CN1767984A - Capsules with pierceable caps, stoppers with such capsules containing substances added to the contents of sealed containers, and corresponding containers - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a capsule (1) mounted in a stopper of a container for dispensing liquids in general, and to a corresponding stopper and container. The sealed capsule (1) substantially comprises a deformable membrane (2) sealed at its base by a pierceable cap (3) so as to define a volume containing at least one substance, and at least one intermediate element (6), said intermediate element (6) having integral rupturing means (4) for said cap (3), said rupturing means (4) rupturing the cap (3) to release an effective amount of the substance (S) when said deformable membrane (2) is sufficiently deformed, said intermediate element (6) being mounted embedded in the form of a peripheral ring (7), an arched element (15) being positioned on the peripheral ring (7) so that a free end (16) of said arched element is embedded in the form of at least one projecting or pointed element (12) directed towards the cap (3) to effect said rupturing.

Description

Capsules with pierceable caps, stoppers with such capsules containing substances added to the contents of sealed containers, and corresponding containers

technical field

The invention relates to a capsule mounted on a stopper for containers having a neck or collar for dispensing a liquid or paste, in particular a mineral water bottle, and a corresponding stopper and container.

More precisely, said stopper with the capsule of the invention contains, in the form of an isolated chamber of the container thus sealed, a substance or a special mixture to be mixed with the content of said container just before its use or consumption.

The stopper of the present invention can be used in particular to seal bottles made of synthetic material commonly known as plastic (such as PET), which are used to contain all kinds of more or less fluid food or non-food liquids Examples include mineral water, fruit juices, milky drinks, etc., but also sauces or condiments (ketchup, mustard, chutney, etc.) or non-food liquids (washing products, cleaning agents, etc.).

Background technique

In a separate field, it is already known that for the preparation of energy-releasing drinks or feeding bottles, a suitable number of stoppers has cavities sealing the substance, especially food, added to the container, which usually includes a drink such as water or milk.

However, all current stoppers have more or less disadvantageous drawbacks.

These known stoppers of the first type have a capsule or reservoir sealed by a membrane or a separating tongue and fixed on the lower part of said stopper assembled with the container. In order to add the substance contained in the reservoir to the container, the stopper must be unscrewed, the membrane or tab sealing the reservoir is pulled down to create an opening for the passage of the substance, the stopper is turned over to remove the The substance is poured into the container, and finally, the stopper is re-tightened on the container, making it possible to shake the container and thereby mix the substance with the contents of the container. Thus, the use of this type of stopper requires a number of laborious processes, some of which, such as turning over the stopper to release the substance into the container, require some skill to avoid pouring the substance out of the container.

Another type of stopper has a capsule or reservoir upon which the solid substance in tablet form is released by the user's finger applying pressure. However, there is a problem with this type of stopper seal, since the contents of the container can accidentally come into contact with the contents of the seal in the capsule, so the stopper will be eliminated. These problems in this type of stopper are solved by providing a sealing cap which is fixed on the neck of the container. In a first variant embodiment of this stopper, to release the substance, the user first unscrews the stopper by threading, removes the sealing cap, then places the stopper back on the container and releases the tablet inside the capsule by pressing . In a second variant, the user can remove the closure while the stopper is secured to the container. In both cases, a number of laborious processes must also be passed in order to release the substance. Moreover, another drawback present in this case is that the cap of the capsule enabling the release of the substance will only be effective if the substance is a tablet or a rigid lozenge.

In order to limit the number of manipulations required to release the substance, a stopper has been devised in which the substance in the form of a tablet or rigid lozenge is contained between an upper deformable membrane, on which pressure is applied, and a lower cap To release the substance, the lower cap acts as a sealing member. When the user applies pressure to the upper film, the lower cap is torn open by the tablet.

Now, the stiffness of the cap is a critical parameter as it must be both small enough to be able to release the substance easily (preferably whatever the state of the substance is), yet high enough to allow the cap to The container resists the pressure exerted on it by the substance in the container when it is pressed during administration. In fact, when the cap is too fragile, it will break during administration and the contents will accidentally mix with the contents of the container.

When the cap is rather rigid, the pressure exerted by the user or consumer on the cap to release the substance must also be very high, which is disadvantageous for some. Ideally, the pressure transmitted through the substance to the cap is equivalent regardless of the form and structure of the substance. However, when the substance is used, for example in powder form, the force exerted on the elastic membrane when transmitted to the cap is reduced, which is not sufficient to tear the membrane to release the substance.

The main disadvantage of this type of stopper is therefore that it is limited to substances in the form of tablets or rigid lozenges, which are the only substances capable of substantially transmitting the force exerted by the fingers to the cap. Therefore, such stoppers cannot be used where the substance is in liquid or powder form. In addition, the rupture of the cap is also related to the form of matter, so that no regeneration of the breach is possible.

Contents of the invention

It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least some of the said disadvantages of known capsules and stoppers with capsules and to provide a capsule and a stopper which reduce the risk of accidentally breaking the cap which would have to be added to the container. The substance is isolated from the container, and the capsule and stopper enable a clean and reproducible rupture of the cap by the user, independent of any possible state or physical configuration of the substance.

In fact, the ideal situation is to be able to break the sealing cap regardless of the form of the substance added to the container, especially in the case of incompletely filled capsules, when the substance contained in the capsule cannot always deliver enough. The mechanical force exerted by the user to break the sealing cap.

This is especially the case for very fluid liquids, highly deformable or highly compressed solids such as fine powders, very brittle granules, and the like.

Furthermore, the present invention can be used with a plug that requires little force and manipulation by the user with one hand, and the opening preferably does not lead to the formation of separate parts.

