EP2678601B1 - Tamper-indicating element for a compressed-gas cylinder - Google Patents

Tamper-indicating element for a compressed-gas cylinder Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2678601B1
EP2678601B1 EP12707268.4A EP12707268A EP2678601B1 EP 2678601 B1 EP2678601 B1 EP 2678601B1 EP 12707268 A EP12707268 A EP 12707268A EP 2678601 B1 EP2678601 B1 EP 2678601B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ring
segments
indicator according
originality
predetermined breaking
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP12707268.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2678601A1 (en
Inventor
Alexander Kriese
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Messer Gaspack GmbH
Original Assignee
Messer Gaspack GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Messer Gaspack GmbH filed Critical Messer Gaspack GmbH
Priority to SI201230304T priority Critical patent/SI2678601T1/en
Priority to PL12707268T priority patent/PL2678601T3/en
Publication of EP2678601A1 publication Critical patent/EP2678601A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2678601B1 publication Critical patent/EP2678601B1/en
Priority to HRP20150990TT priority patent/HRP20150990T1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C13/00—Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels
    • F17C13/06—Closures, e.g. cap, breakable member
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/056—Small (<1 m3)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/058—Size portable (<30 l)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/05—Vessel or content identifications, e.g. labels
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
    • F17C2260/02—Improving properties related to fluid or fluid transfer
    • F17C2260/028—Avoiding unauthorised transfer

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a tamper-evident marking for a compressed gas cylinder, on the neck ring of which a protective cap can be detachably attached, comprising a marking ring formed from at least two segments arranged in a ring in the intended installation state between an end face of the protective cap and a shoulder of the neck ring of the compressed gas cylinder. which is equipped with at least one predetermined breaking point.
  • Compressed gas cylinders which are usually made of steel or aluminum and are used for storing compressed gases and liquids, are marked in accordance with legal requirements by a gas-specific paint and a sticker on the gas content.
  • some suppliers also attach a label with crack marks, which is positioned overlapping on the protective cap and the compressed gas cylinder neck.
  • plugs made of plastic are in use, which are plugged onto the connection thread of the cylinder valve. You have a predetermined breaking point, which should tear when removing the plug. Such plugs work in practice very poorly. The presence or the integrity of this sticker or this plug is used to indicate the original state after filling in the supplier.
  • the originality marking described therein comprises an identification ring, which is positioned on the neck ring, and which is provided with at least two predetermined breaking points.
  • the identification ring preferably made of a plastic injection molded part also has one or more identification flags, which may include information on the origin and / or content of the compressed gas cylinder, such as company name, logo, year of the next test, etc.
  • this object has the disadvantage that the ring is not securely fixed in its intended position and there is a risk that he already moved when screwing the cap from its position and squeezed laterally out of the gap between the neck ring and cap, causing the Function of the predetermined breaking point is no longer ensured.
  • Another tamper-evident device for steel bottles comprising a multi-segment ring clamped between a flanged edge of the steel bottle neck ring and an end face of a protective cap.
  • the ring segments are connected by means of connecting links via predetermined breaking points.
  • the predetermined breaking points are destroyed and the ring segments are connected only via tooth profiles with each other, which dissolve when removing the cap from each other and let the ring disintegrate into its individual segments.
  • the tooth profiles prevent premature detachment of the identification ring from the neck ring.
  • the predetermined breaking points do not break completely and / or the individual ring segments connecting tooth profiles caught together and hold the Kenracesring even with removed cap on the neck ring and thus fake a originality that is actually no longer available.
  • the invention is therefore based on the object to provide a tamper evidence for compressed gas cylinders, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.
  • the profile element has a pressing surface which protrudes from the ring plane and two limbs connecting in each case at least in sections to the contact surface with one end of one of the segments and extending from the contact surface in the direction of the ring plane.
  • one of the two limbs can be in a shape which promotes elasticity, e.g. in the form of an "S", be carried out, whereby the ring elements when opening safely separate from each other.
  • the tamper-evident marking comprises an identification ring constructed from a plurality of ring segments, the ring segments being spaced apart from one another in the direction of rotation, forming a gap. Adjacent segments are connected to each other via profile elements with which the gap between the segments is bridged.
  • the profile elements comprise a here referred to as contact surface portion which rests in the application, ie when placing or screwing the cap on the end face of the cap or on the shoulder of the neck ring, and two each outgoing from this leg.
  • Each of the legs connects the contact surface with the end of one of the segments separated from each other by the gap.
  • the protective cap With the release of the protective cap, these forces are eliminated, the broken at the or breaking point / n originality marking detached from the neck ring and indicates a user that the bottle has already been opened.
  • a positive connection between the segments, or the segments and the profile element for example, made according to the tongue and groove principle, so that the originality marking remains in place until the protective cap is released.
  • the originality marking according to the invention thus ensures a simple, inexpensive and tamper-proof marking for all common compressed gas cylinders. Moreover, it is by no means necessary for the functionality of the originality marking according to the invention to break all intended breaking points in the application, it is usually sufficient to break one or fewer predetermined breaking points in order to ensure that the marking ring is detached from the neck ring when the protective cap is unscrewed solves and thus indicates the lack of originality of the bottle.
  • the identification ring is made in one piece, preferably made of injection molding.
  • the plastic material used in this case should have a certain elasticity to ensure easy attachment of the originality marking on the neck ring and the function of resetting the positive connection. Also advantageous is the use of a biodegradable plastic as a material, which ensures that fallen pieces of the identification ring does not permanently pollute the environment.
  • the predetermined breaking point arranged in the contact surface or a leg of the profile element Weak zone includes.
  • a weak zone may be, for example, a notch or a section of reduced material thickness in the contact surface or in one or both of the legs, or the profile element may comprise zones due to a specific geometry with respect to the pressure exerted by the protective cap on the identification ring have a lower breaking strength than the surrounding areas, such as a kink.
  • the zone at which a leg abuts the contact surface or the ring segments can be designed at an angle, which is usually a lower stability in these zones with applied pressure.
  • a predetermined breaking point may also be a connection, for example a seam.
  • At least one of the legs is designed as an elastic spring element which deforms elastically upon application of a force acting perpendicular to the ring plane pressing force, however, after the elimination of the contact force at least partially returns to its original shape.
  • the spring force can also be effected by the choice of an elastic plastic material as a raw material for the originality marking.
  • one of the two legs is in a shape favoring the elasticity, for example in the form of an "S" executed.
  • a restoring force is generated during compression of the identification ring, which ensures that the ring elements when removing the cap, so after elimination of the contact force, safely separate from each other.
  • the tamper-evident marking comprises fixing means for detachably connecting the ends of the segments to one another and / or to the profile element.
  • fixative ensure that after placing or screwing the cap and the subsequent breakage of at least one predetermined breaking point, the tamper-evident between fixed neck ring and protective cap and detachment can be done only after removing the cap.
  • the fixing means have elements which are arranged in the segments and / or the profile element, and which cooperate with corresponding elements on the respective other segment or on the profile element to produce a positive, but releasable after elimination of the contact force of the protective cap connection.
  • the fixing means are formed so that they produce a firm connection between the segments under the action of a substantially perpendicular to the ring plane applied contact force (as is usually present after putting on or screwing the cap on the neck ring), when discontinuing the
  • contact force under the action of a restoring force automatically solve each other.
  • the fixing means comprise, for example, mutually corresponding toothing profiles, which cooperate only under the action of the contact pressure.
  • the restoring force is preferably effected via elastic profile sections which deform upon application of the contact pressure force and at least partially return to their original shape when the contact force is removed, thus ensuring the positive connection of the fixing means, e.g. release the splines again.
  • the restoring force is effected in the manner previously described due to an elastic design of one or both legs of the profile elements.
  • the toothed profiles producing the positive connection preferably comprise, for one, a profile integrally formed on the contact surface or on at least one ring segment and interacting with one or more corresponding recesses in a ring segment or in the contact surface in such a way that the ring segments of the Identification ring fixed, but are releasably connected to each other after removing the cap.
  • the cap of the identification ring When placing or screwing the cap of the identification ring between the end face of the cap and the neck ring is compressed, ie contact surface and ring segments are moved towards each other. This leads to an interaction of profile and recess.
  • a simple to manufacture, yet reliable way to interlock ring segment and contact surface with each other represents a tongue-and-groove profile:
  • a spring-like profile transverse to the direction of rotation of the identification ring on the contact surface or the ring segment and a corresponding groove in the ring segment or the contact surface provided.
  • Spring profile and groove preferably do not extend exactly radially, but are inclined in the ring plane, for example, about 30 ° to 60 ° relative to the radius of the identification ring, whereby a particularly high stability of the connection in the direction of rotation of the identification ring is ensured.
  • the identification ring is equipped with at least one identification tag projecting from the identification ring, which can be provided with a label.
  • the inscription contains, for example, information about the origin, the filling date and / or the determination of the compressed gas cylinder. It can also be provided several flag flags, each having the same or different labels.
  • a preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the identification ring is equipped with an annular holding thread, which is connected to all segments and whose circumference is greater than the circumference of the neck ring of the compressed gas cylinder, however, smaller than the circumference of the compressed gas cylinder itself.
  • fall at the predetermined breaking point separated ring segments after removing the cap ie in the "used" state of Tamper-evident
  • the used originality labels can be easily detached from the compressed gas cylinder and disposed of.
  • the predetermined breaking point comprises a material section arranged in at least one limb of the profile element with a reduced cross-sectional area and thus lower mechanical stability; the leg of the profile element is therefore thinner at this point than in the other areas.
  • the material portion may be arranged at any location in the leg and / or in the contact surface, but preferably it is located at the transition of the leg to the ring segment and / or the contact surface.
  • a flexible plastic originality marking 1 comprises an identification ring 2, which is composed of several, in the embodiment of four ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d.
  • the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d are arranged at their opposite end sides in the circumferential direction spaced from each other, so that in the ring plane 6 of the ring 2 between two ring segments 4a, 4b; 4b, 4c; 4c, 4d; 4d, 4a opens a gap 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d of about 1 to 3 mm in practice.
  • the gaps 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d between the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d are bridged by profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 ", 8'" described in greater detail below, which are in the axial direction, ie perpendicular to the ring plane of the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d project.
  • the originality marking 1 comprises at least one identification tag 9 which can be labeled with information, for example about the origin of the bottle and / or its contents.
  • Fig. 1b the originality marking 1 is shown in the installed state on a compressed gas cylinder 10.
  • the compressed gas cylinder 10 has a neck ring 11 which is equipped with an external thread 12 for screwing on a protective cap 13 (only partially screwed in the picture).
  • the protective cap 13 has a corresponding internal thread.
  • the tamper-evident marking 1 is arranged between an end face 14 of the protective cap 13 and an annular flange edge 15 of the neck ring 11 and is compressed by fitting or screwing on the protective cap 13 in the axial direction, ie perpendicular to the ring plane 6.
  • the identification ring 2 With the compression of the identification ring 2, the axially projecting profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 ", 8"' are pressed together.
  • profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 “, 8'” are shown, which can serve to bridge the gaps 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d.
  • profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 ", 8'” for bridging the gap 5d will be described in greater detail; however, this is not intended to express any restriction.
  • shaped like a dovetail profile element 8 comprises a contact surface 17 which protrudes in the axial direction, ie perpendicular to the ring plane 6 of the identification ring 2 of the ring segments 4a, 4d, and two this each with one of the ring segments 4a, 4d connecting leg 18, 19.
  • the legs 18,19 are formed at an acute angle to the ring segments 4a, 4d and the contact surface 17, in such a way that they extend towards each other in the direction of the ring segments 4a, 4b.
  • the contact surface 17 is further equipped with a predetermined breaking point, according to the embodiment Fig. 2b with a notch 20.
  • the contact surface 17 and ring segments 4a, 4d move towards one another.
  • the axial force is deflected into tangential forces acting on the contact surface 17 and on the ring segments 4a, 4d.
  • the forces acting on the contact surface 17 stretch this and finally lead - with a sufficiently large contact force - to break of the contact surface 17 at the notch 20.
  • On the ring segments 4a, 4d on the running towards each other in the direction of the ring plane leg 18,19 a Force exerted by the at the gap 5c opposite ends of the ring segments 4a, 4d are moved towards each other.
  • profile elements 8 ', 8 ", 8"' which may be provided instead of the profile element 8 for connecting the ring segments 4a, 4d.
  • profile elements 8 ', 8 ", 8"' have additional means to firmly but releasably connect the ring segments 4a, 4d during the compression of the identification ring 2.
  • profile element 8 ' has as well as the profile element 8 a contact surface 17' and this with two ring segments connecting leg 18 ', 19' on.
  • mechanically sensitive kinks 21 at the transition between contact surface 17 'and ring segment on the one hand and legs 18', 19 'on the other.
  • the rectangular profile 22 may, as shown in the drawing, radially on the outside of the contact surface is arranged, a radially inner side or central arrangement, however, is also conceivable within the scope of the invention. It is also conceivable to provide a connection profile in the ring segment and a corresponding recess in the contact surface.
  • a positive connection is made after the compression of the identification ring 2 by an axial force, for example by placing or screwing the cap 13, the labeling ring 2 in the circumferential direction even after breaking a kink 21st holds together and prevents falling of the identification ring 2 from the neck ring 11, as long as the axial force action stops.
  • the legs 17 ', 18' are bent, their tendency to return to their original shape, the axial force effect counteracts.
  • the protective cap 13 is removed, ie when the axial force effect ceases, the legs 18 ', 19' at least largely return to their original shape and thus exert a restoring force on the toothed profile 22.
  • the tooth profile 22 is released from the recess 23, the identification ring 2 disintegrates and detaches from the neck ring 11 of the compressed gas cylinder 10.
  • FIG. 4a, 4b Another variant of a profile element show the Fig. 4a, 4b
  • connecting members are integrally formed. This is in the direction of the ring segments 4a, 4d respectively formed transversely to the circumferential direction of the identification ring 2 spring profiles 25a, 25b.
  • the spring profiles 25a, 25b cooperate with corresponding grooves 26a, 26b in the ring segments 4a and 4d.
  • the spring elements 25a, 25b and grooves 26a, 26b do not extend exactly radially, but are offset from the radius of the identification ring 2 by an angle ⁇ with 30 ° ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ 60 °, whereby a particularly good stability of the compound compound in the circumferential direction of the identification ring 2 is guaranteed.
  • a tether 27 which is fixedly connected to the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d.
  • the circumference of the ring-shaped holding thread 27 is larger than the outer circumference of the neck ring 11, but less than the outer circumference of the compressed gas cylinder 10 at its widest point.
  • the tether 27 ensures that after the intended destruction of the identification ring 2, the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d even after the removal of the cap 13 in a loose composite with the tether 27 at the gas cylinder 10 get stuck and can then be easily removed by operating personnel.
  • Fig. 5a, 5b is the leg 18 '' of the profile element 8 '' bent in an S-shaped, while at the contact surface 17 '' of the profile element 8 '' in the region of the leg 19 '' turn a tooth profile 28 is formed, which, similar to the profile element
  • the curved shape of the leg 18 "'leads to a higher elasticity of this leg 18"' and thus to an increased restoring force, the profile element 8 "'after the loss of the axially compressive force again drives back to its original form.
  • a predetermined breaking point only the kinks 21 on the leg 19 "'are provided in this case.
  • the legs 18, 19, 18 ', 19', 18 “, 19", 18 “', 19”' that run toward each other in the direction of the ring plane of the identification ring 2 ensure that, on the one hand, the ring segments join attached or screwed cap even after breaking at least one predetermined breaking point 20, 21 are securely fixed to the neck ring 11 of the compressed gas cylinder.
  • the same legs 18, 19, 18 ', 19', 18 “, 19", 18 “', 19”' due to their elastic return to their original shape after elimination of the force exerted by the cap force that the broken identification ring. 2 disintegrates and / or expands and dissolves from the neck ring 11. Therefore, elastic plastics are particularly suitable as a starting material for the originality marking according to the invention.
  • the originality marking according to the invention allows a cost-effective as tamper-proof tamper-evident for all common gas cylinders.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)
  • Pens And Brushes (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Originalitätskennzeichnung für eine Druckgasflasche, auf deren Halsring eine Schutzkappe lösbar zu befestigen ist, mit einem im bestimmungsgemäßen Einbauzustand zwischen einer Stirnfläche der Schutzkappe und einer Schulter des Halsringes der Druckgasflasche angeordneten, aus wenigstens zwei in einer Ebene ringförmig angeordneten Segmenten gebildeten Kennzeichnungsring, der mit wenigstens einer Sollbruchstelle ausgerüstet ist.The invention relates to a tamper-evident marking for a compressed gas cylinder, on the neck ring of which a protective cap can be detachably attached, comprising a marking ring formed from at least two segments arranged in a ring in the intended installation state between an end face of the protective cap and a shoulder of the neck ring of the compressed gas cylinder. which is equipped with at least one predetermined breaking point.

