Closure assembly for a beverage container and method for venting and for repeatably closing a beverage container by means of a closure assembly

The closure assembly for beverage containers, featuring a lever and flap mechanism, addresses the challenges of easy venting and repeated closure with minimal actuation forces, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing production complexity.

WO2025108915A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-05-30ARDAGH METAL PACKAGING EUROPE GMBH
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/EP2024/082791
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-11-22
Filing Date
2024-11-19
Publication Date
2025-05-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing closure assemblies for beverage containers, particularly those with carbonated contents, face challenges in easy venting and repeated closure with minimal actuation forces, often requiring complex components and high production complexity.

Method used

A closure assembly comprising a lid element with a closure element that uses a lever and flap mechanism, where a direct actuation force applied to the flap can release a gas-tight connection, allowing for easy venting and repeated closure with minimal components and low actuation forces.

Benefits of technology

The solution enables efficient venting and repeated gas-tight closure of beverage containers with minimal actuation forces, reducing production complexity and ensuring easy operation for consumers.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a closure assembly (1) for a beverage container (2), at least comprising a beverage container lid element (3) having an opening (4), and comprising a closure element (5), arranged on the lid element (3), for repeatably at least fluid-tightly closing the opening (4). The closure element (5) is designed such that, when excess pressure prevails in the volume (8), actuation of the closure element (5) from the environment (11), which actuation is directed as compressive force towards the volume (8) and acts at least on an actuation point (13) of the closure element (5), causes lifting of a first connection (14) of the closure element (5), which connection is gas tight prior to opening the beverage container (2) for the first time, and so the excess pressure can be released to the environment (11). The invention also relates to a method for repeatably closing an opening (4) of a beverage container (2) by means of a closure assembly (1).
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Description

[0001] Closure arrangement for a beverage container and

[0002] Method for venting and repeatedly closing a beverage container with a closure assembly

[0003] The present invention relates to a closure assembly for a beverage container, in particular a beverage can. The present invention further relates to a method for venting a beverage container and for repeatedly closing an opening of the beverage container with a closure assembly, in particular with the described closure assembly.

[0004] The closure assembly comprises, in particular, at least one lid element with an opening and a closure element arranged non-removably on the lid element for repeatedly, at least fluid-tight, in particular gas-tight, closing the opening. The lid element is made, in particular, of metal. The beverage container serves to store a content, e.g., a fluid, wherein the beverage container is pressurized when closed.

[0005] Especially in the case of beverage cans with carbonated contents, the beverage container can be under an internal pressure of up to 6.2 bar before it is opened for the first time.

[0006] Both single-use and resealable closure assemblies are known for closing such beverage containers. The advantage of resealable closure assemblies is obvious. This allows a beverage container to be sealed at least fluid-tight, especially gas-tight, even after partial emptying, so that the fluid stored in the beverage container can be prevented from escaping and, especially in the case of carbonated contents, the carbonation can be prevented from escaping. The known resealable closure assemblies often have complex components or complex methods for opening and closing the closure assembly.

[0007] In particular, a captive arrangement of the closure arrangement on the lid element or on the beverage container is desired so that all components of the beverage container can be recycled.

[0008] Especially for beverage containers subject to excess pressure, venting is required, particularly for resealable closure assemblies, and especially during initial opening. This process releases the excess pressure to the environment. Only after venting is the closure assembly possible to open without damaging it. Without prior venting, excessive actuation forces are often required to open the closure assembly, because this requires moving parts of the closure assembly into the beverage container.

[0009] In known venting devices, a fluidic connection between the environment and the interior of the container is established via flow channels which are exposed when the closure arrangement is actuated.

[0010] It has been found that such devices are difficult to produce with reproducible quality.

[0011] From DE 10 2021 106 977 A1 a closure arrangement for a beverage container is known.

[0012] The object of the invention is to at least partially solve the problems existing with regard to the prior art and, in particular, to provide a closure assembly for a beverage container by means of which the beverage container can be vented easily and with minimal actuation forces. The closure assembly should have as few individual parts and / or be lightweight as possible, i.e., be manufactured from as little material as possible. Furthermore, the closure assembly should be simple and reproducible to manufacture and easy to operate for the consumer.

[0013] In particular, a closure element of the closure assembly should be arranged or attached to the beverage container in a captive manner. Furthermore, the closure assembly should allow the beverage container to be reclosed, even after initial opening, if necessary. This ensures that the beverage container remains (fluid- or even gas-tight) (relative to ambient atmospheric pressure) at a slight overpressure in the beverage container, on the one hand, and even at a pressure within the beverage container of up to 6.2 bar, on the other.

[0014] In addition, there is a desire to provide a method that is as simple as possible for venting a beverage container and for repeatedly closing an opening of the beverage container with a closure arrangement.

[0015] These objects are achieved with a closure assembly according to the features of patent claim 1 and with a method according to the features of patent claim 14. Further advantageous embodiments of the closure assemblies and the method are specified in the dependent patent claims. It should be noted that the features listed individually in the dependent patent claims can be combined with one another in a technologically expedient manner and define further embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, the features listed in the patent claims are further specified and explained in the description, with further preferred embodiments of the invention being presented.

[0016] A closure assembly for a beverage container contributes to this. The closure assembly comprises at least one lid element of the beverage container having an opening, as well as a closure element arranged on the lid element for repeatedly closing the opening in a fluid-tight manner. The lid element has an outer side and an inner side facing a volume enclosed by the beverage container. The opening has an opening edge and an opening plane formed by the opening edge.

[0017] The closure element is designed in such a way that, when the excess pressure prevailing in the volume compared to the environment surrounding the beverage container is at least 1.5 bar, in particular at least 2 bar, preferably at least 3 bar, particularly preferably at least 4 bar, (direct) actuation of the closure element from the environment (exclusively) with a static actuation force of at most 100 Newtons, in particular of at most 80 Newtons, preferably of at most 60 Newtons, particularly preferably of at most 50 Newtons, breaks a first connection of the closure element which is gas-tight at least before the beverage container is opened for the first time. The actuation force is directed as a compressive force (exclusively) towards the volume. The actuation force acts at least at one actuation point of the closure element. As a result of the break in the first connection, the excess pressure to the environment can be or is broken down.

[0018] In particular, the closure arrangement is designed for an overpressure of at most 10 bar, in particular of at most 8 bar, preferably of at most 6.5 bar.

[0019] In particular, a static actuating force of at least 5 Newtons, in particular of at least 10 Newtons, preferably of at least 20 Newtons, particularly preferably of at least 40 Newtons, is required to release the first connection and bring about venting.

[0020] The actuating force is usually exerted by a consumer on the closure element.

[0021] Actuation occurs directly (by the consumer) and involves pressing on the actuation point (and / or its immediate vicinity). The actuation force is thus directed toward the volume. As a result of the actuation force, the closure element is deformed or its components are moved relative to each other, so that the first connection is at least partially released.

[0022] The levers that are usually operated with an actuating force directed away from the volume can thus be eliminated or are not required. Moving components is also not necessary. The overpressure is specified as the pressure difference between the pressure prevailing in the volume and the ambient pressure.

