Hinge product and apparatus and method for forming the hinge product

Abstract

To provide an alternative hinging product manufactured using natural polymers.SOLUTION: A product manufactured using a mass comprising natural polymers, wherein the product includes at least a first product part and a second product part connected by a hinge construction. The hinge construction includes at least one flexible sheet element and one bridge portion made of the mass comprising the natural polymers, the hinge structure is designed such that, prior to a first time hinging, the at least one bridge portion forms a more rigid connection between the first product part and the second product part compared to the flexible sheet element, and the bridge portion is cut by the by hinging, as a result, the first and second product parts are connected substantially only by the at least one flexible strip.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention is made using masses containing natural polymers and connected to each other by hinge structures. The present invention further relates to a product comprising at least first and second product portions. The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for forming such products. [Background technology]

[0002] U.S. Pat. No. 5,376,320 describes a first product portion and a hinged assembly. and a second product portion connected thereto. A flexible strip is formed to fill the gap between the first product portion and the second product portion. In an apparatus for forming such a product, two separate mold cavities are Each cavity has at least one injection opening. During manufacture, a label is placed on top of the separator wall and folded over both edges of the separator wall. The closing mold section is then placed over and into each of the mold cavities. A label is fixed between the upper part of the separating wall and the closed mold part. When removed from the container, a label extending between the first product portion and the second product portion is Fold one product section over the other by folding the loop section. It is possible.

[0003] International Publication No. WO00 / 39214 describes a method for producing a polymeric material by using a mass of natural polymer formed in a mold. The patent discloses hinge products such as clamshells manufactured by the method. By locally influencing the material composition of the product, the hinge is formed by a mass containing natural polymers. As a result, the material properties of the associated parts deviate from those of the adjacent parts. do. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an alternative hinge product made using natural polymers. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a hinge product that is easy to manufacture. The object of the present disclosure is to provide a product that is easy to handle, especially after the product has been formed. The present disclosure provides a method for forming a hinge product using a natural polymer. The object is to provide a method for forming hinge products using natural polymers, and in particular for forming such products using a mold. The object of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus for forming a molded product that is easily removable during packaging of the product. and providing a package having hinge portions each made of a natural polymer that can be handled. This is what we should do.

[0005] These and other objectives can be achieved using products, methods, and / or apparatus according to the present disclosure. can be achieved individually or in combination.

[0006] In one aspect, the product according to the present disclosure can be produced using a mass comprising a natural polymer. The product may include at least first and second product portions connected by a hinge structure. The hinge structure includes at least one flexible sheet element, such as a strip, and a front The hinge structure includes a bridge portion made of a block containing the natural polymer. and before hingedly connecting the second product portions to each other, said at least one bridge The flexible sheet element is positioned between the first and second product portions. It is designed to form a stronger connection than the first product part and allows for the first time to attach the first product part to the second product part. By hinged to the part, the bridge part is severed, e.g., at least partially torn, sheared, and / or broken, resulting in the first and second The product portions are connected to one another substantially only by at least one flexible sheet element.

[0007] In the product according to the present disclosure, when the product is removed from the mold in which it is formed, one or more A bridge or bridges are preferably provided between the first and second product portions. or one product part moves, especially pivots, relative to another product part under the influence of gravity. It is preferable to form a connection that is at least sufficiently strong to prevent separation. Easy operation when molding, stacking, unloading and handling, e.g. during product filling After demolding, the hinge structure allows the first product portion to be attached to the second product portion. When pivoted, the bridge portion may be particularly susceptible to partial breakage, tearing, and / or shearing. The cutting by the first and second product portions results in a loss of rigidity. Both are connected to each other by only one flexible strip, allowing for easy and repeatable hinge connection This becomes possible.

[0008] In each embodiment, the at least one flexible sheet, such as one or more strips The element is at least partially joined on at least one surface by said mass forming a bridge. One or more bridges may be provided so that the same or In different embodiments, at least two flexible sheet elements, such as strips, are provided. and a bridge portion is at least partially provided between each of said flexible sheet elements. and / or at least two bridge portions, and a small portion such as a strip At least one flexible sheet element may be provided extending between each of the bridge portions. Cut.

