Method for forming a closure assembly for a container

Abstract

NOT VISIBLE DUE TO STATUS OF PATENT

Description

[0001] Method for forming a closure arrangement for a container

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for forming a closure arrangement for a container, in particular a beverage container, preferably a beverage can.

[0003] The closure assembly comprises at least one lid element with an opening and a closure element arranged non-removably on the lid element for closing the opening, in particular repeatedly and in particular gas-tight. The lid element is made of metal. The container serves to store contents, e.g., a fluid, wherein the beverage container is, in particular, under positive pressure when closed.

[0004] 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.

[0005] Both one-time opening and resealable closure systems are known for sealing such beverage containers. The advantage of resealable closure systems is obvious. This allows a beverage container to be sealed, particularly gas-tight, even after partial emptying, thus preventing the fluid stored in the beverage container from escaping and, especially in the case of carbonated contents, preventing the carbonation from escaping.

[0006] In particular, a captive arrangement of the closure arrangement on the lid element or on the container is desired so that all components of the beverage container can be recycled.

[0007] Given the high volumes of such containers, a short cycle time and a reproducible method for arranging the closure element on the lid element are desirable.

[0008] From DE 10 2021 106 977 A1 a closure arrangement for a beverage container and a method for repeatably closing a beverage container with a closure arrangement are known.

[0009] From DE 10 2021 106 980 A1 a lid element for a beverage container and a closure arrangement for a beverage container are known.

[0010] From the subsequently published DE 10 2022 123 526 A1, a method for producing a closure element for a container and a closure arrangement are known.

[0011] From the subsequently published DE 10 2022 133 590 A1 a method for forming a closure arrangement for a 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 propose a method for forming a closure assembly for a container, wherein the connection of the closure element to the lid element can be carried out reproducibly with high quality and with a short cycle time. The tool should be designed as cost-effectively as possible. In particular, a closure element of the closure assembly should be arranged or attached to the container in a captive manner.

[0013] Furthermore, the closure arrangement should also make it possible to reclose the beverage container after it has been opened for the first time, whereby in particular the tightness of the container (with respect to atmospheric pressure) is ensured on the one hand at a low pressure in the container and on the other hand even at a pressure within the container of up to 6.2 bar.

[0014] These objects are achieved by a method according to the features of patent claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments of 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.

[0015] A method for forming a closure assembly for a container is proposed, wherein the closure assembly has at least one lid element with an opening and a closure element arranged on the lid element for (repeatably) closing the opening. The closure element comprises a plurality of components movable relative to one another. The lid element has an outer side and an inner side, and the opening has an opening edge and an opening plane formed by the opening edge. The closure element has, as a first component, at least one frame part with a window arranged non-detachably on the opening edge, and a second component.The method comprises at least the following steps: a) providing the cover element with the opening; b) providing the frame part and the second component; c) arranging the frame part in the opening, wherein the frame part extends on both sides of the opening plane; d) plastically deforming at least one partial region of the frame part consisting of a plastic material, so that the frame part encompasses at least part of the opening edge, so that a non-detachable, positive-locking first connection is formed between the frame part and the cover element with respect to an axial direction extending transversely to the opening plane.

[0016] At least a first section of the partial area is deformed by contacting the second component (plastically as part of step d).

[0017] The above (non-exhaustive) classification of the process steps into a) to d) is primarily intended to serve as a distinction and does not enforce any order and / or dependency. The frequency of the process steps can also vary. It is also possible that process steps overlap one another, at least partially. Most preferably, process steps a) and b) take place before step c). In particular, step c) takes place before step d). In particular, steps a) and b) take place simultaneously. In particular, steps a) to d) are carried out in the order listed.

[0018] The closure assembly can be designed, in particular, as described in DE 10 2021 106 977 A1 and manufactured as described in DE 10 2022 123 526 A1. The closure element comprises, in particular, at least or exclusively a frame part (first component) and a second component. The second component may be a lever. In particular, the closure element additionally comprises a cover as a third component.

[0019] The frame part is arranged at the edge of the opening and has a window. The second component (the lever) is pivotally connected to the frame part (exclusively) via a first axis of rotation (and around this axis).