[0023] The inside of the lid element forms the side of the lid element facing the contents or volume of the beverage container, whereby the outside of the lid element forms the side of the lid element facing away from the contents or volume (and facing the environment).

[0024] The opening of the lid element is, in particular, simultaneously the (only) pouring opening for the contents of the beverage container. The shape of the opening is not specified. The opening is, in particular, not rotationally symmetrical. However, a rotationally symmetrical opening can also be closed using the closure element described here and is therefore encompassed by the term "opening."

[0025] In particular, the described method of actuating the closure element is primarily or even exclusively required or intended for the (initial or repeated) venting of the beverage container. Venting is particularly necessary primarily or even exclusively when the beverage container is opened for the first time. In particular, after venting or after the beverage container is opened for the first time, the excess pressure in the volume is reduced in such a way that the closure element can be actuated or opened in an alternative manner if necessary.

[0026] In particular, in an initial position of the closure assembly, the contents of the beverage container are sealed, at least fluid-tight, in particular gas-tight, from the surroundings of the beverage container, especially at the described overpressure. In particular, however, a seal also exists when the pressure inside the beverage container corresponds to the ambient pressure.

[0027] In particular, the closure element has at least one frame part arranged circumferentially at the opening edge, having a window, and a flap. The flap is pivotally connected to the frame part (exclusively) via a first pivot axis or a hinge. In an initial position of the closure arrangement, the flap (exclusively) closes the window and thus forms the first connection. The actuation point is arranged on a surface of the flap which, in the initial position, faces the environment (and is thus accessible to a consumer from the environment). The actuation point is arranged at a distance from the first pivot axis or the hinge to utilize a leverage effect.

[0028] In a rotary axis, the components connected by it form, in particular, a shaft and a bearing. The shaft can rotate relative to the bearing. The components are thus only positively connected, but not firmly bonded, via the rotary axis. In the first rotary axis, the frame part forms the stationary bearing, and the flap forms the shaft that can rotate relative to the bearing.

[0029] In a hinge, the components that can move relative to one another (here, for example, the flap and frame part) are permanently connected (in particular, by a material bond) via an elastically deformable connection. This connection is formed, for example, by a particularly thin section of the components, which is therefore elastically deformable. In a hinge, rotation occurs around the hinge or around a hinge axis, which, however, does not necessarily have to be stationary. In particular, a translational movement of the components relative to one another is also possible here, although this translational movement can be limited to a minimum by design.

[0030] In particular, the lid element is a known lid, e.g. of a beverage can, which is connected or connectable to the beverage can. Preferably, the lid element is inseparably (only destructively) connected to the beverage container. In particular, the lid element consists of a metal or a metallic alloy. However, it can also be made of another material, e.g. plastic. In particular, the frame part is arranged on the opening edge (captively). The frame part extends along the opening edge completely around the opening. The flap and the frame part in particular close the opening. If the flap is moved away from the frame part or pivoted, in particular the first connection is initially at least partially released. If the flap is moved (further) away from the frame part orpivoted, the window of the frame part is at least partially released, so that the contents of the beverage container can or do flow out of the beverage container into the environment (exclusively) via the window.

[0031] In particular, the actuation point is arranged at a distance from the first axis of rotation or the hinge in order to utilize a leverage effect. The actuation force acting on the actuation point of the closure element, acting as a compressive force and directed towards the volume, can generate a torque that has a lever arm that corresponds to the distance between the actuation point and the first axis of rotation or the hinge. This means that only a relatively low actuation force is required, at least for venting the beverage container. The actuation point is arranged in particular at least 5 millimeters, preferably at least 7 millimeters, particularly preferably at least 10 millimeters away from the first axis of rotation or the hinge. In particular, the actuation point is arranged at most 30 millimeters, preferably at most 25 millimeters, particularly preferably at most 20 millimeters away from the first axis of rotation or the hinge.

[0032] In particular, the flap is arranged at least partially on the inside of the cover element and, starting from the starting position, can be pivoted (exclusively) away from the cover element and towards the volume. In particular, the flap forms the first connection with the frame part, at least in the starting position of the closure arrangement. During venting, the first connection is at least partially removed, so that a fluid connection is established between the volume and the environment. In particular, the closure element additionally has a lever which is pivotally connected to the frame part via a second axis of rotation. In particular, the flap is connected to the lever such that the flap can be pivoted about the first axis of rotation or about the hinge by pivoting the lever about the second axis of rotation from the starting position into an open position of the closure arrangement which releases the window and back again into the starting position.

[0033] In particular, the first axis of rotation or the hinge are arranged at a distance from the second axis of rotation. The first axis of rotation or the hinge are oriented, in particular, parallel to the second axis of rotation.

[0034] In particular, in the initial position and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation, the hinge and the actuation point into the opening plane, the second axis of rotation is arranged between the first axis of rotation or the hinge and the actuation point.

[0035] In particular, the lever is (directly) connected to the flap permanently (i.e. while the closure arrangement is in a state intended for the predetermined operation) via a guide device, wherein a position of a second connection between the lever and the flap changes during the pivoting along the guide device.

[0036] In particular, the guide device has at least one guide track arranged on the flap and at least one guide pin engaging in the guide track, forming the second connection and arranged on the lever, wherein the guide pin is movable along the guide track during the pivoting of the lever and the flap.

[0037] In particular, the flap has a guide track on each of its two opposite sides. In particular, the lever has two guide pins, each guide pin interacting with a respective guide track. The guide pin is, in particular, a cylindrical or conical extension of the lever, for example, which extends at least partially into the guide track. The guide pin can also be designed as an element rotatably mounted on the lever, for example, in the manner of a wheel. The guide pin is, in particular, fixedly mounted on the lever.

[0038] In particular, the guideways of the flap are arranged between the guide pins of the lever.

[0039] The at least one guide track and the at least one guide pin form a positive connection, particularly in both directions of rotation. Thus, pivoting the lever about the second axis of rotation can cause and control pivoting of the flap about the first axis of rotation or about the hinge.

[0040] In particular, the at least one guide track (preferably both guide tracks) extends in a direction transverse to the first axis of rotation or the hinge and the second axis of rotation.

[0041] In the initial position and in a projection of the positions of the rotation axes or the hinge and the at least one guide pin into the opening plane, the second rotation axis is arranged between the first rotation axis / the hinge and the guide pin.

[0042] In a maximum pivoted opening position of the lever and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation or of the hinge and of the at least one guide pin into the opening plane, the guide pin is arranged in particular between the second axis of rotation and the first axis of rotation / the hinge.

[0043] The respective projection into the opening plane is carried out in particular along a direction perpendicular to the opening plane. This means that the positions of the rotation axes / hinge and the guide pin or actuation point are viewed from a position, e.g., above the opening plane, with the viewing axis running perpendicular to the opening plane.