Druckgasflaschen, die in der Regel aus Stahl oder Aluminium gefertigt und zum Lagern von Druckgasen und Flüssigkeiten eingesetzt werden, werden nach gesetzlichen Vorgaben durch einen gasartspezifischen Anstrich sowie einen Aufkleber über den Gasinhalt gekennzeichnet. Daneben bringen einige Lieferanten zusätzlich einen mit Sollrissstellen versehenen Aufkleber an, der überlappend auf die Schutzkappe und den Druckgasflaschenhals positioniert wird. Weiterhin sind Verschlussstopfen aus Kunststoff in Gebrauch, die auf das Anschlussgewinde des Flaschenventils gesteckt werden. Sie verfügen über eine Sollbruchstelle, die bei der Entfernung des Stopfens reißen sollen. Derartige Stopfen funktionieren in der Praxis nur sehr unzureichend. Das Vorhandensein bzw. die Unversehrtheit dieses Aufklebers bzw. dieses Stopfens dient dem Zweck, deren Originalzustand nach der Befüllung im Lieferantenwerk anzuzeigen.Compressed gas cylinders, which are usually made of steel or aluminum and are used for storing compressed gases and liquids, are marked in accordance with legal requirements by a gas-specific paint and a sticker on the gas content. In addition, some suppliers also attach a label with crack marks, which is positioned overlapping on the protective cap and the compressed gas cylinder neck. Furthermore, plugs made of plastic are in use, which are plugged onto the connection thread of the cylinder valve. You have a predetermined breaking point, which should tear when removing the plug. Such plugs work in practice very poorly. The presence or the integrity of this sticker or this plug is used to indicate the original state after filling in the supplier.

