Reclosable container

Abstract

The invention relates to a reclosable container (1) comprising a container main body (2) with a container opening (20) and a lid (3) closing the container opening (20) in a closing position, wherein the lid (3) has an insertion portion (30) inserted into the container opening (20); wherein the container main body (2) is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure (22); wherein the lid (3) is made as a pre-shaped component from a fiber-based material and the lid (3) is inserted into the container opening (20) such that an upper end of the insertion portion (30) is flush with an edge (23) of the container opening (20), wherein a first region (301), arranged above the weakening structure (22), of the insertion portion (30) inserted into the container opening (20) is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body (2), and a second region (302), arranged below the weakening structure (22), of the insertion portion (30) inserted into the container opening (20) contacts the inner side of the container main body (2) without a material bond. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing a reclosable container.

Description

TECHNICAL AND PRIOR ART

[0001] The invention relates to a reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid which closes the container opening in a closing position. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing a reclosable container.

[0002] Containers allowing for a reclosure with a lid are referred to as reclosable containers in connection with the present application. Containers of this type comprise a container main body with a container opening and a lid which closes the container opening in a closing position. For opening the container, the lid is removable from the container main body or pivotable relative thereto, to permit access to the product located inside the container main body via the container opening, wherein the container opening is reclosable by the lid after being opened.

[0003] Reclosable containers are used for example as packaging for foodstuffs available as bulk materials, such as flour, milk powder, coffee, tea, cocoa, sugar, salt, candies etc. The use of reclosable containers is however not restricted to packaging foodstuffs, and the container may also be used for packaging other bulk materials, such as detergents, fertilizers or the like.

[0004] Reclosing of the container at least allows leakage of the bulk material contained therein to be prevented. It is furthermore conceivable to use containers of this type for packaging of pasty or liquid products too.

[0005] A reclosable container is known for example from EP 0 611 703 A2. The container has a container main body with a container opening and a lid which is insertable into the container opening. The lid known from EP 0 611 703 A2 is for example shaped from a suitable cardboard material and has a bottom with an edge folded upwards. The lid is pressed into the container opening during production in such a way that an edge of the container opening protrudes above the upward-folded edge of the lid. The protruding edge of the container opening is folded over the edge of the lid and fastened to the lid by sealing and / or by adhesion using a hot-melt adhesive or similar adhesives. The container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation, which enables separation of that part of the container main body situated above the perforation together with the lid, and removal of this assembly or pivoting of this assembly about a hinge formed by a non-perforated part of the container main body.OBJECT AND SOLUTION

[0006] An object of the invention is to provide a reclosable container with a recyclable lid which is inexpensive and easy to produce. A further object is to provide a method for manufacturing a reclosable container with a recyclable lid.

[0007] These objects are solved by the subject matter having the features of claims 1 and 6. Advantageous embodiments result from the dependent claims.

[0008] According to a first aspect, a reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid is provided, wherein the lid has an insertion portion inserted into the container opening, wherein the container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation or a tear-open strip; wherein the weakening structure enables a complete separation of an assembly, comprising a first part of the container main body situated above the weakening structure and the lid, for removal of this assembly from a second part of the container main body situated below the weakening structure, or the weakening structure enables a separation of some regions of the assembly, comprising the first part of the container main body situated above the weakening structure and the lid, for pivoting of this assembly relative to the second part of the container main body about a hinge which is formed by a region of the container main body not having the weakening structure; wherein the lid is made as a pre-shaped component from a fiber-based material and the lid is inserted into the container opening such that an upper end of the insertion portion is flush with an edge of the container opening; wherein a first region, arranged above the weakening structure, of the insertion portion inserted into the container opening is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body, and a second region, arranged below the weakening structure, of the insertion portion inserted into the container opening contacts the inner side of the container main body without a material bond.

[0009] According to a second aspect, a method is provided for manufacturing a reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid, wherein the lid has an insertion portion which is inserted into the container opening; wherein the container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation or a tear-open strip; wherein the weakening structure enables a complete separation of an assembly, comprising a first part, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body and the lid, for removal of this assembly from a second part, situated below the weakening structure, of the container main body, or the weakening structure enables a separation of some regions of the assembly, comprising the first part, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body and the lid, for pivoting of this assembly relative to the second part of the container main body about a hinge which is formed by a region of the container main body not having the weakening structure; wherein the lid is supplied as a pre-shaped component made from a fiber-based material and the lid is inserted into the container opening such that an upper end of the insertion portion is flush with an edge of the container main body; wherein a first region, arranged above the weakening structure after an insertion, of the insertion portion is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body, and a second region, arranged below the weakening structure after insertion, of the insertion portion contacts the inner side of the container main body without a material bond.

[0010] The terms “first”, “second” etc. are intended only to differentiate components, parts or regions, and not to indicate any sequence. If the terms “up” and “down”, “above” and “below” or the like are used in the description and in the claims in connection with the container, they serve to describe a relative position or arrangement in space in the case of an orientation of the container normal during use, in which a container opening is aligned upwards, i.e. against the direction of gravity. There are however conceivable applications in which the container is differently oriented, i.e. with the container opening facing in another direction.