[0044] In particular, the guide device specifies a second position (e.g. pivoting about the first axis of rotation relative to the initial position) of the flap for a first position (e.g. pivoting about the second axis of rotation relative to the initial position) of the lever, and vice versa. In particular, the second position can vary by a maximum of 20 angular degrees for a specific first position (due to play between the various components). If, for example, the lever is pivoted by approximately 150 angular degrees relative to the initial position, i.e. the first position is 150 angular degrees, the flap is pivoted by 70 to 90 angular degrees relative to the initial position.

[0045] In particular, the lever is located entirely on the outside of the lid element in the initial position of the locking element. In particular, the frame part and the flap are arranged on both sides of the lid element in the initial position, i.e., simultaneously on the inside and outside, or extend through the opening or window and / or are accessible from the other side via the opening or window.

[0046] During the pivoting of the lever between the starting position and the opening position, the lever passes at least partially onto the inside of the cover element, in particular via the window and via the opening plane.

[0047] The lever, and thus also the flap, are pivotable, in particular, between the non-pivoted starting position and a, in particular, maximally pivoted opening position. In the maximum opening position of the locking arrangement or the locking element, the lever and the flap are each arranged, in particular, with the maximum pivoting, and the window or opening is preferably maximally open. Between the starting position and the maximum opening position, a multitude of (intermediate) opening positions are possible, in which the flap and, if applicable, the additional lever are arranged in a position different from the starting position, but not in the maximum opening position.

[0048] The closure element is in particular designed as a single piece, i.e. the individual components frame part, lever and flap are captively connected to one another (via the axes of rotation or the hinge, in particular only via the axes of rotation or the hinge). In particular, these components can be manufactured independently of one another and can be connected to one another during an assembly process. In particular, the frame part and flap are integrally connected to one another via a hinge and are manufactured together, i.e. as a single piece. In particular, the closure element comprises only the components frame part, lever and flap. In particular, each of these components is dimensionally stable, i.e. non-deformable. The only exception are components of the components that are connected to one another in one piece, e.g. via hinges, e.g. the frame part and the flap.

[0049] In particular, only the frame part, lever and flap of the closure element are involved in the (repeatable) opening or closing of the opening of the cover element.

[0050] In particular, the lever and the flap rotate between the initial position and the open position in a common direction of rotation about their respective axes of rotation or about the second axis of rotation and the hinge. The lever and the flap thus rotate either together in a first direction of rotation or in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation.

[0051] In particular, the first axis of rotation or the hinge and the second axis of rotation are each arranged (essentially) stationary on the closure arrangement.

[0052] In particular, the frame part is fixed and immovable at the opening edge. The lever and the flap are connected to the cover element via the frame part. The lever and flap are arranged so that they can move relative to the frame part.

[0053] In particular, the frame part is arranged captively on the opening edge. In particular, the frame part is arranged on the opening edge via a positive connection and can only be removed from the opening edge by destroying the frame part. In particular, the frame part is mounted on the opening edge via plastic deformation of the frame part.

[0054] In particular, the closure element enables repeatable gas-tight closure of the opening. In particular, the closure element enables not only a liquid-tight closure, but also a gas-tight closure of the opening. This allows for effective sealing of the opening, especially with carbonated liquids, even after the closure element has been opened for the first time.

[0055] The frame part forms, in particular, a frame enclosing the opening and thereby forming the window enclosed by the frame. After the frame part is arranged on the cover element, the opening through which a fluid can flow is thus reduced, in particular, to the window. The lever is arranged within the frame, at least in the region of the second axis of rotation. During pivoting of the lever, at least a portion of the lever is displaced, starting from the outer side of the cover element, across the window and the opening plane, to the inner side of the cover element.

[0056] In particular, the frame part and the flap (exclusively) form a sealing surface or the first connection that closes the window in the initial position. This ensures tightness even upon repeated opening and closing of the beverage container via the repeatedly stressed sealing surface or first connection. In particular, the closure element has a sealing element that is destroyed upon the first actuation of the closure element and the associated removal of the first connection.

[0057] In particular, the closure element comprises at least one frame part arranged circumferentially around the opening edge, having a window, and a flap. In particular, the flap is pivotally connected to the frame part via a first pivot axis or a hinge and, in an initial position of the closure arrangement, closes the window, wherein the flap and the frame part form the gas-tight first connection in the initial position. The closure element additionally comprises a lever pivotally connected to the frame part via a second pivot axis. The sealing element is formed between the lever and the flap.

[0058] A closure element for the described closure arrangement is further proposed. The closure element has at least one frame part arranged circumferentially on the opening edge of the lid element of the beverage container, said frame part having a window, and a flap. The flap is pivotally connected to the frame part via a first pivot axis or a hinge. In an initial position of the closure arrangement, the flap closes the window and thus forms the first connection. The closure element additionally has a lever which is pivotally connected to the frame part via a second pivot axis. At least an initial actuation of the closure element occurs by an actuating force applied from the environment, which acts as a compressive force on the flap and acts at least on one actuation point arranged on the flap.

[0059] In particular, only this actuation allows the volume of the beverage container to be vented (known as venting). In particular, a sufficiently large actuation force or torque can be applied to the closure element, so that even in the event of excess pressure prevailing in the volume (excess pressure relative to the ambient air), the first connection can be at least partially released. In particular, the actuation force is not applied to the lever, but acts directly on the actuation point located on the flap.

[0060] The actuating force is usually exerted by a consumer on the closure element.

[0061] In particular, actuation occurs directly (by the consumer) and involves pressing on the actuation point (and / or its immediate vicinity). The actuation force is thus directed toward the volume. As a result of the actuation force, the closure element is deformed or its components are moved relative to one another, so that the first connection is at least partially released.

[0062] Furthermore, a use of the described closure arrangement or the described closure element for the repeatable, at least fluid-tight, in particular gas-tight closure of a beverage container is proposed.

[0063] Furthermore, a method is proposed for the repeatable closing of an opening of a beverage container with a closure arrangement, in particular with the described closure arrangement or with the described closure element.

[0064] In particular, the beverage container has a volume and a closure arrangement that seals the volume against the environment of the beverage container. In the volume, there is an overpressure compared to the environment surrounding the beverage container of at least 1.5 bar, preferably of at least 2 bar, particularly preferably of at least 3 bar or even of at least 4 bar. The closure arrangement has at least one lid element of the beverage container with an opening and a closure element arranged on the lid element for repeatably closing the opening in an at least fluid-tight (preferably gas-tight) manner. The lid element has an outer side and an inner side facing the volume, and the opening has an opening edge and an opening plane formed by the opening edge.The method for opening the beverage container for the first time comprises at least the following steps: a) (immediate) actuation of the closure element from the environment with a static actuation force of at most 100 Newtons, in particular of at most 80 Newtons, preferably of at most 60 Newtons, particularly preferably of at most 50 Newtons, which is directed as a pressure force towards the volume and acts at least at one actuation point of the closure element; b) removing a gas-tight first connection of the closure element prior to the first opening by the actuation force, so that the excess pressure present in the volume is released to the environment.