[0009] In one aspect, the method of the present disclosure includes: placing a mass containing at least a natural polymer, such as starch, in a mold; The mass in the mold may be heated so that the mass is heated to at least The mold comprises at least two cross-linked natural polymers connected by a bridge. and at least one flexible sheet element, such as a strip, is preferably Preferably, the mass is placed in and / or on the bridge portion before being introduced into the mold. The at least one flexible sheet element is positioned on both sides of the bridge portion of the product portion. The mold is arranged to extend at least partially within the forming portion and to connect to the mass introduced into the mold. The mould used is such that at least part of the mass forms a bridge during the introduction of the mass into the mould. and flowing over and / or along said at least one flexible sheet element, forming At least one bridge is formed in the resulting product.

[0010] In each embodiment, the mass is at least one of the surfaces of at least one of the flexible sheet elements. The bridge covers the product portion and connects the product portions formed in the product portion forming portion. The member may form a layer on at least one surface of the flexible sheet element.

[0011] In each embodiment, at least one flexible sheet element is disposed within and between the bridge portion. and / or at least one and preferably a series of pins on said at least At least one flexible sheet element is held in place during introduction of the mass into the mold. In each such embodiment, the at least one flexible sheet element is flexible when the mold is closed. Preferably on at least one pin so that the surface of the flexible sheet element abuts the mold surface. The pinned portion is then pressed against the other surface of the flexible sheet element, so that the mass is associated with the formation of the bridge portion. It can only flow on surfaces.

[0012] In each embodiment, each mold section includes a first wall section connected to a bridge section. and at least one flexible shell. a support element disposed in and / or on the bridge portion and having a longitudinal direction, The opposite sides of the flexible sheet element are folded onto the respective walls of the associated mold sections, Each is designed to form an inner surface of the associated product part formed therein. .

[0013] In one aspect, an apparatus according to the present disclosure can include a mold, the mold being configured by a bridge portion. The apparatus preferably comprises at least two product portion forming portions joined by a before introducing the at least one flexible sheet element into the bridge portion. and / or a seat system for placing on said at least one flexible The sheet element extends at least partially into the product portion-forming portion on either side of the bridge portion; Preferably, the mass is then joined to the mass introduced into the mold. a product formed in each of said product portion forming sections covering at least a portion of at least one surface thereof; connecting the product portions and / or masses adjacent to said at least one flexible sheet element At least one bridge portion is formed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] To further clarify the present invention, various embodiments thereof will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the following is shown and described:

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a hinged product in an open position.

[0016] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a top view of the product of FIG. 1.

[0017] [Figure 2] 1A is a cross-sectional view of the product of FIG. 1 taken along line II-II in FIG. 1A.

[0018] [Figure 3A] 1 is a close-up view of a hinge structure of a product in a first embodiment according to the present disclosure before a first hinge connection; FIG.

[0019] [Figure 3B] 3B is a close-up view of the hinge structure of the product according to the present disclosure as shown in FIG. 3A after the first hinge connection.

[0020] [Figure 3C] 3B shows an enlarged view of the hinge structure of FIG. 3A.

[0021] [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a hinged product in an open position.

[0022] [Figure 5] 5 shows the product of FIG. 4 in a closed position.

[0023] [Figure 6] 1 shows a portion of an apparatus for forming products according to the present disclosure with an open mold and sheet system in position to pick up each flexible sheet element.

[0024] [Figure 7A] 7 shows the apparatus of FIG. 6 with the sheet system positioned to pick up each flexible sheet element and place each flexible sheet element in its respective mold.

[0025] [Figure 7B] 7 shows the apparatus of FIG. 6 with the sheet system positioned to pick up each flexible sheet element and place each flexible sheet element in its respective mold.

[0026] [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a mold portion showing pins for holding flexible sheet elements.

[0027] [Figure 8A] 1 shows a flexible sheet element such as a strip pinned onto a pin.

[0028] [Figure 9A] 10A-10C illustrate various embodiments of alternative hinge structures.

[0029] [Figure 9B] 10A-10C illustrate various embodiments of alternative hinge structures.