[0011] A body receiving the product, which in typical embodiments is designed tube-like or sleeve-like, is referred to as the container main body, wherein the container main body has at one end a container opening used for access to the product and closable by the lid. In some embodiments, a bottom opening, which is closed with a bottom, is provided at an opposite end. A connection of the bottom to the container main body is made depending on the specific use application using a connection technology selectable by a person skilled in the art, for example by folding, sealing, crimping, or the like. It is known in this case to fill the container main body from an underside and to close the container using the bottom after it has been filled. In other embodiments, filling is done via the container opening. The container main body may be supplied to a filling process as a semi-finished item with a bottom already connected to the container main body. The bottom is connected to the container main body in typical applications, such that a non-destructive separation by a user is not possible.

[0012] The lid is pivotable or removable from the container main body for opening the container, and reclosable with the container main body for closing it, wherein closing at least prevents any leakage of a bulk material contained therein. Unlike conventional containers, as are known for example from EP 0 611 703 A2, the lid provided for repeated access to a product and for reclosing with the container main body is not connected by means of reshaping or folding part of the container main body over an edge of the lid. Instead, an already prefabricated lid made from a fiber-based material is inserted into the container opening, which is materially bonded, in particular sealed or glued, to the container main body over a defined region on the inside. Supplying a prefabricated lid allows folding or crimping to be dispensed with when producing the container, in particular as part of a filling process.

[0013] For reclosing the container after a first opening, the second region of the insertion portion is inserted into the second part of the container main body arranged below the separated weakening structure. Depending on the specific use application, for example on a material pairing of the container main body and of the lid and / or of a product contained therein, a clearance between the container main body and the lid may be suitably selected to ensure sufficiently secure closing.

[0014] The lid is made from a fiber-based material. A recyclable material made of fibers, in particular of plant fibers or fabric fibers, such as paper or cardboard, is referred to as a fiber-based material. The prefabricated lid made from a fiber-based material may be produced here in a preceding process by reshaping and / or from a pulp, for example by compression molding. Depending on the specific use application, a coating may be applied to the lid if required, to confer further properties on the lid, for example a water-repelling and / or an oxygen barrier function. The lid is suppliable to a recycling process after use of the container.

[0015] In some embodiments, the container main body is shaped, in particular folded, from a blank, wherein the weakening structure is preferably provided prior to shaping of the blank. The container main body is, depending on the specific use application, made of paper, cardboard or plastic and / or from a laminate comprising these materials. The invention is however not limited to container main bodies made from these materials. In particular, it is also conceivable for the container main body to be made entirely or partially of metal.

[0016] The lid has in an embodiment a flange adjoining the upper end of the insertion portion and contacting the edge of the container main body. The flange permits defined positioning of the lid on the container main body when the lid is inserted into the container main body, both during manufacture and when reclosing the container. The flange is suitably designable depending on the specific use application. In an embodiment, the flange is grooved or knurled on its peripheral surface to improve the grip on the lid for opening the container. In other embodiments, the flange has a recessed grip and / or a tab for removing and / or pivoting the lid. In an embodiment, the edge of the container main body comprises a seal, wherein the flange is in contact with the seal.

[0017] In some embodiments, the flange is flush with an outer covering surface of the container main body. This prevents a situation, referred to as the mushroom effect, wherein a diameter of the lid is greater than that of the container main body and projects laterally beyond the latter. The flush flange permits easy and safe handling, for example during transport.

[0018] The length of the second region of the insertion portion, which is inserted into the second part of the container main body for reclosing, is suitably selectable depending on the specific use application. In an embodiment, a length of the second region of the insertion portion is at least half and preferably at least two-thirds of a length of the first region of the insertion portion.

[0019] The container main body is in some embodiments circular or oval in the plan view. In other embodiments, the container main body is polygonal in the plan view with at least three sides.

[0020] For manufacturing a container with a pivotably connected lid, a weakening structure, which extends over n-1 sides of an n-sided plan view, is provided in some embodiments. In particular, the container main body is in some embodiments rectangular or trapezoidal with four sides in the plan view, wherein the weakening structure extends over three of the four sides. Grooves for forming the hinge are provided on the fourth side in some embodiments.

[0021] In an embodiment, it is provided that a membrane, to be at least partially removed during a first opening, is attached below the weakening structure in the container main body. The membrane is used for example as an oxygen barrier. A material and design of the membrane are suitably selectable depending on the specific use application, in particular depending on a product to be received. The membrane is completely or partially removed during a first opening.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Further advantages and aspects of the invention can be derived from the claims and the description of embodiments of the invention that are explained in the following on the basis of the schematic figures. The drawing show:

[0023] FIG. 1: a first embodiment of a reclosable container before a first opening in a side view;

[0024] FIG. 2: the reclosable container according to FIG. 1 during a first opening in a perspective view;

[0025] FIG. 3: the reclosable container according to FIG. 1 before the first opening in a sectional

[0026] FIG. 4: a detail IV according to FIG. 3 in an enlarged view;

[0027] FIG. 5: the reclosable container according to FIG. 1 during a first opening in a sectional side view; and

[0028] FIG. 6: a second embodiment of a reclosable container during a first opening in a sectional side view.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLESFIGS. 1 to 5 show schematically a first embodiment of a reclosable container 1 before a first opening (FIGS. 1, 3 and 4) and during a first opening (FIGS. 2 and 5).

