U.S. patent application number 12/990388 was filed with the patent office on 2011-05-05 for plastic bottle.
Invention is credited to Antonio Giuseppe Perra.
Application Number | 20110100946 12/990388 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40160985 |
Filed Date | 2011-05-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110100946 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Perra; Antonio Giuseppe |
May 5, 2011 |
Plastic Bottle
Abstract
The present invention relates to an improved plastic bottle, in
particular a PET bottle comprising: a bottle body, a neck
connecting to the bottle body, which neck is provided with at least
one engaging element adapted to enable mechanical engaging of the
bottle at least during the production process of blow moulding of
the bottle, and coupling means connected to the neck for releasable
coupling of the bottle to a closing element closing the bottle,
wherein the shortest distance between an upper edge of the neck
defining an upper outer end of the bottle and at least one engaging
element lies between 0 and 7 millimetres. The invention also
relates to an assembly of such a bottle and a closing element which
is connected releasably to the bottle and closes the bottle.
Inventors: |
Perra; Antonio Giuseppe;
(Bergen, NL) |
Family ID: |
40160985 |
Appl. No.: |
12/990388 |
Filed: |
April 29, 2009 |
PCT Filed: |
April 29, 2009 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NL09/50236 |
371 Date: |
January 11, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
215/40 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 1/023 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
215/40 |
International
Class: |
B65D 1/02 20060101
B65D001/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 29, 2008 |
NL |
2001544 |
Claims
1. A plastic bottle, in particular a PET bottle, comprising: a
bottle body, a neck connecting to the bottle body, which neck is
provided with at least one engaging element adapted to enable
mechanical engaging of the bottle at least during the production
process of blow moulding of the bottle, and coupling means
connected to the neck for releasable coupling of the bottle to a
closing element closing the bottle, wherein the shortest distance
between an upper edge of the neck defining an upper outer end of
the bottle and the at least one engaging element lies between 0 and
7 millimetres.
2. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the at
least one engaging element is positioned at a distance from the
upper edge of the neck, and that a part of the neck lying above the
at least one engaging element is adapted for sealing co-action with
a closing element closing the bottle.
3. The bottle as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the
shortest distance between the upper edge of the neck and the at
least one engaging element lies between 0.5 and 7 millimetres.
4. The bottle as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the
ratio of the shortest distance between the at least one engaging
element, positioned at a distance from the upper edge, and the
upper edge on the one hand and the wall thickness of the neck on
the other lies between 0 and 3.
5. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the neck is provided
with a plurality of engaging elements adapted to enable mechanical
engaging of the bottle during production of the bottle.
6. The bottle as claimed in claim 5, wherein the shortest distance
between the upper edge of the neck and each engaging element lies
between 0.5 and 7 millimetres.
7. The bottle as claimed in claim 5, wherein at least one engaging
element is formed by a sealing ring adapted for sealing co-action
with a closing element coupled to the bottle.
8. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one engaging
element is formed by a recess arranged in the neck.
9. The bottle as claimed in claim 8, wherein the neck is provided
with a plurality of engaging elements formed by recesses, these
recesses being arranged distributed in a peripheral side of the
neck.
10. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bottle is
provided with sealing means for sealing a space located between the
bottle and a closing element coupled releasably to the bottle.
11. The bottle as claimed in claim 10, wherein at least a part of
the sealing means is arranged on at least a part of the at least
one engaging element.
12. The bottle as claimed in claim 10, wherein at least a part of
the sealing means is arranged on at least a part of the upper edge
of the neck.
13. The bottle as claimed in claim 10, wherein the sealing means
form an integral part of the bottle.
14. The bottle as claimed in claim 10, wherein the sealing means
comprise at least one elastomer.
15. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one
engaging element protrudes laterally relative to the neck.
16. The bottle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the at least one
engaging element is formed by a support ring protruding laterally
relative to the neck.
17. The bottle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the at least one
engaging element, in particular the support ring, protrudes at
least 1.5 millimetres relative to the neck.
18. The bottle as claimed in claim 16, wherein a peripheral side of
the support ring lying at a distance from the neck is given a
cross-sectional form which is substantially round.
19. The bottle as claimed in claim 16, wherein a peripheral side of
the support ring lying at a distance from the neck is given a
cross-sectional form which is substantially angled.
20. The bottle as claimed in claim 16, wherein a peripheral side of
the support ring lying at a distance from the neck is given a
hexagonal form.
21. The bottle as claimed in claim 16, wherein a peripheral side of
the support ring lying at a distance from the neck is provided with
at least one recess.
22. The bottle as claimed in claim 16, wherein the dimensioning of
the support ring corresponds to a standardized dimensioning.
23. The bottle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the ratio of the
protrusion of the at least one engaging element relative to the
neck and the wall thickness of the neck amounts to at least
0.45.
24. The bottle as claimed in claim 15, wherein at least one
laterally protruding engaging element is connected to the upper
edge of the bottle.
25. The bottle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the ratio of the
shortest distance between the at least one engaging element and the
upper edge on the one hand and the protrusion of the at least one
engaging element relative to the neck on the other lies between 0.2
and 3.33.
26. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least a part of
the coupling means forms part of the at least one engaging
element.
27. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least a part of
the coupling means forms part of the neck.
28. The bottle as claimed in claim 27, wherein at least part of the
coupling means is positioned in a space enclosed by the neck.
29. The bottle as claimed in claim 28, wherein at least part of the
coupling means is arranged on an inner side of the neck.
30. The bottle as claimed in claim 29, wherein the coupling means
connect to the upper edge of the bottle.
31. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling means
comprise at least one screw thread.
32. The bottle as claimed in claim 31, wherein the screw thread
takes an interrupted form.
33. The bottle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dimensioning of
the bottle body of the bottle corresponds to a standardized
dimensioning.