[0030] [Figure 9C] 10A-10C illustrate various embodiments of alternative hinge structures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] This description shows and discloses embodiments of the present invention for purposes of example only. should not be construed or understood as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. In this description, identical or similar elements are designated with identical or similar reference numerals. In this description, each embodiment of the present invention is illustrated as a natural polymer for purposes of illustration only. These will be described with reference to starch-based natural polymers. Other natural polymers may also be used in such masses.

[0032] In this disclosure, packaging products are primarily described as examples of each product by illustration. Other hinge products are also within the scope of the claims. In this disclosure, a hinge connection may refer to at least a second product portion connected to the first product portion via a hinge structure; Pivoting relative to, especially around, a pivot line or series of pivot lines provided by a hinge structure Such pivot lines may be solid or imaginary, It may be straight or curved. A hinged connection is a flexible sheet that connects two product parts. The first product is attached to the hinge structure by flexing and / or bending the element. a second product portion connected to said second product portion from a position substantially immediately adjacent said second product portion; It should be understood to include at least moving the device to a substantially upper position.

[0033] In this disclosure, packaging products are products that are used to package other products, for example, for storage, transport, and / or display. It should be understood that this includes at least but is not limited to products that can package goods. In the present disclosure, a hinge product such as a packaging product includes at least one or more flexible the at least one flexible sheet element, such as a flexible strip, The first and second product parts are held together, causing them to separate It is preferable that the door can be opened and closed several times without any trouble.

[0034] In the present disclosure, a sheet has a longitudinal direction and a width direction perpendicular thereto, and a length direction and a width direction perpendicular thereto. The longitudinal direction should be understood as an element having a thickness direction perpendicular to both the length and width directions. The length and width in the width direction are substantially greater than the thickness in the thickness direction. A relatively flat, elongated strip of flexible sheet material having a width and thickness and a direction It should be understood that the longitudinal length means at least, but is not limited to, the length of the The thickness is greater than the width measured across the trip when it is substantially flat. Also small.

[0035] Flexible in the present disclosure refers to the ability of a flexible sheet element, such as a strip, to be stretched at least longitudinally. at least 45 degrees, preferably at least 90 degrees, e.g., in a direction substantially perpendicular to the For example, the flexible member can be repeatedly bent through an angle of at least about 180 degrees, and the bending radius is This may be understood to mean less than or equal to the width of the strip in a flat position. wherein the flexible sheet material is a flexible sheet material used in a hinge structure in a product according to the present disclosure. This means that the flexible sheet material is more flexible than any bridge in the same product. It may be understood that

[0036] The flexible sheet elements, such as strips, may be made of any suitable material, such as paper, textile, polymer, etc. It can be made from a single layer or a laminate. Flexible, such as a strip The materials used to make the sheet elements are preferably biodegradable, and more preferably The flexible sheet, such as a strip, is biodegradable relative to the material of each product part that is connected to it. The element has two sides in the thickness direction, at least one of which is used to form the product. Preferably, the mass to be applied is suitable for adhering to, for example, the natural polymer in the mass. In the form of a flexible sheet material such as a strip, a portion of the mass is Porous or perforated to allow entry into and / or through it Good too.

[0037] In the present disclosure, the mass containing natural polymers is, for example, starch or tapioca. including at least but not limited to batters or suspensions containing natural polymers, In this case, it is preferable that the mass contains moisture, so that the mass The mass is fluid before heating, and the natural polymer in the mass gels and crosslinks during heating in the mold. Examples of suitable blocks are described, for example, in WO 2004 / 033179. , U.S. Pat. No. 5,376,320, International Publication No. WO00 / 39214 and International Publication No. W O96 / 30186, all of which are suitable for molded products according to the present disclosure. To the extent that it discloses a mass such as a suspension containing the selected natural polymer, it is incorporated herein by reference. Can be incorporated.

[0038] This disclosure describes an apparatus, including a mold, for forming a product according to the disclosure. In an embodiment, a mass containing natural polymers can be introduced under pressure, and the natural polymers in the mass can be The main focus is on closed molds that can be heated to obtain at least cross-linking of the polymer. Such a mold and mold system are described, for example, in International Publication No. WO2004 / 03 3179, U.S. Pat. No. 5,376,320, International Publication No. WO00 / 39214 and and International Publication No. WO 96 / 30186, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety in the Netherlands. neveld, Paperfoam (registered trademark), a product material manufactured by Paperfoam Insofar as it discloses a molding apparatus for molding natural polymer-based masses such as However, products according to the present disclosure may be used in a variety of ways, including, for example, as disclosed herein. In various molding systems and devices, for example, the mass is introduced without pressure and the metal Forming in a mold where pressure is applied through one or more mold cavities by closing the mold Such a molding system is described, for example, in US Pat. Known from patent no. 4417508.