[0020] The third component (the cover), if provided, closes the window in a closed position of the closure arrangement or the closure element and is (exclusively) pivotable about a second axis of rotation (and around this) or pivotably connected to the frame part via a hinge.

[0021] The second component is in particular (directly) connected to the third component, if present, (and thereby) permanently (i.e., while the closure assembly is in a state intended for predetermined operation) via a guide device. Via the guide device, the third component (the cover) can be pivoted by pivoting the second component (the lever) about the first axis of rotation, starting from the closed position about the second axis of rotation or about the hinge into an open position of the closure assembly or closure element that releases the window, and back again into the closed position.

[0022] In particular, the first component (frame part) has a seal that seals the connection between the first component and the cover element. This seal extends, in particular, along the opening edge and completely around the opening. In particular, a seal that surrounds the window of the frame part, at least in the closed position, is arranged between the first component (frame part) and the third component (cover). This seal enables the window or opening to be sealed by a sealing connection between the cover and the frame part. In particular, the seal is arranged on the frame part or on the cover.

[0023] In particular, these seals can be manufactured or are manufactured together with the frame part, and if necessary also with the second component, and / or with the third component, using a two-component injection molding process.

[0024] In particular, the first component and / or the third component is made of a plastic material with a modulus of elasticity of at least 1100 MPa [megapascals], in particular of at least 1300 MPa, preferably of at least 1600 MPa.

[0025] The seals are preferably made of a plastic with a Shore A hardness of at most 60, in particular of at most 45, preferably of at most 35.

[0026] The cover element can be designed in particular as described in DE 10 2021 106 980 A1.

[0027] In particular, in step b), not only the frame part and the second component (e.g., the lever) are provided, but also the third component (e.g., the lid). In particular, in step c), the frame part is arranged in the opening, with the other components of the closure element also being arranged on the lid element via the frame part.

[0028] In particular, steps a) to c) are carried out outside a press, in which, in particular, step d) is performed. In particular, the closure assembly, i.e., the lid element and the closure element arranged thereon, is arranged in a press during step d), wherein a first section of the partial area is then (plastically) formed in the press by contacting the second component.

[0029] This (plastic) forming (i.e. the forming according to step d)) can be carried out in particular as part of hot forming or as part of cold forming.

[0030] Typically, such a frame part is connected to the cover element via a positive first connection that extends along the opening edge and can only be removed from the opening edge by destroying the frame part. Such a frame part is mounted on the opening edge by plastic deformation of the frame part.

[0031] DE 10 2021 106 977 A1 states that this plastic deformation can be carried out, for example, by thermal treatment of the frame part, e.g. at least local heating.

[0032] During hot forming (temperature at the tool or in the part to be formed, e.g., at least 30 degrees Celsius above ambient temperature), heat can only reach the material to be formed through mechanical contact. Preheating the material to be formed, e.g., via induction, hot air, etc., is disadvantageous, as the non-formed areas of the component would also be heated and subject to undesirable deformation.

[0033] When heating via mechanical contact, i.e. via the heated tool, the cycle time or the process time for forming the component increases to more than one second.

[0034] Another problem with hot forming is that the formed material of the component has low strength and therefore does not remain in the position changed by the forming process. This would require subsequent forming using a downstream cold tool.

[0035] In cold forming, in which no additional heat is introduced into the material, whether through contact with a heated tool or through radiation, it was determined in connection with DE 10 2022 133 590 A1 that no recovery of the formed section occurs. The otherwise typical stress whitening, which occurs with excessive stress during "normal" cold forming, also does not occur.

[0036] In particular, it is possible to produce the first connection in only one process step, i.e. with only one tool or one tool stroke, and without heating the material to be formed, whereby a high quality of the first connection and a short cycle time or process time can be achieved.

[0037] In particular, the travel speed of the forming tool is selected such that heat is generated in the material being formed during the forming process through the internal friction of the molecular chains. However, this heat does not measurably penetrate the surface of the formed section, thus preventing a gradual heating of the tool. The highest temperatures are in the core of the material or section, i.e., at a distance from the surfaces, which promotes the achieved good dimensional stability.