Accordingly, the present invention relates to a sealed capsule consisting essentially of a deformable membrane sealed at its base by a pierceable cap, defining between said deformable membrane and said cap a space for accommodating at least one A sealed volume of substance, characterized in that said capsule has at least one integral rupturing means for said cap, said rupturing occurs after an external mechanical force has been exerted on said deformable membrane sufficiently deforming it The device is capable of tearing the cap, thereby releasing an effective amount of the substance.

The invention also relates to a stopper for containers, especially mineral water bottles, having a neck or a collar for dispensing liquids or pastes, characterized in that said stopper essentially consists of a The inventive capsule closes the base plate of the container on which the capsule is applied in a hermetic manner, the deformable membrane of the capsule itself being covered by a rigid protective cover placed at an increased On the annular base on said base plate, the lower base of said capsule is formed by a pierceable cap, whereby an effective sealed volume filled by at least one substance added to the content of the container before consumption is defined in Between the deformable membrane of the capsule and the cap, an effective amount of substance is released into the contents of the container when the deformable membrane is deformed sufficiently to rupture the cap.

The invention also relates to a container with a neck or a collar for dispensing liquids or pastes, especially mineral water, characterized in that said container comprises a capsule according to the invention.

Description of drawings

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be clearly understood from the following description, given examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic sectional side view of a first embodiment of the capsule of the present invention before use;

Figure 2 is a schematic bottom view of the capsule shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a second embodiment of the capsule of the present invention before use;

Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule shown in Fig. 3 along line A-A;

Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a third embodiment of the capsule of the present invention;

Fig. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule shown in Fig. 5 along line A-A;

Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line B-B of the capsule shown in Fig. 6 in use;

Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the capsule of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the capsule of the present invention prior to use;

Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sixth embodiment of the capsule of the present invention prior to use;

Fig. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule shown in Fig. 10 along line A-A;

Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule shown in Figures 10 and 11 along line B-B;

Fig. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line B-B of the capsule shown in Fig. 10 in use;

Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a seventh embodiment of a capsule of the present invention prior to use;

Fig. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule shown in Fig. 14 along line A-A;

Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule shown in Figures 14 and 15 along line B-B;

Fig. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule shown in Fig. 14 in use;

Figure 18 is a sectional side view of the stopper of the present invention in a sealed state before use with the capsule of the first embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 19 is a schematic view of the assembly of the stopper shown in Figure 18 on the container after opening the protective cap and breaking the cap of the capsule;

Fig. 20 is a sectional side view of the plug of the present invention in a sealed state fitted with the capsule of the third embodiment shown in Figs. 5-7;

Figure 21 is a schematic illustration of the assembly of the stopper shown in Figure 18 on the container after opening the protective cap and breaking the cap of the capsule;

Figure 22 is an exploded cross-sectional side view of a plug of the present invention in a sealed state prior to installation with a capsule of an eighth embodiment;

Figure 23 is a schematic partial cross-sectional side view of a stopper of the present invention in a sealed state before assembly with a protective cap produced according to a different embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 24 is a schematic diagram of the structure shown in Fig. 23 after assembly;

Figure 25 is a perspective view of the protective cover shown in Figures 23 and 24;

Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view of a specific embodiment of the piercing part of the plug of the present invention;

Fig. 27 is a sectional view of the parts shown in Fig. 26 along line A-A;

Figure 28 is a top view of the components shown in Figure 26; and

Fig. 29 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the central portion shown in Fig. 26 .

Detailed ways

Reference is first made to Figure 1 which shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a first embodiment of the capsule of the present invention. In the embodiment described and shown, a sealed capsule 1 consisting essentially of a deformable membrane 2 is sealed at its bottom by a pierceable cap 3 so as to delimit between said deformable membrane 2 and said cap 3 Out of a sealed volume V for containing at least one substance S, said sealed capsule 1 is characterized in that it has at least one integral rupture device 4 for said pierceable cap 3, which can be torn open for external mechanical action An effective amount of substance S is released when a force is applied to said deformable membrane 2 to cause sufficient deformation.

The fact that the rupture means 4 are incorporated in said capsule 1 enables the one-piece capsule 1 to be easily manufactured and fitted in the chosen stopper for sealing the desired container, so that no other external parts need to be provided to rupture the cap 3 .

According to a first particularly simple and economical embodiment, the capsule 1 of the invention is characterized in that the rupture means 4 are made in the form of pre-cuts 5 formed on the cap 3, that is to say at least one optimal breaking point or line.

Advantageously, the pre-cuts 5 are made in the form of an optimal set of rupture lines arranged in a star shape, preferably in the center of said cap 3 .

This ensures that the capsule can be opened by tearing off the cap 3 and that the cap 3 is as simple and reproducible as possible.

Another embodiment of the pre-cut 5 in the form of a cross has been shown in FIG. 2 , but other shapes are also suitable.

Such pre-cuts 5 can be produced by any commonly used process known per se, in particular laser cutting, punching or the like.

Preferably, the deformable membrane 2 is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material, PVC being an elastic material which can be deformed sufficiently by the user, e.g. Release into the contents of container R. The deformable membrane 2 itself may take any form, although a spherical shape such as a bell is preferred, and a flat highest point such as a disk or oval bell is more preferred.

According to another feature not shown, the deformable membrane 2 can house at least one preferentially deformable means made in the form of a preferentially deformable point, line or surface, for example in a manner substantially located on one side of said deformable membrane 2 . Form of a recessed or grooved portion of semi-cylindrical section on the side. This device causes the formed point, line or surface to cause and facilitate the deformation of the remaining part of the deformable membrane 2 to achieve the required purpose, that is to say this device produces a sufficiently significant deformation of the deformable membrane 2. The concentrated force can tear or rupture the cap 3 sufficiently to allow the passage of the substance S contained in the sealed volume V for addition to the contents of the container containing the capsule 1 according to the invention.