[0039] In each embodiment of the molding apparatus described below for illustrative purposes, two products are molded simultaneously. A mold is shown having each mold cavity for forming. Other numbers of mold cavities are possible, such as for forming more than one or two products in a mold. It will be apparent that a service may also be provided.

[0040] In each embodiment of the manufacturing method and apparatus according to the present disclosure described below, at least one The flexible sheet elements are placed in a mold, so that at least one flexible sheet element is formed. The element is adhered to or at least integrated into the product during molding, except that, for example, An adhesive, preferably a non-toxic, more preferably a biodegradable adhesive, such as a starch-based adhesive, is used. By using the flexible sheet-like element as an intermediate product, the flexible sheet-like element is adhered to the product after molding. It is also possible to have a flexible sheet-like element connecting the first and second product portions.

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a chicken egg carton in this embodiment, shown for illustrative purposes only. The product 1 is shown in perspective view. The product 1 is connected to a second product by a hinge structure 4, as will be described later. First product portion 2 connected to second product portion 3. First product portion 2 and second product portion 3 Both the first product part 2 and the second product part 3 may be substantially shell-shaped. The product 1 has one or more relatively thin walls that define a space within the portion 3. Each such space together forms a space surrounded by such product 1. .

[0042] The first product portion 2 in the embodiment of Figures 1, 1A and 2 is for chicken eggs (not shown). Each of the spaces 5 can be used to store eggs. 5 are arranged in two parallel rows 6, each row 6 in this embodiment having six such Between the two rows 6 there is a space 5 which supports the second product part 3 when the product 1 is closed. Two support posts 7 suitable for supporting the second space 5 are provided so as to extend above each space 5. The first product part 2 is designed as a lid. The second product part 2 is attached to the opposite side of the hinge structure 4. The first product portion 3 has a first edge 8, while the second product portion 3 has a second edge 9 opposite the hinge structure 4. The first edge 8 includes each first locking element 10, while the second edge 9 includes each second locking element 10. The first product in the closed position includes a locking element 11. a first locking element 10 and a second locking element 12 for releasably locking the product part 2 and the second product part 3 together; The two locking elements 11 can be engaged with each other.

[0043] Product 1 is prepared by the addition of a cellulose acetate solution to allow cross-linking of the natural polymers and evaporation of part of the liquid fraction of the mass. It is made from a mass containing natural polymers such as starch that has been heated to allow for fermentation. This provides a relatively rigid foam wall structure. Product 1 is manufactured using a closed mold into which the mass is poured under pressure. It is preferably molded.

[0044] The hinge structure 4 may include at least one or more hinges, as can be seen in FIGS. 2 and 3. The flexible sheet element 12 includes a series of flexible sheet elements 12 and one or a series of bridge portions 13. The flexible sheet element 12 is connected to the first product part 2 and the second product part 3. At least one bridge portion 13 also connects the first product portion 2 and the second product portion 3. It is made of a mass containing sintered and cross-linked natural polymers. Also called bridge elements 13 At least one bridge portion 13 may be provided between the first product portion 2 and the second product portion 3. It is preferably integral with part 3 and made from the same mass as them.

[0045] At least one bridge portion 13 is preferably connected to at least one flexible sheet element 1 2, and as a result, it is difficult to close the product 1, especially as a packaging product 1. When the second product part 3 is hinged onto the first product part 2 by the hinge structure 4, at least At least one flexible sheet element 12 is flexed and / or folded, while At least one bridge portion 13 is provided so that the stiffness of at least such bridge portion 13 is significant. The material is cut, e.g., broken, sheared, and / or torn, to a degree that is reduced to a minimum, preferably at least At least one bridge portion 13 is broken, resulting in the first product portion 2 and the second product portion 3 being separated. The product parts 3 are then connected to each other only by at least one flexible sheet element 12. One or more flexible sheet elements after cutting one or more bridge portions 13 12 allows the second product part 3 to be repeatedly hinged to the first product part 2. Before cutting the one or more bridge portions 13, such hinge connections are The knotting is substantially prevented by at least one bridge portion 13 .