Aus der DE 100 62 867 A1 ist eine Originalitätskennzeichnung für Druckgasflaschen bekannt, auf deren Halsring oder Flaschenhals eine Schutzkappe lösbar, etwa mit einem Schraub- oder Bajonettverschluss, zu befestigen ist. Die dort beschriebene Originalitätskennzeichnung umfasst einen Kennzeichnungsring, der auf dem Halsring positioniert wird, und der mit wenigstens zwei Sollbruchstellen versehen ist. Der bevorzugt aus einem Kunststoff-Spritzteil hergestellte Kennzeichnungsring weist zudem eine oder mehrere Kennzeichnungsfahnen auf, die Angaben zur Herkunft und/oder dem Inhalt der Druckgasflasche aufweisen können, wie beispielsweise Firmenname, Firmenzeichen, Jahr der nächsten Prüfung, etc. Beim Aufsetzen bzw. Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe auf den Halsring bzw. Flaschenhals wird auf den Kennzeichnungsring ein derartiger Druck ausgeübt, dass der Kennzeichnungsring an den Sollbruchstellen zerbricht, jedoch zwischen Schutzkappe und Halsring derart eingeklemmt wird, dass er auf der Schulter des Halsrings bzw. des Flaschenhalses positioniert bleibt. Beim Abnehmen der Schutzkappe von dem Halsring oder dem Flaschenhals der Druckgasflasche und der damit einhergehenden Entlastung auf die Einzelteile des Kennzeichnungsrings fallen diese von der Schulter des Halsrings oder des Flaschenhalses und damit von der Druckgasflasche ab. Der Gegenstand der DE 100 62 867 A1 soll auf diese Weise eine einfache und kostengünstige sowie manipulationssichere Kennzeichnung von allen gebräuchlichen Druckgasflaschen gewährleisten.From the DE 100 62 867 A1 is a tamper-evident mark for compressed gas cylinders, on the neck ring or bottleneck, a protective cap releasably, such as with a screw or bayonet lock to attach. The originality marking described therein comprises an identification ring, which is positioned on the neck ring, and which is provided with at least two predetermined breaking points. The identification ring preferably made of a plastic injection molded part also has one or more identification flags, which may include information on the origin and / or content of the compressed gas cylinder, such as company name, logo, year of the next test, etc. When placing or screwing the Protective cap on the neck ring or bottle neck is exerted on the identification ring such a pressure that the identification ring on breaks the predetermined breaking points, however, is clamped between the cap and neck ring so that it remains positioned on the shoulder of the neck ring or the neck of the bottle. When removing the protective cap from the neck ring or the bottleneck of the compressed gas cylinder and the concomitant relief on the items of the identification ring these fall from the shoulder of the neck ring or the neck and thus from the gas cylinder. The object of DE 100 62 867 A1 intended to ensure in this way a simple and inexpensive and tamper-proof labeling of all common gas cylinders.

Dieser Gegenstand weist jedoch den Nachteil auf, dass der Ring nicht sicher in seiner bestimmungsgemäßen Position fixiert ist und die Gefahr besteht, dass er sich bereits beim Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe aus seiner Position bewegt und sich seitlich aus dem Spalt zwischen Halsring und Schutzkappe herausquetscht, wodurch die Funktion der Sollbruchstelle nicht mehr sichergestellt ist.However, this object has the disadvantage that the ring is not securely fixed in its intended position and there is a risk that he already moved when screwing the cap from its position and squeezed laterally out of the gap between the neck ring and cap, causing the Function of the predetermined breaking point is no longer ensured.

Aus der DE 196 11 970 A1 ist eine weitere Originalitätssicherung für Stahlflaschen bekannt, die einen aus mehreren Segmenten zusammengesetzten Ring umfasst, der zwischen einem Flanschrand des Halsrings der Stahlflasche und einer Stirnfläche einer Schutzkappe eingeklemmt wird. Die Ringsegmente sind mittels Verbindungsgliedern über Sollbruchstellen miteinander verbunden. Beim Aufsetzen der Schutzkappe werden die Sollbruchstellen zerstört und die Ringsegmente stehen nur noch über Verzahnungsprofile miteinander in Verbindung, die sich beim Abnehmen der Schutzkappe voneinander lösen und den Ring in seine einzelnen Segmente zerfallen lassen.From the DE 196 11 970 A1 Another tamper-evident device for steel bottles is known comprising a multi-segment ring clamped between a flanged edge of the steel bottle neck ring and an end face of a protective cap. The ring segments are connected by means of connecting links via predetermined breaking points. When placing the cap, the predetermined breaking points are destroyed and the ring segments are connected only via tooth profiles with each other, which dissolve when removing the cap from each other and let the ring disintegrate into its individual segments.

Bei diesem Gegenstand verhindern die Verzahnungsprofile ein vorzeitiges Ablösen des Kennzeichnungsrings vom Halsring. Jedoch besteht hier die Gefahr, dass die Sollbruchstellen nicht vollständig brechen und/oder die die einzelnen Ringsegmente verbindenden Verzahnungsprofile miteinander verhaken und den Kenzeichnungsring auch bei abgenommener Schutzkappe am Halsring halten und somit eine Originalität vortäuschen, die tatsächlich nicht mehr vorhanden ist.In this article, the tooth profiles prevent premature detachment of the identification ring from the neck ring. However, there is the danger that the predetermined breaking points do not break completely and / or the individual ring segments connecting tooth profiles caught together and hold the Kenzeichnungsring even with removed cap on the neck ring and thus fake a originality that is actually no longer available.

Der Erfindung liegt daher die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Originalitätskennzeichnung für Druckgasflaschen zu schaffen, die die Nachteile des Standes der Technik überwindet.The invention is therefore based on the object to provide a tamper evidence for compressed gas cylinders, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

Diese Aufgabe wird bei einer Originalitätskennzeichnung der eingangs genannten Art und Zweckbestimmung dadurch gelöst, dass die einander zu gewandte Enden benachbarter Segmente des Kennzeichnungsrings unter Ausbildung einer Lücke beabstandet voneinander angeordnet sind, welche Lücke mit einem die beiden Enden miteinander verbindenden Profilelement mit darin angeordneter Sollbruchstelle überbrückt wird, wobei das Profilelement eine von der Ringebene vorstehende Anpressfläche sowie zwei jeweils die Anpressfläche mit einem Ende eines der Segmente verbindende und von der Anpressfläche in Richtung auf die Ringebene zumindest abschnittsweise aufeinander zu laufende Schenkel aufweist. Insbesondere kann hierbei einer der beiden Schenkel in einer die Elastizität begünstigenden Form, z.B. in Form eines "S", ausgeführt sein, wodurch sich die Ringelemente beim Öffnen sicher voneinander lösen.This object is achieved in a tamper evidence of the type and purpose of the above-mentioned fact that the mutually facing ends of adjacent segments of the identification ring spaced from one another to form a gap, which gap is bridged with a connecting the two ends together profile element with therein predetermined breaking point , Wherein the profile element has a pressing surface which protrudes from the ring plane and two limbs connecting in each case at least in sections to the contact surface with one end of one of the segments and extending from the contact surface in the direction of the ring plane. In particular, in this case one of the two limbs can be in a shape which promotes elasticity, e.g. in the form of an "S", be carried out, whereby the ring elements when opening safely separate from each other.

Die erfindungsgemäße Originalitätskennzeichnung umfasst einen aus mehreren Ringsegmenten aufgebauten Kennzeichnungsring, wobei die Ringsegmente in Umlaufrichtung gesehen unter Ausbildung einer Lücke voneinander beabstandet sind. Benachbarte Segmente sind dabei über Profilelemente miteinander verbunden, mit denen die Lücke zwischen den Segmenten überbrückt wird. Die Profilelemente umfassen einen hier als Anpressfläche bezeichneten Abschnitt, der im Einsatzfall, d.h. beim Aufsetzen oder Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe, an der Stirnfläche der Schutzkappe oder auf der Schulter des Halsrings aufliegt, und jeweils zwei von diesem ausgehende Schenkel. Jeder der Schenkel verbindet die Anpressfläche mit dem Ende eines der von der Lücke voneinander getrennten Segmente. Beim zumindest annähernd vollständigen Aufsetzen bzw. Anschrauben der Schutzkappe wird der Kennzeichnungsring in axialer Richtung, d.h. senkrecht zur Ringebene zusammengepresst, die Segmente des Kennzeichnungsrings und die von ihnen axial beabstandeten Anpressflächen der Profilelemente bewegen sich aufeinander zu. Dabei wird auf den Kennzeichnungsring ein derartiger Druck ausgeübt, dass zumindest eine der Sollbruchstellen gebrochen wird. Aufgrund der in Richtung auf die Ringebene bzw. die Segmente aufeinander zu laufenden Abschnitte der Schenkel bewegen sich die Enden der Segmente unter der Wirkung der Anpresskraft aufeinander zu; der Kennzeichnungsring zieht sich insgesamt zusammen. Trotz des Bruchs der Sollbruchstelle/n bleibt der Kennzeichnungsring somit fest zwischen Schutzkappe und Halsring eingespannt. Mit dem Lösen der Schutzkappe entfallen diese Kräfte, die an der bzw. den Sollbruchstelle/n gebrochene Originalitätskennzeichnung löst sich vom Halsring ab und zeigt einem Benutzer an, dass die Flasche bereits geöffnet wurde. Vorzugsweise wird beim Aufsetzen der Schutzkappe zusätzlich eine formschlüssige Verbindung zwischen den Segmenten, bzw. den Segmenten und dem Profilelement, z.B. nach dem Feder-Nut-Prinzip hergestellt, sodass die Originalitätskennzeichnung so lange an Ort und Stelle verbleibt, bis die Schutzkappe gelöst wird.The tamper-evident marking according to the invention comprises an identification ring constructed from a plurality of ring segments, the ring segments being spaced apart from one another in the direction of rotation, forming a gap. Adjacent segments are connected to each other via profile elements with which the gap between the segments is bridged. The profile elements comprise a here referred to as contact surface portion which rests in the application, ie when placing or screwing the cap on the end face of the cap or on the shoulder of the neck ring, and two each outgoing from this leg. Each of the legs connects the contact surface with the end of one of the segments separated from each other by the gap. When at least approximately complete placement or screwing the cap of the identification ring in the axial direction, that is compressed perpendicular to the ring plane, the segments of the identification ring and axially spaced from them contact surfaces of the profile elements move toward each other. In this case, such a pressure is exerted on the identification ring, that at least one of the predetermined breaking points is broken. Because of towards the ring plane or the segments towards each other running portions of the legs, the ends of the segments move towards each other under the action of the pressing force; the identification ring is contracting overall. Despite the breakage of the predetermined breaking point / n, the identification ring thus remains firmly clamped between the protective cap and the neck ring. With the release of the protective cap, these forces are eliminated, the broken at the or breaking point / n originality marking detached from the neck ring and indicates a user that the bottle has already been opened. Preferably, when placing the protective cap in addition a positive connection between the segments, or the segments and the profile element, for example, made according to the tongue and groove principle, so that the originality marking remains in place until the protective cap is released.