[0038] A key factor in enabling cold forming is that the material undergoes minimal deformation. For example, if the aforementioned post-forming is performed using a cold tool during the hot forming process described above, this post-forming cannot generate the necessary heat generated in the material itself.

[0039] In particular, the forming process according to step d) takes place in a press, wherein the cover element together with the closure element is arranged in a receptacle of the press, and the deformation is then carried out by the movement of at least one punch. In particular, several punches can also be provided for the forming process. Furthermore, the press can comprise fixing devices by which the cover element together with the closure element are fixed in the press.

[0040] The forming cycle time here includes, in particular, the feed movement of the at least one punch and the forming itself, i.e., the movement of the at least one punch to form the partial area or, if applicable, other areas of the closure element, as well as the return movement of the at least one punch to an initial position. In addition to the cycle time, the process time also includes, in particular, the time required to insert and remove the lid element and the closure element from the press.

[0041] In DE 102022 133590 A1, the forming takes place in several sections of the sub-area. A press die always contacts the section of the sub-area to be formed. This requires complex cutouts, particularly in the lever, as well as delicately designed dies that then extend through the cutouts. Furthermore, the sub-area cannot be formed along the entire opening edge because at least some sections of the sub-area are covered by the lever, preventing the die from contacting the sub-area. However, the inability to form the sub-area completely around the opening can lead to leaks in the container or the closure assembly.

[0042] It is therefore proposed here that at least a first section of the partial region be plastically deformed by contacting the second component (and not with the die or a punch of a press). In particular, the first section is contacted by the material of the second component.

[0043] In particular, for example, a press die directly contacts the sub-area (outside the first section) on the one hand and the second component (inside the first section) on the other. The second component is then displaced by the die and contacts the first section of the sub-area. The first section is deformed by the contact with the second component. In particular, a second section of the sub-area is (plastically) deformed by a press die.

[0044] In particular, the first section is contacted by the second component and (plastically) formed, wherein the second component is contacted by a punch of a press.

[0045] In particular, a single tool, such as a single punch, can be provided to form the subsection. However, multiple punches can also be provided, which are then moved together, so that the subsection is formed as evenly as possible or simultaneously (plastically) in the different sections.

[0046] In particular, in step d) several sections of the sub-area are deformed (plastically) in parallel.

[0047] In particular, the second component consists of a plastic material. Preferably, the second component consists of a different plastic material than at least the frame part. In particular, the plastic material of the second component has a higher modulus of elasticity than the material of the frame part. Preferably, the modulus of elasticity of the second component is at least 500 MPa greater than the modulus of elasticity of the frame part.

[0048] In particular, the plastic material of the second component is polyoxymethylene (also known as POM). This material in particular exhibits good sliding properties and high strength, so that (plastic) deformation of the first section of the frame part can occur without (plastic) deformation of the second component contacting this first section. In particular, the plastic material of the partial area or even the entire frame part is polypropylene (PP).

[0049] In particular, the (unformed as well as the formed) partial region extends along the opening edge over a first angular range of 360 degrees (i.e., completely around the opening), with the first section extending along the opening edge over a second angular range of at most 180 degrees, in particular of at most 160 degrees, preferably of at most 120 degrees. In particular, the first section extends along the opening edge over a second angular range of at least 10 degrees, in particular of at least 20 degrees, preferably of at least 25 degrees.

[0050] In particular, the partial area to be formed in the forming region has a minimum wall thickness of at most 2.0 millimeters, in particular of at most 1.8 millimeters or of at most 1.5 millimeters. In particular, the partial area to be formed in the forming region has a minimum wall thickness of at least 0.2 millimeters, preferably of at least 0.5 millimeters. In particular, the wall thickness in the forming region is essentially constant.

[0051] In particular, the tool used for forming or the at least one punch covers a path along the axial direction of at most 3.0 millimeters, preferably of at most 2.5 millimeters, particularly preferably of at most 2.0 millimeters or even less than 2.0 millimeters after initial contact with the second section of the partial area. The path is in particular at least 1.0 millimeters, preferably at least 1.5 millimeters. In particular, the tool used for forming or the at least one punch covers a path along the axial direction of at most 8.0 millimeters, preferably of at most 6.5 millimeters, particularly preferably of at most 6.0 millimeters or even less than 5.5 millimeters after initial contact with the first section of the partial area. The path is in particular at least 3.5 millimeters, preferably at least 3.0 millimeters.