In the above-mentioned preferred embodiment, the user's thumb or finger preferentially presses the position where the best deforming device (which is located at a position easily accessible by the user, such as an area close to the highest point) on the deformable film 2, causes the deformable Membrane 2 undergoes a relatively easier deformation which spreads to the rest of the more rigid surfaces and causes them also to undergo a deformation movement which quickly becomes large enough to distort the contents of the pierceable cap 3. Form effective channel openings.

If the deformable membrane 2 is made of a flexible or elastic material such as natural rubber, the membrane can return to its original form when the pressure exerted by the user's fingers ceases, thus maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the stopper.

Of course, other deformable materials fulfilling the same function are also suitable, although the PVC material is preferred, especially because of its physical and chemical properties for the above-mentioned applications.

It goes without saying that the materials used to make the capsule 1 and the stopper, and more specifically the materials used to make the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3, must be physically and chemically compatible with the liquid in the container R thus sealed, respectively. or the properties of the paste content and the properties of the substance S contained within the sealed volume V defined by said deformable membrane 2 and said cap 3 are compatible. Moreover, if the container R sealed by the stopper of the present invention is designed to contain edible liquids or pastes, it should also be ensured that the above-mentioned materials meet the requirements of food quality, and that the marketed stopper products really comply with the hygienic standards implemented. regulations.

Thus, a single operation is sufficient to transfer the substance S into the container R after opening the protective cover 19 (compare eg FIGS. 18 and 19 ).

Opening the protective cap 19 can also be done with only one hand, for example by grasping the container R in the palm and unscrewing the protective cap 19 with a thumb motion of the same hand. Figure 19 shows a stopper fitted with a capsule of the type shown in Figure 1, when the protective cap 19 has been opened, the deformable membrane 2 is pressed in sufficiently so that the cap 3 is torn open, and the substance S flows into the capsule. Inside container R.

To close the protective cover, it is placed back onto the base 20 with the index finger until it "clicks" closed.

The structure of the base 20 and the opening and closing means 33, 34 will be described below.

According to another feature, the capsule 1 of the invention is characterized in that it comprises at least one intermediate part 6 located between said deformable membrane 2 and said cap 3, said intermediate part 6 having at least one portion of said deformable membrane 2 A rupturing device 4 which is triggered when a sufficient deformation occurs on said deformable membrane 2 .

The capsule 1 of the invention manufactured according to the second embodiment, as shown for example in FIGS. 3 and 4 , is characterized in that said at least one intermediate part 6 is made in the form of a ring 7 arranged between the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3 , the deformable membrane 2 is generally preferably bell-shaped, more preferably the highest point of the deformable membrane 2 is flat, the cap 3 seals the volume V, the ring 7 has at least one surface portion 8 defined on the ring 7 As rupture means 4, such that it forms a hinged flap relative to said ring 7, said flap is adapted to be turned towards it to rupture cap 3 when said deformable membrane 2 is sufficiently deformed.

According to a third embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-7 , the capsule 1 of the invention is characterized in that said at least one intermediate part 6 is made in the form of a ring 7 arranged between the deformable membrane 2 and the cap 3 , capable of The deformable membrane 2 is preferably generally bell-shaped, more preferably the highest point of the deformable membrane 2 is flat, the cap 3 seals said volume V, said ring 7 has several surface portions 8, 8' as rupture means 4, Said surface portions 8, 8' are preferably interconnected by at least one rupture bridge 10 and defined on said ring 7, so that for each surface portion 8, 8' a hinged flap is formed with respect to the ring 7, when the When the deformable membrane 2 is sufficiently deformed, each flap is adapted to rotate towards the cap 3 after rupture of the rupture bridge 10 connecting them.

As shown in Figures 10, 11, 14, 14, 22, 23 and 24, the end of the rupture device 4 opposite to the hinge 9 of the rotating flap formed on the middle part 6 or the tie of said rupture device 4 is equipped with An elongated strip or bridge 10', which acts as a rupture bridge immobilizing the device 4 when the stopper cannot be effectively utilized. Bridge 10' also requires the user to apply considerable pressure or force on arched member 15 sufficient to rupture said bridge 10' if cap 3 is to be torn apart, with progressive rupture being achieved by applying increased force as required In contrast, due to the high intensity and sudden application of force, the cap 3 is ruptured or cut more sharply or cleanly, thereby releasing all the substance S contained in the capsule.

If the deformable membrane 2 is not deformed sufficiently to transmit mechanical force to the cap 3 or to the surface of the support 14 as shown in FIG. ), and if the force so transmitted is not sufficient to break the bridge 10' or bridge 10 connecting the two surface parts to each other (compare Figures 6 and 9), then a force less than the above force is required to break the cap 3.

Advantageously, said ring 7 and said surface portions 8, 8' are injection molded from a synthetic material, preferably polyethylene, in the region of or directly adjacent to the rupture bridge 10, 10'.

As shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9 , the capsule 1 of the invention is also characterized in that at least a part of the free contour of said surface portions 8 , 8 ′ has one or more toothed corners 11 facilitating the rupture of the cap 3 .

This arrangement makes it easier to break said cap 3, which has to be torn off without assistance, if necessary. The form of the rotating flaps and/or rupture means 4 and their number are determined by the tear resistance of the cap 3, which is usually made in the form of a thin aluminum foil which can be plasticized or similar.

The protruding teeth of the rupturing device have been considered as non-limiting examples, other protruding and cutting shapes can also be formed, for example in the form of vertical protruding and protruding points or with A certain thickness.

According to various embodiments shown in FIGS. 14-17 , the rupturing means 4 have at least one substantially vertically protruding part 12 directed towards the cap 3 in order to facilitate rupturing it. This different form will be described in more detail below.

The sixth variant of the capsule 1 according to the invention is characterized in that the surface portions 8, 8' of the rupture device 4 have a rigid part 13 which protrudes in the direction of the deformable membrane 2 and has a spherical useful bearing surface 14 which supports The face 14 is capable of transmitting an external mechanical force exerted by the user on said deformable membrane 2 sufficient to cause rotation of at least one surface portion 8, 8' and rupture of the cap 3 to release an effective amount of the substance S Released into the contents of the container R containing the capsule 1 .