[0065] In particular, the closure element has at least one frame part arranged circumferentially at the opening edge, having a window, and a flap, wherein the flap is pivotably connected to the frame part via a first pivot axis or a hinge and, in an initial position of the closure arrangement, closes the window and thus forms the first connection. The actuation point is arranged on a surface of the flap which, in the initial position, faces the environment, wherein the actuation point is arranged at a distance from the first pivot axis or the hinge to utilize a leverage effect. The closure element additionally has a lever which is pivotably connected to the frame part via a second pivot axis.The flap is connected to the lever so that the flap can be pivoted about the first pivot axis or about the hinge by pivoting the lever about the second pivot axis from the starting position into an opening position of the locking arrangement that releases the window and back again into the starting position.

[0066] After step b), the method additionally comprises the following steps: c) actuating the lever and pivoting the lever (about the second axis of rotation) and thereby pivoting the flap into an open position; and d) pivoting the lever and thus the flap back from the open position into the starting position and forming the at least fluid-tight (in particular gas-tight) first connection.

[0067] The above (non-exhaustive) division of the method steps into a) and b) or a) to d) is primarily intended to serve only as a means of differentiation and does not enforce any order and / or dependency. The frequency of the method steps can also vary, particularly after steps a) and b) have been carried out for the first time. It is also possible for method steps to overlap one another at least partially. Method steps c) and d) very particularly preferably take place after steps a) and b) have been carried out for the first time. In particular, the lever is also (slightly) pivoted during steps a) and b), so that step d) can also be carried out after step b). In particular, steps a) and b) or a) to d) are carried out in the order given.

[0068] In particular, the process comprises exclusively steps of the process carried out manually (by a consumer).

[0069] In particular, steps a) and b) are carried out (exclusively) when the beverage container is opened for the first time, during which venting takes place. In particular, steps c) and d) can be carried out repeatedly. In particular, step a) can also be carried out multiple times, meaning the beverage container can be opened repeatedly even after it has been opened for the first time. In particular, step b) can also be carried out multiple times, in which case a fluid-tight or even gas-tight initial connection of the closure element after the first opening is then broken by the actuating force. In this case, any excess pressure still present in the volume can also be dissipated to the environment.

[0070] In particular, immediately after step b), the lever is pivoted out of the starting position. In particular, immediately after step b), the lever is pivoted by at least 5 degrees, preferably by at least 10 degrees, relative to the starting position.

[0071] In particular, the closure element has a sealing element, wherein the sealing element is destroyed during the execution of steps a) and b).

[0072] In particular, the sealing element is only intact before steps a) and b) are performed for the first time. Upon the first pivoting of the lever, the connection formed by the sealing element (in particular between the lever and the flap) is or will be destroyed. In particular, the sealing element is destroyed simultaneously or at least during step b). In particular, the sealing element is destroyed, for example, upon rotation of the lever about the second axis of rotation, starting from the initial position, by at least one angular degree, in particular between 1 and 4 angular degrees.

[0073] The sealing element serves primarily to indicate the condition of the closure element or the beverage container. An undamaged sealing element indicates that the closure element has not yet been activated, meaning the beverage container has not been opened. A damaged sealing element, on the other hand, indicates that the closure element has been activated at least once, meaning the beverage container has been opened at least once.

[0074] In particular, a first seal surrounding the opening is arranged between the inside of the cover element and a contact surface of the frame part arranged thereon. In particular, the contact surface is oriented at least partially parallel to a partial surface of the inside of the cover element. The first seal is arranged in particular in the region of this partial surface. In particular, the first seal is fastened to the frame part and is arranged on this partial surface during assembly of the frame part to the cover element. In particular, the first seal can be produced or is produced together with the frame part using a two-component injection molding process. In particular, a second seal surrounding the window, at least in the initial position, is arranged between the frame part and the flap. This second seal enables the window or opening to be sealed by a sealing connection between the flap and the frame part.The second seal therefore forms, in particular, the first connection. In particular, the second seal is arranged on the frame part or on the flap. In particular, the second seal can be manufactured or is manufactured together with the frame part, and possibly also with the flap, using a two-component injection molding process.

[0075] In particular, the frame part and / or the lever and / or the flap is made of a plastic with a modulus of elasticity of at least 1100 MPa [megapascals], in particular of at least 1300 MPa, preferably of at least 1600 MPa.

[0076] Preferably, the first seal and / or the second seal is made of a plastic having a Shore A hardness of at most 60, in particular of at most 45, preferably of at most 35.

[0077] In particular, the frame part is arranged captively on the opening edge.

[0078] In particular, the closure element enables a repeatable fluid-tight, preferably even gas-tight, closure of the opening.

[0079] The statements regarding the closure arrangement apply equally to the closure element, the beverage container, the use of the closure element and the method and vice versa.

[0080] The use of indefinite articles ("a," "an," "one," and "another"), particularly in the patent claims and the description reproducing them, is to be understood as such and not as a numeral. Terms or components introduced accordingly are therefore to be understood as appearing at least once and, in particular, as being able to appear multiple times.

[0081] As a precaution, it should be noted that the numerals used here ("first", "second", ...) primarily serve (only) to distinguish between several similar objects, quantities, or processes, and therefore do not necessarily prescribe any interdependence and / or sequence of these objects, quantities, or processes. Should a dependence and / or sequence be necessary, this is explicitly stated here or will be obvious to the person skilled in the art upon studying the specifically described embodiment. To the extent that a component can occur multiple times ("at least one"), the description of one of these components can apply equally to all or part of the majority of these components, but this is not mandatory.

[0082] The invention and the technical environment are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the invention is not intended to be limited by the exemplary embodiments cited. In particular, unless explicitly stated otherwise, it is also possible to extract partial aspects of the facts explained in the figures and combine them with other components and findings from the present description. In particular, it should be noted that the figures, and in particular the proportions shown, are only schematic. They show:

[0083] Fig. 1 : a beverage container with a closure arrangement in a perspective view from above;

[0084] Fig. 2: the closure arrangement according to Fig. 1 in a view from above;

[0085] Fig. 3: the closure arrangement according to Figs. 1 and 2 in a perspective view from below;

[0086] Fig. 4: the closure assembly according to Fig. 3 in a view from below; Fig. 5: a closure element of the closure assembly according to Figs. 1 to 4 in a perspective view from above;

[0087] Fig. 6: the closure element according to Fig. 5 in a view from above;

[0088] Fig. 7: the closure element according to Fig. 4 and 5 in a perspective

[0089] View from below;

[0090] Fig. 8: the closure element according to Fig. 5 to 7 in a view from below;

[0091] Fig. 9: the beverage container according to Fig. 1 with the closure arrangement according to Figs. 1 to 4 in an open position in a perspective view.