[0052] The path refers to the distance along the axial direction during which the tool contacts the sub-area or the respective section. The infeed movement of the tool or punch, i.e., from an initial position of the tool / punch to a position where the tool / punch contacts the sub-area, is not included.

[0053] In particular, the tool or punch used for forming is operated in a path-controlled manner. Path-controlled means, in particular, that the tool is controlled solely based on its position along the axial direction. This ensures that the tool travels the predetermined path.

[0054] In particular, the path traveled by the forming tool / punch is limited by a mechanical stop. In particular, the tool / punch moves against a stop and is not slowed down by the closure element or the cover element. The stop is a component of the press and is reused for each new closure arrangement.

[0055] In particular, the (plastic) forming of the partial area or respective section takes place in less than 0.01 seconds, preferably in less than 0.005 seconds, particularly preferably in less than 0.002 seconds. This time corresponds in particular to the cycle time, i.e., it also includes the travel paths of the tool / punch from and back to an initial position.

[0056] In particular, the tool / punch used for forming is moved at least during the forming of the partial area at a travel speed of at least 800 millimetres per second, preferably at least 1,000 millimetres per second, particularly preferably at least 1,200 millimetres per second.

[0057] In particular, the highest forming force occurring during forming has a value in a range between 2,000 and 10,000 Newtons, in particular in a range between 3,000 and 8,000 Newtons.

[0058] In particular, the material of the partial area or sections is (only) heated locally as a result of the forming process, with the highest temperature of the material being in a region of the material located at a distance from a surface of the partial area. In particular, the heating occurs exclusively due to the internal friction of the material caused by the forming process.

[0059] In particular, immediately after step d), the second component is arranged in a closed position on the lid element, and the opening is closed by the closure element. To open the container, the second component can be pivoted out of the closed position relative to the frame part. Immediately before step d), the second component is arranged in a first position opposite the closed position and contacts / touches the first section. In step d), the second component deforms the first section and is pivoted into the closed position.

[0060] In particular, the closure element is arranged in the cover element in an at least partially open position (i.e., not in the closed position, but in the first position) and only then is it formed. During the forming process, the positive connection is formed (exclusively) between the frame part and the cover element, and the closure element is thereby transferred into the closed position.

[0061] In particular, the second component is arranged pivotably on the frame part via a rotation axis, wherein the pivoting between the first position and the closed position is between 2 and 15 angular degrees, in particular between 4 and 12 angular degrees.

[0062] In particular, in step d), a forming region of the frame part and / or the second component and / or the third component is (plastically) formed such that at least one positive-locking second connection is formed between at least two components of the closure element, said positive-locking connection preventing the relative pivoting of the components. In particular, this second connection is broken by the initial opening of the closure element, such that the at least one second connection, on the one hand, safeguards against unintentional opening of the closure element and, on the other hand, creates a freshness seal. The freshness seal serves in particular to signal whether a container has already been opened. If the freshness seal is intact, it can be assumed that the container has not been opened again after being closed for the first time.In particular, the closure element additionally comprises (only) a third component that can be pivoted relative to the frame part and the second component to open the container. The third component is connected to the frame part and the second component.

[0063] The at least one second connection is formed between the components, in particular between the second and the third component (e.g. between the cover and the lever).

[0064] In particular, the lid element is a known lid, e.g., of a beverage can, which is connected or connectable to the beverage can. Preferably, the lid element is inseparably connected (only destructively) to the beverage container. In particular, the lid element consists of a metal or a metallic alloy.

[0065] The inside of the lid element forms the side of the lid element facing the contents of the beverage container, while the outside of the lid element forms the side of the lid element facing away from the contents.

[0066] 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."

[0067] In particular, the first component (frame part) is arranged stationary and immovable at the opening edge. The other components of the closure element are connected to the lid element via the frame part. These other components are arranged, in particular, so as to be movable and / or pivotable relative to the frame part.