34. An assembly of a bottle as claimed in claim 1 and a closing
element connected releasably to the bottle and closing the
bottle.
35. The assembly as claimed in claim 34, wherein the closing
element and the bottle are mutually connected by means of a clamp
connection, a snap connection, a bayonet fitting or a screw
connection.
36. The assembly as claimed in claim 34, wherein the closing
element is coupled to at least one engaging element.
37. The assembly as claimed in claim 34, wherein the closing
element is coupled to the neck of the bottle.
38. The assembly as claimed in claim 37, wherein the closing
element is arranged at least partially in the neck of the
bottle.
39. The assembly as claimed in claim 34, wherein the closing
element is adapted to engage under bias on a part of the neck lying
above the at least one engaging element for the purpose of
realizing a substantially medium-tight closure of the bottle.
40. The assembly as claimed in claim 39, wherein the closing
element is adapted to engage multilaterally under bias on a part of
the neck lying above the at least one engaging element.
41. A preform for manufacturing a plastic bottle as claimed in
claim 1, comprising a sleeve-like body provided with the at least
one engaging element adapted to enable mechanical engagement of the
preform or the formed bottle during the production process of the
bottle, wherein the shortest distance between an upper edge of the
sleeve-like body defining an upper outer end of the bottle to be
formed and the at least one engaging element lies between 0 and 7
millimetres, in particular between 0.5 and 7 millimetres.
42. A method for manufacturing a preform as claimed in claim 41,
comprising the steps of: A) arranging melted plastic in a mould
cavity enclosed by a mould and forming the preform provided with
the at least one engaging element, B) arranging coupling means on
an inner side of the preform, and C) removing the preform from the
mould.
43. The method as claimed in claim 42, wherein step A) and step B)
are performed simultaneously.
44. The method as claimed in claim 42, wherein step B) is performed
after step C).
45. The method as claimed in claim 42, wherein the coupling means
arranged during step B) connect to an upper edge of the
preform.
46. The method as claimed in claim 42, wherein the coupling means
arranged during step B) are formed by an internal screw thread.
47. A closing element for closing a bottle as claimed in claim
1.
48. The closing element as claimed in claim 47, wherein the closing
element comprises counter-coupling means, which counter-coupling
means are adapted to be at least partially received in a neck of
the bottle for co-action with coupling means arranged in the
neck.
49. The closing element as claimed in claim 48, wherein the
counter-coupling means are arranged on an outer side of a bush-like
element forming part of the closing element, this bush-like element
being adapted to be at least partially received in the neck of the
bottle.
50. The closing element as claimed in claim 49, wherein the
counter-coupling means are formed by an external screw thread.
51. The closing element as claimed in claim 50, wherein the
external screw thread takes an interrupted form.
52. The closing element as claimed in claim 47, wherein the closing
element is provided with at least one sealing element.
53. The closing element as claimed in claim 52, wherein the sealing
element takes an annular form and is adapted to engage the neck of
the bottle under bias.
54. The closing element as claimed in claim 53, wherein the sealing
element is adapted to engage the neck of the bottle multilaterally
under bias.
55. The closing element as claimed in claim 54, wherein the sealing
element comprises an annular receiving space for receiving the
upper edge of the neck.
56. The closing element as claimed in claim 55, wherein the sealing
element has an at least partially wedge-shaped form in
cross-section.
57. The closing element as claimed in claim 52, wherein the sealing
element is manufactured at least partially from a flexible
material.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a plastic bottle, in
particular a PET bottle. The invention also relates to an assembly
of such a bottle and a closing element which is connected
releasably to the bottle and closes the bottle. The invention of
further relates to a plastic preform for the manufacture of such a
bottle. In addition, the invention relates to a method for
manufacturing such a preform. The invention also relates to a
closing element for closing a bottle according to the
invention.
[0002] It is estimated that more than 11 million tonnes of packages
manufactured from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were marketed in
2007. It is expected that more than 16 million tonnes of these PET
packages will be marketed in 2013. More than 90% of all PET
packages are embodied as PET bottle for packaging of beverages,
including carbonated (soft) drinks, water, juice, milk and so on.
On the basis of the European guideline for packaging and packaging
waste 94/62/EC, manufacturers, at least within Europe, are being
stimulated to market relatively environmentally-friendly (plastic)
packaging in order to minimize the environmental effects of this
packaging. It is of particular importance here to maximize the
recyclability of the plastic packages, and consequently minimize
the amount of waste. An important aspect here is represented by
realizing a weight-saving of the plastic packages, which will
result in a substantial reduction in waste. In addition to a
substantially reduced environmental impact, realizing a
weight-saving of for instance 1 or 2 grams also results in a
cost-saving of billions of euros per year in material and transport
costs. Diverse initiatives have resulted in new standardized
bottles manufactured from plastic, in particular PET bottles. Each
of the known PET bottles is constructed here from a bottle body to
which a neck connects, wherein the neck is provided with an
external screw thread enabling the PET bottle to be closed by means
of a cap. In addition, the neck is provided with a conventional
support ring for the purpose of being able to mechanically engage
the bottle in stable manner during different steps in the
production process of the bottle, including the manufacture of a
so-called PET preform, transforming the PET preform into a PET
bottle by means of blow moulding, and transporting the PET bottle.
With a view to the future however, there will continue to be a need
to realize further weight-saving in the plastic bottles, wherein a
saving of one or several grams will already result in a substantial
financial cost-saving for manufacturers, wherein the adverse
environmental effects can also be drastically reduced.
[0003] The invention has for its object to provide an improved
plastic bottle, using which a further weight-saving can be
realized.
[0004] The invention has the further object of providing a
lightweight plastic bottle which can be closed substantially
medium-tightly using a closing element.