[0030] The reclosable container 1 shown comprises a container main body 2, a lid 3 and a membrane 4 (cf. FIGS. 2 to 5).

[0031] In some embodiments, the container main body 2 is made from a blank, for example from a laminate and / or cardboard, wherein the blank is bent or folded such that a tube-like or sleeve-like container main body 2 is created which has a container opening 20 at a first end for access to the product. A bottom opening 21 which is closable by a bottom, not shown in the figures, is provided at an opposite end.

[0032] As can be seen in FIG. 2, the container main body 2 shown is substantially square in the plan view, with four sides which are connected to one another by rounded corners. The invention is however not limited to the shape of the container main body 2 as shown, and other designs are conceivable, for example, but not conclusive, circular, oval, rectangular, trapezoidal or triangular in the plan view.

[0033] A weakening structure 22, for example a straight-line perforation or a tear-open strip, is provided on the container main body 2. The weakening structure 22 is preferably provided in the blank before folding or shaping of the latter. The weakening structure 22 is provided at a distance to an edge 23 of the container opening 20, suitably selected depending on the specific use application, and extends in the example shown (see FIG. 2) over three of the four sides of the container main body 2 and over all four rounded corners connecting the sides. In some embodiments, grooves are provided to form a hinge 24 on a fourth side of the container main body 2. The weakening structure 22 divides the container main body 22 into a first part 2a situated above the weakening structure 22 and a second part 2b situated below the weakening structure 22 (cf. FIG. 4).

[0034] The lid 3 is made as a pre-shaped component from a fiber-based material. The shape of the lid 3 is suitably designable depending on the specific use application. The lid 3 shown has an insertion portion 30 inserted into the container opening 20 and a flange 31. The lid 3 is inserted into the container opening 20 such that an upper end of the insertion portion 30 is flush with the edge 23 of the container opening 20. A first region 301, arranged above the weakening structure 22, of the insertion portion 30 inserted into the container opening 20 is connected materially to an inner side of the container main body. By contrast, a second region 302, arranged below the weakening structure 22, of the insertion portion 30 inserted into the container opening 20 contacts an inner side of the container main body 2 without a material bond. A material bond is achieved for example by means of heat-sealing, sealing and / or glueing. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the first region 301 of the insertion portion 30 has a groove 32, shown schematically, for receiving an adhesive. The illustration of the groove 32 is only schematic in its size and shape, and numerous variations are conceivable. In other embodiments, a groove of this type is dispensed with.

[0035] Due to the material bond, the lid 3 and the first part 2a of the container main body 2 arranged above the weakening structure 22 form an assembly.

[0036] The weakening structure 22 extending over most of the periphery of the container main body 2, i.e. in the example shown over three of the four sides of the container main body 2, permits a separation of the assembly, comprising part 2a, situated above the weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2 and the lid 3, for example by pulling on the flange 31 of the lid 3, and pivoting said assembly about the hinge 24, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5.

[0037] The second region 302 of the insertion portion 30 permits reclosing of the container 1 by pivoting the lid 3 into the starting position shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, wherein the second region 302 is inserted into that part 2b, situated below the now separated weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2. For a secure reinsertion of the lid 3 into the container main body 2, a length L2 of the second region 302 of the insertion portion 30 in the example shown is around two-thirds of a length L1 of the first region 301 of the insertion portion 30.

[0038] A membrane 4 is provided below the lid 3 in the example shown. The membrane 4 performs a barrier function before a first opening. The membrane 4 must be completely or partially removed after pivoting the lid 3 into the position shown in FIG. 2 in order to allow access to the product.

[0039] In the example shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the lid 3 is designed as a solid component, wherein the shape and size of the flange 31 are selected such that the flange 31 is flush with an outer covering surface of the container main body 2.

[0040] The lid 3 is made from a fiber-based material. Depending on the specific use application, the lid 3 may have a coating. In an embodiment, a sealing ring which permits oxygen-tight reclosing is provided on an edge 23 of the container opening 20. The sealing ring forms here the edge 23 of the container opening 20, at which edge the upper end of the insertion portion 30 ends and a possibly provided flange 31 is in contact.

[0041] As mentioned, the lid 3 may be suitably designed depending on the specific use application. For example, the lid 3 has in a modified example a dome-like upper side instead of a flat and upward-facing one.

[0042] FIG. 6 shows in a sectional side view a second embodiment of a reclosable container 1 during a first opening. The container 1 according to the second embodiment is similar to the container 1 of the first embodiment, and uniform reference numbers are used for identical or similar components. Reference to the above is made for a detailed description. Unlike in the example according to FIGS. 1 to 5, the lid 3 in the example according to FIG. 6 has a recess 33 on its upper side 32. The recess 33 permits a reduction in material during manufacture of the lid 3, without this impairing the functioning of the lid 3 for reclosing.