[0068] In particular, the closure element enables a preferably repeatable, fluid-tight or even 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.

[0069] In particular, at least one data processing system is provided which has means which are suitably equipped, configured or programmed to carry out the method or which carry out the method.

[0070] In particular, a production plant comprises a data processing system, e.g. a control device, which has means for carrying out the steps of the method and / or which has means that are suitably equipped, configured or programmed to carry out the steps of the method or that carry out the method.

[0071] The production system can, in particular, provide the closure assembly or the lid element and the frame part (or the entire closure element) and arrange them in a press. In particular, the press or the at least one die can also be controlled via the system.

[0072] The means include, for example, a processor and a memory in which instructions to be executed by the processor are stored, as well as data lines or transmission devices that enable the transmission of instructions, measured values, data or the like between the elements mentioned.

[0073] The means may in particular comprise one or more of the following components: controller(s), microcontroller, data memory, data connection, display devices (such as a display), counter or timer, at least one further sensor, an energy source, etc.

[0074] A computer program is further proposed, comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the described method or the steps of the described method.

[0075] Furthermore, a computer-readable storage medium is proposed, comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the described method or the steps of the described method.

[0076] The statements on the method are particularly transferable to the data processing system and / or the computer-implemented method (i.e. the computer program and the computer-readable storage medium) and vice versa.

[0077] The use of indefinite articles (“a”, “an”, “an” and “another”), particularly in the patent claims and the description reproducing them, is to be understood as such and not as a number. Terms or components introduced in this way are therefore to be understood as occurring at least once and, in particular, as being able to occur multiple times. As a precaution, it should be noted that the numbers used here (“first”, “second”, ...) primarily serve (only) to distinguish between several similar objects, quantities or processes, and therefore do not necessarily prescribe any dependency and / or sequence of these objects, quantities or processes to one another. Should a dependency and / or sequence be necessary, this is explicitly stated here or it will be obvious to the person skilled in the art upon studying the specifically described embodiment.If 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.

[0078] 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:

[0079] Fig. 1 : a closure element in a perspective view from above;

[0080] Fig. 2: the closure element according to Fig. 1 in a perspective

[0081] View from below;

[0082] Fig. 3: a cover element in a top view; Fig. 4: a detail of the cover element in a perspective view in section;

[0083] Fig. 5: the closure element according to Figs. 1 and 2 in a perspective view from above, in a first position;

[0084] Fig. 6: a closure arrangement with a closure element according to Fig. 5 in a perspective view from above, in a closed position;

[0085] Fig. 7: the closure arrangement according to Fig. 6 in a perspective view in section, immediately before step d);

[0086] Fig. 8: the closure arrangement according to Figs. 6 and 7 in a press, immediately before step d), in a side view in section;

[0087] Fig. 9: a detail of Fig. 8;

[0088] Fig. 10: the closure arrangement according to Figs. 8 and 9 in a press, during step d), in a side view in section;

[0089] Fig. 11 : a detail of Fig. 10; and

[0090] Fig. 12: a detail of the closure arrangement according to Fig. 7 in a perspective view in section, immediately after step d).

[0091] Fig. 1 shows a closure element 5 in a perspective view from above. Fig. 2 shows the closure element 5 according to Fig. 1 in a perspective view from below. Figs. 1 and 2 are described together below.

[0092] The closure element 5 has a frame part as a first component 6, a lever as a second component 7 and a cover as a third component 8. The frame part 6 is arranged on the opening edge 11 and has a window 13. The lever 7 is connected to the frame part 6 via a first pivot axis 27 and is pivotable about this axis. In a closed position 25 (see Fig. 6) of the closure arrangement 1, the cover 8 closes the window 13 and is pivotably connected to the frame part 6 exclusively via a hinge 35. The lever 7 is directly connected to the cover 8 and permanently (i.e. while the closure arrangement 1 is in a state intended for predetermined operation) to the cover 8 via a guide device 28.Via the guide device 28, the cover 8 can be pivoted by pivoting the lever 7 about the first axis of rotation 27, starting from the closed position 25 about the hinge 35 into an open position of the closure arrangement 1 releasing the window 13 (pivoted even further than the first position 26 according to Fig. 5) and back again into the closed position 25.

