or substantially parallel with a portion of the outer wall which surrounds the opening. This provides a visually appealing closure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the opening-closing device comprises a support tube comprising a first tube end and a second opposite tube end, wherein a gap is defined between the first tube end and the outer wall, wherein the flexible tubular member comprises: an inner section which is located within the support tube, a bend at the gap, wherein the flexible tubular member makes a U-turn around the first tube end and transitions into an outer section, and the outer section which is located outside the support tube and in particular extends along the outer side of the support tube in an opposite direction as the inner section, wherein the first end portion is part of the inner section, wherein the second end portion is part of the outer section.

[0012] It was found that this provides a robust mechanical opening-closing device with a well controlled twisting of the flexible tubular member. The gap is annular and extends around the opening closing device When the opening-closing device closes the opening, the gap may remain. In other words, the flexible tubular member may or may not engage the edge of the opening.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first or second end portion is configured to make a helical movement which comprises two components of movement: a rotary movement, and an axial movement in a direction of a main axis of the support tube, wherein during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, the first or second end portion moves toward the first tube end, wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the first or second end portion moves away from the first tube end.

[0014] It was found that this allows a proper deformation of the flexible tubular member.

[0015] In some embodiments, during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the inner section wherein the outer section becomes shorter and the inner section becomes longer, allowing the inner section to become twisted, and wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the second end portion moves away from the first tube end, wherein material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the outer section, wherein the outer section becomes longer and the inner section becomes shorter.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second end portion is rotary and configured to make the helical movement, and wherein in particular the first end portion is fixed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the container comprises a drive assembly configured to apply a rotational movement to the first or second end portion in order to rotate that end portion relative to the other end portion from the open state to the closed state or vice versa. The drive assembly allows the opening-closing device to be opened and closed without a need for a user to manually rotate the opening-closing device. This provides a more user- friendly solution.

[0018] The drive assembly is provided on an inner side of the housing. This contributes to the visually appealing property.

[0019] In some embodiments, the drive assembly comprises an electromotor having a drive shaft, a first gear and a second gear, wherein the first gear is connected to the drive shaft of the electromotor and the second gear is connected to the second end portion. It was found that this is an effective drive.

[0020] In some embodiments, the container comprises an operating member operable by a user, wherein: a) the operating member is connected to the drive assembly in order to rotate the first or second end portion relative to the other end portion, or b) the container does not comprise a drive assembly and the operating member is mechanically connected to the first or second end portion to rotate the first and second end portion relative to one another manually.

[0021] Advantageously, the opening-closing device can be operated in a simple way by the user.

[0022] In some embodiments, the container comprises a sensor which senses the presence of a user, a bottle or a can and which activates the drive assembly to open the opening-closing device when a user, bottle or can is present. This makes insertion of used bottle or other products very easy.

[0023] In some embodiments, the support tube and the second gear are engaged, the second gear extending around the support tube, wherein one of the support tube and the second gear comprises a helical cam track and the other of the support tube and the second gear comprises a cam which is engaged in the helical cam track, wherein during a rotation of the second gear relative to the support tube, the second gear makes the combined rotary and axial movement as a result of the cam moving through the cam track.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second end of the support tube is connected to the housing via one or more intermediate walls. This allows the gap at the opening.

[0025] In some embodiments, in the closed state, the twisted part is flush with the outer wall or less than 20 mm recessed or raised relative to the outer wall, in particular less than 10mm recessed or raised.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first gear is a worm gear and the second gear is a spur gear.

[0027] In some embodiments, the operating member is a foot pedal configured to activate the drive assembly and / or wherein the sensor is a proximity sensor configured to activate the drive assembly when the user or the bottle or can is close to the opening.

[0028] In some embodiments, the intermediate portion is made of rubber or leather, wherein in particular the entire flexible tubular member is made of rubber or leather. It was found that these materials are very suitable.

[0029] In some embodiments, the through-passage extends at right angles to the wall of the housing.