[0043] The recess 33 may also be used as a receptacle for additional means, such as additives to be admixed with the product inside the container main body, a measuring spoon and / or cutlery.

[0044] The lids 3 for a reclosable container in accordance with the invention are manufacturable for example from a pulp by compression molding. Alternatively, it is conceivable to produce the lids 3 by shaping and / or folding of paper, cardboard and / or laminates thereof. A particularly sustainable solution is achieved by to the use of a fiber-based material for manufacturing the lid 3, and hence of a renewable raw material instead of a plastic.

[0045] To manufacture the container 1, the container main body 2 is initially shaped from a blank in some embodiments. The weakening structure 22 is preferably provided prior to shaping of the blank. The weakening structure 22 may be provided directly prior to shaping or at a different time and in a different place to shaping.

[0046] In an embodiment, the bottom opening 21 is closed by a bottom after shaping of the container main body 2. The semi-finished item thus created can be supplied to a filling process.

[0047] The membrane 4 is then inserted into the container main body 2 and connected to an inner side of the container main body 2. Depending on the specific use application and / or material of the container main body 2, the membrane 4 is connected to the container main body 2 by a suitable method, for example sealed therewith.

[0048] The lid 3 is preferably supplied as a prefabricated component during manufacture of the container 1. The insertion portion 30 of the lid 3 is inserted into the container opening 20 of the container main body 2, wherein the flange 31 comes into contact with the edge 23 of the container opening 20. The first region 301, arranged above the weakening structure 22 after an insertion, of the insertion portion 30 is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body 2. The second region 302, arranged below the weakening structure 22 after insertion, of the insertion portion 30 is by contrast not connected to the inner side of the container main body 2, but contacts it without a material bond.

[0049] For access to a product, the weakening structure 22 is broken open, for example by applying a pulling force to the lid 3, during a first opening. After breaking open of the weakening structure 22, the lid 3 and the first part 2a, situated above the weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2 which is connected to the first region 301 of the lid 3, are pivotable about the hinge 24, which is formed by a region, not having the weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2. Then membrane 4 must be at least partially removed.

[0050] For reclosing, the lid 3 is pivoted back into the starting position, wherein the second region 302 of the lid 3 is lowered into that part 2b of the container main body 2 situated below the broken-open weakening structure 22.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, a weakening structure extending over the entire periphery is positioned in the container main body 2. After breaking open of this weakening structure during a first opening, the lid 3 and the first part 2a, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body 2 which is connected to the first region 301 of the lid 3, are separable from the second part 2b of the container main body 2. For reclosing, the lid 3 is returned to the starting position, wherein the second region 302 of the lid 3 is lowered into that part 2b of the container main body 2 situated below the broken-open weakening structure.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

FIGS. 1 to 5 show schematically a first embodiment of a reclosable container 1 before a first opening (FIGS. 1, 3 and 4) and during a first opening (FIGS. 2 and 5).

[0030]The reclosable container 1 shown comprises a container main body 2, a lid 3 and a membrane 4 (cf. FIGS. 2 to 5).

[0031]In some embodiments, the container main body 2 is made from a blank, for example from a laminate and / or cardboard, wherein the blank is bent or folded such that a tube-like or sleeve-like container main body 2 is created which has a container opening 20 at a first end for access to the product. A bottom opening 21 which is closable by a bottom, not shown in the figures, is provided at an opposite end.

[0032]As can be seen in FIG. 2, the container main body 2 shown is substantially square in the plan view, with four sides which are connected to one another by rounded corners. The invention is however not limited to the shape of the container main body 2 as shown, and other designs are conceivable, for ...

TECHNICAL AND PRIOR ART

[0001] The invention relates to a reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid which closes the container opening in a closing position. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing a reclosable container.

[0002] Containers allowing for a reclosure with a lid are referred to as reclosable containers in connection with the present application. Containers of this type comprise a container main body with a container opening and a lid which closes the container opening in a closing position. For opening the container, the lid is removable from the container main body or pivotable relative thereto, to permit access to the product located inside the container main body via the container opening, wherein the container opening is reclosable by the lid after being opened.

[0003] Reclosable containers are used for example as packaging for foodstuffs available as bulk materials, such as flour, milk powder, coffee, tea, cocoa, sugar, salt, candies etc. The use of reclosable containers is however not restricted to packaging foodstuffs, and the container may also be used for packaging other bulk materials, such as detergents, fertilizers or the like.

[0004] Reclosing of the container at least allows leakage of the bulk material contained therein to be prevented. It is furthermore conceivable to use containers of this type for packaging of pasty or liquid products too.