[0093] The first component 6 (frame part) has a seal 34 (see Figs. 7 to 11 ) that seals the connection between the first component 6 and the cover element 3. This seal 34 extends along the opening edge 11 completely around the opening 4.

[0094] Between the first component 6 (frame part) and the third component 8 (cover), a seal 34 is arranged that surrounds the window 13 of the frame part 6, at least in the closed position 25. This seal 34 enables sealing of the window 13 or the opening 4 by a sealing connection between the cover 8 and the frame part 6. This seal 34 is arranged on the cover 8.

[0095] These seals 34 are manufactured in a two-component injection molding process together with at least the first component 6 and the second component 7.

[0096] Fig. 3 shows a cover element 3 in a top view. Fig. 4 shows a detail of the cover element 3 in a perspective view in section. Fig. 5 shows the closure element 5 according to Figs. 1 and 2 in a perspective view from above, in a first position 26. Fig. 6 shows a closure arrangement 1 with a closure element 5 according to Fig. 5 in a perspective view from above, in a closed position 25. Fig. 7 shows the closure arrangement 1 according to Fig. 6 in a perspective view in section, immediately before step d). Figs. 3 to 7 are described together below. Reference is made to the explanations for Figs. 1 and 2.

[0097] The closure arrangement 1 comprises a lid element 3 with an opening

[0098] 4 and a closure element 5 arranged on the lid element 3 for repeatedly closing the opening 4. The closure element

[0099] 5 comprises a plurality of components 6, 7, 8 which are movable relative to one another. The cover element 3 has an outer side 9 and an inner side 10 and the opening 4 has an opening edge 11 and an opening plane 12 formed by the opening edge 11. The closure element 5 has, as a first component 6, a frame part 6 with a window 13 which is arranged non-detachably on the opening edge 11 (see Figs. 6 and 7 or 10 and 11). The frame part 6 has a partial region 14 which is formed as part of the method and thus forms a first connection 16 between the frame part 6 and the cover element 3.

[0100] In step a) of the method, the cover element 3 with the opening 4 is provided (see Fig. 3). In step b), the frame part 6 and at least the second component 7 (the lever) are provided; see Fig. 5. In step c), the frame part 6 is arranged in the opening 4, wherein the frame part 6 extends on both sides 9, 10 of the opening plane 12 (see Figs. 8 and 9). In step d), at least one partial area 14 of the frame part 6 consisting of a plastic material is plastically deformed so that the frame part 6 encompasses at least part of the opening edge 11, so that a non-detachable, positive-locking first connection 16 is formed between the frame part 6 and the cover element 3 with respect to an axial direction 15 extending transversely to the opening plane 12 (see Fig. 6, 7, 10, 11).In this case, a first section 17 of the partial area 14 is formed by contacting the second component 7.

[0101] The non-formed (see Fig. 5, 7) as well as the formed (see Fig. 6) partial area 14 extends along the opening edge 11 over a first angular area 21 of 360 angular degrees (i.e. completely around the opening 4), whereby the first section 17 extends along the opening edge 11 over a second angular area 22 of approximately 50 angular degrees (see Fig. 3).

[0102] The partial area 14 to be formed has a minimum wall thickness 23 in the forming area. The closure element 5 is arranged on the cover element 3 in an at least partially open position (i.e., not in the closed position 25, but in the first position 26, see Figs. 5, 7) and only then is it (plastically) formed. During the forming process, the positive first connection 16 is formed exclusively between the frame part 6 and the cover element 3, and the closure element 5 is thereby transferred into the closed position 25 (see Fig. 6).

[0103] Immediately before step d), the second component 7 is arranged in a first position 26 (see Fig. 5, 7) opposite the closed position 25 and contacts / touches the first section 17. In step d), the second component 7 (plastically) deforms the first section 17 and is thereby moved into the closed position 25 (see Fig. 6).

[0104] Immediately after step d), the second component 7 is arranged in the closed position 25 on the lid element 3, and the opening 4 is completely closed by the closure element 5 (see Fig. 6). To open the container 2, the second component 7 can be pivoted relative to the frame part 6 from the closed position 25 (backward or back and forth), namely beyond the first position 26 (with the partial area 14 already formed) into an open position (not shown).