Die erfindungsgemäße Originalitätskennzeichnung gewährleistet somit eine einfache, kostengünstige und manipulationssichere Kennzeichnung für alle gebräuchlichen Druckgasflaschen. Es ist für die Funktionsfähigkeit der erfindungsgemäßen Originalitätskennzeichnung im übrigen keineswegs erforderlich, dass im Einsatzfall sämtliche vorgesehenen Sollbruchstellen brechen, es genügt in der Regel bereits der Bruch einer oder weniger Sollbruchstelle/n, um zu gewährleisten, dass sich der Kennzeichnungsring beim Abschrauben der Schutzkappe vom Halsring löst und damit die fehlende Originalität der Flasche anzeigt.The originality marking according to the invention thus ensures a simple, inexpensive and tamper-proof marking for all common compressed gas cylinders. Moreover, it is by no means necessary for the functionality of the originality marking according to the invention to break all intended breaking points in the application, it is usually sufficient to break one or fewer predetermined breaking points in order to ensure that the marking ring is detached from the neck ring when the protective cap is unscrewed solves and thus indicates the lack of originality of the bottle.

Bevorzugt ist der Kennzeichnungsring einstückig, vorzugsweise aus Spritzguss, gefertigt. Das dabei verwendete Kunststoffmaterial sollte eine gewisse Elastizität aufweisen, um eine problemlose Befestigung der Originalitätskennzeichnung auf dem Halsring sowie die Funktion des Rückstellens der formschlüssigen Verbindung zu gewährleisten. Vorteilhaft ist auch die Verwendung eines biologisch abbaubaren Kunststoffs als Material, durch den sichergestellt wird, dass abgefallene Stücke des Kennzeichnungsrings nicht auf Dauer die Umwelt belasten.Preferably, the identification ring is made in one piece, preferably made of injection molding. The plastic material used in this case should have a certain elasticity to ensure easy attachment of the originality marking on the neck ring and the function of resetting the positive connection. Also advantageous is the use of a biodegradable plastic as a material, which ensures that fallen pieces of the identification ring does not permanently pollute the environment.

Eine vorteilhafte Weiterbildung der Erfindung sieht vor, dass die Sollbruchstelle eine in der Anpressfläche oder einem Schenkel des Profilelements angeordnete Schwächezone umfasst. Eine solche Schwächezone kann beispielsweise eine Einkerbung oder ein Abschnitt mit einer verringerten Materialstärke in der Anpressfläche oder in einem oder beiden der Schenkel sein, oder das Profilelement kann aufgrund einer speziellen Geometrie Zonen umfassen, die in Bezug auf den von der Schutzkappe auf den Kennzeichnungsring ausgeübten Druck eine geringere Bruchfestigkeit aufweisen als die umgebenden Bereiche, wie beispielsweise eine Knickstelle. Insbesondere die Zone, an denen ein Schenkel an die Anpressfläche bzw. die Ringsegmente stößt, kann winklig ausgeführt sein, wodurch in der Regel eine geringere Stabilität in diesen Zonen bei angelegtem Druck besteht. Wird die Originalitätskennzeichnung nicht einstückig ausgeführt, kommt als Sollbruchstelle auch eine Verbindung, beispielsweise eine Naht, in Betracht.An advantageous development of the invention provides that the predetermined breaking point arranged in the contact surface or a leg of the profile element Weak zone includes. Such a weak zone may be, for example, a notch or a section of reduced material thickness in the contact surface or in one or both of the legs, or the profile element may comprise zones due to a specific geometry with respect to the pressure exerted by the protective cap on the identification ring have a lower breaking strength than the surrounding areas, such as a kink. In particular, the zone at which a leg abuts the contact surface or the ring segments, can be designed at an angle, which is usually a lower stability in these zones with applied pressure. If the originality marking is not carried out in one piece, a predetermined breaking point may also be a connection, for example a seam.

Bevorzugt ist wenigstens einer der Schenkel als elastisches Federelement ausgeführt, das sich bei Anlegen einer senkrecht zur Ringebene wirkenden Anpresskraft elastisch verformt, nach Wegfall der Anpresskraft jedoch zumindest teilweise in seine ursprüngliche Form zurückkehrt. Die Federkraft kann dabei auch durch die Wahl eines elastischen Kunststoffmaterials als Rohstoff für die Originalitätskennzeichnung bewirkt werden. Beim Aufsetzen der Schutzkappe üben die Schenkel aufgrund ihrer elastischen Verformung eine Kraftwirkung auf die Segmente aus, mit der das Zusammenziehen des Kennzeichnungsrings bewirkt wird; nach Entfernen der Schutzkappe kehren die Schenkel selbsttätig in ihre ursprüngliche Form zurück und die auf die Ringsegmente ausgeübte Kraftwirkung entfällt. Der zuvor beim bestimmungsgemäßen Aufsetzen der Schutzkappe an zumindest einer Sollbruchstelle gebrochene Kennzeichnungsring liegt anschließend nur noch locker auf dem Halsring der Druckgasflasche auf oder fällt von diesem ab.Preferably, at least one of the legs is designed as an elastic spring element which deforms elastically upon application of a force acting perpendicular to the ring plane pressing force, however, after the elimination of the contact force at least partially returns to its original shape. The spring force can also be effected by the choice of an elastic plastic material as a raw material for the originality marking. When placing the cap, the legs due to their elastic deformation exert a force on the segments, with which the contraction of the identification ring is effected; after removing the protective cap, the legs automatically return to their original shape and the force exerted on the ring segments force effect is eliminated. The previously broken in the intended placement of the cap on at least one predetermined breaking point identification ring is then only loosely on the neck ring of the gas cylinder on or falls from this.

Vorzugsweise wird einer der beiden Schenkel in einer die Elastizität begünstigenden Form, z.B. in Form eines "S", ausgeführt. Dadurch wird beim Zusammenpressen des Kennzeichnungsrings eine Rückstellkraft generiert, die dafür sorgt, dass sich die Ringelemente beim Abnehmen der Schutzkappe, also nach Entfall der Anpresskraft, sicher voneinander lösen.Preferably, one of the two legs is in a shape favoring the elasticity, for example in the form of an "S" executed. As a result, a restoring force is generated during compression of the identification ring, which ensures that the ring elements when removing the cap, so after elimination of the contact force, safely separate from each other.

Eine abermals vorteilhafte Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sieht vor, dass die Originalitätskennzeichnung Fixiermittel zum lösbaren Verbinden der Enden der Segmente miteinander und/oder mit dem Profilelement umfasst. Derartige Fixiermittel sorgen dafür, dass nach dem Aufsetzen bzw. Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe und dem nachfolgenden Bruch mindestens einer Sollbruchstelle die Originalitätskennzeichnung fest zwischen Halsring und Schutzkappe fixiert ist und ein Ablösen erst nach dem Entfernen der Schutzkappe erfolgen kann. Die Fixiermittel weisen Elemente auf, die in den Segmenten und/oder dem Profilelement angeordnet sind, und die mit korrespondierenden Elementen am jeweils anderen Segment bzw. am Profilelement unter Herstellung einer formschlüssigen, jedoch nach Fortfall der Anpresskraft der Schutzkappe lösbaren Verbindung zusammenwirken.A yet further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the tamper-evident marking comprises fixing means for detachably connecting the ends of the segments to one another and / or to the profile element. Such fixative ensure that after placing or screwing the cap and the subsequent breakage of at least one predetermined breaking point, the tamper-evident between fixed neck ring and protective cap and detachment can be done only after removing the cap. The fixing means have elements which are arranged in the segments and / or the profile element, and which cooperate with corresponding elements on the respective other segment or on the profile element to produce a positive, but releasable after elimination of the contact force of the protective cap connection.