[0046] FIG. 3A shows, for illustrative purposes, the first product portion 2 after molding and before initial hinging. and the second product portion 3. FIG. 3C shows the same at a larger scale. Here, the bridge portion 13 connects the second wall 14 of the first product part 2 with the second wall 15 of the second product part 3. The first wall 15 is shown extending between the first wall 15 and being integrally formed therewith. In this embodiment, the bridge portion 13 is made of the same material as the first product portion 2 and the second product portion 3. In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the bridge portion 13 is made of the first flexible sheet element 12. abutting a first surface 16 of the flexible sheet element 12, while a second, opposite surface 17 of the flexible sheet element 12 is free-standing. In this embodiment, the bridge portion 13 is in contact with the flexible sheet element 12. The grooves have a substantially flat surface 18 and an opposing surface having a generally grooved shape, the opposing surface having: For example, extending perpendicular to the plane of the paper in FIG. 3C and parallel to and / or in conjunction with the hinge line S. They have a substantially V-shaped cross section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X which extends congruently. Therefore, the central portion 19 of the bridge portion 13 is the thinnest and therefore the first to break during hinge connection. This will most likely cause the flexible sheet element 12 to flex or fold. A hinge line S for the hinge is substantially defined.

[0047] FIG. 3B shows the same product cross section as in FIGS. 3A and 3C, but with respect to the first product portion 2. In Fig. 3B the cross section is shown after the second product part 3 has been hinged. 12 is bent or folded at or near the bending or hinge line S. On the other hand, the bridge portion 13 is broken (at the thinnest portion 19), and The rigidity of the hinge structure 4 connecting the first product part 2 to the second product part 3 is significantly reduced. The flexible sheet element 12 remains connected to the first product portion 2 and the second product portion 3. is.

[0048] As can be appreciated from this disclosure, the flexible sheet element 12 and bridge portion 13 may be, for example, For example, the second product portion 3 is pivoted relative to the first product portion 2 (see, for example, FIGS. 3A and 3B When the hinge structure 4 is flexed by the flexure (as shown in FIG. 1), the bridge portion 13 acts as a flexible shaft. It is designed and constructed to be cut, particularly broken, without cutting the port element 12. Preferably, the bridge portion 13 is, for example, less flexible than the flexible sheet element 12, and / or may be highly brittle.

[0049] In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 1A, the flexible sheet element 12 is A strip extending over the longitudinal length L of the second wall 14 and the first wall 15 of the second product portion 3 The flexible sheet element 12 is provided as a trip 12A. 9A to 9C, for example, a plurality of bridges are provided. Various alternative embodiments in which a portion 13 and / or multiple flexible sheet elements 12 are provided For example, FIG. 9A shows two spaced apart flexible sheet elements 12B between three spaced apart flexible sheet elements 12B. FIG. 9B shows a top view of a hinge structure 4 with three spaced apart bridge portions 13A. The top surface of the hinge structure comprises two flexible sheet elements 12C between two spaced bridge portions 13B. FIG. 9C shows a strip of flexible sheet material covering five spaced apart bridge portions 13C. 1 shows an embodiment of a hinge structure 4 with a lip 12A. Obviously, many other combinations of support elements 12 and bridge sections 13 are possible. do.

[0050] The flexible sheet element 12 in the present disclosure may be made of any material, including, but not limited to, paper, plastic, fabric, etc. It may be made from any suitable flexible and / or bendable material. It can be a single layer sheet or a laminate consisting of different layers of the same or different materials. The flexible sheet material is preferably biodegradable and comprises natural materials. .

[0051] At least one bridge portion 13 extends over an angle of more than 45° after the product 1 is demolded. When deflected through an angle of at least 90°, more preferably at least about 180° Preferably, the flexure is made to break when deflected through an angle of 100°. The product 1 is formed by folding the flexible sheet material onto the hinge line S. At least one layer of material made of the polymeric mass covering the flexible sheet material 12 breaks. In each of the embodiments shown in FIGS. At least one bridge portion 13 has a substantially symmetrical cross section (as shown in Figures 3A to 3C). ), so that the hinge line S is substantially in the middle of the gap 20 between each wall portion 14 and 15. By designing the bridge section(s) differently, the hinge line S The position can be adjusted.

