EP4380873A1 - Method and apparatus for producing extractable closures - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for producing extractable closuresInfo
- Publication number
- EP4380873A1 EP4380873A1 EP22747131.5A EP22747131A EP4380873A1 EP 4380873 A1 EP4380873 A1 EP 4380873A1 EP 22747131 A EP22747131 A EP 22747131A EP 4380873 A1 EP4380873 A1 EP 4380873A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- shell
- score line
- sheet
- gripping element
- protuberances
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 13
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 claims description 30
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 19
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 19
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 238000005304 joining Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000010008 shearing Methods 0.000 claims 3
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 15
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 7
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 238000004080 punching Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000004035 construction material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002301 combined effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000748 compression moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003923 scrap metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D41/00—Caps, e.g. crown caps or crown seals, i.e. members having parts arranged for engagement with the external periphery of a neck or wall defining a pouring opening or discharge aperture; Protective cap-like covers for closure members, e.g. decorative covers of metal foil or paper
- B65D41/32—Caps or cap-like covers with lines of weakness, tearing-strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices, e.g. to facilitate formation of pouring openings
- B65D41/40—Caps or cap-like covers adapted to be secured in position by permanent deformation of the wall-engaging parts
- B65D41/42—Caps or cap-like covers adapted to be secured in position by permanent deformation of the wall-engaging parts made of relatively-stiff metallic material, e.g. crown caps
- B65D41/425—Caps or cap-like covers adapted to be secured in position by permanent deformation of the wall-engaging parts made of relatively-stiff metallic material, e.g. crown caps with integral internal sealing means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D51/00—Making hollow objects
- B21D51/16—Making hollow objects characterised by the use of the objects
- B21D51/38—Making inlet or outlet arrangements of cans, tins, baths, bottles, or other vessels; Making can ends; Making closures
- B21D51/44—Making closures, e.g. caps
- B21D51/443—Making closures, e.g. caps easily removable closures, e.g. by means of tear strips
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D51/00—Making hollow objects
- B21D51/16—Making hollow objects characterised by the use of the objects
- B21D51/38—Making inlet or outlet arrangements of cans, tins, baths, bottles, or other vessels; Making can ends; Making closures
- B21D51/44—Making closures, e.g. caps
- B21D51/46—Placing sealings or sealing material
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
- B29C70/68—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts by incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or layers, e.g. foam blocks
- B29C70/78—Moulding material on one side only of the preformed part
- B29C70/80—Moulding sealing material into closure members
Definitions
- the invention relates to a method and/or an apparatus for producing extractable closures, and an extractable closure usable, in particular, to close a mouth of a container, like for example a bottle.
- the invention relates to extractable closures, known also as ring-pull closures, or pull-off closures, generally made of a metallic material (for example aluminum) and provided with an element (for example a ring) that can be pulled by a user to detach the closure and open the container.
- ring-pull closures or pull-off closures
- an element for example a ring
- Patent publications US 2019/0263570 Al, JP 2008-174266 A, JP Hl 1115937 A, JP 4065690 B2, EP 3037361 Al and US 1,005,046 show embodiments of pull-off closures that are usable to close a container.
- One object of the invention is to provide a method and/or an apparatus for producing pull-off closures that can overcome one or more of the aforesaid limits and drawbacks of the prior art.
- One object of the invention is to provide a pull-off closure for containers that is alternative to the pull-off closures of the prior art.
- One advantage is to make available a ring-pull closure the opening of which is particularly easy and convenient and which at the same time ensures high sealing security of the closed container.
- One advantage is to make a simple and cheap manufacturing closure, in particular owing to a reduced use of construction material.
- a method for producing ring-pull closures provides for a sheet of metallic material being cut and drawn to obtain a plurality of shells each with a central closing wall and a peripheral skirt wall and in which each shell, after drawing, is scored to obtain at least one circumferentially extended score line that forms a preferential breakage line by tearing by pulling a gripping element applied to the shell.
- Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of an extractable closure for containers made in accordance with the present invention
- Figure 2 is a section of the closure of Figure 1;
- Figure 3 is a view from the left of Figure 1 ;
- Figure 4 is a section of the shell that is part of the closure of Figure 1 before the application of the gripping element to the shell;
- Figure 5 is a view from the right of Figure 4.
- Figure 6 shows a diagram of the step of scoring the circumferential scoring lines of the manufacturing method for manufacturing the closure of Figure 1;
- Figure 7 shows a diagram of the step of forming the protuberances on the tab portion of the shell by plastic deformation in a first embodiment
- Figure 8 shows a diagram of the step of forming the protuberances on the tab portion of the shell by plastic deformation in a second embodiment
- Figure 8 A shows an enlargement of Figure 8.
- Figure 9 shows a diagram of the step of forming the protuberances on the tab portion of the shell by plastic deformation in a third embodiment
- Figure 9 A shows an enlargement of Figure 9.
- 1 indicates overall an extractable closure, which is usable, in particular, to close a mouth of a container, like for example a bottle (made of glass, PET, aluminum, etc).
- the extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, a closure of the ring- pull, or pull-off type. At least one part of the extractable closure 1 may be made, in particular, of metallic material (for example aluminum).
- the extractable closure 1 is provided with a gripping element 2 (for example a pull tab or ring) that can be pulled by a user to detach the closure and open the container.
- the gripping element 2 may be made, in particular, of plastics (for example PE).
- the extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, a shell 3, or conch, comprising a closing wall 4.
- the shell 3 may be made, in particular, of metallic material (for example aluminum).
- the closing wall 4 may be, in particular, configured to close an upper mouth of the container.
- the shell 3 may comprise, in particular, a skirt wall 5.
- the skirt wall 5 may be, in particular, a cylindrical wall.
- the skirt wall 5 may, in particular, extend downwards from a periphery of the closing wall 4 and may be configured, in particular, for coupling (for example of known type) with a neck of the container.
- the shell 3 may comprise, in particular, a connecting portion 6.
- the closing wall 4 and the skirt wall 5 may be, in particular, joined by the connecting portion 6.