[0092] Fig. 1 shows a beverage container 2 with a closure arrangement 1 in a perspective view from above. Fig. 2 shows the closure arrangement 1 according to Fig. 1 in a view from above. Fig. 3 shows the closure arrangement 1 according to Figs. 1 and 2 in a perspective view from below. Fig. 4 shows the closure arrangement 1 according to Fig. 3 in a view from below. Fig. 5 shows a closure element 5 of the closure arrangement 1 according to Figs. 1 to 4 in a perspective view from above. Fig. 6 shows the closure element 5 according to Fig. 5 in a view from above. Fig. 7 shows the closure element 5 according to Figs. 4 and 5 in a perspective view from below. Fig. 8 shows the closure element 5 according to Figs. 5 to 7 in a view from below. Fig. 9 shows the beverage container 2 according to Fig. 1 with the closure assembly 1 according to Figs. 1 to 4 in an open position 23 in a perspective view. Figs. 1 to 9 are described together below.

[0093] The closure arrangement 1 comprises a lid element 3 (see Figs. 1 to 4, wherein the beverage container 2 itself is only shown in outline in Fig. 1) of the beverage container 1 with an opening 4 and a closure element 5 arranged on the lid element 3 for repeatably closing the opening 4 in an at least fluid-tight manner. The lid element 3 has an outer side 6 and an inner side 7, which faces a volume 8 enclosed by the beverage container 2. The opening 4 has an opening edge 9 and an opening plane 10 formed by the opening edge 9 (see Fig. 6).

[0094] The closure element 5 is designed such that, when the excess pressure in the volume 8 is at least 1.5 to 2 bar higher than the environment 11 surrounding the beverage container 2, direct actuation of the closure element 5 from the environment 11 exclusively with a static actuation force 12 of at most 100 Newtons breaks a first connection 14 of the closure element 5 which is gas-tight at least before the beverage container 2 is opened for the first time. The actuation force 12 is directed as a pressure force exclusively towards the volume 8. The actuation force 12 acts at least at one actuation point 13 of the closure element 5. As a result of the breakage of the first connection 14, the excess pressure in the environment 11 can be or is broken down.

[0095] The actuating force 12 is usually exerted by a consumer on the closure element 5.

[0096] The actuation is performed directly by the consumer and involves pressing on the actuation point 13 and / or its immediate surroundings. The actuation force 12 is thus directed toward the volume 8. As a result of the actuation force 12, the closure element 5 is deformed or its components are moved relative to one another, so that the first connection 14 is at least partially removed.

[0097] The inner side 7 of the lid element 3 forms the side of the lid element 3 facing the content or volume 8 of the beverage container 2, wherein the outer side 6 of the lid element 3 forms the side of the lid element 3 facing away from the content or volume 8 (and facing the environment 11).

[0098] The opening 4 of the lid element 3 is the only pouring opening for the contents of the beverage container 2. The described type of actuation of the closure element 5 is primarily or even exclusively required or intended for the initial or repeated venting of the beverage container 2. Venting is primarily or even exclusively required when the beverage container 2 is opened for the first time. After venting or after the initial opening of the beverage container 2, the excess pressure in the volume 8 is reduced in such a way that the closure element 5 can also be actuated or opened in an alternative manner (e.g., by steps c) and d)).

[0099] In an initial position 19 of the closure assembly 1 (see Figs. 1 to 4), the contents of the beverage container 2 are sealed fluid-tight or even gas-tight against the environment 11 of the beverage container 2. However, a seal also exists when the pressure inside the beverage container 2 corresponds to the pressure of the environment 11.

[0100] The closure element 5 has a frame part 15 arranged circumferentially on the opening edge 9, said frame part having a window 16, as well as a flap 17. The flap 17 is pivotally connected to the frame part 15 exclusively via a first pivot axis 18 (here always shown as a hinge 18). In an initial position 19 of the closure arrangement 1, only the flap 17 closes the window 16 and thus forms the first connection 14. The actuation point 13 is arranged on a surface 20 of the flap 17 which, in the initial position 19, faces the environment 11 and is thus accessible to a consumer from the environment 11. The actuation point 13 is arranged at a distance from the first pivot axis 18 or the hinge 18 in order to utilize a leverage effect.

[0101] In the illustrated hinge 18, the relatively movable components, flap 17 and frame part 15, are permanently (materially) connected via an elastically deformable connection. This connection is formed by a particularly thin section of the components, which is therefore elastically deformable. In the hinge 18, rotation occurs around the hinge 18 or around a (first rotational) axis 18 of the hinge 18.

[0102] The lid element 3 is a known lid, e.g. of a beverage can, which is connected or connectable to the beverage can.

[0103] The frame part 15 is captively arranged on the opening edge 9. The frame part 15 extends along the opening edge 9 completely around the opening 4. The flap 17 and the frame part 15 close the opening 4. If the flap 17 is moved or pivoted away from the frame part 15, in particular the first connection 14 is initially at least partially released. If the flap 17 is moved or pivoted further away from the frame part 15, the window 16 of the frame part 15 is at least partially released, so that the contents of the beverage container 2 can or do flow out of the beverage container 2 into the environment 11 exclusively via the window 16.

[0104] The actuation point 13 is arranged at a distance from the hinge 18 to utilize a leverage effect. The actuation force 12 acting on the actuation point 13 of the closure element 5, acting as a compressive force and directed toward the volume 8, can generate a torque that has a lever arm corresponding to the distance 31 (see Fig. 2) between the actuation point 13 and the hinge 18. Thus, only a relatively low actuation force 12 is required, at least for venting the beverage container 2. The actuation point 13 is arranged approximately 10 millimeters from the hinge 18.

[0105] The flap 17 is at least partially arranged on the inner side 7 of the cover element 3 and, starting from the starting position 19, can be pivoted exclusively away from the cover element 3 and towards the volume 8. The flap 17 forms the first connection 14 with the frame part 15, at least in the starting position 19 of the closure arrangement 1. During venting, the first connection 14 is at least partially removed, so that a fluidic connection is established between the volume 8 and the environment 11. The closure element 5 additionally has a lever 21 which is pivotally connected to the frame part 15 via a second pivot axis 22. The flap 17 is connected to the lever 21, so that the flap 17, by pivoting the lever 21 about the second pivot axis 22, can be moved from the starting position 19 (see Figs. 1 to 4) into an open position 23 (see Fig.9) of the locking arrangement 1 and back into the starting position 19 about the hinge 18.

[0106] The hinge 18 is arranged at a distance from the second rotation axis 22. The hinge 18 is oriented parallel to the second rotation axis 22.

[0107] In the initial position 19 and in a projection of the positions of the rotation axis 22, the hinge 18 and the actuation point 13 into the opening plane 10 (see Fig. 2 and 4), the second rotation axis 22 is arranged between the hinge 18 and the actuation point 13.

[0108] The lever 21 is permanently connected directly to the flap 17 via a guide device 24, wherein a position 25 of a second connection 26 between the lever 21 and the flap 17 changes during pivoting along the guide device 24 (see Fig. 9).

[0109] The guide device 24 has two guide tracks 27 arranged on the flap 17 and two guide pins 28 which engage in the guide tracks 27, form the second connection 26 and are arranged on the lever 21, wherein the guide pins 28 are movable along the guide tracks 27 as the lever 21 and the flap 17 are pivoted.

[0110] The flap 17 has a guide track 27 on each of its two opposite sides. The lever 21 has two guide pins 28, each of which interacts with a respective guide track 27. Each guide pin 28 is a cylindrical or conical extension of the lever.