[0005] The invention provides for this purpose a plastic bottle of
the type stated in the preamble, comprising: a bottle body, a neck
connecting to the bottle body, which neck is provided with at least
one engaging element to enable mechanical engaging of the bottle at
least during the production process of blow moulding of the bottle,
and coupling means connected to the neck for coupling the bottle to
a closing element closing the bottle, wherein the shortest distance
between an upper edge of the neck defining an upper outer end of
the bottle and the at least one engaging element lies between 0 and
7 millimetres. By substantially shortening the overall length of
the neck of the bottle relative to the neck length of conventional
plastic bottles, as a result of which the at least one engaging
element, in particular a conventional support ring, comes to lie
considerably closer to the upper edge of the bottle, the bottle
according to the invention results in a further weight-saving of
about 3 to 4 grams and a length reduction of up to about 15
millimetres, this being particularly advantageous from both a
financial and logistical viewpoint as well as from the viewpoint of
environmental friendliness. The positioning of the at least one
engaging element relative to the bottle body, usually also referred
to as belly, will generally not change here in order to be able to
retain as far as possible a standardized dimensioning of the
bottle, apart from the smaller design of the neck. This has the
advantage that existing production means need be modified as little
as possible to enable production of the bottle according to the
invention. The use of at least one engaging element is necessary in
almost all existing production lines to enable mechanical
engagement of the bottle in a stable manner. During production of
the bottle according to the invention a thick-walled plastic
preform is generally manufactured first by means of injection
moulding, this preform already being provided with the at least one
engaging element. The preform, or at least the part of the preform
positioned under the at least one engaging element, is then
stretched and inflated to form the actual bottle. Relatively high
pressures of about 200 bar are generally employed during inflation
of the bottle. In order to enable the stretching and inflation of
the bottle to be performed in controlled manner the bottle (to be
formed) is held mechanically via the at least one engaging element.
The at least one engaging element applied can be of diverse nature,
but must however be adapted to engage the bottle mechanically in
stable manner so as to enable manufacture, in particular blow
moulding, and transport of the bottle. The engaging element must
here be of sufficiently large dimensions in order to effect a
stable mechanical engagement of the bottle. Tests have shown that,
where an engaging element protruding laterally relative to the neck
is applied, the engaging element must protrude at least 1.5
millimetres relative to the neck to enable a reliable mechanical
engagement during the blow moulding process. The plastic bottle
according to the invention, in particular the bottle body, is
adapted to hold a food product, in particular a beverage or other
type of liquid or solid substance, such as for instance a cleaning
agent.
[0006] The at least one engaging element is more preferably
positioned at a distance from the upper edge of the neck, wherein a
part of the neck lying above the at least one engaging element is
adapted for sealing co-action with a closing element closing the
bottle. Positioning the engaging element at a distance has the
important advantage that a part of the neck lying above the
engaging element can be optimally designed for co-action with a
closing element for the purpose of enabling substantially
medium-tight closure of the bottle. The wall thickness of this
upper part of the neck preferably lies here between 1 and 2.5
millimetres, on the one hand so that the wall thickness is kept
sufficiently limited with a view to weight-saving and on the other
so that it is strong enough to realize a substantially medium-tight
closure. The design of the engaging element can then also be
optimized in this manner to enable mechanical clamping of the
bottle (to be formed) during the blow moulding process. A maximum
design freedom can thus be obtained by positioning at a distance
from each other the upper edge of the neck on one hand and the at
least one engaging element on the other, as a result of which the
mass of the bottle can not only be reduced relative to the
conventional PET bottle, but a substantially medium-tight closure
of the bottle can also be realized in relatively efficient manner.
In order to enable a part of the neck lying above the at least one
engaging element to be adapted as well as possible for realizing a
substantially medium-tight closure of the bottle in co-action with
a closing element, it is particularly advantageous when the
shortest distance between the upper edge of the neck and the at
least one engaging element lies between 0.5 and 7 millimetres,
preferably between 1 and 7 millimetres, more preferably between 1
and 5 millimetres. Tests have shown that a minimum upright edge
height of 0.5 millimetre considerably facilitates being able to
realize a substantially medium-tight closure. Because there is a
shortest distance between the upper edge of the neck on the one
hand and the engaging element on the other, the (shortest) distance
is in fact defined between the upper edge of the neck on the one
hand and an uppermost boundary (directed toward the upper edge of
the neck) of the engaging element on the other.
[0007] In a preferred embodiment the neck is provided with a
plurality of engaging elements adapted to enable mechanical
engaging of the bottle during the production process. In this way a
segmented support ring can for instance be formed, wherein
preferably equally large intermediate spaces (recess) are in fact
located between the engaging elements, whereby on the one hand a
further weight-saving can be realized and whereby on the other the
functioning of a peripheral side of the engaging elements as screw
thread can be optimized. It is also possible to envisage only two
engaging elements being applied which are attached to opposite
parts of the neck. The engaging elements are preferably formed here
by lips. In a particular preferred embodiment each engaging element
is formed by a ring protruding laterally relative to the neck,
wherein at least one ring is adapted to be engaged mechanically
during the blow moulding process, and the other ring(s) is/are
adapted for mechanical engagement during other steps in the
production process and/or transport of the bottle. As already
stated, a ring adapted for mechanical engagement during the blow
moulding process must protrude at least 1.5 millimetres relative to
the neck. The other ring(s), which is/are not adapted for
mechanical engagement during the blow moulding process of the
bottle, can have smaller dimensions. However, each (protruding)
engaging element, in particular each support ring, must protrude at
least 0.3 millimetre, preferably at least 0.5 millimetre relative
to the neck in order to enable mechanical engagement. The use of a
plurality of support rings has been found to be particularly
advantageous when a bottle is transferred from one production line
to a subsequent production line during the production process
and/or transport, wherein for instance the lower support ring of a
bottle supports in a first production line on a first pair of
transport fingers and wherein a second pair of transport fingers of
a second production line is then arranged under the upper support
ring, after which the first pair of transport fingers are removed
and the bottle can be further transported in the second production
line. When a plurality of support rings lying one above another are
applied to enable mechanical transfer of the bottle, it is
advantageous when the mutual distance between the support rings
amounts to at least 1 millimetre, and more preferably lies between
1 and 5.5 millimetres, in order to enable placing of the transport
fingers or other type of transport element between the adjacent
support rings. In a particular preferred embodiment the shortest
distance between the upper edge of the neck and each engaging
element lies between 0.5 and 7 millimetres. This makes it possible
to adapt the part of the neck lying above the engaging elements for
the purpose of realizing a substantially medium-tight seal.