Figures 10-13 illustrate a non-limiting embodiment against this variation.

In order to facilitate the transfer of the energy required to rupture the cap 3, the capsule 1 is preferably characterized in that the rigid part 13 has an effective bearing surface 14 substantially in the form of said deformable membrane 2 at least in one part, most preferably Good is that form of its highest point or part of its highest point.

In an even more preferred manner, as shown in Figures 10-13 which give a sixth embodiment, the rigid member 13 is made in the form of a semi-cylindrical section of vertical or substantially vertical semi-circular cross-section, while effectively The support surface 14 is in the form of a rectangular strip or substantially rectangular strip.

This structure allows the user to form a deformation of the deformable membrane 2 extending from a point close to the substrate 18 (and opposite to the support surface 14) to a point close to the highest point of the deformable membrane 2, while applying The direction of the applied force is substantially vertical and is more easily applied by the user's fingers or thumb.

The seventh embodiment places an intermediate part 6 between said deformable membrane and said cap 3 made in the form of a peripheral ring 7 substantially and at least partially in the initial state with an arcuate part in the form of a deformable membrane 2 15 is partly placed on the middle part 6 by means of the hinge part 9 and its free end 16 is made in the form of at least one part 12 protruding or protruding towards the cap 3, on which arched part 15 the effective bearing surface 14 is arranged , the arched part 15 is capable of transmitting an external mechanical force exerted by the user on said deformable membrane 2, this mechanical force is sufficient to cause the protruding end part 12 to be tapped to rupture the cap 3, displacing an effective amount of the substance S is released into the contents of container R.

Figures 14-17 show this technical solution.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the effective bearing surface 14 provided on the arcuate part 15 has a vertical or substantially vertical wall portion 17 on its inner surface directed towards the cap 3, the accompanying bearing surface 14' of which helps to transmit the An external mechanical force exerted by the user on said deformable membrane 2 to rupture the cap 3 .

According to another feature, the peripheral ring 7 and the surface parts 8, 8' and/or the hinge part and/or the arched part 15 are preferably injection molded in one piece from synthetic material.

Finally, the cap 3 provided on the capsule 1 of the different embodiment of the first variant ( FIGS. 1 and 2 ) can also be provided, if necessary, additionally with at least one preferential rupture point or line, for example in the form of a pre-slit 5, also In order to facilitate the rupture of the cap 3 in combination with the above-mentioned rupture device 4 .

One or more grooves may thus be provided where the thickness of the cap 3 is intentionally reduced, eg by laser ablation or a similar or equivalent process.

As for the assembly of the different components of the capsule, a first solution consists in ensuring that the cap 3 is fixed directly on the deformable membrane 2 when bridging each other, preferably at a common circumference where said cap 3 and said deformable membrane 2 are in contact within the area.

A first possibility is shown schematically in FIGS. 1 , 18 , 19 and 22 . For example in the embodiment shown in Fig. 22, during the manufacture of the capsule 1, the arcuate part 15 and the ring 7 are made in a single piece in integral form, which is inserted freely (without welding) in the mold formed by the deformable membrane. cavity. The cap 3 is then welded directly on the corresponding peripheral portion of said deformable membrane 2, with the dome 15 enclosed between them but not necessarily fixed. According to this embodiment, therefore, the manufacturing process of the capsule 1 is advantageously simplified.

According to a second possibility, the cap 3 is fixed directly on the lower surface 6' of the middle part 6, in particular around the ring 7 forming said middle part 6, thereby avoiding the 3 and the direct contact between the deformable membrane 2 (compare Figures 3-17, 20 and 21).

For example in the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the arched part 15 and the ring 7 are also made in one piece in one piece, however this single piece is fixed, for example by welding on the cap 3, the deformable membrane 2 itself is fixed Or welded to the corresponding circumferential parts of said ring 7, and the rear arched part 15 is enclosed between them and fixed.

Advantageously, the cap 3 is secured to the deformable membrane 2 or to the lower surface 6' of the middle part 6 by annular welding, annular heat sealing or other similar processes.

The invention also relates to a stopper for use on containers, especially mineral water bottles, having a neck or collar for dispensing liquids or pastes, characterized in that said stopper essentially comprises a a substrate 18 sealing said container R by means of a capsule 1 of the invention applied in sealed form on said substrate 18, the deformable membrane 2 of said capsule 1 being itself capped by a rigid protective cover 19, A rigid protective cover 19 is placed on an annular base 20 added to said base plate 18, the lower base of said capsule 1 being formed by a pierceable cap 3, filled with a substance S added to the contents of the container R before consumption An effective sealed volume V is thus defined between the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 and the cap 3, and when the deformable membrane 2 is deformed sufficiently to rupture the cap 3, an effective amount of substance S is released into the the contents of container R.

According to a preferred variant embodiment shown in FIGS. 23-25 , the hermetic capsule 1 of the invention is characterized in that it comprises at least one intermediate part 6 located between said deformable membrane 2 and said cap 3 , said intermediate The part 6 has said at least one rupture device 4 of said deformable membrane 2, which is activated when there is sufficient deformation on the deformable membrane 2, and the intermediate part 6 is made in the form of a peripheral ring 7, in The arched part 15 in the initial state substantially and at least partially in the form of a deformable membrane 2 rests partly on the peripheral ring 7 by means of a hinge portion 9, the free end 16 of which is made as at least one protruding or protruding towards the cap 3. In the form of part 12, the effective bearing surface 14 is arranged on said arcuate part 15, which is capable of transmitting an external mechanical force exerted by the user on said deformable membrane 2, this mechanical force is sufficient to make Extending end piece 12 taps to rupture cap 3, releasing an effective amount of substance S into the contents of container R.