Vorzugsweise sind die Fixiermittel dabei so ausgebildet, dass sie unter der Wirkung einer im Wesentlichen senkrecht zur Ringebene angelegten Anpresskraft (wie sie üblicherweise nach dem Aufsetzen bzw. Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe auf den Halsring vorliegt) eine feste Verbindung zwischen den Segmenten herstellen, sich bei Fortfall der Anpresskraft jedoch unter der Wirkung einer Rückstellkraft selbsttätig voneinander lösen. Die Fixiermittel umfassen beispielsweise sich einander entsprechende Verzahnungsprofile, die erst unter der Wirkung der Anpresskraft zusammenwirken. Die Rückstellkraft wird bevorzugt über elastische Profilabschnitte bewirkt, die bei Anlegen der Anpresskraft verformt und bei Wegfall der Anpresskraft zumindest teilweise in ihre ursprüngliche Form zurückkehren und so die formschlüssige Verbindung der Fixiermittel, z.B. der Verzahnungsprofile wieder voneinander lösen. Beispielsweise wird die Rückstellkraft in der zuvor geschilderten Weise aufgrund einer elastische Ausführung eines oder beider Schenkel der Profilelemente bewirkt.Preferably, the fixing means are formed so that they produce a firm connection between the segments under the action of a substantially perpendicular to the ring plane applied contact force (as is usually present after putting on or screwing the cap on the neck ring), when discontinuing the However, contact force under the action of a restoring force automatically solve each other. The fixing means comprise, for example, mutually corresponding toothing profiles, which cooperate only under the action of the contact pressure. The restoring force is preferably effected via elastic profile sections which deform upon application of the contact pressure force and at least partially return to their original shape when the contact force is removed, thus ensuring the positive connection of the fixing means, e.g. release the splines again. For example, the restoring force is effected in the manner previously described due to an elastic design of one or both legs of the profile elements.

Bevorzugt umfassen die die formschlüssige Verbindung herstellenden Verzahnungsprofile dabei zum einen ein an der Anpressfläche bzw. an wenigstens einem Ringsegment angeformtes Profil, das mit einer oder mehreren dazu korrespondierenden Ausnehmung/en in einem Ringsegment bzw. in der Anpressfläche derart zusammenwirkt, dass die Ringsegmente des Kennzeichnungsrings fest, jedoch nach Abnehmen der Schutzkappe lösbar miteinander verbunden sind. Beim Aufsetzen bzw. Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe wird der Kennzeichnungsring zwischen der Stirnfläche der Schutzkappe und dem Halsring zusammengepresst, d.h. Anpressfläche und Ringsegmente werden aufeinander zu bewegt. Dadurch kommt es zu einem Zusammenwirken von Profil und Ausnehmung. Zugleich werden jedoch auch die zwischen Ringsegment und Anpressfläche angeordneten Schenkel elastisch verformt und üben somit auf die Anpressfläche und die Ringsegmente eine Rückstellkraft aus, die zum Tragen kommt, sobald die Schutzkappe abgenommen wird, und die dazu führt, dass sich Profil und Ausnehmung selbsttätig voneinander lösen. Eine einfach herzustellende, gleichwohl zuverlässige Möglichkeit, Ringsegment und Anpressfläche miteinander zu verzahnen, stellt ein Nut-und-Feder-Profil dar: Dabei ist ein federartiges Profil quer zur Umlaufrichtung des Kennzeichnungsrings an der Anpressfläche oder dem Ringsegment und eine dazu korrespondierende Nut im Ringsegment bzw. der Anpressfläche vorgesehen. Federprofil und Nut verlaufen dabei bevorzugt nicht exakt radial, sondern sind in der Ringebene winklig, beispielsweise ca. 30° bis 60° gegenüber dem Radius des Kennzeichnungsrings geneigt, wodurch eine besonders hohe Stabilität der Verbindung in Umlaufrichtung des Kennzeichnungsrings gewährleistet wird.In this case, the toothed profiles producing the positive connection preferably comprise, for one, a profile integrally formed on the contact surface or on at least one ring segment and interacting with one or more corresponding recesses in a ring segment or in the contact surface in such a way that the ring segments of the Identification ring fixed, but are releasably connected to each other after removing the cap. When placing or screwing the cap of the identification ring between the end face of the cap and the neck ring is compressed, ie contact surface and ring segments are moved towards each other. This leads to an interaction of profile and recess. At the same time, however, the arranged between the ring segment and contact surface legs are elastically deformed and thus exert on the contact surface and the ring segments a restoring force that comes to fruition as soon as the cap is removed, and which causes the profile and recess automatically solve each other , A simple to manufacture, yet reliable way to interlock ring segment and contact surface with each other, represents a tongue-and-groove profile: Here is a spring-like profile transverse to the direction of rotation of the identification ring on the contact surface or the ring segment and a corresponding groove in the ring segment or the contact surface provided. Spring profile and groove preferably do not extend exactly radially, but are inclined in the ring plane, for example, about 30 ° to 60 ° relative to the radius of the identification ring, whereby a particularly high stability of the connection in the direction of rotation of the identification ring is ensured.

Bevorzugt ist der Kennzeichnungsring mit wenigstens einer vom Kennzeichnungsring vorstehenden Kennzeichnungsfahne ausgerüstet, die mit einer Beschriftung versehen werden kann. Die Beschriftung enthält beispielsweise Informationen über die Herkunft, das Abfülldatum und/oder die Bestimmung der Druckgasflasche. Es können auch mehrere Kennzeichnungsfahnen vorgesehen sein, die jeweils die gleichen oder aber unterschiedliche Beschriftungen aufweisen.Preferably, the identification ring is equipped with at least one identification tag projecting from the identification ring, which can be provided with a label. The inscription contains, for example, information about the origin, the filling date and / or the determination of the compressed gas cylinder. It can also be provided several flag flags, each having the same or different labels.

Eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sieht vor, dass der Kennzeichnungsring mit einem ringförmigen Haltefaden ausgerüstet ist, der mit allen Segmenten verbunden ist und dessen Umfang größer als der Umfang des Halsrings der Druckgasflasche jedoch kleiner als der Umfang der Druckgasflasche selbst ist. Bei dieser Ausgestaltung fallen an der Sollbruchstelle voneinander abgetrennte Ringsegmente nach Entfernen der Schutzkappe (also im "verbrauchten" Zustand der Originalitätskennzeichnung) nicht vollständig von der Flasche ab, sondern werden vom Haltefaden an der Druckgasflasche, jedoch unterhalb des Halsrings, beispielsweise auf der Schulter der Druckgasflasche liegend, gehalten. Auf diese Weise können die verbrauchten Originalitätskennzeichnungen leicht von der Druckgasflasche abgelöst und entsorgt werden.A preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the identification ring is equipped with an annular holding thread, which is connected to all segments and whose circumference is greater than the circumference of the neck ring of the compressed gas cylinder, however, smaller than the circumference of the compressed gas cylinder itself. In this embodiment fall at the predetermined breaking point separated ring segments after removing the cap (ie in the "used" state of Tamper-evident) are not completely removed from the bottle, but are held by the tether on the cylinder, but below the neck ring, for example, lying on the shoulder of the cylinder. In this way, the used originality labels can be easily detached from the compressed gas cylinder and disposed of.

In einer abermals zweckmäßigen Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Originalitätskennzeichnung umfasst die Sollbruchstelle einen in wenigstens einem Schenkel des Profilelements angeordneten Materialabschnitt mit verringerter Querschnittsfläche und damit geringerer mechanischer Stabilität; der Schenkel des Profilelements ist an dieser Stelle also dünner als in den übrigen Bereichen. Bei Aufsetzen der Schutzkappe und der damit einhergehenden Kraftbeaufschlagung auf die Schenkel des Profilelements reißt dieses somit bevorzugt an diesen Materialabschnitten mit verringerter Querschnittsfläche ab. Der Materialabschnitt kann dabei an einem beliebigen Ort im Schenkel und/oder auch in der Anpressfläche angeordnet sein, bevorzugt befindet er sich jedoch am Übergang des Schenkels zum Ringsegment und/oder zur Anpressfläche.In a again expedient embodiment of the inventive mark of authenticity, the predetermined breaking point comprises a material section arranged in at least one limb of the profile element with a reduced cross-sectional area and thus lower mechanical stability; the leg of the profile element is therefore thinner at this point than in the other areas. When placing the protective cap and the associated application of force to the legs of the profile element, this thus breaks off preferably at these material sections with reduced cross-sectional area. The material portion may be arranged at any location in the leg and / or in the contact surface, but preferably it is located at the transition of the leg to the ring segment and / or the contact surface.

Anhand der Zeichnungen sollen nachfolgend Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung näher erläutert werden. In schematischen Ansichten zeigen:

Fig. 1a:
eine erfindungsgemäße Originalitätskennzeichnung in einem Schnitt in der Ringebene,
Fig. 1b:
eine mit einer Originalitätskennzeichnung ausgerüstete Druckgasflasche mit nur teilweise aufgesetzter Schutzkappe,
Fig. 2a:
ein Profilelement einer erfindungsgemäßen Originalitätskennzeichnung in einer ersten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht,
Fig. 2b:
das Profilelement aus Fig. 2a in einer Draufsicht,
Fig. 3a:
ein Profilelement in einer zweiten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht,
Fig. 3b:
das Profilelement aus Fig. 3b in einer Draufsicht,
Fig. 4a:
ein Profilelement in einer dritten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht,
Fig. 4b:
das Profilelement aus Fig. 4a in einer Draufsicht,
Fig. 5a:
ein Profilelement in einer vierten Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht,
Fig. 5b:
das Profilelement aus Fig. 5b in einer Draufsicht,
Fig. 6:
ein Profilelement in einer fünften Ausführungsform in einer Seitenansicht.
Reference to the drawings, embodiments of the invention will be explained in more detail below. In schematic views show:
Fig. 1a:
a tamper-evident marking according to the invention in a section in the plane of the ring,
Fig. 1b:
a compressed gas cylinder equipped with a tamper-evident label with a partially attached protective cap,
Fig. 2a:
a profile element of a tamper-indicating invention in a first embodiment in a side view,
Fig. 2b:
the profile element Fig. 2a in a plan view,
Fig. 3a:
a profile element in a second embodiment in a side view,
3b:
the profile element Fig. 3b in a plan view,
Fig. 4a:
a profile element in a third embodiment in a side view,
Fig. 4b:
the profile element Fig. 4a in a plan view,
Fig. 5a:
a profile element in a fourth embodiment in a side view,
Fig. 5b:
the profile element Fig. 5b in a plan view,
Fig. 6:
a profile element in a fifth embodiment in a side view.