[0008] In a preferred embodiment at least one engaging element is
formed by a recess arranged in the neck. A further weight-saving of
the bottle can be realized by having the engaging element formed by
a recess. The neck is more preferably provided with a plurality of
engaging elements formed by recesses, these recesses being arranged
distributed in a peripheral side of the neck. Applying a plurality
of recesses will generally enhance the stability and reliability of
the mechanical engagement of the bottle.
[0009] In another preferred embodiment the at least one engaging
element protrudes laterally relative to the neck, wherein the at
least one engaging element is more preferably formed by a support
ring protruding laterally relative to the neck. In order to be able
to ensure sufficiently stable mechanical engagement of the bottle
during the production process, particularly during the blow
moulding process, and transport, it is advantageous when the at
least one engaging element, in particular the support ring,
protrudes at least 1.5 millimetres laterally relative to the neck.
This minimum dimensioning is essential particularly when the bottle
is manufactured from PET. PET bottles are manufactured by inflating
an already manufactured preform at relatively high pressure,
wherein the ring must be sufficiently large during the blow
moulding of the PET bottles to be able to hold the bottle
mechanically in stable manner. When the bottle is manufactured from
a material other than PET, for instance PVC, PP, HDPE and LDPE, the
support ring can then optionally have smaller dimensioning. This is
because a bottle manufactured from a plastic other than PET is
generally not manufactured on the basis of an already formed
preform, but is manufactured directly in a single blow moulding die
of an extrusion blowing machine. The mechanical engagement of the
support ring during the blow moulding of the bottle is then less
critical, whereby the dimensioning of the support ring could be
reduced. However, the use of a support ring or an equivalent
engaging element will generally remain necessary for the subsequent
transport, filling and closing of the plastic bottle. The
dimensioning of the support ring preferably corresponds here to a
standardized dimensioning, whereby existing production lines
require minimum modification to the bottle according to the
invention. A peripheral side of the support ring located a distance
from the neck can herein be given a cross-sectional form which is
substantially round (this being standard) or angled, in particular
hexagonal. The hexagonal form is particularly advantageous because
a further material-saving can in this way be realized relative to a
support ring of round cross-section, while sufficient angles are
still present to enable stable mechanical engagement of the bottle.
The angled support ring is moreover adapted as coupling element to
enable coupling to the support ring of a closing element provided
with internal screw thread. The peripheral side of the support ring
can be provided with one or more recesses for the purpose of
improving the coupling to the closing element.
[0010] The ratio of the protrusion of the at least one engaging
element relative to the neck on the one hand and the wall thickness
of the neck on the other preferably amounts to at least 0.45. By
applying a ratio of at least 0.45, and more preferably at least 1,
it is possible at a standard wall thickness of between 1.45 and
5.05 millimetres to realize sufficient protrusion of the at least
one engaging element to enable mechanical engagement of the bottle
in stable manner for the purpose of producing and/or transporting
the bottle.
[0011] In a preferred embodiment at least one laterally protruding
engaging element is connected to the upper edge of the bottle. In
this preferred embodiment the at least one engaging element, in
particular a support ring, likewise forms part of the upper edge of
the bottle. Having the upper edge of the bottle formed partly by
the at least one engaging element is advantageous because a maximum
reduction in a part of the neck lying above the least one engaging
element, and thereby a maximum weight-saving, can in this way be
realized. In another preferred embodiment however, at least one
engaging element is positioned at a distance from the upper edge.
According to this preferred embodiment, a (small) part of the neck
protrudes a maximum of 5 millimetres relative to a part of the at
least one engaging element remote from the bottle body. The
advantage of applying a small upright edge is being able to realize
a medium-tight closure of the bottle in facilitated manner, which
will be particularly advantageous when the bottle is or will be
filled with a carbonated drink. In a particular preferred
embodiment the ratio of the shortest distance between the at least
one engaging element and the upper edge on the one hand and the
protrusion of the at least one engaging element relative to the
neck on the other lies between 0 and 3.33, in particular 0.2 and
3.33. By selecting the above stated ratio between 0 and 3.33, in
particular 0.2 and 3.33, an optimum ratio is obtained which on the
one hand allows the at least one engaging element to protrude
sufficiently for the purpose of mechanical engagement and which on
the other enables optimum sealing of the bottle, wherein a
substantial weight-saving is still realized. In another particular
preferred embodiment the ratio of the shortest distance between the
at least one engaging element and the upper edge on the one hand
and the wall thickness of the neck on the other lies between 0 and
3 and, when the at least one engaging element lies at a distance
from the upper edge, between 0.10 and 3, more preferably between
0.20 and 3. At a standard wall thickness of between 1.45 and 5.05
millimetres an optimal balance can in this way be found between the
realization of a maximum weight-saving and the realization of an
optimum sealing of the bottle according to the invention.