[0005] A reclosable container is known for example from EP 0 611 703 A2. The container has a container main body with a container opening and a lid which is insertable into the container opening. The lid known from EP 0 611 703 A2 is for example shaped from a suitable cardboard material and has a bottom with an edge folded upwards. The lid is pressed into the container opening during production in such a way that an edge of the container opening protrudes above the upward-folded edge of the lid. The protruding edge of the container opening is folded over the edge of the lid and fastened to the lid by sealing and / or by adhesion using a hot-melt adhesive or similar adhesives. The container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation, which enables separation of that part of the container main body situated above the perforation together with the lid, and removal of this assembly or pivoting of this assembly about a hinge formed by a non-perforated part of the container main body.OBJECT AND SOLUTION

[0006] An object of the invention is to provide a reclosable container with a recyclable lid which is inexpensive and easy to produce. A further object is to provide a method for manufacturing a reclosable container with a recyclable lid.

[0007] These objects are solved by the subject matter having the features of claims 1 and 6. Advantageous embodiments result from the dependent claims.

[0008] According to a first aspect, a reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid is provided, wherein the lid has an insertion portion inserted into the container opening, wherein the container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation or a tear-open strip; wherein the weakening structure enables a complete separation of an assembly, comprising a first part of the container main body situated above the weakening structure and the lid, for removal of this assembly from a second part of the container main body situated below the weakening structure, or the weakening structure enables a separation of some regions of the assembly, comprising the first part of the container main body situated above the weakening structure and the lid, for pivoting of this assembly relative to the second part of the container main body about a hinge which is formed by a region of the container main body not having the weakening structure; wherein the lid is made as a pre-shaped component from a fiber-based material and the lid is inserted into the container opening such that an upper end of the insertion portion is flush with an edge of the container opening; wherein a first region, arranged above the weakening structure, of the insertion portion inserted into the container opening is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body, and a second region, arranged below the weakening structure, of the insertion portion inserted into the container opening contacts the inner side of the container main body without a material bond.

[0009] According to a second aspect, a method is provided for manufacturing a reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid, wherein the lid has an insertion portion which is inserted into the container opening; wherein the container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation or a tear-open strip; wherein the weakening structure enables a complete separation of an assembly, comprising a first part, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body and the lid, for removal of this assembly from a second part, situated below the weakening structure, of the container main body, or the weakening structure enables a separation of some regions of the assembly, comprising the first part, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body and the lid, for pivoting of this assembly relative to the second part of the container main body about a hinge which is formed by a region of the container main body not having the weakening structure; wherein the lid is supplied as a pre-shaped component made from a fiber-based material and the lid is inserted into the container opening such that an upper end of the insertion portion is flush with an edge of the container main body; wherein a first region, arranged above the weakening structure after an insertion, of the insertion portion is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body, and a second region, arranged below the weakening structure after insertion, of the insertion portion contacts the inner side of the container main body without a material bond.

[0010] The terms “first”, “second” etc. are intended only to differentiate components, parts or regions, and not to indicate any sequence. If the terms “up” and “down”, “above” and “below” or the like are used in the description and in the claims in connection with the container, they serve to describe a relative position or arrangement in space in the case of an orientation of the container normal during use, in which a container opening is aligned upwards, i.e. against the direction of gravity. There are however conceivable applications in which the container is differently oriented, i.e. with the container opening facing in another direction.

[0011] A body receiving the product, which in typical embodiments is designed tube-like or sleeve-like, is referred to as the container main body, wherein the container main body has at one end a container opening used for access to the product and closable by the lid. In some embodiments, a bottom opening, which is closed with a bottom, is provided at an opposite end. A connection of the bottom to the container main body is made depending on the specific use application using a connection technology selectable by a person skilled in the art, for example by folding, sealing, crimping, or the like. It is known in this case to fill the container main body from an underside and to close the container using the bottom after it has been filled. In other embodiments, filling is done via the container opening. The container main body may be supplied to a filling process as a semi-finished item with a bottom already connected to the container main body. The bottom is connected to the container main body in typical applications, such that a non-destructive separation by a user is not possible.

[0012] The lid is pivotable or removable from the container main body for opening the container, and reclosable with the container main body for closing it, wherein closing at least prevents any leakage of a bulk material contained therein. Unlike conventional containers, as are known for example from EP 0 611 703 A2, the lid provided for repeated access to a product and for reclosing with the container main body is not connected by means of reshaping or folding part of the container main body over an edge of the lid. Instead, an already prefabricated lid made from a fiber-based material is inserted into the container opening, which is materially bonded, in particular sealed or glued, to the container main body over a defined region on the inside. Supplying a prefabricated lid allows folding or crimping to be dispensed with when producing the container, in particular as part of a filling process.

[0013] For reclosing the container after a first opening, the second region of the insertion portion is inserted into the second part of the container main body arranged below the separated weakening structure. Depending on the specific use application, for example on a material pairing of the container main body and of the lid and / or of a product contained therein, a clearance between the container main body and the lid may be suitably selected to ensure sufficiently secure closing.

[0014] The lid is made from a fiber-based material. A recyclable material made of fibers, in particular of plant fibers or fabric fibers, such as paper or cardboard, is referred to as a fiber-based material. The prefabricated lid made from a fiber-based material may be produced here in a preceding process by reshaping and / or from a pulp, for example by compression molding. Depending on the specific use application, a coating may be applied to the lid if required, to confer further properties on the lid, for example a water-repelling and / or an oxygen barrier function. The lid is suppliable to a recycling process after use of the container.