- the gripping element 2 may, in particular, extend from or be applied to the skirt wall 5 and may be, in particular, configured to be pulled (upwards) by a consumer so as to detach the shell 3 and open the container.
- the gripping element 2 may comprise, in particular, a pull ring.
- the gripping element 2 may comprise, in particular, an upper end portion attached to a lower edge of the skirt wall 5.
- the gripping element 2 may, in particular, extend downwards from a lower edge of the skirt wall 5.
- the extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, preferential detachment means arranged on the shell 3 to promote the detachment of the shell 3 when the gripping element 2 is pulled.
- the preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one circumferential score line 7 arranged on a surface of the connecting portion 6, in particular on a convex external surface of the connecting portion 6.
- the circumferential score line 7 may, in particular, extend in length for at least one sixth, or for at least one fifth, or for at least one fourth, of a rotation angle, so as to ensure the detachment of the shell 3 after breakage of the preferential detachment means (by pulling the gripping element 2).
- the gripping element 2 and the preferential detachment means are so configured that, by pulling the gripping element 2, the closing part that detaches and is lifted through the effect of the tear and the breakage of the preferential detachment means comprises at least one part of the closing wall 4 arranged above.
- the extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, sealing means 8 arranged on an inner side of the shell 3 (in particular below the closing wall 4) and configured to make a seal on the mouth of the container.
- the sealing means 8 may comprise, in particular, a seal applied and molded directly inside the shell 3 by compression moulding of plastics (for example PE, EVA, or other PVC-free materials).
- the circumferential score line 7 may be, in particular, arranged in a radially more peripheral position with respect to sealing means 8 such that the circumferential score line 7 is not superimposed on the sealing means 8.
- the sealing means 6 and/or in a radially more peripheral position with respect to the sealing means 8) enables tear opening to be facilitated and a high degree of hermetic seal of the container before opening to be maintained.
- the operation of tearing to detach the opening can be performed without interfering substantially with the sealing means 8 arranged inside the shell 3.
- the preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one further circumferential score line 9 arranged on the (outer and convex) surface of the connecting portion 6.
- the further circumferential score line 9 may be, in particular, spaced in a circumferential direction from the circumferential score line 7.
- the further circumferential score line 9 may be, in particular, arranged in a radially more peripheral position with respect to sealing means 8 such that the further circumferential score line 9 is not superimposed on the sealing means 8.
- the further circumferential score line 9 may, in particular, extend in length for at least one sixth, or for at least one fifth, or for at least one quarter, of a rotation angle, so as to ensure the detachment of the shell 3 after breakage of the preferential detachment means (pulling the gripping element 2).
- the further circumferential score line 9 and the circumferential score line 7 may be, in particular, arranged symmetrically to one another with reference to a vertical plane of symmetry passing through the gripping element 2.
- the connecting portion 7 may be, in particular, arranged on the connecting portion 6 (in particular on the outer and convex surface thereof) over the entire circumferential extent thereof or anyway over most of the circumferential extent thereof.
- the further circumferential score line 9 may be, in particular, arranged on the connecting portion 6 (in particular on the outer and convex surface thereof) over the entire circumferential extent thereof or anyway over most part of the circumferential extent thereof.
- the preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one vertical score and/or connecting line 10 arranged on an (outer) side of the shell 3.
- the vertical score and/or connecting line 10 may be, in particular, arranged on the skirt wall 5 ending near the gripping element 2.
- the vertical score and/or connecting line 10 may be arranged, in particular, to join the gripping element 2 to the circumferential score line 7.
- the preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one further vertical score and/or connecting line 11 arranged on an (outer) side of the shell 3, in particular to join the gripping element 2 to the further circumferential score line 9.
- a method is disclosed for producing extractable closures for containers, in particular for producing the extractable closure 1.
- the production method may comprise, in particular, the step of providing a sheet of metallic material (for example aluminum).
- the production method may comprise, in particular, the step of cutting the aforesaid sheet to obtain a plurality of sheet-like bodies.
- the production method may comprise, in particular, the step of drawing the aforesaid sheet-like bodies to obtain, from each of the bodies, a shell 3 with a central closing wall 4 and a peripheral skirt wall 5.
- the production method may comprise, in particular, the step of scoring the aforesaid shells 3, after the aforesaid step of drawing, to obtain, on each of the shells 3, at least one score line extending circumferentially.
- the aforesaid scoring step may be in particular so run that the circumferentially extended score line is arranged on a convex external side of the connecting portion of the shell 3 that joins the central closing wall to the peripheral skirt wall.
- the production method may comprise, in particular, the step of applying, to an inner side of the shell 3, the sealing means 8 intended to make a seal on a mouth of a container.
- the circumferentially extended score line may be, in particular, arranged in a position that is radially more peripheral than the aforesaid sealing means 8, such that the circumferentially extended score line is not superimposed on the aforesaid sealing means.
- the aforesaid steps of cutting and drawing may be run, in particular, in a press by a movement of cutting means along a cutting axis and a movement of drawing means along a drawing axis coinciding with the aforesaid cutting axis.
- This press could comprise, in particular, an inlet zone of the sheet to be processed, a pressing zone (cutting and drawing), a discharge zone for discharging the scrap metal sheet, a zone for collecting the shells.
- This press could comprise, in particular, a press of known type.
- the production method may comprise, in particular, the step of forming one or more protuberances 12 on one side of each of the aforesaid sheet-like bodies or of the aforesaid shells.
- protuberances 12 for each sheet-like body or shell.
- the formation of one or more protuberances 12 may be achieved, in particular, by plastic deformation without generating scrap, i.e. portions of material that detach integrally from the aforesaid sheet-like bodies or from the aforesaid shells and that then have to be removed.
- protuberances 12 may be made, in particular, by plastic deformation performed with punch means 13, 17 (drawing and/or punching and/or cutting means).
- the formation of one or more protuberances 12 on one side of the object may entail, in particular in the case of drawing, the simultaneous formation of one or more depressions on an opposite side of the object.