Die in Fig. 1 a gezeigte, vorzugsweise einstückig als Spritzgussteil aus einem flexiblem Kunststoff ausgeführte Originalitätskennzeichnung 1 umfasst einen Kennzeichnungsring 2, der aus mehreren, im Ausführungsbeispiel aus vier Ringsegmenten 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d aufgebaut ist. Die Ringsegmente 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d sind an ihren einander gegenüberliegenden Stirnseiten in Umfangsrichtung beabstandet voneinander angeordnet, sodass sich in der Ringebene 6 des Rings 2 zwischen jeweils zwei Ringsegmenten 4a, 4b; 4b, 4c; 4c, 4d; 4d, 4a eine Lücke 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d von in der Praxis ca. 1 bis 3 mm eröffnet. Die Lücken 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d zwischen den Ringsegmenten 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d werden von unten näher beschriebenen Profilelementen 8, 8', 8", 8'" überbrückt, die in axialer Richtung, d.h. senkrecht zur Ringebene von den Ringsegmenten 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d vorstehen. Weiterhin umfasst die Originalitätskennzeichnung 1 mindestens eine Kennzeichnungsfahne 9 die mit Informationen, beispielsweise über die Herkunft der Flasche und/oder ihren Inhalt beschriftet werden kann.In the Fig. 1 a, preferably integrally designed as an injection molded part of a flexible plastic originality marking 1 comprises an identification ring 2, which is composed of several, in the embodiment of four ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d. The ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d are arranged at their opposite end sides in the circumferential direction spaced from each other, so that in the ring plane 6 of the ring 2 between two ring segments 4a, 4b; 4b, 4c; 4c, 4d; 4d, 4a opens a gap 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d of about 1 to 3 mm in practice. The gaps 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d between the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d are bridged by profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 ", 8'" described in greater detail below, which are in the axial direction, ie perpendicular to the ring plane of the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d project. Furthermore, the originality marking 1 comprises at least one identification tag 9 which can be labeled with information, for example about the origin of the bottle and / or its contents.

In Fig. 1b ist die Originalitätskennzeichnung 1 im Einbauzustand an einer Druckgasflasche 10 gezeigt. Die Druckgasflasche 10 weist einen Halsring 11 auf, der mit einem Außengewinde 12 zum Aufschrauben einer Schutzkappe 13 (im Bild nur teilweise aufgeschraubt) ausgerüstet ist. Zu diesem Zweck weist die Schutzkappe 13 ein entsprechendes Innengewinde auf. In ihrem Einbauzustand ist die Originalitätskennzeichnung 1 zwischen einer Stirnfläche 14 der Schutzkappe 13 und einem ringförmigen Flanschrand 15 des Halsrings 11 angeordnet und wird durch das Aufsetzen bzw. Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe 13 in axialer Richtung, d.h. senkrecht zur Ringebene 6, zusammengepresst. Mit dem Zusammenpressen des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 werden auch die in axialer Richtung vorstehenden Profilelemente 8, 8', 8", 8"' zusammengepresst.In Fig. 1b the originality marking 1 is shown in the installed state on a compressed gas cylinder 10. The compressed gas cylinder 10 has a neck ring 11 which is equipped with an external thread 12 for screwing on a protective cap 13 (only partially screwed in the picture). For this purpose, the protective cap 13 has a corresponding internal thread. In its installed state, the tamper-evident marking 1 is arranged between an end face 14 of the protective cap 13 and an annular flange edge 15 of the neck ring 11 and is compressed by fitting or screwing on the protective cap 13 in the axial direction, ie perpendicular to the ring plane 6. With the compression of the identification ring 2, the axially projecting profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 ", 8"' are pressed together.

In den Fig. 2 bis 5 sind verschiedene Ausführungsformen von Profilelementen 8, 8', 8", 8'" gezeigt, die zur Überbrückung der Lücken 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d dienen können. Im Folgenden sollen beispielhaft Profilelemente 8, 8', 8", 8'" zur Überbrückung der Lücke 5d näher beschreiben werden; damit soll jedoch keine Einschränkung zum Ausdruck gebracht werden.In the Fig. 2 to 5 different embodiments of profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 ", 8'" are shown, which can serve to bridge the gaps 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d. In the following, by way of example, profile elements 8, 8 ', 8 ", 8'" for bridging the gap 5d will be described in greater detail; however, this is not intended to express any restriction.

Das in den Fig. 2a, 2b gezeigte, nach Art eines Schwalbenschwanzes geformte Profilelement 8 umfasst eine Anpressfläche 17, die in axialer Richtung, d.h. senkrecht zur Ringebene 6 des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 von den Ringsegmenten 4a, 4d vorsteht, sowie zwei diese jeweils mit einem der Ringsegmente 4a, 4d verbindende Schenkel 18, 19. Die Schenkel 18,19 sind spitzwinklig an die Ringsegmente 4a, 4d bzw. die Anpressfläche 17 angeformt, und zwar derart, dass sie in Richtung auf die Ringsegmente 4a, 4b aufeinander zu verlaufen. Die Anpressfläche 17 ist weiterhin mit einer Sollbruchstelle ausgerüstet, im Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 2b mit einer Einkerbung 20.That in the Fig. 2a, 2b shown, shaped like a dovetail profile element 8 comprises a contact surface 17 which protrudes in the axial direction, ie perpendicular to the ring plane 6 of the identification ring 2 of the ring segments 4a, 4d, and two this each with one of the ring segments 4a, 4d connecting leg 18, 19. The legs 18,19 are formed at an acute angle to the ring segments 4a, 4d and the contact surface 17, in such a way that they extend towards each other in the direction of the ring segments 4a, 4b. The contact surface 17 is further equipped with a predetermined breaking point, according to the embodiment Fig. 2b with a notch 20.

Wird das Profilelement 8 in axialer Richtung zusammengepresst, beispielsweise beim Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe 13, bewegen sich Anpressfläche 17 und Ringsegmente 4a, 4d aufeinander zu. Durch die gezeigte Anordnung der Schenkel 18, 19 wird die axiale Kraft in tangentiale Kräfte umgelenkt, die auf die Anpressfläche 17 bzw. auf die Ringsegmente 4a, 4d wirken. Die auf die Anpressfläche 17 wirkenden Kräfte dehnen diese und führen schließlich - bei hinreichend großer Anpresskraft - zum Bruch der Anpressfläche 17 an der Einkerbung 20. Auf die Ringsegmente 4a, 4d wird dagegen über die in Richtung zur Ringebene aufeinander zu laufenden Schenkel 18,19 eine Kraft ausgeübt, durch die an der Lücke 5c einander gegenüberstehenden Enden der Ringsegmente 4a, 4d aufeinander zu bewegt werden. Diese auf die Ringsegmente 4a, 4d wirkenden Kräfte verhindern, zusammen mit den Reibungskräften der eng an der Anpressfläche 17 bzw. an der dem Profilelement 8 gegenüberliegenden Seite der Ringsegmente 4a, 4d anliegenden Stirnflächen von Schutzkappe 12 und Halsring 11, dass sich der nun an einer oder mehreren der Sollbruchstellen gebrochene Kennzeichnungsring 2 vom Halsring 11 ablöst. Wird die Schutzkappe 13 abgeschraubt, entfallen die axial auf den Kennzeichnungsring 2 wirkenden Kräfte und damit auch die auf die Ringsegmente 4a, 4d wirkenden tangentialen Kräfte und der an einer oder mehreren der Sollbruchstellen gebrochene Kennzeichnungsring 2 fällt von der Druckgasflasche 10 ab.If the profile element 8 is compressed in the axial direction, for example when the protective cap 13 is screwed on, the contact surface 17 and ring segments 4a, 4d move towards one another. By the arrangement of the legs 18, 19 shown, the axial force is deflected into tangential forces acting on the contact surface 17 and on the ring segments 4a, 4d. The forces acting on the contact surface 17 stretch this and finally lead - with a sufficiently large contact force - to break of the contact surface 17 at the notch 20. On the ring segments 4a, 4d, however, on the running towards each other in the direction of the ring plane leg 18,19 a Force exerted by the at the gap 5c opposite ends of the ring segments 4a, 4d are moved towards each other. These acting on the ring segments 4a, 4d prevent forces, together with the frictional forces of the contact surface 17 or on the profile element 8 opposite side of the ring segments 4a, 4d adjacent end faces of protective cap 12 and neck ring 11, that now on a or detaches several of the predetermined breaking points broken identification ring 2 from the neck ring 11. If the protective cap 13 unscrewed, which accounts for axially the marking ring 2 acting forces and thus also acting on the ring segments 4a, 4d tangential forces and broken at one or more of the predetermined breaking points identification ring 2 falls from the compressed gas cylinder 10 from.

Die im Folgenden beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiele zeigen alternative Profilelemente 8', 8", 8"', die anstelle des Profilelements 8 zur Verbindung der Ringsegmente 4a, 4d vorgesehen sein können. Diese Profilelemente 8', 8", 8"' weisen zusätzliche Mittel auf, um die Ringsegmente 4a, 4d während des Zusammenpressens des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 fest, jedoch lösbar miteinander zu verbinden.The embodiments described below show alternative profile elements 8 ', 8 ", 8"', which may be provided instead of the profile element 8 for connecting the ring segments 4a, 4d. These profile elements 8 ', 8 ", 8"' have additional means to firmly but releasably connect the ring segments 4a, 4d during the compression of the identification ring 2.