[0012] Because the neck of the bottle according to the invention is
considerably shorter than the neck of a conventional plastic bottle
for the purpose of realizing the intended weight-saving, the
positioning of the coupling means will generally have to be
modified relative to a conventional positioning of the coupling
means. In a traditional bottle the coupling means are formed by a
screw thread arranged on an outer side of a part of the neck lying
above the support ring. Because this latter part of the neck
protruding above the support ring is either no longer present in
the bottle according to the invention or is of minimal dimensions,
it can be advantageous for at least a part of the coupling means to
form part of the at least one engaging element. By having the at
least one engaging element form at least a part of the coupling
means it is no longer necessary to arrange separate coupling means,
such as for instance a screw thread, this being advantageous from a
financial and logistical viewpoint. In this latter preferred
embodiment a peripheral side of the one or more engaging elements
remote from the neck can herein function as external screw thread
adapted for co-action with a closing element provided with an
internal screw thread. It is however also possible to envisage at
least a part of the coupling means forming part of the neck,
wherein in particular at least part of the coupling means is
positioned in a space enclosed by the neck. An improved closure of
the bottle by means of a closing element can be realized by
applying separate coupling means since the design and dimensioning
of the coupling means can be fully adapted to enabling optimum,
i.e. medium-tight closure of the bottle. In a particular preferred
embodiment at least a part of the coupling means is arranged on an
inner side in the neck.
[0013] The coupling means preferably comprise at least one screw
thread. Depending on the positioning of the screw thread relative
to the neck, this will be an external or internal screw thread. At
least a part of the screw threads of the screw thread connection is
optionally interrupted in order to conditionally allow a certain
degree of ventilation, in particular venting, between the space
inside the food product container and the ambient atmosphere. When
an internal screw thread is applied, the screw thread will be
arranged on an inner side of the neck. When an external screw
thread is applied, the screw thread, or at least the part thereof,
will be arranged on an outer side of a part of the neck lying below
the at least one engaging element.
[0014] In order to enable a medium-tight closure of the bottle to
be realized in facilitated manner it is advantageous when the
bottle is provided with sealing means for sealing a space located
between the bottle and a closing element coupled releasably to the
bottle. The use of sealing means will be particularly advantageous
when the bottle has been or is filled with a carbonated drink,
wherein it will be possible to maintain the carbon dioxide content
in the bottle, this enhancing conservation of flavour and the like.
Substantially medium-tight closure of the bottle can moreover
prevent, or at least counter, micro-organisms being able to move
from outside the bottle to a location inside the bottle in its
closed state. A constant composition of the beverage received in
the bottle can therefore be guaranteed by a medium-tight closure of
the bottle, wherein the beverage can also be conserved in
relatively hygienic manner in the closed food product container. In
a particular preferred embodiment at least a part of the sealing
means is arranged on at least a part of the at least one engaging
element. A substantially medium-tight closure of the bottle can
herein be realized by allowing the closing element to engage under
bias on the at least one engaging element in the closed state. It
is usually also advantageous to optionally additionally arrange at
least a part of the sealing means on at least a part of the upper
edge of the bottle in order to enable realization of a
substantially medium-tight closure. The seal will generally be
formed by a flexible, sealing material strip optionally connected
integrally to the bottle and/or the closing element. Various
conventional materials can be applied as sealing material. A
thermoplastic rubber (TPR), such as a thermoplastic elastomer,
and/or a flexible foam with a closed cell structure are preferably
applied. Examples of applicable materials are: ethylene vinyl
acetate rubber (EVA), ethylene vinyl ethanol (EvOH) and silicone
rubber. In a particular preferred embodiment the sealing means are
provided with one or more additives, wherein at least one additive
is formed by an oxygen scavenger in order to prevent contact of
oxygen with beverage received in the bottle. The beverage can in
this way be conserved in improved manner.
[0015] In a preferred embodiment the dimensioning of the bottle
body of the bottle corresponds to a standardized dimensioning. By
having the bottle body correspond to a standardized dimensioning
hardly any modification need be made to the conventional production
process for the purpose of manufacturing the bottle according to
the invention, this being particularly advantageous from a
logistical and commercial viewpoint.
[0016] The invention also relates to an assembly of a bottle
according to the invention and a closing element connected
releasably to the bottle and closing the bottle. The releasable,
and preferably medium-tight, coupling between the closing element
and the bottle is preferably realized by a clamp connection, a snap
connection, a bayonet fitting or a screw connection. The closing
element can herein be coupled to at least one engaging element. An
inner side of the neck will usually be provided with coupling means
for realizing the coupling between the closing element and the
bottle, whereby in the closed state of the bottle the closing
element is arranged at least partially in the neck of the bottle.
The closing element will generally be manufactured from plastic or
metal. The at least one engaging element is preferably positioned
at a distance from the upper edge of the neck of the bottle,
wherein the closing element is adapted to engage under bias on a
part of the neck above the at least one engaging element for the
purpose of realizing a substantially medium-tight closure of the
bottle. In this way a substantially liquid-tight, and usually also
substantially medium-tight closure of the bottle can be realized.
The closing element is more preferably adapted to engage
multilaterally under bias on a part of the neck lying above the at
least one engaging element. A multilateral sealing can be realized
by having the closing element engage multilaterally under bias on
the neck wall, thereby guaranteeing an improved, substantially
medium-tight sealing. This latter preferred embodiment is
particularly advantageous when the bottle is filled with a
carbonated drink, wherein it will be possible to maintain the
carbon dioxide content in the bottle, this enhancing conservation
of flavour and the like.