[0105] The second component 7 is pivotably arranged on the frame part 6 via the first rotation axis 27, wherein the pivoting between the first position 26 and the closed position 25 is approximately eight angular degrees.

[0106] In step d), a forming region 32 (a pin element, see Figs. 5, 7) of the third component 8 (the lid) is also formed, so that a positive-locking second connection 33 is formed between the second component 7 and the third component 8 of the closure element 5, which prevents the relative pivoting of the components 6, 7, 8 (the pin element is deformed and forms a positive-locking connection with the hole in the lever 7). This second connection 33 is broken by the initial opening of the closure element 5, so that the second connection 33, on the one hand, safeguards against unintentional opening of the closure element 5 and, on the other hand, creates a freshness seal. The freshness seal serves to signal whether a container 2 has already been opened.

[0107] Fig. 8 shows the closure arrangement 1 according to Figs. 5 and 6 in a press 29, immediately before step d), in a side view in section. Fig. 9 shows a detail of Fig. 8. Fig. 10 shows the closure arrangement 1 according to Figs. 8 and 9 in a press 29, during step d), in a side view in section. Fig. 11 shows a detail of Fig. 10. Fig. 12 shows a detail of the closure arrangement 1 according to Fig. 7 in a perspective view in section, immediately after step d). Figs. 8 to 12 are described together below. Reference is made to the explanations for Figs. 1 to 7.

[0108] In step d), the partial area 14 of the frame part 6 consisting of a plastic material is plastically deformed so that the frame part 6 completely encompasses the opening edge 11 (i.e. over the entire first angular area 21), so that a non-detachable, positive-locking first connection 14 is formed between the frame part 6 and the cover element 3 with respect to an axial direction 15 extending transversely to the opening plane 12.

[0109] The travel speed of the forming tool / punch 19 is selected such that heat is generated in the material being formed during the forming process through the internal friction of the molecular chains. However, this heat does not measurably penetrate the surface 24 of the formed section 14, thus preventing a gradual heating of the tool 19. The highest temperatures are in the core of the material or section 14, i.e., at a distance from the surfaces 24, which promotes the achieved good dimensional stability.

[0110] The (plastic) forming according to step d) takes place in a press 29, wherein the cover element 3 together with the closure element 5 are arranged in a receptacle (not shown) of the press 29 and then the deformation takes place by the movement of at least one punch 19 exclusively along the axial direction 15. The tool thus comprises a punch 19 of a (forming) press 29. Several punches 19 can also be provided, by means of which the forming takes place. Furthermore, the press 29 can comprise fixing devices by means of which the cover element 3 together with the closure element 5 are fixed in the press 29.

[0111] The cycle time of the forming comprises the feed movement of the punch 19 and the forming itself, ie the movement of the at least one punch 19 for forming the partial area 14 or the sections 17, 18 of the partial area 14 as well as the return movement of the punch 19 into an initial position.

[0112] In addition to the cycle time, the process time also includes the time for inserting and removing the lid element 3 and the closure element 5 from the press 29.

[0113] The partial area 14 to be formed has a minimum wall thickness 23 in the forming area. After initial contact with the partial area 14 or the respective section 17, 18, the punch 19 used for forming travels a path 30 along the axial direction 15.

[0114] The path 30 denotes the distance along the axial direction 15 during which the respective punch 19 contacts the respective section 17, 18 of the partial area 14 (i.e., the distance between the positions of the punch 19 according to Figs. 8, 9 on the one hand and 10, 11 on the other). The feed movement of the punch 19, i.e., starting from an initial position of the punch 19 to a position in which the punch 19 contacts the partial area 14 or the respective section 17, 18 (see Figs. 8, 9), is not included.

[0115] The punch 19 used for forming is operated in a path-controlled manner. A path 30 traveled by the punch 19 for forming is limited by a mechanical stop 31. The punch 19 thus moves against a stop 31 and is not braked or stopped by the closure element 5 or the cover element 3. The stop 31 is a component of the press 29 and is reused for each new closure assembly 1.