[0030] It is noted that with the words "domestic use" are used to distinguish the present container from a container constructed as a collection point for a neighbourhood.SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0031] These and other aspects of the invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts. Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a container according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows the opening-closing device in the open state. Fig. 3 shows the opening-closing device in the closed state. Fig. 4 shows a further view of the opening-closing device in the closed state. Fig. 5 shows an exploded isometric view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 6 shows an exploded side view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 7 shows a side view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 8 shows a top view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 9 shows an isometric view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 10 shows another isometric view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 11 shows a side view of the opening-closing device. Fig. 12 shows a view of an embodiment of an operating member. Fig. 13 a view of another embodiment of an operating member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0032] Turning to figures 1 through 4, a container 10 for holding products 12 is shown. The products may in particular be used bottles and / or used cans. The container comprises a housing 14 defining a compartment 16 for holding the products. The housing comprises an outer wall 18 and an opening 20 in the outer wall. The products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening. The housing is rigid. The outer wall 31 of the housing surrounds the opening and extends over a radial distance 23 away from the opening. In the shown embodiment the outer wall is flat. Obviously, the outer wall may have different shapes and be curved, in particular concave or convex or be straight, flat or conical. Any of these shapes allows the outer wall 31 to extend over a radial distance 23 away from the opening.

[0033] The container 10 comprise an opening-closing device 22 which is located at the opening 20 and is configured to open or close the opening.

[0034] The opening-closing device 22 comprises a flexible tubular member 24. In the open state the flexible tubular member defines an open through passage 32. The through-passage 32 has a circular cross-section. If the diameter of the flexible tubular member is large enough, square bottles and bottles with other non-standard sizes and shapes can also be inserted.

[0035] In the closed state the flexible tubular member is twisted and closes the opening. In the closed state, the flexible tubular member comprises a twisted part 25. A main axis 47 extends through a center of the twisted part 25 and extends orthogonally to the twisted part. The outer wall 31 of the housing surrounds the opening. A portion 29 of the outer wall extends over a radial distance 23 away from the opening. The radial distance is measured orthogonal to the main axis 47. The main axis 47 extends at an angle of greater than 85 degrees and preferably orthogonal to the portion 29 of the outer wall surrounding the opening 20. In the closed state, the outer wall of the housing surrounds the twisted part and extends outwardly away from the twisted part.

[0036] In the closed state, the twisted part 25 may be parallel or substantially parallel with the portion 29 of the outer wall which surrounds the opening. An outer contour of the portion 29 is indicated with a dashed line The twisted part is flush with the outer wall or less than 10 mm recessed or raised relative to the outer wall.

[0037] The intermediate portion may be made of rubber or leather, wherein in particular the entire flexible tubular member is made of rubber or leather. The flexible tubular member preferably does not allow odours to exit the container, but this is optional. The flexible tubular member may be entirely flexible or only the central portion may be flexible.

[0038] The container has a bottom and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom. The container has two compartments 16, two openings 20, and two doors 23 on a front side 27. Each door 23 is associated with a respective compartment 16. The door allows emptying of the bottle / can compartment by a user.

[0039] The compartment may have a sack holder which holds a sack. When the container is full, a user can simply exchange the full sack for an empty sack. The sack holder may be connected to the door of the container.

[0040] It is also possible that an upper wall 31 of a housing is a lid which can be opened to empty the container when full.

[0041] The container comprises an opening-closing device 22 for each opening 20. The opening-closing device 22 is provided within the housing. In another embodiment, the container may comprise a single compartment 16, a single opening 20 and a single opening-closing device 22. Also, the container may comprise an additional compartment for different waste, in particular common household waste, or for different products. The additional compartment then may have a different kind of entry than the opening 20 with opening-closing device 22, for instance a regular lid.

[0042] The opening 20 is provided in the upper wall 31 of the housing, the upper wall facing upwards. The upper wall may be horizontal or inclined. The upper wall forms part of the outer wall.

[0043] The container comprises an operating member 60 operable by a user. The operating member can be a foot pedal 62 and / or a switch or the like.

[0044] Turning to figures 4 - 11, the opening-closing device comprises a support tube 34 comprising a first tube end 36 and a second opposite tube end 38. The support tube is aligned with the main axis 47. The second tube end 38 of the support tube is connected to the housing via one or more intermediate walls 39. The intermediate wall may form an internal housing which separates the mechanical parts from the products. The support tube is rigid and may be short or long. The second tube end is located further from the outer wall than the first tube end. The support tube extends downward and away from the outer wall.

[0045] The flexible tubular member 24 has a first end portion 26, a second, opposite end portion 28 and an intermediate portion 30 between the first and second end portion. The first end portion 26 and second end portion 28 are rotatable relative to one another between an open state and a closed state.

[0046] A gap 40 is defined between the first tube end and the outer wall. The gap 40 is annular. The flexible tubular member comprises: an inner section 42 which is located within the support tube, a bend 44 at the gap, wherein the flexible tubular member makes a U-turn around the first tube end and transitions into an outer section, and the outer section 46 which is located outside the support tube and in particular extends along the outer side of the support tube in an opposite direction as the inner section.