- the plastic deformation that is suitable for forming the protuberances 12 may be such as not to generate scores or through openings on the material as, for example, in the case of simple drawing, or may be such as to generate scores or through openings (without scrap) as, for example, in the case of punching with cutting.
- the formation of a protuberance 12 may comprise, in particular, also a step of cutting material with punch means 17 provided with an “open” cutting profile (i.e. not in the form of a closed ring) so that the deformed material remains attached without releasing scrap.
- the formation of a protuberance 12 may comprise, in particular, the formation of a side opening or slit and is achieved by punching that cuts the material, for example, only on one side, giving rise in particular to a protuberance in the shape of a half cone (a sort of nose) or the like.
- the punch means with blade may be configured, in particular, so as to deform the material to give rise to a protuberance and also so as to cut the material and thus generate with a relative opening, hole or score, in a similar manner, by way of example, to machining a metal sheet to form the teeth and holes of a grater, or the teeth and the holes of a slip-proof grilled metallic floor.
- punching with partial cutting by a non-closed cutting profile can further permit formation of a protuberance that defines an undercut, in particular owing to the formation of a score or opening or hole on the material.
- the undercut is defined by the inner surface of the protuberance that bounds the aforesaid score, opening or hole.
- the formation of one or more protuberances 12 may comprise, in particular, a plastic deformation performed with punch means 17 provided with at least one blade and configured to form a cut, with the formation of at least one protuberance 12 and, further, the formation of an opening or hole or through score, with plastic deformation without formation of scrap.
- the production method may comprise, in particular, the step of applying a gripping element 2 on each of the aforesaid sheet-like bodies or of the aforesaid shells by engaging the end of the gripping element 2 with each protuberance 12.
- This step of applying may comprise, in particular, the step of overmoulding the gripping element 2 (for example by injection or compression overmoulding of plastics) directly on the respective sheet-like body or shell 3.
- This step of applying may comprise, in particular, the step of joining, for example by interlocking and/or mechanical forcing of an end of the (previously formed) gripping element on the respective protuberance 12.
- the protuberance 12 may define, in particular, at least one opening hole or score in the material.
- the protuberance 12 may define, in particular, at least one undercut that can promote the subsequent operation of applying the gripping element 2, improving solid and tenacious gripping of the element.
- the aforesaid step of forming one or more protuberances 12 may be run, in particular, during the aforesaid step of drawing the sheet-like bodies, or after the aforesaid step of drawing the sheet-like bodies, or during the aforesaid scoring step of scoring the shells, or after the aforesaid scoring step of scoring the shells.
- Each protuberance 12 may be made, in particular, on a tab portion 14 of the shell, by punch means 13, 17 that may comprise, in particular, a small punch and a corresponding small die operating on the tab portion 14.
- Each protuberance 12 may protrude from an outer side of the tab portion 14 (as in the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5), or from an inner side of the tab portion 14 (as in the embodiments of Figures 7-9).
- each protuberance 12, that comprises at least one drawn portion of material without any through opening may be made by punch means for drawing (for example like the punch means 13 in Figure 7).
- each protuberance 12, that comprises at least one cut and deformed portion of material with a through opening may be made by punch means per punching and cutting (like for example the punch means 17 in Figure 8).
- the gripping element 2 may be, in particular, attached to the tab portion 14 of the shell 3.
- the tab portion 14 may be arranged, in particular, so as to protrude downwards from the skirt wall 5.
- An apparatus for producing extractable closures, in particular an apparatus that is usable for producing the extractable closure 1 and for actuating the production method disclosed above.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for supplying a sheet of metallic material (for example aluminum sheet).
- the aforesaid supplying means may comprise, in particular, supplying means of known type (for example, a roller, belt or mat or magnetic or yet other type of conveyor) and is not disclosed here in greater detail.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, cutting means for cutting the sheet supplied by the supplying means.
- the cutting means for cutting may be configured, in particular, to cut a plurality of sheet-like (for example disc- shaped) bodies.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for drawing the sheet-like bodies cut by the cutting means.
- the drawing means may be configured, in particular, to make, from each drawn sheet-like body, a shell 3 with a central closing wall 4 and a peripheral skirt wall 5.
- the central closing wall and the peripheral skirt wall may be joined together, in particular, by a connecting portion 6.
- the cutting and drawing means may comprise, in particular, a single action (cutting and drawing) mechanical press for moulding caps, in particular suitable for multitool moulds, in particular configured to use precut (aluminum) sheets, in particular of known type.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for applying, to an inner side of the shell 3, the sealing means 8 (gasket) intended to make a seal on a mouth of a container.
- the means for applying the sealing means 8 may comprise, in particular, a lining machine, for example of known type.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for scoring a side (in particular the outer side) of the shells 3 made by the aforesaid drawing means.
- the scoring means may be configured, in particular, to make, on each shell, at least one circumferential score line 7 and/or 9.
- the scoring means may be configured, in particular, such that the circumferential score line is arranged on the connecting portion 6, in particular on a convex surface of the connecting portion (on the outer side of the shell 3).
- the scoring means may comprise, in particular, at least one scoring tool 15 and at least one supporting counter- tool 16.
- the scoring tool 15 may be configured, in particular, to impose at least one circumferential score (in particular, a non-through score) on one side of the shell 3 (in particular, on the outer side of the shell).
- the supporting counter- tool 16 may be configured, in particular, to receive and support the shell 3.
- the scoring tool 15 and the supporting counter-tool 16 may be, in particular, movable in relation to one another to adopt at least one closed position, in which the scoring tool 15 imposes at least one circumferential score 7 or 9 on the outer side of the shell, and at least one open position, in which the shell 3 may be inserted into and/or removed from the supporting counter-tool 16.
- each scoring tool 15 it is possible for each scoring tool 15 to be movable upon command in an operating direction F in both directions to move towards or away from the shell 3.
- the scoring means may be configured, in particular, so as to form on one side (outer side) of the shell at least one circumferential score line 7 and/or 9 and/or at least one vertical score line and/or connecting line 10 and/or 11 that joins the circumferential score line/s 7 and/or 9 to the gripping element 2.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, applying means for applying a gripping element 2 to the skirt wall 5 of the shell 3.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, a processing line along which the aforesaid applying means and the aforesaid scoring means are arranged.