[0116] The forming of sub-area 14, or sections 17, 18, and forming area 32, takes less than 0.01 seconds. This time corresponds to the cycle time, ie, it also includes the travel of the punch 19 from and back to a starting position.

[0117] The punch 19 used for forming is moved at a speed of at least 800 millimeters per second, at least during the forming of the partial area 14. The maximum forming force occurring during forming has a value that lies between 2,000 and 10,000 Newtons.

[0118] The press 29 or the at least one stamp 19 is controlled by a data processing system 20.

[0119] List of reference symbols

[0120] Locking arrangement

[0121] container

[0122] Cover element

[0123] opening

[0124] Closure element first component / frame part second component third component

[0125] outside

[0126] inside

[0127] Opening edge Opening level Window

[0128] Partial area axial direction first connection first section second section

[0129] Rubber stamp

[0130] System first angle range second angle range

[0131] Wall thickness

[0132] surface

[0133] Closed position first position first axis of rotation guide device press path stop forming area second connection seal hinge

Claims

Patent claims 1 . Method for forming a closure arrangement (1) for a container (2), wherein the closure arrangement (1) has at least one lid element (3) with an opening (4) and a closure element (5) arranged on the lid element (3), wherein the closure element (5) comprises a plurality of components (6, 7, 8) which are movable relative to one another; wherein the lid element (3) has an outer side (9) and an inner side (10) and the opening (4) has an opening edge (11 ) and an opening plane formed by the opening edge (11 ) (12); wherein the closure element (5) has, as a first component (6), at least one frame part (6) with a window (13) arranged non-detachably on the opening edge (11), and a second component (7); wherein the method comprises at least the following steps: a) providing the cover element (3) with the opening (4); b) providing the frame part (6) and the second component (7); c) arranging the frame part (6) in the opening (4), wherein the frame part (6) extends on both sides of the opening plane (12); d) plastically forming at least one partial region (14) of the frame part (6) consisting of a plastic material, so that the frame part (6) encompasses at least part of the opening edge (11), so that a non-detachable, positive-locking first connection (16) is formed between the frame part (6) and the cover element (3) with respect to an axial direction (15) extending transversely to the opening plane (12);wherein at least a first section (17) of the partial region (14) is deformed by contacting with the second component (7); 2. Method according to claim 1, wherein a second section (18) of the partial region (14) is formed by a punch (19) of a press (29).

3. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first section (17) is contacted by the second component (7), wherein the second component (7) is contacted by a punch (19) of a press (29).

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second component (7) consists of a plastic material.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the plastic material of the second component is polyoxymethylene.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plastic material of the partial region (14) is polypropylene.

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the partial region (14) extends along the opening edge (11) over a first angular range (21) of 360 angular degrees; wherein the first section (17) extends along the opening edge (11) over a second angular range (22) of at most 180 angular degrees.

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in step d) several sections (17, 18) of the partial region (14) are formed in parallel.

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the partial region (14) to be formed has a minimum wall thickness (23) of at most 2.0 millimeters in the region of the forming.

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the forming of the partial region (14) takes place in less than 0.01 seconds.

11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material of the partial region (14) is locally heated as a result of the forming, wherein a highest temperature of the material is present in a region of the material which is arranged at a distance from a surface (24) of the partial region (14).

12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second component (7) is arranged in a closed position (25) on the lid element (3) immediately after step d) and the opening (4) is closed by the closure element (5); wherein the second component (7) is pivotable out of the closed position (25) relative to the frame part (6) in order to open the container (2); wherein immediately before step d) the second component (7) is arranged in a first position (26) opposite the closed position (25) and contacts the first section (17); wherein in step d) the second component (7) deforms the first section (17) and is thereby pivoted into the closed position (25).

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein the second component (7) is arranged pivotably on the frame part (6) via a first axis of rotation (27), wherein the pivoting between the first position (26) and the closed position (25) is between 2 and 15 angular degrees.

14. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure element (5) comprises a third component (8) which can be pivoted relative to the frame part (6) and the second component (7) in order to open the container (2), wherein the third component (8) is connected to the frame part (6) and the second component (7).