Das in Fig. 3a, 3b gezeigte Profilelement 8' weist ebenso wie das Profilelement 8 eine Anpressfläche 17' und diese mit zwei Ringsegmenten verbindende Schenkel 18', 19' auf. Als Sollbruchstelle dienen in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel mechanisch empfindliche Knickstellen 21 am Übergang zwischen Anpressfläche 17' bzw. Ringsegment einerseits und Schenkeln 18', 19' andererseits. An der Anpressfläche 17' ist ein Verbindungsglied in Form eines in Richtung auf das Ringsegment 4d vorstehenden rechteckigen Verzahnungsprofils 22 angeformt, das beim Zusammenpressen des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 mit einer entsprechenden Ausnehmung 23 im Ringsegment 4d zusammenwirkt. Das Rechteckprofil 22 kann, wie in der Zeichnung gezeigt, radial außenseitig an der Anpressfläche angeordnet sei, eine radial innenseitige oder mittige Anordnung ist jedoch ebenfalls im Rahmen der Erfindung vorstellbar. Ebenso vorstellbar ist, ein Verbindungsprofil im Ringsegment und eine dazu korrespondierende Ausnehmung in der Anpressfläche vorzusehen. Durch das Einrasten des Verzahnungsprofils 22 in der Ausnehmung 23 wird nach dem Zusammenpressen des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 durch eine axiale Kraft, beispielsweise durch das Aufsetzen bzw. Aufschrauben der Schutzkappe 13, eine formschlüssige Verbindung hergestellt, die den Kennzeichnungsring 2 in Umfangsrichtung auch nach Bruch einer Knickstelle 21 zusammenhält und ein Abfallen des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 vom Halsring 11 verhindert, solange die axiale Kraftwirkung anhält. Dabei werden auch die Schenkel 17', 18' gebogen, deren Tendenz, in ihre ursprüngliche Form zurückzukehren, der axialen Kraftwirkung entgegenwirkt. Bei Abnahme der Schutzkappe 13, d.h. bei Wegfall der axialen Kraftwirkung nehmen die Schenkel 18', 19' zumindest weitgehend in ihre ursprüngliche Form zurück und üben damit eine rückstellende Kraft auf das Verzahnungsprofil 22 aus. Dadurch löst sich das Verzahnungsprofil 22 aus der Ausnehmung 23, der Kennzeichnungsring 2 zerfällt und löst sich vom Halsring 11 der Druckgasflasche 10 ab.This in Fig. 3a, 3b shown profile element 8 'has as well as the profile element 8 a contact surface 17' and this with two ring segments connecting leg 18 ', 19' on. As a predetermined breaking point serve in this embodiment mechanically sensitive kinks 21 at the transition between contact surface 17 'and ring segment on the one hand and legs 18', 19 'on the other. At the contact surface 17 'is formed a connecting member in the form of a in the direction of the ring segment 4d projecting rectangular tooth profile 22, which cooperates with the compression of the identification ring 2 with a corresponding recess 23 in the ring segment 4d. The rectangular profile 22 may, as shown in the drawing, radially on the outside of the contact surface is arranged, a radially inner side or central arrangement, however, is also conceivable within the scope of the invention. It is also conceivable to provide a connection profile in the ring segment and a corresponding recess in the contact surface. By the engagement of the tooth profile 22 in the recess 23, a positive connection is made after the compression of the identification ring 2 by an axial force, for example by placing or screwing the cap 13, the labeling ring 2 in the circumferential direction even after breaking a kink 21st holds together and prevents falling of the identification ring 2 from the neck ring 11, as long as the axial force action stops. In this case, the legs 17 ', 18' are bent, their tendency to return to their original shape, the axial force effect counteracts. When the protective cap 13 is removed, ie when the axial force effect ceases, the legs 18 ', 19' at least largely return to their original shape and thus exert a restoring force on the toothed profile 22. As a result, the tooth profile 22 is released from the recess 23, the identification ring 2 disintegrates and detaches from the neck ring 11 of the compressed gas cylinder 10.

Eine weitere Variante eines Profilelements zeigen die Fig. 4a, 4b: Bei dieser Ausführungsform sind an beiden Enden der Anpressfläche 17" eines Profilelements 8" Verbindungsglieder angeformt. Hierbei handelt es sich um in Richtung auf die Ringsegmente 4a, 4d jeweils quer zur Umfangsrichtung des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 angeformte Federprofile 25a, 25b. Die Federprofile 25a, 25b wirken mit entsprechenden Nuten 26a, 26b in den Ringsegmenten 4a und 4d zusammen. Die Federelemente 25a, 25b bzw. Nuten 26a, 26b verlaufen nicht exakt radial, sondern sind gegenüber dem Radius des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 um einen Winkel α mit 30° ≤ α ≤ 60° versetzt, wodurch eine besonders gute Stabilit ät der Verbindung in Umlaufrichtung des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 gewährleistet wird. Beim Zusammenpressen des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 und der damit einhergehenden axialen Kraftwirkung wird somit eine feste Verbindung zwischen den Ringsegmenten 4a, 4d und der Anpressfläche 17" über zwei Nut-und-Feder-artige Verbindungen an den Elementen 25a, 26a sowie 25b, 26b hergestellt. Die Verbindung wird nach Wegfall der axialen Kraft aufgrund der Rückstellung der elastischen Schenkel 18", 19" in ihre ursprüngliche Form gelöst. Die Sollbruchstelle 20" des Profilelements 8" ist wie die Sollbruchstelle 20 beim Profilelement 8 ausgeführt.Another variant of a profile element show the Fig. 4a, 4b In this embodiment, at both ends of the contact surface 17 "of a profile element 8" connecting members are integrally formed. This is in the direction of the ring segments 4a, 4d respectively formed transversely to the circumferential direction of the identification ring 2 spring profiles 25a, 25b. The spring profiles 25a, 25b cooperate with corresponding grooves 26a, 26b in the ring segments 4a and 4d. The spring elements 25a, 25b and grooves 26a, 26b do not extend exactly radially, but are offset from the radius of the identification ring 2 by an angle α with 30 ° ≤ α ≤ 60 °, whereby a particularly good stability of the compound compound in the circumferential direction of the identification ring 2 is guaranteed. Upon compression of the identification ring 2 and the associated axial force action thus a firm connection between the ring segments 4a, 4d and the contact surface 17 "via two tongue and groove-like connections to the elements 25a, 26a and 25b, 26b produced Connection is released after the elimination of the axial force due to the provision of the elastic legs 18 ", 19" in their original shape.

Weiterhin umfasst das Ausführungsbeispiel nach in Fig. 4a einen Haltefaden 27, der mit den Ringsegmenten 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d fest verbunden ist. Der Umfang des ringförmig ausgebildeten Haltefadens 27 ist größer als der Außenumfang des Halsrings 11, jedoch geringer als der Außenumfang der Druckgasflasche 10 an ihrer breitesten Stelle. Der Haltefaden 27 gewährleistet, dass nach der bestimmungsgemäßen Zerstörung des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 die Ringsegmente 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d auch nach der Abnahme der Schutzkappe 13 im lockeren Verbund mit dem Haltefaden 27 an der Druckgasflasche 10 hängen bleiben und anschließend durch Bedienpersonal leicht entfernt werden können.Furthermore, the embodiment according to in Fig. 4a a tether 27 which is fixedly connected to the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d. The circumference of the ring-shaped holding thread 27 is larger than the outer circumference of the neck ring 11, but less than the outer circumference of the compressed gas cylinder 10 at its widest point. The tether 27 ensures that after the intended destruction of the identification ring 2, the ring segments 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d even after the removal of the cap 13 in a loose composite with the tether 27 at the gas cylinder 10 get stuck and can then be easily removed by operating personnel.

In der Ausführungsform nach Fig. 5a, 5b ist der Schenkel 18"' des Profilelements 8"' s-förmig gebogen ausgeführt, während an der Anpressfläche 17"' des Profilelements 8"' im Bereich des Schenkels 19"' wiederum ein Verzahnungsprofil 28 angeformt ist, das, ähnlich wie beim Profilelement 8', mit einer entsprechenden Ausnehmung 29 im Ringsegment 4d zusammenwirkt. Die gebogene Form des Schenkels 18"' führt zu einer höheren Elastizität dieses Schenkels 18"' und damit zu einer verstärkten Rückstellkraft, die das Profilelement 8"' nach Wegfall der axial zusammenpressenden Kraft wieder in seine ursprüngliche Form zurücktreibt. Als Sollbruchstelle sind in diesem Fall ausschließlich die Knickstellen 21 am Schenkel 19"' vorgesehen.In the embodiment according to Fig. 5a, 5b is the leg 18 '' of the profile element 8 '' bent in an S-shaped, while at the contact surface 17 '' of the profile element 8 '' in the region of the leg 19 '' turn a tooth profile 28 is formed, which, similar to the profile element The curved shape of the leg 18 "'leads to a higher elasticity of this leg 18"' and thus to an increased restoring force, the profile element 8 "'after the loss of the axially compressive force again drives back to its original form. As a predetermined breaking point, only the kinks 21 on the leg 19 "'are provided in this case.