- the applying means may be arranged, in particular, downstream of the scoring means.
- the cutting means and the drawing means may be arranged, in particular, on the same press.
- the scoring means may be arranged, in particular, on a rotary machine.
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for forming one or more protuberances 12 on one side of each of the aforesaid sheet- like bodies or of the aforesaid shells 3, together with the formation of one or more corresponding depressions on an opposite side of the sheet-like body or shell 3.
- the forming means may be configured, in particular, for forming protuberances 12 and corresponding depressions by plastic deformation with punch means 13 or 17 (for example, by a punch and a drawing or punching/cutting die).
- the production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for engaging an end of the gripping element 2 with a respective protuberance 12.
- This engaging means may comprise, in particular, means for overmoulding the gripping element 2 on the respective sheet-like body or shell 3.
- This engaging means may comprise, in particular, means for joining by interlocking and/or forcing the end of the gripping element 2 on the respective protuberance 12.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Composite Materials (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
- Separation Using Semi-Permeable Membranes (AREA)
- Diaphragms For Electromechanical Transducers (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to a method for producing pull-off closures (1) of the ring-pull type to close containers, in which a sheet of metallic material is cut and drawn to obtain a plurality of shells (3) each with a central closing wall (4) and a peripheral skirt wall (5) and in which each shell (3), after drawing, is scored to obtain at least one circumferentially extended score line (7, 9) that forms a preferential breakage line that is broken by pulling a tear element applied to the shell (3). The invention further relates to an apparatus for producing pull-off closures and to a pull-off closure.
Description
Method and apparatus for producing extractable closures
Background of the invention
[0001] The invention relates to a method and/or an apparatus for producing extractable closures, and an extractable closure usable, in particular, to close a mouth of a container, like for example a bottle.
[0002] Specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to extractable closures, known also as ring-pull closures, or pull-off closures, generally made of a metallic material (for example aluminum) and provided with an element (for example a ring) that can be pulled by a user to detach the closure and open the container.
[0003] Patent publications US 2019/0263570 Al, JP 2008-174266 A, JP Hl 1115937 A, JP 4065690 B2, EP 3037361 Al and US 1,005,046 show embodiments of pull-off closures that are usable to close a container.
[0004] Certain aspects of the prior art are improvable.
[0005] Firstly, it is desirable to make the operation easier and more convenient with which a consumer pulls the gripping element to open the container, whilst guaranteeing a seal of the container with great security before opening.
[0006] Secondly, it is desirable to make a closure that, whilst ensuring the necessary hermetic seal, is simple and cheap to make, in particular owing to a reduced use of construction material.
Summary of the invention
[0007] One object of the invention is to provide a method and/or an apparatus for producing pull-off closures that can overcome one or more of the aforesaid limits and drawbacks of the prior art.
[0008] One object of the invention is to provide a pull-off closure for containers that is alternative to the pull-off closures of the prior art.
[0009] One advantage is to make available a ring-pull closure the opening of which is particularly easy and convenient and which at the same time ensures high sealing security of the closed container.
[0010] One advantage is to make a simple and cheap manufacturing closure, in particular owing to a reduced use of construction material.
[0011] In one embodiment, a method for producing ring-pull closures provides for a sheet of metallic material being cut and drawn to obtain a plurality of shells each with a
central closing wall and a peripheral skirt wall and in which each shell, after drawing, is scored to obtain at least one circumferentially extended score line that forms a preferential breakage line by tearing by pulling a gripping element applied to the shell.
[0012] The invention can be better understood and implemented with reference to the attached drawings that illustrate some non-limiting examples thereof, in which:
Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of an extractable closure for containers made in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a section of the closure of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a view from the left of Figure 1 ;
Figure 4 is a section of the shell that is part of the closure of Figure 1 before the application of the gripping element to the shell;
Figure 5 is a view from the right of Figure 4;
Figure 6 shows a diagram of the step of scoring the circumferential scoring lines of the manufacturing method for manufacturing the closure of Figure 1;
Figure 7 shows a diagram of the step of forming the protuberances on the tab portion of the shell by plastic deformation in a first embodiment;
Figure 8 shows a diagram of the step of forming the protuberances on the tab portion of the shell by plastic deformation in a second embodiment;
Figure 8 A shows an enlargement of Figure 8;
Figure 9 shows a diagram of the step of forming the protuberances on the tab portion of the shell by plastic deformation in a third embodiment;
Figure 9 A shows an enlargement of Figure 9.
Detailed description
[0013] With reference to the aforementioned figures, 1 indicates overall an extractable closure, which is usable, in particular, to close a mouth of a container, like for example a bottle (made of glass, PET, aluminum, etc).
[0014] The extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, a closure of the ring- pull, or pull-off type. At least one part of the extractable closure 1 may be made, in particular, of metallic material (for example aluminum). The extractable closure 1 is provided with a gripping element 2 (for example a pull tab or ring) that can be pulled by a user to detach the closure and open the container. The gripping element 2 may be made, in
particular, of plastics (for example PE).
[0015] The extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, a shell 3, or conch, comprising a closing wall 4. The shell 3 may be made, in particular, of metallic material (for example aluminum). The closing wall 4 may be, in particular, configured to close an upper mouth of the container. The shell 3 may comprise, in particular, a skirt wall 5. The skirt wall 5 may be, in particular, a cylindrical wall.
[0016] The skirt wall 5 may, in particular, extend downwards from a periphery of the closing wall 4 and may be configured, in particular, for coupling (for example of known type) with a neck of the container.
[0017] The shell 3 may comprise, in particular, a connecting portion 6. The closing wall 4 and the skirt wall 5 may be, in particular, joined by the connecting portion 6. The gripping element 2 may, in particular, extend from or be applied to the skirt wall 5 and may be, in particular, configured to be pulled (upwards) by a consumer so as to detach the shell 3 and open the container. The gripping element 2 may comprise, in particular, a pull ring. The gripping element 2 may comprise, in particular, an upper end portion attached to a lower edge of the skirt wall 5. The gripping element 2 may, in particular, extend downwards from a lower edge of the skirt wall 5.