Preferably, both the deformable film 2 and the protective cover 19 are made of an elastically deformable material and are basically in the form of two hemispheres. The radius of the hemisphere of the protective cover 19 is slightly smaller than the radius of the hemisphere of the deformable film 2. There is at least one meridian notch 19' extending from the bottom of the hemisphere over a portion of the height of the hemisphere. This embodiment of the protective cover 19 is particularly advantageous because it does not need to be molded in the open position, so that the size of the die is greatly reduced and its strength increased, which substantially reduces the manufacturing costs of the protective cover 19 . Furthermore, from a mechanical standpoint, the integrity of the hinge 35 can be maintained without molding the protective cover 19 in the open position, since the integrity of the hinge 35 is compromised during molding in the open position.

Figure 23 shows the protective cover 19 and base 20 prior to assembly on the base plate 18 within the plug, and Figure 24 shows the protective cover 19 and base plate 18 installed. During installation, in order to fit said protective cover 19, the meridian notches 19' are enlarged and separated from each other, so that the dimensions of the meridian notches 19' are enlarged to seal the protective cover 19 on the base plate 18, with opening and closing means 33 Matches with 34.

Figures 18-25 show non-limiting examples of stoppers that can be fitted on the capsule 1 of the invention.

Advantageously, as shown for example in FIGS. 18 and 19 , the stopper of the invention is characterized in that the base plate 18 is made in the form of a part consisting of a cylindrical portion 21 designed to be fixed to the neck or collar of the container R G, said receptacle R is provided at its upper end region with a flat annular portion 22 forming a circular inner shoulder 23 delimiting an opening 24 of said receptacle R, the cap 3 being placed or fixed on said portion bent towards the capsule 1 On the upper surface 22' of the flat annular portion 22.

The base plate 18 can be made as a molded article, for example by injection moulding, and is preferably made of a plastic material.

The base plate 18 secures the stopper on the container R, while providing a base for the deformable membrane 2 and the base 20 of the rigid protective cover 19 covering said deformable membrane 2 .

18-22, the stopper of the present invention is also characterized in that the lower surface 22" of the flat annular portion 22 has a vertical recess 25 in the form of an annular edge, which is designed to be in contact with the inner surface of the neck of the container R and the cylinder. Part 21 together secures said stopper on the inner surface of the neck of the container R. Regarding this part of the stopper, said vertical recess can also be seen in Figures 23 and 24 in a simplified version similar to that of Figures 18-22 25.

Advantageously, the stopper of the invention (in the variant shown in FIGS. 18-22 ) is also characterized in that the upper surface 22 ′ of the flat annular portion 22 is provided with an at least slightly deformable annular edge 26 which, after filling the capsule 1 After entering said stopper, the annular throat 27 with said flat annular portion 22 clamps the peripheral portion of the capsule 1 in the region of the cap 3 and the deformable membrane 2 and, if applicable, the intermediate part 6 .

In this way, the deformable membrane 2 can be completely sealed to ensure a better sealing of the sealed volume V. Thus, when the deformable membrane 2 is mounted, the annular edge 26 is folded down towards the flat annular portion 22 of the base plate 18 . The curling of the deformable membrane 2 is also further enhanced by the flat annular portion 22 of the base 20 when fitting it on the substrate 18 by compressing said base, as described below.

Preferably, the stopper of the invention is also characterized in that the cylindrical part 21 designed to be fixed on the neck of the container R or on the collar G has means 28 on the outside of its circumference, which are designed to be placed on the base 20. Additional means 29 cooperate to secure the base 20 to the base plate 18 .

These means may be conventional suitable mechanical fixation means.

As non-limiting examples, as suggested schematically in Figures 18-22, means 28 and additional means 29 are formed by "female" elements such as notches or grooves cooperating with "male" elements such as protrusions or beads or the like.

Also advantageously, the plug of the invention is characterized in that the base 20 comprises a cylindrical sleeve 30 designed to be fixed on the base plate 18 and equipped at its top end with a flat annular portion 31 forming a circular inner edge 32 whose Designed to rest, preferably pressing it against the cap 3 and the deformable membrane 2 and, if applicable, the intermediate part 6 in the region of the annular edge 26, said annular edge 26 clamping the peripheral portion of the capsule 1 .

This measure advantageously further strengthens the upper end seal between the deformable membrane 2 and the stopper base plate 18, as described above.

Alternatively, the cylindrical sleeve 30 of the base 20 can be fixed directly to the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 by any conventional means (welding, gluing, etc.), which can be placed in turn via the cap 3 and/or Or be fixed on the substrate 18. Thus, said cylindrical sleeve 30 becomes a mechanical stop when the protective cover 19 is assembled with the base plate 18 and fixed in the end stop area and/or in the area of the lateral cylindrical periphery of said base plate (cf. FIG. 24 ). moving part.

The stopper of the present invention may be secured to the neck of container R by any conventional means. Preferably, said stopper is screwed onto the neck of said container R.

In the latter case, as shown in Figures 18-24, the cylindrical part 21 is made in the form of a cylindrical sleeve, which is equipped with an internal thread 21' for screwing on the threaded neck of the container R or the outer surface of the collar G. on the thread.

Thus, the stopper of the present invention can be fitted on any container with a standard thread.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the base 20 has first opening and closing means 33 designed to cooperate by elastic deformation with second corresponding means 34 located on the protective cover 19 .

In general, any hermaphrodite or similar device may be used with the stopper of the present invention to ensure that the protective cap 19 is securely and easily in an unlockable closure.

According to a first variant, the base 20 has a button with a first hook designed to cooperate with a second corresponding hook located on the protective cover 19 .

Thus, it is sufficient, for example, to press on said button with a thumb, in order to disengage said hook, causing said protective cover 19 to open and to gain access to deformable membrane 2 .