[0017] The invention further relates to a plastic preform for
manufacturing the bottle according to the invention. The preform
comprises a sleeve-like body provided with the at least one
engaging element adapted to enable mechanical engagement of the
preform or the formed bottle during the production process of the
bottle, wherein the distance between an upper edge of the
sleeve-like body defining an upper outer end of the bottle to be
formed and the at least one engaging element lies between 0 and 7
millimetres, in particular between 0.5 and 7 millimetres, more
particularly between 1 and 5 millimetres. The preform will
ultimately be transformed into the bottle according to the
invention by means of stretching and inflation. It is noted here
that only a part of the preform will generally be stretched and
inflated during manufacture of the bottle; the at least one
engaging element and a part of the preform possibly lying above the
engaging element will generally not deform during production of the
bottle according to the invention. The ratios and dimensioning
referred to in this patent document which relate to the at least
one engaging element and/or a part of the bottle possibly lying
thereabove are consequently also applicable to the at least one
engaging element and/or a part of the preform possibly lying
thereabove. It is possible to envisage the preform being marketed
separately, after which the preform is transformed into the actual
PET bottle.
[0018] In addition, the invention relates to a method for
manufacturing such a preform, comprising the steps of: A) arranging
melted plastic in a mould cavity enclosed by a mould and forming
the preform provided with the at least one engaging element, B)
arranging coupling means on an inner side of the preform, and C)
removing the preform from the mould. In a preferred embodiment step
A) and step B) are performed simultaneously. In an alternative
preferred embodiment step B) is performed after step C). The
coupling means arranged during step B) preferably connect to an
upper edge of the preform, this being advantageous from a
production engineering viewpoint. The coupling means arranged
during step B) will preferably be formed here by an internal screw
thread. A further elaboration of the method according to the
invention is provided in the figure description.
[0019] The invention also relates to a closing element for closing
a bottle according to the invention. The closing element herein
comprises counter-coupling means, which counter-coupling means are
adapted to be at least partially received in a neck of the bottle
for co-action with coupling means arranged in the neck. Because the
closing element is positioned at least partially in the neck of the
bottle, the closing element functions in fact as stopper, whereby a
relatively reliable and durable sealing of the bottle can be
realized. The counter-coupling means are preferably arranged for
this purpose on an outer side of a bush-like element forming part
of the closing element, this bush-like element being adapted to be
at least partially received in the neck of the bottle. In a
particular preferred embodiment the counter-coupling means are
formed by an external screw thread, in particular an external
interrupted screw thread. The closing element preferably comprises
at least one sealing element in order to realize a medium-tight
sealing of the bottle. The sealing element preferably takes an
annular form here and is adapted to engage the neck of the bottle
under bias. Particularly when the bottle is provided with a
carbonated drink, it is advantageous when the sealing element is
adapted to engage the neck of the bottle multilaterally under bias.
The sealing element preferably comprises for this purpose an
annular receiving space for receiving at least the upper edge of
the neck, and usually also (at least a part of) a part of the neck
lying above the highest placed engaging element. In a particular
preferred embodiment the sealing element has an at least partially
wedge-shaped form in cross-section, whereby the upper edge of the
neck is in fact clamped in the wedge-like receiving space of the
sealing element, which can ensure the best possible medium-tight
seal. It is advantageous here when the sealing element is
manufactured at least partially from a flexible material, in
particular an elastomer.
[0020] The invention will be elucidated on the basis of
non-limitative exemplary embodiments shown in the following
figures. Herein:
[0021] FIG. 1a shows a side view of a prior art PET bottle,
[0022] FIG. 1b shows a side view of a PET bottle according to the
invention modified relative to the prior art,
[0023] FIG. 2a is a side view of a first embodiment variant of a
preform for manufacturing a PET bottle according to the
invention,
[0024] FIG. 2b is a side view of a PET bottle according to the
invention manufactured on the basis of the preform according to
FIG. 2a,
[0025] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an assembly of a second
embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention and a
closing element adapted for co-action with the preform,
[0026] FIG. 3b shows a side view of the assembly according to FIG.
3a,
[0027] FIG. 4a is a perspective view of an assembly of a third
embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention and a
closing element adapted for co-action with the preform,
[0028] FIG. 4b shows a side view of the assembled assembly
according to FIG. 4a,
[0029] FIG. 5a is a perspective view of an assembly of a fourth
embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention and a
closing element adapted for co-action with the preform,
[0030] FIG. 5b shows a side view of the assembled assembly
according to FIG. 5a,
[0031] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of an assembly of a fifth
embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention and a
closing element adapted for co-action with the preform,
[0032] FIG. 6b shows a side view of the assembled assembly
according to FIG. 6a,
[0033] FIG. 7a is a perspective view of an assembly of a sixth
embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention and a
closing element adapted for co-action with the preform,
[0034] FIG. 7b is a side view of the assembled assembly according
to FIG. 7a,
[0035] FIG. 8a shows a perspective view of an assembly of a seventh
embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention and a
closing element adapted for co-action with the preform,
[0036] FIG. 8b shows a side view of the assembled assembly
according to FIG. 8a,
[0037] FIG. 9a is a perspective view of an assembly of an eighth
embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention and a
closing element adapted for co-action with the preform,
[0038] FIG. 9b is a side view of the assembled assembly according
to FIG. 9a in an opened position,
[0039] FIG. 9c shows a side view of the assembled assembly
according to FIG. 9a in a closed position,
[0040] FIG. 10a shows a side view of an assembled assembly of a
ninth embodiment variant of a preform according to the invention
and a closing element co-acting with the preform,
[0041] FIG. 10b shows a detailed perspective view of a part of the
assembly according to FIG. 10a in an opened position,
[0042] FIG. 10c shows a detailed perspective view of a part of the
assembly according to FIG. 10a in a closed position,
[0043] FIG. 11 shows a cross-section of a part of a neck of a
bottle according to the invention,
[0044] FIGS. 12a-12d show different production stages in the
manufacture of a plastic PET bottle on the basis of a preform,
[0045] FIG. 13a shows a perspective view of a closing element
according to the invention for closing a bottle according to the
invention,
[0046] FIG. 13b shows a cross-section of the closing element
according to FIG. 13a,
[0047] FIG. 13c shows a cross-section of an assembled assembly of
the neck according to FIG. 11 and the closing element according to
FIGS. 13a and 13b,
[0048] FIG. 14a is a perspective view of an alternative preform
according to the invention,
[0049] FIG. 14b shows a cross-section of the preform according to
FIG. 14a,
[0050] FIGS. 15a-15d show successive process steps of a first
method for manufacturing a preform according to the invention,
[0051] FIGS. 16a-16f show successive process steps of a second
method for manufacturing a preform according to the invention,
[0052] FIGS. 17a-17d show successive process steps of a third
method for manufacturing a preform according to the invention,
[0053] FIGS. 18a-18d show successive process steps of a fourth
method for manufacturing a preform according to the invention,
[0054] FIG. 18e is a perspective view of a pin for use in an
injection mould as shown in FIGS. 18a-18d,
[0055] FIGS. 19a-19d show successive process steps of a fifth
method for manufacturing a preform according to the invention,
[0056] FIGS. 20a-20d shows successive process steps of a sixth
method for manufacturing a preform according to the invention,
[0057] FIGS. 21a-21c show cross-sections of an assembly of a
preform according to the invention and a closing element in
successively a closed position, an intermediate position and an
opened position,
[0058] FIG. 21d shows a perspective cross-section of the opened
position of an upper part of the assembly according to FIGS.