[0047] The first end portion is part of the inner section, and the second end portion is part of the outer section. The bend 44 of the flexible tubular member may fill the gap and may contact an edge 41 of the outer wall, but it may also be that the flexible tubular member is thinner than the gap. Inthat case the flexible tubular member does not contact the edge 41 of the outer wall 20 and a annular small gap between the edge 41 of the outer wall and the flexible tubular member remains. This may be the case both for the open and closed state.

[0048] The first or second end portion 26, 28 is configured to make a helical movement which comprises two components of movement: a rotary movement, and an axial movement in a direction of the main axis of the support tube 34, wherein during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, the first or second end portion moves toward the first tube end, wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the first or second end portion moves away from the first tube end.

[0049] During a rotation from the open state to the closed state, material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end 36 to become part of the inner section, wherein the outer section becomes shorter and the inner section becomes longer, allowing the inner section to become twisted. During a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the second end portion moves away from the first tube end, wherein material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the outer section, wherein the outer section becomes longer and the inner section becomes shorter.

[0050] In the shown embodiment, the second end portion 28 is rotary and configured to make the helical movement, and the first end portion 26 is fixed. The first end portion is fixed to the inside of the support tube.

[0051] The container 10 comprising a drive assembly 50 configured to apply a rotational movement to the first or second end portion in order to rotate that end portion relative to the other end portion from the open state to the closed state or vice versa. The drive assembly is inside the housing.

[0052] The drive assembly 50 comprises an electromotor 52 having a drive shaft 54, a first gear 56 and a second gear 58. The first gear is connected to the drive shaft of the electromotor and the second gear is connected to the second end portion 28. The first gear is a worm gear and the second gear is a spur gear. The second gear 58 has a protruding rim 59 at the upper end. The second end portion 28 is connected to the second gear 58 via the protruding rim 59 and rotates with the second gear 58..

[0053] The support tube 34 and the second gear 58 are engaged, the second gear extending around the support tube. One of the support tube and the second gear comprises a helical cam track 55 and the other of the support tube and the second gear comprises a cam 57 which is engaged in the helical cam track. During a rotation of the second gear relative to the support tube, the second gear makes the combined rotary and axial movement as a result of the cam moving through the cam track. The drive shaft extends parallel to the outer wall in which the opening 20 is provided. The second end portion 28 makes the same helical movement as the second gear 59. During the axial movement, the second gear 59 stays engaged with the first gear. To this end the second gear has a height 61.

[0054] The operating member 60 is connected to the drive assembly 50 in order to rotate the first or second end portion 26, 28 relative to the other end portion. In an embodiment without a drive assembly, the operating member may be mechanically connected to the first or second end portion to rotate the first and second end portion relative to one another manually.

[0055] The container may comprise a sensor 70 which senses the presence of a user, a bottle or a can and which activates the drive assembly to open the opening-closing device when a user, bottle or can is present. The sensor 70 may be a proximity sensor and be integrated in the outer wall.

[0056] Turning to figures 12 -13, the operating member 60 may be a foot pedal 62 configured to activate the drive assembly or be a regular control panel (fig. 13).

[0057] The flexible tubular member may also have a non-circular cross-section, although this is not preferred, because the deformation becomes irregular and the through-passage may not be completely closed.

[0058] Although the present invention is considered suitable for bottles and cans, the skilled person will understand that other types of discrete products, in particular cylindrical, spherical or rounded products may also be stored in the container.

[0059] It will be clear that the description above is intended to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments of the invention, and not to reduce the scope of protection of the invention. Starting from the above description, many embodiments will be conceivable to the skilled person within the inventive concept and scope of protection of the present invention.

[0060] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention. It will be recognized that a specific embodiment as claimed may not achieve all of the stated objects.

[0061] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0062] White lines between text paragraphs in the text above indicate that the technical features presented in the paragraph may be considered independent from technical features discussed in a preceding paragraph or in a subsequent paragraph.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0032]Turning to figures 1 through 4, a container 10 for holding products 12 is shown. The products may in particular be used bottles and / or used cans. The container comprises a housing 14 defining a compartment 16 for holding the products. The housing comprises an outer wall 18 and an opening 20 in the outer wall. The products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening. The housing is rigid. The outer wall 31 of the housing surrounds the opening and extends over a radial distance 23 away from the opening. In the shown embodiment the outer wall is flat. Obviously, the outer wall may have different shapes and be curved, in particular concave or convex or be straight, flat or conical. Any of these shapes allows the outer wall 31 to extend over a radial distance 23 away from the opening.