[0018] The extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, preferential detachment means arranged on the shell 3 to promote the detachment of the shell 3 when the gripping element 2 is pulled. The preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one circumferential score line 7 arranged on a surface of the connecting portion 6, in particular on a convex external surface of the connecting portion 6. The circumferential score line 7 may, in particular, extend in length for at least one sixth, or for at least one fifth, or for at least one fourth, of a rotation angle, so as to ensure the detachment of the shell 3 after breakage of the preferential detachment means (by pulling the gripping element 2).
[0019] The gripping element 2 and the preferential detachment means are so configured that, by pulling the gripping element 2, the closing part that detaches and is lifted through the effect of the tear and the breakage of the preferential detachment means comprises at least one part of the closing wall 4 arranged above.
[0020] The extractable closure 1 may comprise, in particular, sealing means 8 arranged on an inner side of the shell 3 (in particular below the closing wall 4) and
configured to make a seal on the mouth of the container. The sealing means 8 may comprise, in particular, a seal applied and molded directly inside the shell 3 by compression moulding of plastics (for example PE, EVA, or other PVC-free materials).
[0021] The circumferential score line 7 may be, in particular, arranged in a radially more peripheral position with respect to sealing means 8 such that the circumferential score line 7 is not superimposed on the sealing means 8.
[0022] This arrangement of the circumferential score line 7 (on the connecting portion
6 and/or in a radially more peripheral position with respect to the sealing means 8) enables tear opening to be facilitated and a high degree of hermetic seal of the container before opening to be maintained. In particular, the operation of tearing to detach the opening can be performed without interfering substantially with the sealing means 8 arranged inside the shell 3.
[0023] The preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one further circumferential score line 9 arranged on the (outer and convex) surface of the connecting portion 6. The further circumferential score line 9 may be, in particular, spaced in a circumferential direction from the circumferential score line 7. The further circumferential score line 9 may be, in particular, arranged in a radially more peripheral position with respect to sealing means 8 such that the further circumferential score line 9 is not superimposed on the sealing means 8. The further circumferential score line 9 may, in particular, extend in length for at least one sixth, or for at least one fifth, or for at least one quarter, of a rotation angle, so as to ensure the detachment of the shell 3 after breakage of the preferential detachment means (pulling the gripping element 2).
[0024] The further circumferential score line 9 and the circumferential score line 7 may be, in particular, arranged symmetrically to one another with reference to a vertical plane of symmetry passing through the gripping element 2. The circumferential score line
7 may be, in particular, arranged on the connecting portion 6 (in particular on the outer and convex surface thereof) over the entire circumferential extent thereof or anyway over most of the circumferential extent thereof. The further circumferential score line 9 may be, in particular, arranged on the connecting portion 6 (in particular on the outer and convex surface thereof) over the entire circumferential extent thereof or anyway over most part of the circumferential extent thereof.
[0025] The preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one
vertical score and/or connecting line 10 arranged on an (outer) side of the shell 3. The vertical score and/or connecting line 10 may be, in particular, arranged on the skirt wall 5 ending near the gripping element 2. The vertical score and/or connecting line 10 may be arranged, in particular, to join the gripping element 2 to the circumferential score line 7. The preferential detachment means may comprise, in particular, at least one further vertical score and/or connecting line 11 arranged on an (outer) side of the shell 3, in particular to join the gripping element 2 to the further circumferential score line 9.
[0026] A method is disclosed for producing extractable closures for containers, in particular for producing the extractable closure 1.
[0027] The production method may comprise, in particular, the step of providing a sheet of metallic material (for example aluminum). The production method may comprise, in particular, the step of cutting the aforesaid sheet to obtain a plurality of sheet-like bodies. The production method may comprise, in particular, the step of drawing the aforesaid sheet-like bodies to obtain, from each of the bodies, a shell 3 with a central closing wall 4 and a peripheral skirt wall 5.
[0028] The production method may comprise, in particular, the step of scoring the aforesaid shells 3, after the aforesaid step of drawing, to obtain, on each of the shells 3, at least one score line extending circumferentially. The aforesaid scoring step may be in particular so run that the circumferentially extended score line is arranged on a convex external side of the connecting portion of the shell 3 that joins the central closing wall to the peripheral skirt wall.
[0029] The production method may comprise, in particular, the step of applying, to an inner side of the shell 3, the sealing means 8 intended to make a seal on a mouth of a container. The circumferentially extended score line may be, in particular, arranged in a position that is radially more peripheral than the aforesaid sealing means 8, such that the circumferentially extended score line is not superimposed on the aforesaid sealing means.
[0030] The aforesaid steps of cutting and drawing may be run, in particular, in a press by a movement of cutting means along a cutting axis and a movement of drawing means along a drawing axis coinciding with the aforesaid cutting axis. This press could comprise, in particular, an inlet zone of the sheet to be processed, a pressing zone (cutting and drawing), a discharge zone for discharging the scrap metal sheet, a zone for collecting the shells. This press could comprise, in particular, a press of known type.
[0031] The production method may comprise, in particular, the step of forming one or more protuberances 12 on one side of each of the aforesaid sheet-like bodies or of the aforesaid shells. It is in particular possible to form two protuberances 12 for each sheet-like body or shell. The formation of one or more protuberances 12 may be achieved, in particular, by plastic deformation without generating scrap, i.e. portions of material that detach integrally from the aforesaid sheet-like bodies or from the aforesaid shells and that then have to be removed.
[0032] The formation of one or more protuberances 12 may be made, in particular, by plastic deformation performed with punch means 13, 17 (drawing and/or punching and/or cutting means).
[0033] The formation of one or more protuberances 12 on one side of the object may entail, in particular in the case of drawing, the simultaneous formation of one or more depressions on an opposite side of the object.
[0034] The plastic deformation that is suitable for forming the protuberances 12 may be such as not to generate scores or through openings on the material as, for example, in the case of simple drawing, or may be such as to generate scores or through openings (without scrap) as, for example, in the case of punching with cutting.