[0111] 21 , which extends at least partially into the guide track 27. The guide tracks 27 of the flap 17 are between the guide pins 28 of the lever

[0112] 21 arranged.

[0113] Each guide track 27 forms a positive second connection 26 with a guide pin 28 in each direction of rotation 29 (see Fig. 9). Thus, pivoting of the lever 21 about the second axis of rotation 22 can cause and control pivoting of the flap 17 about the hinge 18.

[0114] The guide tracks 27 each extend in a direction transverse to the hinge 18 and the second axis of rotation 22.

[0115] In the initial position 19 and in a projection of the positions of the rotation axis 22, the hinge 18 and the guide pins 28 into the opening plane 10, the second rotation axis 22 is arranged between the hinge 18 and the guide pin 28 (see Fig. 1 to 4).

[0116] In a maximum pivoted opening position 23 (see Fig. 9) of the lever 21 and in a projection of the positions of the hinge 18 and the guide pins 28 into the opening plane 10, the guide pins 28 are between the second axis of rotation

[0117] 22 and the hinge 18 (easily visible in Fig. 9).

[0118] The respective projection into the opening plane 10 is carried out in particular along a direction transverse to the opening plane 10. This means that the positions of the axes of rotation

[0119] 22, the hinge 18 and the guide pins 28 as well as the actuation point 13 are viewed from a position, for example, above the opening plane 10 (see, for example, Fig. 2), with the viewing axis running perpendicular to the opening plane 10.

[0120] The guide device 24 predetermines a second position (e.g., pivoting about the hinge 18 relative to the initial position 19) of the flap 17 for a first position (e.g., pivoting about the second rotational axis 22 relative to the initial position 19) of the lever 21, and vice versa (see, for example, Fig. 9). For example, if the lever 21 is pivoted approximately 150 degrees relative to the initial position 19, i.e., the first position is 150 degrees, the flap 17 is pivoted 70 to 90 degrees relative to the initial position 19 (see Fig. 9).

[0121] In the starting position 19 of the locking element 5, the lever 21 is located entirely on the outer side 6 of the cover element 3. In the starting position 19, the frame part 15 and the flap 17 are arranged on both sides 6, 7 of the cover element 3, i.e. simultaneously on the inner side 7 and on the outer side 6, or extend through the opening 4 or the window 16 and / or are accessible via the opening 4 or the window 16 from the other side 6, 7.

[0122] During the pivoting of the lever 21 between the starting position 19 (see Fig. 1 to 4) and the opening position 23, the lever 21 passes over the window 16 and over the opening plane 10 at least partially onto the inner side 7 of the cover element 3.

[0123] The lever 21 and thus also the flap 17 can be pivoted between the non-pivoted starting position 19 and a, in particular, maximally pivoted opening position 23 (see Fig. 9). In the maximum opening position 23 of the closure arrangement 1 or the closure element 5, the lever 21 and the flap 17 are each arranged with the maximum pivoting and the window 16 or the opening 4 is maximally open. Between the starting position 19 and the maximum opening position 23, a plurality of (intermediate) opening positions 23 are possible, in which the flap 17 and the lever 21 are arranged in a pivoted position relative to the starting position 19, but not in the maximum opening position 23.

[0124] 5 to 8 show the closure element 5 in positions which do not occur during the intended operation of the closure element 5. For example, in Figs. 5 to 8 the lever 21 is not connected to the flap 17 via the guide pins 28, but only via the second pivot axis 22 to the frame part 15. The closure element 5 is designed as a single piece, i.e. the individual components frame part 15, lever 21 and flap 17 are captively connected to one another via the second pivot axis 22 and the hinge 18, or only via the pivot axis 22 and the hinge 18. In addition, a connection can be made between the guide pins 28 and the guide device 24. These components can be manufactured independently of one another and can be connected to one another during an assembly process.

[0125] In Figs. 1 to 9, frame part 15 and flap 17 are each connected to each other by a hinge 18 and are manufactured together, i.e. in one piece or in one piece.

[0126] The closure element 5 comprises exclusively the components frame part 15, lever 21, and flap 17. Each of these components is dimensionally rigid, i.e., non-deformable (at least not deformable by the forces required for the intended operation). The only exception are components of the components that are connected to one another in one piece, e.g., via the hinge 18, e.g., the frame part 15 and the flap 17.

[0127] Only the components frame part 15, lever 21 and flap 17 of the closure element 5 are involved in the (repeatable) opening or closing of the opening 4 of the cover element 5.

[0128] The lever 21 and the flap 17 rotate between the starting position 19 and the opening position 23 in a common direction of rotation 29 about the second axis of rotation 22 and about the hinge 18. The lever 21 and the flap 17 therefore rotate either together in a first direction of rotation or in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation.

[0129] The hinge 18 and the second pivot axis 22 are each fixedly arranged on the closure assembly 1. The frame part 15 is fixedly and immovably arranged on the opening edge 9. The lever 21 and the flap 17 are connected to the lid element 3 via the frame part 15. The lever 21 and the flap 17 are arranged so as to be movable relative to the frame part 15.

[0130] The frame part 15 is arranged captively on the opening edge 9. The frame part 15 is arranged on the opening edge 9 via a positive connection and can only be removed from the opening edge 9 by destroying the frame part 15. The frame part 15 is mounted on the opening edge 9 via a plastic deformation of the frame part 15.

[0131] The frame part 15 forms a frame enclosing the opening 4 and thereby forms the window 16 enclosed by the frame. After the frame part 15 is arranged on the cover element 3, the opening 4 through which a fluid can flow is thus reduced to the window 16. The lever 21 is arranged within the frame in the region of the second rotation axis 22. During the pivoting of the lever 21, a part of the lever 21 is displaced, starting from the outer side 6 of the cover element 3, via the window 16 and the opening plane 10, to the inner side 7 of the cover element 3.

[0132] In the initial position 19, only the frame part 15 and the flap 17 form a sealing surface or the first connection 14 that closes the window 16. This ensures tightness even during repeated opening and closing of the beverage container 2 via the repeatedly stressed sealing surface or first connection 14.

[0133] The closure element 5 has a sealing element 30, which is destroyed upon initial actuation of the closure element 5 and the associated release of the first connection 14. The sealing element 30 is formed between the lever 21 and the flap 17. A projection 32 is arranged on the flap 17, which, in the initial position 19, extends through a receptacle 33 on the lever 21. Before the beverage container 2 is opened for the first time, the projection 32 and the receptacle 33 are connected to one another at least in a form-fitting manner or (if necessary, additionally) in a materially bonded manner.

[0134] At least a first actuation of the closure element 5 takes place by an actuation force 12 applied from the environment 11, which acts as a pressure force on the flap 17 and acts at least on one actuation point 13 arranged on the flap 17.

[0135] Only through this actuation is a (first-time) venting of the volume 8 of the beverage container 2 possible. Only in this way can a sufficiently large actuation force or a sufficiently high torque be applied to the closure element 5, so that even in the event of an overpressure prevailing in the volume 8 (overpressure relative to the environment 11), the first connection 14 can be at least partially released.