[0015] In some embodiments, the container main body is shaped, in particular folded, from a blank, wherein the weakening structure is preferably provided prior to shaping of the blank. The container main body is, depending on the specific use application, made of paper, cardboard or plastic and / or from a laminate comprising these materials. The invention is however not limited to container main bodies made from these materials. In particular, it is also conceivable for the container main body to be made entirely or partially of metal.

[0016] The lid has in an embodiment a flange adjoining the upper end of the insertion portion and contacting the edge of the container main body. The flange permits defined positioning of the lid on the container main body when the lid is inserted into the container main body, both during manufacture and when reclosing the container. The flange is suitably designable depending on the specific use application. In an embodiment, the flange is grooved or knurled on its peripheral surface to improve the grip on the lid for opening the container. In other embodiments, the flange has a recessed grip and / or a tab for removing and / or pivoting the lid. In an embodiment, the edge of the container main body comprises a seal, wherein the flange is in contact with the seal.

[0017] In some embodiments, the flange is flush with an outer covering surface of the container main body. This prevents a situation, referred to as the mushroom effect, wherein a diameter of the lid is greater than that of the container main body and projects laterally beyond the latter. The flush flange permits easy and safe handling, for example during transport.

[0018] The length of the second region of the insertion portion, which is inserted into the second part of the container main body for reclosing, is suitably selectable depending on the specific use application. In an embodiment, a length of the second region of the insertion portion is at least half and preferably at least two-thirds of a length of the first region of the insertion portion.

[0019] The container main body is in some embodiments circular or oval in the plan view. In other embodiments, the container main body is polygonal in the plan view with at least three sides.

[0020] For manufacturing a container with a pivotably connected lid, a weakening structure, which extends over n-1 sides of an n-sided plan view, is provided in some embodiments. In particular, the container main body is in some embodiments rectangular or trapezoidal with four sides in the plan view, wherein the weakening structure extends over three of the four sides. Grooves for forming the hinge are provided on the fourth side in some embodiments.

[0021] In an embodiment, it is provided that a membrane, to be at least partially removed during a first opening, is attached below the weakening structure in the container main body. The membrane is used for example as an oxygen barrier. A material and design of the membrane are suitably selectable depending on the specific use application, in particular depending on a product to be received. The membrane is completely or partially removed during a first opening.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Further advantages and aspects of the invention can be derived from the claims and the description of embodiments of the invention that are explained in the following on the basis of the schematic figures. The drawing show:

[0023] FIG. 1: a first embodiment of a reclosable container before a first opening in a side view;

[0024] FIG. 2: the reclosable container according to FIG. 1 during a first opening in a perspective view;

[0025] FIG. 3: the reclosable container according to FIG. 1 before the first opening in a sectional

[0026] FIG. 4: a detail IV according to FIG. 3 in an enlarged view;

[0027] FIG. 5: the reclosable container according to FIG. 1 during a first opening in a sectional side view; and

[0028] FIG. 6: a second embodiment of a reclosable container during a first opening in a sectional side view.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLESFIGS. 1 to 5 show schematically a first embodiment of a reclosable container 1 before a first opening (FIGS. 1, 3 and 4) and during a first opening (FIGS. 2 and 5).

[0030] The reclosable container 1 shown comprises a container main body 2, a lid 3 and a membrane 4 (cf. FIGS. 2 to 5).

[0031] In some embodiments, the container main body 2 is made from a blank, for example from a laminate and / or cardboard, wherein the blank is bent or folded such that a tube-like or sleeve-like container main body 2 is created which has a container opening 20 at a first end for access to the product. A bottom opening 21 which is closable by a bottom, not shown in the figures, is provided at an opposite end.

[0032] As can be seen in FIG. 2, the container main body 2 shown is substantially square in the plan view, with four sides which are connected to one another by rounded corners. The invention is however not limited to the shape of the container main body 2 as shown, and other designs are conceivable, for example, but not conclusive, circular, oval, rectangular, trapezoidal or triangular in the plan view.

[0033] A weakening structure 22, for example a straight-line perforation or a tear-open strip, is provided on the container main body 2. The weakening structure 22 is preferably provided in the blank before folding or shaping of the latter. The weakening structure 22 is provided at a distance to an edge 23 of the container opening 20, suitably selected depending on the specific use application, and extends in the example shown (see FIG. 2) over three of the four sides of the container main body 2 and over all four rounded corners connecting the sides. In some embodiments, grooves are provided to form a hinge 24 on a fourth side of the container main body 2. The weakening structure 22 divides the container main body 22 into a first part 2a situated above the weakening structure 22 and a second part 2b situated below the weakening structure 22 (cf. FIG. 4).