According to another variant, the base 20 has a button with a groove designed to cooperate with a corresponding protrusion located on the protective cover 19 .

In order to allow the protective cover 19 to turn during opening and to secure the rotating part, it is advantageous if the protective cover 19 is connected to the base 20 by at least one cover hinge 35 . The hinge 35 can be made in different forms. For example in Figures 18-22, said hinge 35 is in the form of joining together the bottom of the protective cover 19 with the base 20 and injection molded in a simple piece of synthetic material.

The hinge 35 shown in FIG. 25 connecting the protective cover 19 in the region of its highest point to the base 20 is made according to a special method which allows the cap to be hinged or pivoted on its constituent hemispheres. the highest point area. The embodiment of the protective cover 19 and the hinge 35 enables the positioning of the protective cover 19 on the base 20 so as to "press" it against said base 20, as shown in Figure 25, this pressing causes the meridian notch 19' to open And the opening and closing devices 33 and 34 are engaged. When the opening and closing means are engaged with each other, the closed state of the protective cover 19 on the base 20 becomes stable.

Alternatively, the protective cover 19 is not permanently fixed to the base 20, but merely rests on the base 20 (eg, engages on the base 20 by elastic deformation), during use or consumption of the contents of the container R. The protective cover 19 is finally removed. In practice, the protective cover 19 is primarily designed to protect the deformable membrane 2 from any unwanted touches, which could inadvertently deform or damage the deformable membrane 2, for example during handling, storage and transport of the plug-sealed container R. Break the seal of volume V.

In a particularly simple and economical embodiment, the protective cover 19 is made in one piece with the base 20 .

According to another feature, a safety ring 36 is provided at the lower end of the base plate 18 at a distance from the neck of the container R or the outlet of the collar G.

The safety ring 36 ensures that the stopper never unscrews from the neck or collar of the container R.

Furthermore, the stopper of the invention is also characterized in that it also comprises at least one anti-tampering device located in the region of a device involved in locking the protective cap 19 in the closed state.

Such a device may for example be made of thermoformed thermoplastic material in the form of an annular or circular thin strip, which has a shape and locks over the protective cover prior to first use. This band is pulled apart during first use, e.g. in a way that facilitates its removal such as pre-cut sections (in the form of perforated lines), traction grooves, opening threads, etc., thereby proving that the stopper has been removed. Open.

According to another advantageous feature, the protective cover 19 and the deformable membrane 2 are made of one or more translucent, preferably transparent, materials.

Thus, the user can check before use whether the substance S is present, for example a tablet, for example a special drug that must be dissolved in the substance in the container R before consumption. If transparent materials are used, the properties of the substance S can also be controlled, for example by color coding or shape. It is thus possible to conceive, according to the taste properties, the addition of colored substances S to beverages that are tasteless or rather light in taste or that require a change in taste, the amount of substances S being increased or on the other hand reduced or even eliminated.

As a non-limiting example, substance S may be a colored powder, lozenge or syrup dissolved in mineral water, each color corresponding to a taste or another predetermined characteristic (yellow = lemon, red = apple , green=lime, orange=tangerine or orange, brown=chocolate, blue=menthol, black=cola, etc.).

Finally, the use of transparent materials (manufacturing) can also increase the level of aesthetics and fun.

In general, the substance S can be any kind of food or non-food substance (in any state - solid, liquid, gaseous, pasty, etc.) or mixture that is intended to be added to the contents of the container R, the contents of the container R It can also be any kind of food or non-food, regardless of its physical state.

Preferably, the substance S is solid or liquid, while the content of the container R is a more or less viscous liquid, preferably water, more preferably mineral water.

Preferably, the substance S and the contents of the container R are food, in other words, non-toxic to humans or animals.

Although the non-limiting examples of the present description are for the solid substance S and the liquid substance in the container R, it goes without saying that a person skilled in the art also knows how to combine them Applies to other cases not expressly stated here.

The term "addition" in relation to said substance is also understood to include pure and simple addition, that is to say the addition of said substance S (for example insoluble) to the contents of container R, but also the formation of Their physical mixing (with or without assistance) of stable mixtures, suspensions, emulsions, etc., whereby they dissolve partly or completely in said substance, also their chemical mixing (causing one or more chemical reactions) .

Advantageously, the substance S comprises at least one substance sensitive to the contents of the container R with which the capsule 1 is assembled, which substance can only be added to the contents of the container R for a very short time or only before use in things.

Non-limiting examples of the above-mentioned substances S are medical preparations in which the active ingredient is very weak and must be put in the form of administration at the last moment, said non-limiting examples also include having very low physical or chemical properties over time. Chemically stable mixtures (immiscible substances, perishables), etc.

Thus, according to another feature, the capsule 1 of the invention is characterized in that the substance S comprises at least one drug.

According to another feature, the capsule 1 of the invention is characterized in that the substance S comprises at least one drinkable cosmetic agent such as a drinkable collagen solution.

As described above, the substance S is preferably a food substance.

Advantageously, the substance S is selected from the group consisting of colours, flavors, preservatives, sweeteners, concentrates, stabilizers, nutrients, nutritional or food additives or mixtures of at least two of any of these ingredients.

Nutrients are understood to be any food (milk, cereal products, fibres, etc.) which are particularly beneficial to health.

Finally, the capsule 1 of the invention is also characterized in that the substance or substance S comprises at least one solid substance which can be reduced to powder or granulate form.

As shown in Figures 1-4, the capsule 1 and the plug that actually houses the capsule 1 has a substantially rounded hemispherical outer shape, which may also be slightly flat.

Thanks to these ergonomic circular shapes, the handling (holding, transport, etc.) of the containers thus plugged is enhanced as well as their aesthetics, reducing the risk of damage to them, especially by children.