Das in Fig. 6 gezeigte Profilelement 8"" unterscheidet sich von dem in Fig. 3a gezeigten Profilelement 8' lediglich durch die Art der Sollbruchstelle 21. Bei dieser Ausführungsform ist der Schenkel 19"" mit einem Abschnitt mit verkleinertem Querschnitt und damit geringerer mechanischer Stabilität ausgestattet, der zugleich die Sollbruchstelle 21 darstellt. Ein derartiger Abschnitt mit verringerter mechanischer Stabilität kann auch stattdessen oder zusätzlich im Abschnitt 18"" angeordnet sein; ebenso kann er in den vorangegangenen Ausführungsformen anstelle oder ergänzend zu den dort gezeigten Sollbruchstellen 21 vorgesehen sein.This in Fig. 6 shown profile element 8 "" differs from that in Fig. 3a shown profile element 8 'only by the nature of the predetermined breaking point 21. In this embodiment, the leg 19 "" equipped with a section of reduced cross-section and thus lower mechanical stability, which also represents the predetermined breaking point 21. Such a portion with reduced mechanical stability may also be arranged instead or additionally in section 18 "'; it may also be provided in the preceding embodiments instead of or in addition to the predetermined breaking points 21 shown there.

Bei der erfindungsgemäßen Originalitätskennzeichnung 1 sorgen somit die in Richtung auf die Ringebene des Kennzeichnungsrings 2 aufeinander zu verlaufenden Schenkel 18, 19, 18', 19', 18", 19", 18"', 19"' dafür, dass einerseits die Ringsegmente bei aufgesetzter bzw. aufgeschraubter Schutzkappe auch nach dem Bruch mindestens einer Sollbruchstelle 20, 21 sicher am Halsring 11 der Druckgasflasche fixiert sind. Die gleichen Schenkel 18, 19, 18', 19', 18", 19", 18"', 19"' sorgen aufgrund ihrer elastischen Rückstellung in ihre ursprüngliche Form nach Wegfall der von der Schutzkappe ausgeübten Kraft dafür, dass der gebrochene Kennzeichnungsring 2 zerfällt und/oder sich aufdehnt und sich vom Halsring 11 löst. Daher eignen sich elastische Kunststoffe besonders als Ausgangsmaterial für die erfindungsgemäße Originalitätskennzeichnung.In the tamper-evident marking 1 according to the invention, therefore, the legs 18, 19, 18 ', 19', 18 ", 19", 18 "', 19"' that run toward each other in the direction of the ring plane of the identification ring 2 ensure that, on the one hand, the ring segments join attached or screwed cap even after breaking at least one predetermined breaking point 20, 21 are securely fixed to the neck ring 11 of the compressed gas cylinder. The same legs 18, 19, 18 ', 19', 18 ", 19", 18 "', 19"' due to their elastic return to their original shape after elimination of the force exerted by the cap force that the broken identification ring. 2 disintegrates and / or expands and dissolves from the neck ring 11. Therefore, elastic plastics are particularly suitable as a starting material for the originality marking according to the invention.

Die erfindungsgemäße Originalitätskennzeichnung ermöglicht eine kostengünstige wie manipulationssichere Originalitätssicherung für alle gebräuchlichen Druckgasflaschen.The originality marking according to the invention allows a cost-effective as tamper-proof tamper-evident for all common gas cylinders.

Bezugszeichenliste:LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

11
Originalitätskennzeichnungoriginality labeling
22
Ringring
33
--
4a, 4b, 4c, 4d4a, 4b, 4c, 4d
Ringsegmentring segment
5a, 5b, 5c, 5d5a, 5b, 5c, 5d
Lückegap
66
Ringebenering plane
77
--
8, 8', 8", 8"',8""8, 8 ', 8 ", 8"', 8 ""
Profilelementprofile element
99
Kennzeichnungsfahnelabeling flag
1010
DruckgasflaschePressure cylinder
1111
Halsringcollar
1212
Außengewindeexternal thread
1313
Schutzkappeprotective cap
1414
Stirnflächeface
1515
Flanschrandflange
1616
--
17, 17', 17", 17"', 17""17, 17 ', 17 ", 17"', 17 ""
Anpressflächepressing surface
18, 18', 18", 18"', 18""18, 18 ', 18 ", 18"', 18 ""
Schenkelleg
19, 19', 19", 19"',19""19, 19 ', 19 ", 19"', 19 ""
Schenkelleg
2020
Einkerbungnotch
2121
Knickstellekink
2222
Verzahnungsprofiltoothed profile
2323
Ausnehmungrecess
2424
--
25a,25b25a, 25b
Federprofilspring profile
26a, 26b26a, 26b
Nutgroove
2727
Haltefadentether
2828
Verzahnungsprofiltoothed profile
2929
Ausnehmungrecess

Claims (11)

  1. Originality indicator for a compressed-gas cylinder on the neck ring of which a protective cap is to be fastened releasably, comprising an indication ring (2) which is intended to be installed between an end face (14) of the protective cap (13) and a shoulder (15) of the neck ring (11) of a compressed-gas cylinder (10), is formed from at least two segments (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) arranged annularly in a plane and is equipped with at least one predetermined breaking point, characterized in that mutually facing ends of adjacent segments (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) of the indication ring (2) are arranged spaced apart from one another with the formation of a gap (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d), which gap (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is bridged by a profiled element (8, 8', 8", 8"') which connects the two ends to one another and has the predetermined breaking point (20, 21) arranged therein, wherein the profiled element (8, 8', 8", 8"') has a pressing surface (17) projecting from the ring plane (6) and two legs (18, 19, 18', 19', 18", 19", 18"', 19"') in each case connecting the pressing surface (17) to one end of the two segments (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) and running at least in certain portions towards one another from the pressing surface (17) in the direction of the ring plane (6).
  2. Originality indicator according to Claim 1, characterized in that the indication ring (2) is produced in one piece, preferably by injection moulding.
  3. Originality indicator according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the predetermined breaking point (20, 21) comprises a weakening zone arranged in the pressing surface (17) or a leg (18, 19) of the profiled element (8, 8', 8", 8"').
  4. Originality indicator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the legs (18, 19, 18', 19', 18", 19", 18"', 19"') is configured as an elastic spring element which is elastically deformed upon application of a pressing force acting perpendicular to the ring plane (6), but after removal of the pressing force is at least partially restored into its original shape.
  5. Originality indicator according to Claim 4, characterized in that one of the two legs (18"') is configured in an elasticity-promoting shape, for example in the shape of an "S".
  6. Originality indicator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by fixing means (22, 23, 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) for releasably connecting the segments (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) to one another and/or to the profiled element (8, 8', 8", 8"').
  7. Originality indicator according to Claim 5, characterized in that the fixing means (22, 23, 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) are formed in such a way that, under the action of a pressing force applied substantially perpendicularly to the ring plane (6), they produce a fixed connection between the segments (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d), but release them from one another upon discontinuation of the pressing force under the action of a restoring force.
  8. Originality indicator according to Claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the fixing means (22, 23, 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) comprise a toothing profile (22, 25a, 25b) connected to the pressing surface (17) of the profiled element (8, 8', 8", 8"') or to a segment (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d), and a recess (23, 26a, 26b), corresponding to this toothing profile (22, 25a, 25b), in a segment (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) or in the pressing surface (17).
  9. Originality indicator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the indication ring (2) is equipped with at least one indication lug (9) projecting from the indication ring (2).
  10. Originality indicator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the segments (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) are arranged on an annular holding thread (27) of which the circumference is greater than the circumference of the ring neck (11) of the compressed-gas cylinder (10).
  11. Originality indicator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the predetermined breaking point (20, 21) comprises a material portion with a reduced cross section arranged in at least one leg (18"", 19"") of the profiled element (8"").
EP12707268.4A 2011-02-25 2012-02-24 Tamper-indicating element for a compressed-gas cylinder Active EP2678601B1 (en)

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SI201230304T SI2678601T1 (en) 2011-02-25 2012-02-24 Tamper-indicating element for a compressed-gas cylinder
PL12707268T PL2678601T3 (en) 2011-02-25 2012-02-24 Tamper-indicating element for a compressed-gas cylinder
HRP20150990TT HRP20150990T1 (en) 2011-02-25 2015-09-18 Tamper-indicating element for a compressed-gas cylinder

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DE102011012318A DE102011012318A1 (en) 2011-02-25 2011-02-25 Originality marking for a compressed gas cylinder
PCT/EP2012/053200 WO2012113928A1 (en) 2011-02-25 2012-02-24 Tamper-indicating element for a compressed-gas cylinder

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DE (1) DE102011012318A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2547578T3 (en)
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HU (1) HUE027640T2 (en)
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2396696A1 (en) * 1977-07-08 1979-02-02 Rovip Sa Safety stopper for liquefied gas bottle - fitted with outer loose ring to prevent accidental loosening
US5056675A (en) * 1991-01-18 1991-10-15 Sunbeam Plastics Corporation Tether web ratchet drive tamper indicating band closure
DE4317269C1 (en) * 1993-05-24 1994-08-11 Innocos Gmbh Tamper-indicating securing device for container closures
DE19611970A1 (en) 1995-12-06 1997-06-12 Sauerstoffwerk Lenzburg Ag Security seal for steel canister, with closure cap with flanged rim
US6685061B2 (en) * 2000-12-12 2004-02-03 Worthington Cylinder Corporation Tamper evident valve outlet cap
DE10062867A1 (en) 2000-12-16 2002-07-18 Messer Griesheim Gmbh Tamper-evident marking for a compressed gas bottle

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SI2678601T1 (en) 2015-11-30
ES2547578T3 (en) 2015-10-07
PL2678601T3 (en) 2015-12-31
WO2012113928A1 (en) 2012-08-30
EP2678601A1 (en) 2014-01-01
HRP20150990T1 (en) 2015-10-23
HUE027640T2 (en) 2016-11-28
DE102011012318A1 (en) 2012-08-30

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