21a-21c,
[0059] FIGS. 22a-22e show perspective views of different positions
of another assembly of a preform and a closing element according to
the invention,
[0060] FIG. 22f shows a side view and a cross-section of the
preform according to FIGS. 22a-22e,
[0061] FIG. 23a is a side view of yet another plastic preform
according to the invention,
[0062] FIGS. 23b and 23c show cross-sections of a part of the
preform according to FIG. 23a, and
[0063] FIG. 23d shows a partial cross-section of an assembly of the
preform according to FIGS. 23a-23c and a closing element connected
to the preform.
[0064] FIG. 1a shows a prior art PET bottle 1 comprising a bottle
body 2 and a neck 3 connected to bottle body 2. Neck 3 is provided
with a support ring 4 (engaging ring) enabling mechanical
engagement of PET bottle 1 during production and transport of PET
bottle 1. A part 5 of neck 3 located above support ring 4 is
provided with an external screw thread 6 adapted for co-action with
an internal screw thread forming part of a closing element (not
shown) enabling closing of PET bottle 1.
[0065] FIG. 1b shows a side view of a PET bottle 7 according to the
invention modified relative to the prior art. PET bottle 7
according to the invention likewise comprises a bottle body 8 to
which a tapering neck 9 connects, wherein neck 9 is provided with a
support ring 10 to enable mechanical engagement of PET bottle 7
during production and transport. PET bottle 7 according to the
invention is modified relative to the conventional PET bottle 1 by
no longer applying, and thus omitting, the original part 5 of neck
3 located above support ring 4 (shown separately in FIG. 1b),
whereby a substantial weight-saving of several grams, and thereby a
substantial cost-saving, can be realized. As shown in FIG. 1b, the
upper edge of neck 9 defining an upper outer end of bottle 7 is
also formed by support ring 10 which, in addition to a considerable
weight and cost-saving, also results in an improved taste sensation
when a consumer consumes the beverage held in PET bottle 7 directly
from PET bottle 7. It is noted that bottle body 8 and neck 9 are
generally manufactured as one whole and are therefore integrally
connected to each other. The function of support ring 10 is further
elucidated in FIGS. 12a-12d. It will be apparent that bottle 7
according to the invention need not necessarily be manufactured
from PET (polyethylene terephthalate); it is also possible for
instance to envisage bottle 7 being manufactured from another
plastic, such as for instance HDPE (high-density polyethylene).
[0066] FIG. 2a shows a side view of a first embodiment variant of a
preform 11 for manufacturing a PET bottle 12 (see FIG. 2b)
according to the invention. The plastic preform 11 comprises a
sleeve-like body 13, on an open outer end 14 of which is arranged a
support ring 15. During manufacture of PET bottle 12 on the basis
of preform 11 the dimensioning of support ring 15 will not change
at all. Preform 11 will first of all be stretched in lengthwise
direction, after which the stretched preform 11 is inflated in a
mould to form the final PET bottle 12.
[0067] FIG. 3a shows a perspective view of an assembly 16 of a
second embodiment variant of a preform 17 according to the
invention and a closing element 18 (cap) adapted for co-action with
preform 17. Preform 17 comprises a sleeve-like body 19, at an open
outer end 20 of which a support ring 21 of hexagonal shape is
arranged. Closing element 18 is provided with an internal screw
thread 22, which internal screw thread 22 is adapted for co-action
with the support ring 21 of angular shape for the purpose of
closing preform 17, and thereby the bottle to be formed on the
basis of preform 17. Because support ring 21 is of hexagonal shape,
a further weight-saving, and thereby cost-saving, is on the one
hand realized, and furthermore a plurality of contact surfaces
lying at a distance from each other are in fact realized which are
adapted to enable guiding of the internal screw thread 22 of
closing element 18 in durable and stable manner, whereby preform 17
and closing element 18 can be mutually coupled (see FIG. 3b). The
cross-section according to FIG. 3b further shows that in the
assembled position the closing element 18 lies partially in a space
enclosed by sleeve-like body 19 for the purpose of realizing an
improved sealing of preform 17, and thereby of the bottle to be
finally formed. In this exemplary embodiment support ring 21
protrudes 3.75 millimetres relative to sleeve-like body 19 and the
thickness (height) of support ring 21 is 1.5 millimetres.