[0052] 4 and 5 show a schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of the product 1 according to the present disclosure. also has a first product portion 2 connected to a second product portion 3 by a hinge structure 4. The hinge structure 4, as shown enlarged and schematically in cross section in FIG. 4A, also comprises a first 1, comprising a flexible sheet element 12 connected to the product portion 2 and the second product portion 3. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3, after demolding and before the first hinge connection, and a bridge portion 13 that connects the first product element 2 and the second product element 3. However, in this embodiment, the bridge portion 13 has a substantially V-shaped cross section. Two thin sections 19 formed by the undersides of two substantially parallel grooves 21 having surfaces Between each groove 21, a raised thicker portion 22 is provided. can be.

[0053] 1 to 3, in the open position as shown in FIG. After that, i.e. before the second product portion 3 is tilted relative to the first product portion 2 for the first time, one Alternatively, the bridge portions 13 are relatively rigid compared to the flexible sheet element 12 and are preferably Alternatively, only one of the first product portion 2 and the second product portion 3 may contain the first product portion 2. and the other of the second product portions 3 is moved to the first product portion 3 due to gravity acting on the other product portion. 1 engages with the product portion 2 without significant tilting, holding the product in a substantially horizontal position. The rigidity is sufficient to allow the lifting of the vehicle without significant tilting. At least, the bridge portion or at least one of the bridge portions is broken. It should be understood that this means that there is not enough tilt in the The ridge(s) facilitate release, stacking and unloading of open products, e.g. Such product 1 is transported to a filling station for filling with the product to be packaged therein. This can facilitate handling in real time, for example by a robot.

[0054] 4 and 5 to close product 1 in the position shown in FIG. 5. When the part 3 is tilted relative to the first product part 2, the bridge part 13 (or each bridge The edge portion 13 is cut, e.g., broken or torn, at both thin portions 19, and Double hinge of two substantially parallel hinge lines S1 and S2 located at or near minute 19 As can be seen in FIG. 5, in the closed position, the first product part 2 and The opposing surfaces 23 and 24 of the second product portion 3 are in a substantially horizontal position. , the thicker portions 22 extend substantially vertically.

[0055] In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the first product portion 2 includes a series of ridges 25. , the second product part 3 includes a series of grooves 26, so that the second product part 3 is substantially A cylindrical product (not shown) can be packaged in product 1.

[0056] FIG. 6 illustrates an apparatus 40 for forming the product 1 according to the present disclosure. 1. In this example, the mold is shown diagrammatically with a release mold 30. In this example, the mold is arranged to release two products 1 according to FIG. For side-by-side molding, flexible sheet material 12, particularly such flexible sheet material 12 A part of the supply 31 for the strip 12A and the strip 12A into the mold 30 In this embodiment, the supply unit 31 is designed with a transfer device 35 for transferring the , each of which includes two rolls 32 of the material 12, each having a predetermined length. From the roll 32, the strip 12A passes over the guide 33 and is guided from the respective associated roll 32. Two parallel pitches of the transfer device 35 engage the strip 12A of length L cut from the The sheet is fed to a substantially vertical position in front of the backup device 34.

[0057] 7A and 7B show a first mold half 30A and a second mold half 30B formed in a conventional manner. 6. The apparatus 40 is shown schematically with an open mold 30 having a first mold half 30A and a second mold half 30B. FIG. 7A shows a flexible sheet material 12, such as a strip 12A, being picked up. The transfer device 35 is shown in position for transferring the material. The transfer device 35 may be, for example, a rail or arm. 7A to 7C, and a system 36 is included which is used to move each pickup device 34 from the position shown in FIG. When in use, each pickup can be moved to its position in 7B and vice versa. The device 34 picks up the two strips 12A at the position of FIG. 7A and The trip 12A is moved to the position shown in FIG. 7B, and at this position, each strip 12A are transferred from each pickup device 34 into the mold 30, particularly as will be explained in more detail below. 7A. and the mold 30 can be closed for the molding cycle. The mass can be injected into a chain mold 30, and the mass can then be mixed with at least the natural polymer in the mass. The polymer is heated to cross-link the polymer, and then the polymer is removed, for example, by an ejector (not shown) or other release agent. Removing each product 1 from the mold 30 using a mold system and equipment known in the art. During the formation of the product 1, the flexible sheet material 12, particularly the strip 12A, is secured to the product 1. It's really connected.