[0136] The actuating force 12 is not applied to the lever 21 (i.e. by a tensile force pointing away from the lid element 3), but acts directly on the actuating point 13 arranged on the flap 17. The actuating force 13 is exerted by a consumer on the closure element 5.

[0137] The actuation is performed directly by the consumer and involves pressing on the actuation point 13 (see Fig. 1) and / or its immediate surroundings. The actuation force 12 is thus directed toward the volume 8. As a result of the actuation force 12, the closure element 5 is deformed or its components are moved relative to one another, so that the first connection 14 is at least partially removed.

[0138] In the method for opening the beverage container 2 for the first time, step a) comprises the direct actuation of the closure element 5 from the environment 11 with a static actuation force 12, which is directed as a pressure force toward the volume 8 and acts on at least one actuation point 13 of the closure element 5. Step b) comprises the removal of a gas-tight first connection 14 of the closure element 5 prior to the initial opening by the actuation force 12, so that the excess pressure present in the volume 8 is released to the environment 11.

[0139] The closure element 5 has a frame part 15 arranged circumferentially on the opening edge 9, said frame part having a window 16, as well as a flap 17, wherein the flap 17 is pivotally connected to the frame part 15 via the hinge 18 and, in an initial position 19 of the closure arrangement 1, closes the window 16 and thus forms the first connection 14. The actuation point 13 is arranged on a surface 20 of the flap 17 which, in the initial position 19, faces the surroundings 11, wherein the actuation point 13 is arranged at a distance 31 from the hinge 18 to utilize a leverage effect. The closure element 5 additionally has a lever 21 which is pivotally connected to the frame part 15 via a second pivot axis 22.The flap 17 is connected to the lever 21, so that the flap 17 can be pivoted about the hinge 18 from the starting position 19 into an opening position 23 of the closure arrangement 1 which releases the window 16 and back again into the starting position 19 by pivoting the lever 21 about the second axis of rotation 22.

[0140] The method for initial opening comprises, after step b), additional steps c) and d). According to step c), the lever 21 is actuated and pivoted about the second axis of rotation 22, thereby pivoting the flap 17 into an open position 23. According to step d), the lever 21, and thus the flap 17, are pivoted back from the open position 23 back into the starting position 19, and the at least fluid-tight (in particular gas-tight) first connection 14 is formed.

[0141] Steps a) and b) are carried out exclusively when the beverage container 2 is opened for the first time, during which venting takes place. Steps c) and d) can be carried out repeatedly. However, at least step a) can also be carried out multiple times, and thus the beverage container 2 can be opened repeatedly even after the initial opening. Step b) can also be carried out multiple times, in which case a fluid-tight or even gas-tight first connection 14 of the closure element 5 after the initial opening is then removed by the actuating force 12. In this case, any excess pressure still present in the volume 8 can also be dissipated to the environment 11.

[0142] Immediately after step b), the lever 21 is pivoted out of the starting position 19. Immediately after step b), the lever 21 is pivoted by approximately 10 degrees relative to the starting position 19 (and toward the opening position 23).

[0143] The sealing element 30 is destroyed during the execution of steps a) and b). The sealing element 30 is only intact before the first execution of steps a) and b). When the lever 21 is pivoted for the first time, the connection formed by the sealing element 30 between the projection 32 on the flap 17 and the receptacle 33 on the lever 21 is or will be destroyed. The destruction of the sealing element 30 occurs simultaneously with or at least during step b). The destruction of the sealing element 30 occurs when the lever 21 is rotated about the second axis of rotation 22, starting from the starting position 19, by between 1 and 4 angular degrees.

[0144] The sealing element 30 serves to indicate the state of the closure element 5 or the beverage container 2. An undamaged sealing element 30 signals that the closure element 5 has not yet been activated, i.e., the beverage container 2 has not been opened. A damaged sealing element 30, on the other hand, signals that the closure element 5 has been activated at least once, i.e., the beverage container 2 has been opened at least once.

[0145] Between the inner side 7 of the cover element 3 and a contact surface 34 of the frame part 15 arranged thereon, a first seal 35 is arranged surrounding the opening 4. The first seal 35 is fastened to the frame part 15 and is arranged on the cover element 3 during assembly of the frame part 15. The first seal 35 can be produced or is produced together with the frame part 15 using a two-component injection molding process. Between the frame part 15 and the flap 17, a second seal 36 is arranged surrounding the window 16, at least in the initial position 19. This second seal 36 enables sealing of the window 16 or the opening 4 by a sealing connection between the flap 17 and the frame part 15. The second seal 36 thus forms the first connection 14. The second

[0146] Seal 36 is arranged on the flap 17. The second seal 36 can be manufactured or is manufactured together with the frame part 15 and also with the flap 17 using a two-component injection molding process.

[0147] List of reference symbols

[0148] 1 locking arrangement

[0149] 2 beverage containers

[0150] 3 cover element

[0151] 4 Opening

[0152] 5 locking element

[0153] 6 Outside

[0154] 7 Inside

[0155] 8 volumes

[0156] 9 Opening edge

[0157] 10 opening levels

[0158] 11 Surroundings

[0159] 12 Actuating force

[0160] 13 Actuation point

[0161] 14 first connection

[0162] 15 frame part

[0163] 16 windows

[0164] 17 flap

[0165] 18 first pivot axis / hinge

[0166] 19 Starting position

[0167] 20 Surface

[0168] 21 levers

[0169] 22 second axis of rotation

[0170] 23 Opening position

[0171] 24 guidance device

[0172] 25 positions

[0173] 26 second connection

[0174] 27 guideway

[0175] 28 Guide pin

[0176] 29 Direction of rotation 30 Sealing element

[0177] 31 distance

[0178] 32 lead

[0179] 33 Holder 34 Contact surface

[0180] 35 first seal

[0181] 36 second seal

Claims

Patent claims 1. A closure arrangement (1) for a beverage container (2), at least comprising a lid element (3) of the beverage container (2) having an opening (4) and a closure element (5) arranged on the lid element (3) for repeatedly closing the opening (4) in an at least fluid-tight manner; wherein the lid element (3) has an outer side (6) and an inner side (7) facing a volume (8) enclosed by the beverage container (2), and the opening (4) has an opening edge (9) and an opening plane (10) formed by the opening edge (9);wherein the closure element (5) is designed in such a way that, when the excess pressure prevailing in the volume (8) compared to an environment (11) surrounding the beverage container (2) is at least 1.5 bar, actuation of the closure element (5) from the environment (11) with a static actuation force (12) of at most 100 Newtons, which is directed as a pressure force towards the volume (8) and acts at least on one actuation point (13) of the closure element (5), causes a removal of a first connection (14) of the closure element (5), which is gas-tight at least before the beverage container (2) is opened for the first time, so that the excess pressure can be released to the environment (11); 2. Closure arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the closure element (5) has at least one frame part (15) arranged circumferentially on the opening edge (9) with a window (16) and a flap (17), wherein the flap (17) is pivotally connected to the frame part (15) via a first pivot axis (18) or a hinge (18) and, in an initial position (19) of the closure arrangement (1), closes the window (16) and thus forms the first connection (14); wherein the actuation point (13) is arranged on a surface (20) of the flap (17) facing the environment (11) in the initial position (19), wherein the actuation point (13) to utilize a leverage effect spaced from the first axis of rotation (18) or the hinge (18).