[0035] The formation of a protuberance 12 may comprise, in particular, also a step of cutting material with punch means 17 provided with an “open” cutting profile (i.e. not in the form of a closed ring) so that the deformed material remains attached without releasing scrap.
[0036] The formation of a protuberance 12 may comprise, in particular, the formation of a side opening or slit and is achieved by punching that cuts the material, for example, only on one side, giving rise in particular to a protuberance in the shape of a half cone (a sort of nose) or the like.
[0037] The punch means with blade (combined effect of punching and cutting) may be configured, in particular, so as to deform the material to give rise to a protuberance and also so as to cut the material and thus generate with a relative opening, hole or score, in a similar manner, by way of example, to machining a metal sheet to form the teeth and holes of a grater, or the teeth and the holes of a slip-proof grilled metallic floor.
[0038] It is noted that punching with partial cutting by a non-closed cutting profile (without formation of scrap), can further permit formation of a protuberance that defines an
undercut, in particular owing to the formation of a score or opening or hole on the material. The undercut is defined by the inner surface of the protuberance that bounds the aforesaid score, opening or hole.
[0039] The formation of one or more protuberances 12 may comprise, in particular, a plastic deformation performed with punch means 17 provided with at least one blade and configured to form a cut, with the formation of at least one protuberance 12 and, further, the formation of an opening or hole or through score, with plastic deformation without formation of scrap.
[0040] The production method may comprise, in particular, the step of applying a gripping element 2 on each of the aforesaid sheet-like bodies or of the aforesaid shells by engaging the end of the gripping element 2 with each protuberance 12. This step of applying may comprise, in particular, the step of overmoulding the gripping element 2 (for example by injection or compression overmoulding of plastics) directly on the respective sheet-like body or shell 3. This step of applying may comprise, in particular, the step of joining, for example by interlocking and/or mechanical forcing of an end of the (previously formed) gripping element on the respective protuberance 12.
[0041] As said, the protuberance 12 may define, in particular, at least one opening hole or score in the material. The protuberance 12 may define, in particular, at least one undercut that can promote the subsequent operation of applying the gripping element 2, improving solid and tenacious gripping of the element.
[0042] The aforesaid step of forming one or more protuberances 12 (and one or more respective depressions) may be run, in particular, during the aforesaid step of drawing the sheet-like bodies, or after the aforesaid step of drawing the sheet-like bodies, or during the aforesaid scoring step of scoring the shells, or after the aforesaid scoring step of scoring the shells. Each protuberance 12 may be made, in particular, on a tab portion 14 of the shell, by punch means 13, 17 that may comprise, in particular, a small punch and a corresponding small die operating on the tab portion 14. Each protuberance 12 may protrude from an outer side of the tab portion 14 (as in the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5), or from an inner side of the tab portion 14 (as in the embodiments of Figures 7-9).
[0043] In particular, as in the embodiment of Figures 4-5, each protuberance 12, that comprises at least one drawn portion of material without any through opening, may be made by punch means for drawing (for example like the punch means 13 in Figure 7). In
the embodiments of Figures 8-9 each protuberance 12, that comprises at least one cut and deformed portion of material with a through opening, may be made by punch means per punching and cutting (like for example the punch means 17 in Figure 8).
[0044] The gripping element 2 may be, in particular, attached to the tab portion 14 of the shell 3. The tab portion 14 may be arranged, in particular, so as to protrude downwards from the skirt wall 5.
[0045] An apparatus is disclosed for producing extractable closures, in particular an apparatus that is usable for producing the extractable closure 1 and for actuating the production method disclosed above.
[0046] The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for supplying a sheet of metallic material (for example aluminum sheet). The aforesaid supplying means may comprise, in particular, supplying means of known type (for example, a roller, belt or mat or magnetic or yet other type of conveyor) and is not disclosed here in greater detail.
[0047] The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, cutting means for cutting the sheet supplied by the supplying means. The cutting means for cutting may be configured, in particular, to cut a plurality of sheet-like (for example disc- shaped) bodies. The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for drawing the sheet-like bodies cut by the cutting means. The drawing means may be configured, in particular, to make, from each drawn sheet-like body, a shell 3 with a central closing wall 4 and a peripheral skirt wall 5. The central closing wall and the peripheral skirt wall may be joined together, in particular, by a connecting portion 6.
[0048] The cutting and drawing means may comprise, in particular, a single action (cutting and drawing) mechanical press for moulding caps, in particular suitable for multitool moulds, in particular configured to use precut (aluminum) sheets, in particular of known type.
[0049] The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for applying, to an inner side of the shell 3, the sealing means 8 (gasket) intended to make a seal on a mouth of a container. The means for applying the sealing means 8 may comprise, in particular, a lining machine, for example of known type.
[0050] The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for scoring a side (in particular the outer side) of the shells 3 made by the aforesaid drawing means. The scoring means may be configured, in particular, to make, on each shell, at least one
circumferential score line 7 and/or 9. The scoring means may be configured, in particular, such that the circumferential score line is arranged on the connecting portion 6, in particular on a convex surface of the connecting portion (on the outer side of the shell 3).
[0051] The scoring means (see diagram of Figure 6) may comprise, in particular, at least one scoring tool 15 and at least one supporting counter- tool 16. The scoring tool 15 may be configured, in particular, to impose at least one circumferential score (in particular, a non-through score) on one side of the shell 3 (in particular, on the outer side of the shell). The supporting counter- tool 16 may be configured, in particular, to receive and support the shell 3. The scoring tool 15 and the supporting counter-tool 16 may be, in particular, movable in relation to one another to adopt at least one closed position, in which the scoring tool 15 imposes at least one circumferential score 7 or 9 on the outer side of the shell, and at least one open position, in which the shell 3 may be inserted into and/or removed from the supporting counter-tool 16. In particular, it is possible for each scoring tool 15 to be movable upon command in an operating direction F in both directions to move towards or away from the shell 3.