[0058] The mold 30 according to the present disclosure is particularly advantageous in that it allows the mass to be at least partially filled during the introduction of the mass into the mold 30. When the sheet is passed over another flexible sheet element 12, the sheet is At least one relay for keeping element 12 in a fixed or at least predetermined position. It is preferable to have a retainer or retainer system 41. In Figs. 1, an embodiment of a retainer 41 is shown, which forms part of a retainer system 41. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer 41 is a metal retainer for molding the first product portion 2. Between the mold part 30(2) and the second mold part 30(3) for forming the second product part 3 The bridge portion 50 is formed by a sharp pin 42 extending above a surface 43 that forms part of the extending bridge portion 50. The surface 43 can be placed against the outer surface 18 of the strip 12A. In this embodiment, the surface 43 is substantially flat, but may be The cross section can also be designed differently, e.g. curved. The width W of the surface 43 between the second forming portion 30(2) and the second product portion 3 forming portion 30(3) may be, for example, approximately the same as the width (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X) of the strip 12A. In FIG. 8A, the width W of surface 43 is shown to be less than the width W12 of strip 12A. As a result, both sides 44 of the strip 12A are in contact with the first product portion-forming portion 30(2). and the second product part forming portion 30(3) is placed against the wall forming portions 45 and 46, respectively. It is folded.

[0059] When the strip 12A is transferred into the mold 30, the strip 12A is The retainer, in particular the at least one pin 42, is pressed against the strip. This causes a hole to be formed in the strip 12A. , is held within the mold 30 by at least one pin 42.

[0060] As seen in FIG. 8A, mold section 30B is inserted over mold section 30A, thereby inserting pins 42. In each embodiment, the pin 42 can be made shorter. As a result, the free sharp end 42A of the pin 42 is pressed against the formed mold cavity 47. A closed mold cavity 47 is formed surrounding the strip 12A. In this configuration, at least one pin 42 may, for example, have a strip 12A during demolding. To remove the product 1 from the mold, or to strip the pin 42 before or during closing of the mold 30, In order to penetrate the hole 12A, the length L is pin It can be moved to This can be done.

[0061] During shaping, the mass, such as a batter, suspension or liquid, is preferably formed into at least one flexible At least one inlet opening or injection point 5 spaced apart from the sheet element 12 1 into the mold cavity 47. At least one such introduction point is For example, a double mold shown in Figures 6, 7 and 8 may be installed between two product forming parts. The mass can be formed by the fact that it is at least one of the flexible sheet elements 12. At least one block passes over and / or under and / or along the In each alternative embodiment, the ridge 13 is introduced before closing or During closing, the mass is introduced into the mold 30, and closing the mold 30 forces the mass into the mold cavity. In such an embodiment, e.g., during closure, After feeding the mass into the mold 30, at least one flexible sheet element 12, i.e., at least Another flexible sheet element 12 may be provided.

[0062] One or more flexible sheet members 12A and / or 12B for holding the strip 12A and / or 12B. Alternatively or in addition to the pins 42, e.g. at least one flexible sheet element Other holding arrangements such as clamps to secure element 12 in place may be provided, for example For example, clamps that secure the ends of the strip 12A during molding, and the ends are then released from the mold. The retaining means may also be flexible and may be released and / or separated during demolding. Vacuum cups and / or strips for temporarily holding the sheet element 12 in place Similarly, other transport means may be provided for placing the strip into the mold. For example, the strip can be drawn directly from a roll into the mold. In this embodiment, each flexible sheet element 12 is provided on a continuous support and is attached to one or more The flexible sheet element 12 may be transferred, for example, into a mold 30 and then one or more The flexible sheet element 12 is removed from its continuous support after the product to which it is connected during molding is released. It can be removed.