3. Closure arrangement (1) according to claim 2, wherein the flap (17) is arranged on the inside (7) and, starting from the initial position (19) can be pivoted away from the cover element (3) and towards the volume (8).

4. Closure arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims 2 and 3, wherein the closure element (5) additionally has a lever (21) which is pivotally connected to the frame part (15) via a second pivot axis (22); wherein the flap (17) is connected to the lever (21) such that the flap (17) can be pivoted about the first pivot axis (18) or about the hinge (18) from the starting position (19) into an opening position (23) of the closure arrangement (1) which releases the window (16) and back again into the starting position (19) by pivoting the lever (21) about the second pivot axis (22).

5. Closure arrangement (1) according to claim 4, wherein in the initial position (19) and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation (18, 22), the hinge (18) and the actuation point (13) into the opening plane (10), the second axis of rotation (22) is arranged between the first axis of rotation (18) or the hinge (18) and the actuation point (13).

6. Closure arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims 4 and 5, wherein the lever (21) is permanently connected to the flap (17) via a guide device (24), wherein a position (25) of a second connection (26) between the lever (21) and the flap (17) changes during the pivoting along the guide device (24).

7. Closure arrangement (1) according to claim 6, wherein the guide device (18) comprises at least one guide track arranged on the flap (17) (27) and at least one guide pin (28) engaging in the guide track (27), forming the second connection (26) and arranged on the lever (21), wherein the guide pin (28) is movable along the guide track (27) as the lever (21) and the flap (17) pivot.

8. Closure arrangement (1) according to claim 7, wherein in the initial position (19) and in a projection of the positions of the axes of rotation (18, 22), the hinge (18) and the at least one guide pin (28) into the opening plane (10), the second axis of rotation (22) is located between, on the one hand, the first axis of rotation (18) or the hinge (18) and, on the other hand, the guide pin (28) is arranged.

9. Closure arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 8, wherein the lever (21) and the flap (17) rotate between the initial position (19) and the open position (23) in a common direction of rotation (29) about the axes of rotation (18, 22) or about the hinge (18).

10. Closure arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (5) has a sealing element (30) which is destroyed upon first actuation of the closure element (5) and the associated removal of the first connection (14).

11. Closure arrangement (1) according to claim 10, wherein the closure element (5) has at least one frame part (15) arranged circumferentially on the opening edge (9) with a window (16) and a flap (17), wherein the flap (17) is pivotally connected to the frame part (15) via a first pivot axis (18) or a hinge (18) and, in an initial position (19) of the closure arrangement (1), closes the window (16) and thus forms the gas-tight first connection (14); wherein the closure element (5) additionally has a lever (21) which is second axis of rotation (22) is pivotally connected to the frame part (15); wherein the sealing element (30) is formed between the lever (21) and the flap (17).

12. Closure element (5) for a closure arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, wherein the closure element (5) has at least one frame part (15) arranged circumferentially on the opening edge (9) of the opening (4) of the lid element (3) of the beverage container (2) and having a window (16) and a flap (17), wherein the flap (17) is pivotally connected to the frame part (15) via a first axis of rotation (18) or a hinge (18) and closes the window (16) in an initial position (19) of the closure arrangement (1) and thus forms the first connection (14);wherein the closure element (15) additionally has a lever (21) which is pivotably connected to the frame part (15) via a second axis of rotation (22), wherein at least a first actuation of the closure element (5) takes place by an actuating force (12) applied from the environment (11), which acts as a pressure force on the flap (17) and thereby acts on at least one actuating point (13) arranged on the flap (17); 13. Use of a closure arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11 or of a closure element (5) according to claim 12 for the repeatable, at least fluid-tight closure of a beverage container (2).

14. A method for venting a beverage container (2) and for repeatedly closing an opening (4) of the beverage container (2) with a closure arrangement (1), wherein the beverage container (2) has a volume (8) and a closure arrangement (1) sealing the volume (8) against an environment (11) of the beverage container (2), wherein in the volume (8) there is an overpressure of at least 1.5 bar compared to an environment (11) surrounding the beverage container (2); wherein the Closure arrangement (1) comprising at least one lid element (3) of the beverage container (2) with an opening (4) and a closure element (5) arranged on the lid element (3) for repeatably closing the opening (4) in an at least fluid-tight manner; wherein the lid element (3) has an outer side (6) and an inner side (7) facing the volume (8), and the opening (4) has an opening edge (9) and an opening plane (10) formed by the opening edge (9); wherein the method for opening the beverage container (2) for the first time comprises at least the following steps: a) actuating the closure element (5) from the environment (11) with a static actuating force (12) of at most 100 Newtons, which is directed as a compressive force towards the volume (8) and acts at least on one actuating point (13) of the closure element (5);b) removing a gas-tight first connection (14) of the closure element (5) by the actuating force (12) before the first opening, so that the excess pressure present in the volume (8) is released to the environment (11); 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the closure element (5) has at least one frame part (15) arranged circumferentially on the opening edge (9) with a window (16) and a flap (17), wherein the flap (17) is pivotally connected to the frame part (15) via a first axis of rotation (18) or a hinge (18) and, in an initial position (19) of the closure arrangement (1), closes the window (16) and thus forms the first connection (14); wherein the actuation point (13) is arranged on a surface (20) of the flap (17) which, in the initial position (19), faces towards the surroundings (11), wherein the actuation point (13) is arranged at a distance from the first axis of rotation (18) or the hinge (18) in order to utilize a lever effect; wherein the closure element (5) additionally has a lever (21) which is pivotally connected to the frame part (15) via a second axis of rotation (22);wherein the flap (17) is connected to the lever (21) so that the flap (17) can be moved by a; Pivoting the lever (21) about the second axis of rotation (22), from the starting position (19) into an open position (23) of the closure arrangement (1) which releases the window (16) and back again into the starting position (19) about the first axis of rotation (18) or about the hinge (18); wherein the method according to step b) additionally comprises the following steps: c) actuating the lever (21) and pivoting the lever (21) and thereby pivoting the flap (17) into the open position (23); and d) pivoting the lever (21) and thus the flap (17) back from the open position (23) back into the starting position (19) and forming the at least fluid-tight first connection (14).

16. Method according to claim 15, wherein immediately after step b) the lever (21) is arranged pivoted out of the starting position (19).

17. Method according to one of the preceding claims 14 to 16, wherein the closure element (5) has a sealing element (30), wherein the sealing element (30) is destroyed during the execution of steps a) and b).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Closure arrangement for a beverage container and method for repeatedly closing a beverage container with a closure arrangement

    DE102021106977A1

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