[0052] The scoring means may be configured, in particular, so as to form on one side (outer side) of the shell at least one circumferential score line 7 and/or 9 and/or at least one vertical score line and/or connecting line 10 and/or 11 that joins the circumferential score line/s 7 and/or 9 to the gripping element 2.
[0053] The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, applying means for applying a gripping element 2 to the skirt wall 5 of the shell 3. The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, a processing line along which the aforesaid applying means and the aforesaid scoring means are arranged. The applying means may be arranged, in particular, downstream of the scoring means.
[0054] The cutting means and the drawing means may be arranged, in particular, on the same press. The scoring means may be arranged, in particular, on a rotary machine.
[0055] The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for forming one or more protuberances 12 on one side of each of the aforesaid sheet- like bodies or of the aforesaid shells 3, together with the formation of one or more corresponding depressions on an opposite side of the sheet-like body or shell 3. The forming means may be configured, in particular, for forming protuberances 12 and corresponding depressions by plastic deformation with punch means 13 or 17 (for example, by a punch and a drawing or
punching/cutting die).
[0056] The production apparatus may comprise, in particular, means for engaging an end of the gripping element 2 with a respective protuberance 12. This engaging means may comprise, in particular, means for overmoulding the gripping element 2 on the respective sheet-like body or shell 3. This engaging means may comprise, in particular, means for joining by interlocking and/or forcing the end of the gripping element 2 on the respective protuberance 12.
Claims
CLAIMS Method for producing pull-off closures (1) for containers, said method comprising the steps of: providing a sheet of metallic material; cutting said sheet to obtain a plurality of sheet-like bodies; drawing said sheet-like bodies to obtain from each of them a shell (3) with a central closing wall (4) and a peripheral skirt wall (5); engraving said shells (3) to obtain on each of them at least one circumferentially extended score line (7; 9); characterized in that said engraving step is performed after said drawing step. Method according to claim 1, wherein said at least one circumferentially extended score line (7 ; 9) is arranged on a convex outer side of a connecting portion (6) of the shell which joins said central closing wall (4) with said peripheral skirt wall (5). Method according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the step of applying, on an inner side of said shell (3), sealing means (8) intended to seal a mouth of a container, said at least one circumferentially extended score line (7; 9) being arranged in a radially more peripheral position with respect to said sealing means (8) so that said at least one circumferentially extended score line is not superimposed on said sealing means. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of forming one or more protuberances (12) on at least one side of each of said sheet-like bodies or of said shells (3), in particular by means of plastic deformation with punch means (13; 17), and the step of applying a gripping element (2) on each of said sheet-like bodies or of said shells (3) by engaging one end of said gripping element (2) to each of said one or more protuberances (12), said step of applying comprising, in particular, overmoulding said gripping element (2) on the respective sheet-like body or shell or joining by interlocking and/or forcing said one end to the respective protuberance; said step of forming one or more protuberances (12) being carried out, in particular, during said step of drawing said sheet-like bodies, or after said step of drawing said sheet-like bodies, or during said step of engraving said shells, or after said step of engraving said shells. Method according to claim 4, wherein said step of forming one or more protuberances (12) comprises a plastic deformation of material by punch means (13;
17) without generating scrap. Method according to claim 5, wherein said step of forming one or more protuberances (12) comprises a shearing of material together with said plastic deformation so as to generate, for each of said one or more protuberances (12), at least one through opening at least partly delimited by the respective protuberance
(12), in particular by means of a punch (17) with cutting edge to perform said shearing and plastic deformation together. Method according to claim 5, wherein said forming step comprises a drawing of material for forming said one or more protuberances (12) on one side and one or more corresponding depressions on an opposite side, in particular by punch means
(13) to perform said drawing. Apparatus for producing pull-off closures, in particular an apparatus usable for carrying out a method according to any one of the preceding claims, said apparatus comprising: means for feeding a sheet of metallic material; means for cutting a sheet fed by said means for feeding and configured for cutting a plurality of sheet- like bodies; means for drawing the sheet-like bodies cut from said means for cutting and configured to form from each sheet-like body a shell (3) with a central closing wall (4) and a peripheral skirt wall (5) joined by a connecting portion (6); means for engraving an outer side of the shells (3) made by said means for drawing and configured to make on each shell at least one circumferential score line (7; 9); means for applying a gripping element (2) to said shell (3). Apparatus according to claim 8, wherein said means for engraving is configured so that said at least one circumferential score line (7; 9) is arranged on said connecting portion (6), in particular on a convex surface of said connecting portion. Apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein said means for engraving comprises at least one engraving tool (15) and at least one supporting counter-tool (16), said at least one engraving tool being configured to imprint at least one score (7; 9; 10; 11) on the outer side of the shell (3), said at least one supporting counter-tool (16) being configured to receive and support the shell (3), said at least one engraving tool and at
least one supporting counter-tool being movable relative to each other to assume at least one closed position, wherein said at least one engraving tool (15) impresses at least one score (7; 9; 10; 11 ) on the outer side of the shell, and at least one open position, wherein the shell (3) can be inserted or removed in said at least one supporting counter- tool (16).
11. Apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein said means for engraving is configured so as to form on the outer side of the shell at least one circumferential score line, at least one vertical and/or connecting score line (10; 11) which joins said at least one circumferential score line (7; 9) with said gripping element (2).
12. Apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 11, comprising a processing line along which said means for applying and said means for engraving are arranged; said means for applying being arranged, in particular, downstream of said means for engraving; said means for cutting and said means for drawing being arranged, in particular, on the same press; said means for engraving being arranged, in particular, on a rotary machine.
13. Apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 12, comprising means for forming, in particular by plastic deformation with punch means (13), one or more protuberances (12) on one side of each of said sheet- like bodies or of said shells (3), and means for engaging one end of a gripping element (2) to a respective one of said one or more protuberances (12); said means for engaging including, in particular, means for overmoulding said gripping element (2) on the respective sheet-like body or shell (3); said means for engaging including, in particular, means for joining by interlocking and/or mechanical forcing said end of the gripping element (2) to the respective protuberance (12).