[0063] This invention is in no way limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, which are for illustrative purposes only. Many variations of the present invention are possible, including all combinations of the features disclosed herein. , are encompassed by the invention as defined by the claims.

[0064] For example, using ingredients that include other ingredients besides starch, such as, but not limited to, tapioca In each embodiment, the product 1 according to the present disclosure can be The hinge structure may have multiple hinge portions, some or all of which are connected by a hinge structure. The product according to the present disclosure can be a product that is different from the packaging, with each part of the product being made from a different material. In each embodiment, the flexible sheet element that constitutes a part of the hinge structure can be The element may be one or more parts, such as both product-forming parts, to form its surface area, for example. In each illustrated embodiment, at least one The flexible sheet elements are shown on the outer surface area of ​​the product. However, such flexible The sheet element may also be provided on the inner surface area of ​​the product. The portions may be provided on both sides of the flexible sheet element.

[0065] These and other such embodiments are also defined primarily by the claims. are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A method of manufacturing a product, comprising: introducing a mass comprising at least a natural polymer into a mold; and heating said mass in said mold, such that said mass comprises at least cross-links of said natural polymer; and said mold comprises at least two product part-forming portions connected by a bridge portion; at least one flexible sheet element is disposed in and / or on said bridge portion, said at least one flexible sheet element extending at least partially into each of said product part forming portions on either side of said bridge portion and connected to said mass introduced into said mould; during introduction of the mass into the mold, at least a portion of the mass flows over the bridge portion and over and / or along the at least one flexible sheet element to form at least one bridge portion within the formed product and to connect the formed product portions within the respective product portion forming portions; the at least one flexible sheet element is covered on at least one side of the flexible sheet element by a layer of the mass during the introduction of the mass; The method, wherein the layer of mass covering the at least one flexible sheet element is designed to be cut when the flexible sheet element is folded in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flexible sheet element.

2. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the flexible sheet element is a paper-based material.

3. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one flexible sheet element is held at or near the bridge portion to hold the at least one flexible sheet element in place during introduction of the mass into the mold.

4. The method described in claim 3, wherein the retainer includes at least one pin, the at least one pin being located on or near the side of the bridge portion spaced apart from the introduction point of the mass within the mold.

5. the mass is introduced into the mold by a closing member during and / or after closing of the mold, 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the mass is injected into the mold under pressure.

6. 6. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the bridge portion and the at least one flexible sheet element are dimensioned such that during introduction of the mass into the mould, the mass can flow over the at least one flexible sheet element from one of the product portion forming parts of the mould to the other.

7. 7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one flexible sheet element is supplied from a roll and a length of sheet material is placed in and / or over the bridge portion.

8. each of the product portion-forming portions of the mold is designed to form a shell portion having a first wall portion connected to the bridge portion; the at least one flexible sheet element is disposed in and / or on the bridge portion and has a longitudinal direction; 8. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein both sides of the at least one flexible sheet element are designed to be folded over the respective walls of the respective product part forming portions of the associated mold to form respective surface portions of the associated product parts formed therein.

9. A method described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the layer of mass is formed by a series of bridge portions, the bridge portions being spaced apart from one another.

10. the at least one flexible sheet element forms a hinge between the at least two product portions such that the at least two product portions can be folded relative to one another; 10. The method of claim 1, wherein when the product portions are folded relative to one another, the mass covers at least one surface of the flexible sheet element that is facing outward or inward.

11. 1. An apparatus for forming a product from a mass comprising at least a natural polymer, said apparatus comprising a mold, said mold including at least two product part forming portions connected by a bridge portion; the apparatus comprises a system for placing at least one flexible sheet element in and / or on the bridge portion, the at least one flexible sheet element extending at least partially into each of the product part-forming portions on either side of the bridge portion and connecting to the mass introduced into the mold, so that the mass covers at least a portion of at least one surface of the flexible sheet element and connects each of the product parts formed in each of the product part-forming portions; the sheet system comprises at least one roll for supplying flexible sheet material, and at least one sheet transfer unit for transferring the flexible sheet material supplied by the roll to the mold into and / or onto the bridge portion; the mold includes at least one retainer in and / or on the bridge portion, and the at least one pin and the series of pins are provided such that the at least one flexible sheet element is pinnable onto the at least one pin; Device.

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