[0034] The lid 3 is made as a pre-shaped component from a fiber-based material. The shape of the lid 3 is suitably designable depending on the specific use application. The lid 3 shown has an insertion portion 30 inserted into the container opening 20 and a flange 31. The lid 3 is inserted into the container opening 20 such that an upper end of the insertion portion 30 is flush with the edge 23 of the container opening 20. A first region 301, arranged above the weakening structure 22, of the insertion portion 30 inserted into the container opening 20 is connected materially to an inner side of the container main body. By contrast, a second region 302, arranged below the weakening structure 22, of the insertion portion 30 inserted into the container opening 20 contacts an inner side of the container main body 2 without a material bond. A material bond is achieved for example by means of heat-sealing, sealing and / or glueing. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the first region 301 of the insertion portion 30 has a groove 32, shown schematically, for receiving an adhesive. The illustration of the groove 32 is only schematic in its size and shape, and numerous variations are conceivable. In other embodiments, a groove of this type is dispensed with.

[0035] Due to the material bond, the lid 3 and the first part 2a of the container main body 2 arranged above the weakening structure 22 form an assembly.

[0036] The weakening structure 22 extending over most of the periphery of the container main body 2, i.e. in the example shown over three of the four sides of the container main body 2, permits a separation of the assembly, comprising part 2a, situated above the weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2 and the lid 3, for example by pulling on the flange 31 of the lid 3, and pivoting said assembly about the hinge 24, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5.

[0037] The second region 302 of the insertion portion 30 permits reclosing of the container 1 by pivoting the lid 3 into the starting position shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, wherein the second region 302 is inserted into that part 2b, situated below the now separated weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2. For a secure reinsertion of the lid 3 into the container main body 2, a length L2 of the second region 302 of the insertion portion 30 in the example shown is around two-thirds of a length L1 of the first region 301 of the insertion portion 30.

[0038] A membrane 4 is provided below the lid 3 in the example shown. The membrane 4 performs a barrier function before a first opening. The membrane 4 must be completely or partially removed after pivoting the lid 3 into the position shown in FIG. 2 in order to allow access to the product.

[0039] In the example shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the lid 3 is designed as a solid component, wherein the shape and size of the flange 31 are selected such that the flange 31 is flush with an outer covering surface of the container main body 2.

[0040] The lid 3 is made from a fiber-based material. Depending on the specific use application, the lid 3 may have a coating. In an embodiment, a sealing ring which permits oxygen-tight reclosing is provided on an edge 23 of the container opening 20. The sealing ring forms here the edge 23 of the container opening 20, at which edge the upper end of the insertion portion 30 ends and a possibly provided flange 31 is in contact.

[0041] As mentioned, the lid 3 may be suitably designed depending on the specific use application. For example, the lid 3 has in a modified example a dome-like upper side instead of a flat and upward-facing one.

[0042] FIG. 6 shows in a sectional side view a second embodiment of a reclosable container 1 during a first opening. The container 1 according to the second embodiment is similar to the container 1 of the first embodiment, and uniform reference numbers are used for identical or similar components. Reference to the above is made for a detailed description. Unlike in the example according to FIGS. 1 to 5, the lid 3 in the example according to FIG. 6 has a recess 33 on its upper side 32. The recess 33 permits a reduction in material during manufacture of the lid 3, without this impairing the functioning of the lid 3 for reclosing.

[0043] The recess 33 may also be used as a receptacle for additional means, such as additives to be admixed with the product inside the container main body, a measuring spoon and / or cutlery.

[0044] The lids 3 for a reclosable container in accordance with the invention are manufacturable for example from a pulp by compression molding. Alternatively, it is conceivable to produce the lids 3 by shaping and / or folding of paper, cardboard and / or laminates thereof. A particularly sustainable solution is achieved by to the use of a fiber-based material for manufacturing the lid 3, and hence of a renewable raw material instead of a plastic.

[0045] To manufacture the container 1, the container main body 2 is initially shaped from a blank in some embodiments. The weakening structure 22 is preferably provided prior to shaping of the blank. The weakening structure 22 may be provided directly prior to shaping or at a different time and in a different place to shaping.

[0046] In an embodiment, the bottom opening 21 is closed by a bottom after shaping of the container main body 2. The semi-finished item thus created can be supplied to a filling process.

[0047] The membrane 4 is then inserted into the container main body 2 and connected to an inner side of the container main body 2. Depending on the specific use application and / or material of the container main body 2, the membrane 4 is connected to the container main body 2 by a suitable method, for example sealed therewith.

[0048] The lid 3 is preferably supplied as a prefabricated component during manufacture of the container 1. The insertion portion 30 of the lid 3 is inserted into the container opening 20 of the container main body 2, wherein the flange 31 comes into contact with the edge 23 of the container opening 20. The first region 301, arranged above the weakening structure 22 after an insertion, of the insertion portion 30 is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body 2. The second region 302, arranged below the weakening structure 22 after insertion, of the insertion portion 30 is by contrast not connected to the inner side of the container main body 2, but contacts it without a material bond.

[0049] For access to a product, the weakening structure 22 is broken open, for example by applying a pulling force to the lid 3, during a first opening. After breaking open of the weakening structure 22, the lid 3 and the first part 2a, situated above the weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2 which is connected to the first region 301 of the lid 3, are pivotable about the hinge 24, which is formed by a region, not having the weakening structure 22, of the container main body 2. Then membrane 4 must be at least partially removed.