[0033]The container 10 comprise an opening-closing device 22 which is located at the opening 20 and is configured to open or close the opening.

[0034]The opening-closing device 22 com...

Claims

1. Container (10) for holding products (12), in particular used bottles and / or used cans, the container comprising: - a housing (14) defining a compartment (16) for holding the products, wherein the housing comprises an outer wall (18) and an opening (20) in the outer wall, wherein the outer wall of the housing surrounds the opening and extends over a radial distance away from the opening, wherein the products can be inserted into the compartment by a user via the opening, - an opening-closing device (22) which is located at the opening and is configured to open or close the opening, wherein the opening-closing device comprises a flexible tubular member (24), the flexible tubular member having a first end portion (26), a second, opposite end portion (28) and an intermediate portion (30) between the first and second end portion, wherein the first end portion and second end portion are rotatable relative to one another between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state the flexible tubular member defines an open through passage (32), wherein in the closed state the flexible tubular member comprises a twisted part (25) which closes the opening, and wherein the outer wall of the housing surrounds the twisted part and extends over a radial distance (23) away from the twisted part.

2. Container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein in the closed state, the twisted part (25) is parallel or substantially parallel with a portion (29) of the outer wall which surrounds the opening.

3. Container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the opening-closing device comprises a support tube (34) comprising a first tube end (36) and a second opposite tube end (38), wherein a gap (40) is defined between the first tube end and the outer wall, wherein the flexible tubular member comprises: - an inner section (42) which is located within the support tube, - a bend (44) at the gap, wherein the flexible tubular member makes a U-turn around the first tube end and transitions into an outer section, and - the outer section (46) which is located outside the support tube and in particular extends along the outer side of the support tube in an opposite direction as the inner section, wherein the first end portion is part of the inner section, wherein the second end portion is part of the outer section.

4. Container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first or second end portion is configured to make a helical movement which comprises two components of movement: - a rotary movement, and - an axial movement in a direction of a main axis of the support tube, wherein during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, the first or second end portion moves toward the first tube end, wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the first or second end portion moves away from the first tube end.

5. Container according to claim 3 or 4, wherein during a rotation from the open state to the closed state, material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the inner section wherein the outer section becomes shorter and the inner section becomes longer, allowing the inner section to become twisted, and wherein during a rotation from the closed state to the open state, the second end portion moves away from the first tube end, wherein material of the flexible tubular member travels around the first tube end to become part of the outer section, wherein the outer section becomes longer and the inner section becomes shorter.

6. Container according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the second end portion is rotary and configured to make the helical movement, and wherein in particular the first end portion is fixed.

7. Container according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a drive assembly (50) configured to apply a rotational movement to the first or second end portion in order to rotate that end portion relative to the other end portion from the open state to the closed state or vice versa.

8. Container according to the preceding claim, wherein the drive assembly comprises an electromotor (52) having a drive shaft (54), a first gear (56) and a second gear (58), wherein the first gear is connected to the drive shaft of the electromotor and the second gear is connected to the second end portion.

9. Container according to any of the preceding claims, comprising an operating member (60) operable by a user, wherein: a) the operating member is connected to the drive assembly in order to rotate the first or second end portion relative to the other end portion, or b) the container does not comprise a drive assembly and the operating member is mechanically connected to the first or second end portion to rotate the first and second end portion relative to one another manually.

10. Container according to any of claims 7-9, comprising a sensor (70) which senses the presence of a user, a bottle or a can and which activates the drive assembly to open the opening-closing device when a user, bottle or can is present.

11. Container according to any of claims 7-10, wherein the support tube and the second gear are engaged, the second gear extending around the support tube, wherein one of the support tube and the second gear comprises a helical cam track (55) and the other of the support tube and the second gear comprises a cam (57) which is engaged in the helical cam track, wherein during a rotation of the second gear relative to the support tube, the second gear makes the combined rotary and axial movement as a result of the cam moving through the cam track.

12. Container according to the preceding claim, wherein the second end of the support tube is connected to the housing via one or more intermediate walls.

13. Container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein in the closed state, the twisted part (25) which is flush with the outer wall or less than 20 mm recessed or raised relative to the outer wall, in particular less than 10 mm recessed or raised.

14. Container according to any of the claims 7 to 13, wherein the first gear is a worm gear and the second gear is a spur gear.

15. Container according to any of claims 9 - 14, wherein the operating member is a foot pedal (62) configured to activate the drive assembly and / or wherein the sensor is a proximity sensor configured to activate the drive assembly when the user or the bottle or can is close to the opening.

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