According to a particularly interesting variant, especially for the capsule 1 of the first embodiment ( FIGS. 1 and 2 ) to which it is particularly suitable, the circular inner shoulder 23 delimiting the opening 24 of said plugged container R Provided on part of the inner periphery of the container R with at least one toothed part 37 designed to facilitate the rupture of the pierceable cap 3 when the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 is sufficiently deformed (Fig. 18 ).

Alternatively, it is possible for such a capsule 1 to have a vertical annular recess 25 (of the base plate 18) with a pair of extending in a plane parallel to the cap 3 and originating from said Parallel arms 38, 38' of the inner periphery of the vertical recess 25, said arms 38, 38' are preferably connected to each other by a buoy 40 passing through the center of the opening 24, each of said arms 38, 38' having at its end region At least one protruding member in the form of a tip 41 , 41 ′ or similar pointing towards the surface of the cap 3 , designed to facilitate the rupture of said pierceable cap 3 when the deformable membrane 2 of the capsule 1 is sufficiently deformed.

This particular embodiment is shown in Figures 26-29, which have been simplified for clarity compared to Figures 18-21.

When the part is produced by injection moulding, the buoy 40 can be used as injection site I for plastic material (cf. FIG. 29 ).

When the deformable membrane 2 is sufficiently deformed, especially with or without the aid of the substance S contained in the sealed volume V of the capsule 1, above the tips 41, 41' with a sufficient safety distance (to avoid any unintentional rupture) of the cap 3 is pushed down in a direction that ruptures the cap 3 or initiates rupture along a pre-formed preferential rupture point or line, thereby displacing a sufficient amount of the substance S released into the container R.

Finally, the invention also relates to a container R with a neck or a collar for dispensing liquids or pastes, especially mineral water, characterized in that said container R comprises a capsule 1 according to the invention.

Advantageously, said container R is characterized in that said capsule 1 is fitted inside a stopper of the invention.

In order to pour or drink the mixture formed by mixing the substance S with the contents of the container R directly from the neck or collar G of the container R, the stopper need only be completely unthreaded to allow the mixture to escape from the container. R through the opening 24. Such an embodiment is economical since no additional parts for pouring the mixture are required. In addition, the stopper can be screwed or loosened at will without changing the seal of the container R, since the deformable membrane 2 is impermeable, thus keeping the mixture in the container R even after it has been deformed. inside, ensuring protection from external damage. Simultaneously, in the area of the base plate 18, a part, such as a valve, is arranged to allow the gas accumulated in the container R (such as CO2 produced by its foamed tablets) formed when the substance S is mixed with the content of the container R to be discharged therefrom, and This avoids the risk of container R being overpressurized.

It is also possible to provide an outlet or a second stopper on the side of the container R to allow the mixture to be dispensed. This outlet or second plug also has a vent. This variant embodiment is more complex to implement and therefore more expensive. Moreover, it requires additional components, breaking the symmetry of container R and complicating its storage and management.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the described embodiments and the shown figures. Various changes are possible, in particular from the point of view of the structure of the deformable part or by means of equivalent substitutions, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims (31)

1. one kind seals packing (1), mainly by constituting by wearing out cap (3) leak free deformable films (2) at its base portion, thereby between described deformable films (2) and described cap (3), limit the sealed volume (V) that is used to hold at least a material (S), described packing (1) has the apparatus for breaking (4) of at least one one that is used for described cap (3), after externally mechanicals efforts is applied to and makes it that enough distortion take place on the described deformable films (2), described apparatus for breaking (4) can be torn described cap (3), thereby discharge the material (S) of effective dose, it is characterized in that, described sealing packing (1) comprises at least one centre part (6) that is positioned between described deformable films (2) and the described cap (3), described centre part (6) has described at least one apparatus for breaking (4) of described deformable films (2), it is triggered when described deformable films (2) has enough distortion, and described centre part (6) is made into the form of Zhou Bianhuan (7), basically or at least partly take the arch member (15) of deformable films (2) form to place partly on the described Zhou Bianhuan (7) by hinge fraction (9) at initial condition, the free end (16) of described arch member (15) be made into to point to described cap (3) at least one stretch out or the form of projecting part (12), being positioned at effective areal of support (14) on the described arch member (15) can transmit by the user and be applied to external mechanical influence power on the described deformable films (2), this mechanicals efforts is enough to make end extended part (12) to touch with the cap that breaks (3), with material (S) release of effective dose.

2. packing as claimed in claim 1, it is characterized in that, the described effective areal of support (14) that is positioned on the arch member (15) has the wall part (17) of the vertical or perpendicular of pointing to described cap (3) at it on the inside face of described cap (3), the other areal of support (14 ') of wall part helps transmission to be applied to the last described external mechanical influence power with the described cap (3) that breaks of described deformable films (2) by the user.

3. packing as claimed in claim 1 or 2 is characterized in that, described Zhou Bianhuan (7) and hinge fraction (9) and/or arch member (15) are made into one, preferably make by the injection moulding of synthetic material.

4. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim, it is characterized in that, with described apparatus for breaking (4) on described centre part (6) hinge fraction (9) or the end of the relative apparatus for breaking (4) of tie elongated band or bridge (10 ') are housed, when described stopper can not be used effectively, described elongated band or bridge (10 ') played the effect of the bridge that breaks of fixing described device (4).

5. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim is characterized in that, when mutual cross-over connection, described cap (3) directly is fixed on the deformable films (2), preferably in described cap (3) and public circumferential area that described deformable films (2) contacts.

6. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim is characterized in that, described cap (3) directly is fixed on the lower surface (6 ') of centre part (6), especially on described ring (7) lower surface (6 ') on every side that forms described centre part (6).

7. as claim 5 and 6 arbitrary described packings, it is characterized in that described cap (3) is fixed on the lower surface (6 ') of deformable films (2) or centre part (6) by girth welding, annular heat-sealing or other similar technology.

8. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim, it is characterized in that, described material (S) comprises that at least a material of described packing (1) with the content sensitivity of the described container (R) of its assembling, this material can only or only be added in the content of container (R) in the very short time before consumption.

9. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim is characterized in that described material (S) comprises at least a medicine.

10. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim is characterized in that described material (S) comprises at least a drinkable enamel.

11. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim is characterized in that described material (S) is a food.

12. packing as claimed in claim 11, it is characterized in that described material (S) is from by selecting at least two kinds of groups that compound constituted that form pigment, spices, anti fouling composition, sweet taste material, concentrating agents, stabilizer, nutrients, nutrition or food additive or any of these composition.

13. the described packing of arbitrary as described above claim is characterized in that described material (S) comprises at least a solid matter, can reduce powdered or particle form.

14. one kind is used for the especially stopper of mineral water bottle of container, described vessel is useful on the neck or the collar of dispense liquid or paste, it is characterized in that, described stopper mainly comprises the substrate (18) that is fixed on the described container (R) and seals described container (R) by the arbitrary described packing of claim 1-13 (1), described packing (1) is added on the described substrate (18) with sealing means, the deformable films (2) of described packing (1) itself is by inflexible protective cover (19) capping, described inflexible protective cover (19) places on the annular base (20) that is increased on the described substrate (18), the following base portion of described packing (1) forms by wearing out cap (3), effective sealed volume (V) of being filled by at least a material (S) in the content that is added into container (R) before consumption is limited between the deformable films (2) and described cap (3) of described packing (1) thus, make described cap (3) when breaking when described deformable films (2) produces enough distortion, the material of effective dose (S) is released in the content of container (R).

15. stopper as claimed in claim 14, it is characterized in that, described deformable films (2) and protective cover (19) are all made by elastic deformable material, basically be the form of two hemispheres, the hemisphere radius of described protective cover (19) is slightly less than the hemisphere radius of described deformable films (2), the described hemisphere of described protective cover (19) has at least one radial recess (19 '), and described radial recess (19 ') extends in the part of described hemisphere height from described hemisphere base portion.

16. as claim 14 or 15 described stoppers, it is characterized in that, described substrate (18) is made into to comprise the form of the parts of column part (21), described column part (21) is designed to be fixed on the neck or the collar (G) of described container (R), described container (R) zone in the top is equipped with planar annular part (22), described planar annular part (22) has formed the circular interior shoulder (23) that limits described container (R) opening (24), and described cap (3) places or is fixed on the upper surface (22 ') of the crooked described planar annular part (22) of described packing (1).

17. stopper as claimed in claim 16, it is characterized in that, the lower surface of described planar annular part (22) (22 ") has the vertical recess (25) of ring edge form, and it is designed to the inside face of container (R) neck and described column part (21) described stopper is fixed thereon.

18. as claim 16 or 17 described stoppers, it is characterized in that, the upper surface (22 ') of described planar annular part (22) but the ring edge of slightly deformed (26) at least is housed, behind described stopper that packing (1) is packed into, at described cap (3) and deformable films (2) and if be useful in centre part (6) zone, the toroidal throat (27) with described planar annular part (22) is clamped the outer peripheral portion of described packing (1).

19. as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 16-18, it is characterized in that, the column part (21) that is designed to be fixed on container (R) neck or the collar (G) has device (28) on its periphery wall, its be designed to be positioned at described base portion (20) on additional device (29) cooperate so that described base portion (20) is fixed on the described substrate (18).

20. as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 15-19, it is characterized in that, described base portion (20) comprises and is designed to be fixed on the cylindrical sleeves (30) that described substrate (18) is gone up and planar annular part (31) is equipped with in the zone in the top, described planar annular part (31) forms circular inner edge (32), its be designed to place preferably it is pressed against described cap (3) and deformable films (2) and if be useful on the ring edge (26) in centre part (6) zone, described ring edge (26) is clamped the outer peripheral portion of packing (1).

21., it is characterized in that described column part (21) is made into the form of cylindrical sleeves as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 16-20, it is provided with negative thread (21 '), is used to be tightened in the outside thread of described container (R) thread neck part or the collar (G).

22., it is characterized in that described base portion (20) has the first open and close device (33) as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 14-21, it is designed to cooperate with second corresponding intrument (34) on being positioned at described protective cover (19) by elastic deformation.

23. stopper as claimed in claim 22 is characterized in that, described base portion (20) has the button with first hook, described hook be designed to be positioned at described protective cover (19) on the cooperation of the second corresponding hook.

24. stopper as claimed in claim 22 is characterized in that, described base portion (20) has the button of band groove, described groove be designed to be positioned at described protective cover (19) on the cooperation of corresponding projection.

25., it is characterized in that described protective cover (19) is connected on the described base portion (20) by at least one cover hinge (35) as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 14-24.

26. as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 14-25, it is characterized in that, safety link (36) be housed with the neck of described container (R) or described substrate (18) lower end on the collar (G) the outlet certain distance.

27. as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 14-26, it is characterized in that described stopper also comprises at least one tamper resistant device, this device is positioned at the zone that participation is locked in described protective cover (19) in the device of closure state.

28., it is characterized in that described protective cover (19) and deformable films (2) is translucent by one or more, preferably transparent material is made as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 14-27.

29. as the arbitrary described stopper of claim 15-28, it is characterized in that, the described circular interior shoulder (23) of the opening (24) of qualification plug envelope container (R) peripheral part within it is provided with at least one tooth components (37), and described tooth components (37) is designed to be convenient to make the described cap (3) of wearing out to break when enough distortion take place the deformable films (2) of described packing (1).

30. one kind has and is used for dispense liquid or the paste especially neck of mineral water or the container of the collar, it is characterized in that described container comprises as the arbitrary described packing of claim 1-13 (1).

31. container as claimed in claim 30 is characterized in that, described packing (1) is assembled in as on the arbitrary described stopper of claim 14-29.

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