14. Apparatus according to claim 13, wherein said means for forming one or more protuberances (12) comprises punch means (13; 17) configured to perform a plastic deformation of material without generating scrap; said punch means comprising, in particular, punch means (17) with cutting edge for carrying out a shearing of material together with said plastic deformation so as to generate, for each of said one or more protuberances (12), at least one through opening at least partially delimited by the respective protuberance (12); said punch means comprising, in particular, punch means (13) to perform a drawing of material to form said one or more protuberances
(12) on one side and one or more corresponding depressions on an opposite side.
15. Pull-off closure, comprising: a shell (3) comprising a closing wall (4), a skirt wall (5) and a connecting portion (6), said closing wall (4) being configured to close an upper mouth of a container, said skirt wall (5) being extended downwards from a periphery of said closing wall (4) and being configured for coupling with a neck of the container, said closing wall (4) and said skirt wall (5) being joined one to the other by said connecting portion (6); a gripping element (2) extending from said skirt wall (5) and configured to be pulled so as to detach the shell (3) and open the container; preferential detachment means arranged on said shell (3) to facilitate the detachment of the shell when the gripping element (2) is pulled, said preferential detachment means comprising at least one circumferential score line (7; 9) arranged on a convex outer surface of said connecting portion (6).
16. Closure according to claim 15, comprising one or more protuberances (12) on at least one side of each of said sheet-like bodies or of said shells (3), one end of said gripping element (2) being engaged to each of said one or more protuberances (12) by overmoulding said gripping element (2) on the respective sheet-like body or shell or by interlocking and/or forcing said one end to the respective protuberance.
17. Closure according to claim 15 or 16, wherein said at least one circumferential score line (7 ; 9) is extended in length for at least one sixth, or at least one fifth, or at least one quarter, of a round angle.
18. Closure according to any one of claims 15 to 17, comprising sealing means (8) arranged on an inner side of the shell (3) and configured to form a seal on the mouth of the container, said at least one circumferential score line (7; 9) being arranged in a radially outermost position with respect to said sealing means (8) so that said at least one circumferential score line (7; 9) is not superimposed on said sealing means (8).
19. Closure according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein said preferential detachment means comprises at least one further circumferential score line (7; 9) arranged on said convex outer surface of said connecting portion (6); said at least one further circumferential score line (9) being, in particular, spaced in a circumferential direction from said at least one circumferential score line (7); said at least one further
circumferential score line being, in particular, extended in length for at least one sixth, or at least one fifth, or at least one quarter, of a round angle.
20. Closure according to claims 19 and 18, wherein said at least one further circumferential score line (9) is arranged in a radially outermost position with respect to said sealing means (8) so that said at least one further circumferential score line is not superimposed on said sealing means.
21. Closure according to claim 19 or 20, wherein said at least one further score line and said at least one score line are arranged symmetrically with respect to each other with reference to a vertical symmetry plane passing through said gripping element (2). 22. Closure according to any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein said preferential detachment means comprises at least one vertical and/or connecting score line (10; 11) arranged on an outer side of said shell (3), said at least one vertical and/or connecting score line (10; 11) being arranged on said skirt wall (5) and ending in proximity to said gripping element (2) so as to join said gripping element (2) with said at least one circumferential score line (7; 9).
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
IT102021000020825A IT202100020825A1 (en) | 2021-08-02 | 2021-08-02 | Method and apparatus for the production of removable closures |
PCT/IB2022/056618 WO2023012557A1 (en) | 2021-08-02 | 2022-07-19 | Method and apparatus for producing extractable closures |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4380873A1 true EP4380873A1 (en) | 2024-06-12 |
Family
ID=78463735
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22747131.5A Pending EP4380873A1 (en) | 2021-08-02 | 2022-07-19 | Method and apparatus for producing extractable closures |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4380873A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN117580771A (en) |
IT (1) | IT202100020825A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2024001611A (en) |
TW (1) | TW202311126A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2023012557A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1005046A (en) | 1911-05-17 | 1911-10-03 | Casper W Leinen | Window-fastener. |
FR1396006A (en) * | 1964-04-22 | 1965-04-16 | American Flange & Mfg | Improvements to light metal stopper caps and their manufacturing process |
US4003488A (en) * | 1975-05-29 | 1977-01-18 | American Flange & Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Tear open bottle cap |
IE44386B1 (en) * | 1976-03-15 | 1981-11-04 | American Flange & Mfg | Tear-open bottle cap |
IT1180698B (en) * | 1984-04-12 | 1987-09-23 | Italcaps Spa | CAPSULE FOR BOTTLES |
JPH1115937A (en) | 1997-06-26 | 1999-01-22 | Hitachi Ltd | Series checking method |
JP4065690B2 (en) | 2001-12-28 | 2008-03-26 | 日本クラウンコルク株式会社 | Easy-open container lid |
JP5038730B2 (en) | 2007-01-18 | 2012-10-03 | 日本クラウンコルク株式会社 | Easy-open container lid |
JP6356951B2 (en) | 2013-08-22 | 2018-07-11 | 日本クロージャー株式会社 | Easy-open container lid |
IT201600109454A1 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2018-04-28 | Pelliconi & C Spa | CLOSURE CLOSURE FOR CONTAINERS. |
-
2021
- 2021-08-02 IT IT102021000020825A patent/IT202100020825A1/en unknown
-
2022
- 2022-07-19 CN CN202280043675.7A patent/CN117580771A/en active Pending
- 2022-07-19 EP EP22747131.5A patent/EP4380873A1/en active Pending
- 2022-07-19 MX MX2024001611A patent/MX2024001611A/en unknown
- 2022-07-19 WO PCT/IB2022/056618 patent/WO2023012557A1/en active Application Filing
- 2022-07-21 TW TW111127370A patent/TW202311126A/en unknown
Also Published As
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CN117580771A (en) | 2024-02-20 |
TW202311126A (en) | 2023-03-16 |
MX2024001611A (en) | 2024-02-27 |
IT202100020825A1 (en) | 2023-02-02 |
WO2023012557A1 (en) | 2023-02-09 |
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