[0050] For reclosing, the lid 3 is pivoted back into the starting position, wherein the second region 302 of the lid 3 is lowered into that part 2b of the container main body 2 situated below the broken-open weakening structure 22.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, a weakening structure extending over the entire periphery is positioned in the container main body 2. After breaking open of this weakening structure during a first opening, the lid 3 and the first part 2a, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body 2 which is connected to the first region 301 of the lid 3, are separable from the second part 2b of the container main body 2. For reclosing, the lid 3 is returned to the starting position, wherein the second region 302 of the lid 3 is lowered into that part 2b of the container main body 2 situated below the broken-open weakening structure.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

FIGS. 1 to 5 show schematically a first embodiment of a reclosable container 1 before a first opening (FIGS. 1, 3 and 4) and during a first opening (FIGS. 2 and 5).

[0030]The reclosable container 1 shown comprises a container main body 2, a lid 3 and a membrane 4 (cf. FIGS. 2 to 5).

[0031]In some embodiments, the container main body 2 is made from a blank, for example from a laminate and / or cardboard, wherein the blank is bent or folded such that a tube-like or sleeve-like container main body 2 is created which has a container opening 20 at a first end for access to the product. A bottom opening 21 which is closable by a bottom, not shown in the figures, is provided at an opposite end.

[0032]As can be seen in FIG. 2, the container main body 2 shown is substantially square in the plan view, with four sides which are connected to one another by rounded corners. The invention is however not limited to the shape of the container main body 2 as shown, and other designs are conceivable, for ...

Claims

1. A reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid closing the container opening in a closing position, wherein the lid has an insertion portion inserted into the container opening;wherein the container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation or a tear-open strip, wherein the weakening structure enables a complete separation of an assembly, comprising a first part, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body and the lid, for removal of this assembly from a second part, situated below the weakening structure, of the container main body, or the weakening structure enables a separation of some regions of the assembly, comprising the first part, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body and the lid, for pivoting of this assembly relative to the second part of the container main body about a hinge which is formed by a region of the container main body not having the weakening structure, wherein the lid is made as a pre-shaped component from a fiber-based material and the lid is inserted into the container opening such that an upper end of the insertion portion is flush with an edge of the container opening, wherein a first region, arranged above the weakening structure of the insertion portion inserted into the container opening is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body, and a second region, arranged below the weakening structure, of the insertion portion inserted into the container opening contacts the inner side of the container main body without a material bond.

2. The reclosable container according to claim 1, wherein the lid has a flange adjoining the upper end of the insertion portion and contacting the edge of the container main body wherein preferably the flange is flush with an outer covering surface of the container main body.

3. The reclosable container according to claim 1, wherein a length of the second region of the insertion portion is at least half, preferably at least two-thirds of a length of the first region of the insertion portion.

4. The reclosable container according to claim 1, wherein the container main body is rectangular or trapezoidal with four sides in the plan view, wherein the weakening structure extends over three of the four sides, wherein preferably grooves are provided on the fourth side to form the hinge.

5. The reclosable container according to claim 1, wherein a membrane, to be at least partially removed during a first opening, is attached below the weakening structure in the container main body.

6. A method for manufacture of a reclosable container comprising a container main body with a container opening and a lid wherein the lid has an insertion portion which is inserted into the container opening;wherein the container main body is provided over its entire periphery or at least over most of its periphery with a weakening structure, for example a perforation or a tear-open strip, wherein the weakening structure enables a complete separation of an assembly, comprising a first part, situated above the weakening structure, of the container main body and the lid, for removal of this assembly from a second part, situated below the weakening structure of the container main body or the weakening structure enables a separation of some regions of the assembly, comprising the first part situated above the weakening structure of the container main body and the lid for pivoting of this assembly relative to the second part of the container main body about a hinge which is formed by a region of the container main body not having the weakening structure, wherein the lid is supplied as a pre-shaped component made from a fiber-based material and the lid is inserted into the container opening such that an upper end of the insertion portion is flush with an edge of the container main body, wherein a first region, arranged above the weakening structure after an insertion, of the insertion portion is materially bonded to an inner side of the container main body, and a second region, arranged below the weakening structure after insertion, of the insertion portion inserted into the container opening contacts an inner side of the container main body without a material bond.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the container main body is shaped, in particular folded, from a blank, wherein preferably the weakening structure is provided prior to shaping of the blank.

8. The method according to claim 6 or wherein the lid has a flange adjoining the upper end of the insertion portion, which flange is brought into contact with the edge of the container main bod,y when the lid is inserted, wherein the flange is preferably flush with an outer covering surface of the container main body.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein the container main body is rectangular or trapezoidal with four sides in the plan view, wherein the weakening structure is positioned such that the weakening structure extends over three of the four sides, and preferably grooves are provided on the fourth side to form the hinge10. The method according to claim 6, wherein a membrane, to be at least partially removed during a first opening, is attached below the weakening structure in the container main body.

Images