[0068] FIG. 4a shows a perspective view of an assembly 23 of a
third embodiment variant of a preform 24 according to the invention
and a closing element 25 (cap) adapted for co-action with preform
24. Preform 24 comprises a sleeve-like body 26, close to an open
outer end 27 of which is arranged a support ring 28 of round
cross-sectional design. Closing element 25 is provided with an
interrupted external screw thread 29, this external screw thread 29
being adapted for co-action with an interrupted internal screw
thread 30 arranged in sleeve-like body 26. The actual screw thread
connection is hereby thus formed in a space enclosed by sleeve-like
body 26, and therefore in a space enclosed by a neck to be formed.
As shown in FIG. 4a, support ring 28 is positioned close to (a
short distance from) an upper edge 31 of sleeve-like body 26. The
distance between support ring 28 and upper edge 31 amounts to a
maximum of 5 millimetres. The upper edge 31 protruding relative to
support ring 28 is adapted to be received in a circular groove 32
forming part of closing element 25 in order to enable realization
of a medium-tight seal of preform 24, and thereby of the bottle to
be formed. The realizing of a medium-tight seal is particularly
advantageous when the bottle to be formed is filled with a
carbonated drink.
[0069] FIG. 5a shows a perspective view of an assembly 33 of a
fourth embodiment variant of a preform 34 according to the
invention and a closing element 35 (cap) adapted for co-action with
preform 34. Preform 34 comprises a sleeve-like body 36, close to an
open outer end 37 of which a laterally protruding segmented support
ring 38 is arranged. Closing element 35 is provided with an inward
protruding segmented coupling flange 39, this segmented coupling
flange 39 being adapted for co-action with the segmented support
ring 38 in order to enable coupling of closing element 35 to
preform 34, and thereby to the bottle to be formed, by means of a
kind of bayonet fitting (see FIG. 5b).
[0070] FIG. 6a shows a perspective view of an assembly 40 of a
fifth embodiment variant of a preform 41 according to the invention
and a closing element 42 (cap) adapted for co-action with preform
41. Preform 41 comprises a sleeve-like body 43, close to an open
outer end 44 of which a laterally protruding segmented support ring
45 is arranged. Closing element 42 is provided with a bush-like
element 46 provided with a laterally protruding coupling edge 47.
Coupling edge 47 is adapted for co-action with a groove 48 arranged
in sleeve-like body 44 in order to enable realization of a snap
connection between closing element 42 and preform 41 so as to close
preform 41, and thereby a bottle to be formed. An upper edge 49
protruding a maximum of 5 millimetres relative to support ring 45
is adapted to be received in a circular groove 50 forming part of
closing element 42, in order to improve the sealing of preform 41,
and thereby of a bottle to be formed.
[0071] FIG. 7a shows a perspective view of an assembly 51 of a
sixth embodiment variant of a preform 52 according to the invention
and a closing element 53 (cap) adapted for co-action with preform
52. Preform 52 comprises an elongate sleeve-like body 54, close to
an open outer end 55 of which a laterally protruding, segmented
support ring 56 is arranged. Closing element 53 is provided with a
circular groove 57 adapted for co-action with support ring 56 of
preform 52 to enable realization of a snap connection between
preform 52 and closing element 53 (see FIG. 7b).
[0072] FIG. 8a shows a perspective view of an assembly 58 of a
seventh embodiment variant of a preform 59 according to the
invention and a closing element 60 adapted for co-action with
preform 59. Preform 59 comprises a sleeve-like body 61, close to an
open outer end 62 of which a laterally protruding, segmented
support ring 63 is arranged. Closing element 60 comprises a closing
member 64 and a locking member 65 connected for axial displacement
to closing member 64. Closing member 64 comprises a segmented skirt
66 which is in fact constructed from a plurality of clamping
fingers 66a, this skirt 66 being adapted for co-action with support
ring 64 in order to enable fastening of closing element 60 onto
preform 59, and thereby onto a bottle to be formed (see FIG. 8b).
Locking member 65 is adapted to lock the segmented skirt 66
relative to support ring 63 in order to enable realization of a
reliable closure of preform 59, and thereby of a bottle to be
formed. This closed, locked situation is shown in FIG. 8b. By
subsequently displacing locking member 65 in a direction away from
closing member 64 the segmented skirt 66 is unlocked, after which
closing element 60 can be removed relatively easily from preform
59. In this case the locking member 65 alone can optionally be
removed from preform 59, after which beverage can be removed from
the bottle (to be formed) via a passage opening 67 arranged in
closing member 64.
[0073] FIG. 9a shows a perspective view of an assembly 70 of an
eighth embodiment variant of a preform 71 according to the
invention and a closing element 72 adapted for co-action with
preform 71. Preform 71 comprises a sleeve-like body 73 provided
with a support ring 74 arranged close to an open outer end 75 of
sleeve-like body 73. An inner side of preform 71 is provided close
to open outer end 75 with an internal screw thread 76. Closing
element 72 is provided with an external screw thread 77 adapted for
co-action with internal screw thread 76 of preform 71. As shown in
FIG. 9a, internal screw thread 76 does not run through as far as an
upper edge 78 of preform 71, whereby unintentional removal of
closing element 72 from preform 71 after assembly of assembly 70
can be prevented. Closing element 72 can be positioned in an opened
situation (FIG. 9a) or in a closed situation (FIG. 9b) by axial
rotation of closing element 72 relative to preform 71. Closing
element 72 is provided with a plurality of passage openings 79 for
beverage in order to enable removal of beverage from the bottle (to
be formed) in the opened situation. It is noted that the upper part
of preform 71 provided with support ring 75 and the internal screw
thread 77 will not deform during transformation of preform 73 into
a bottle by means of stretching and blow moulding, whereby the
design and dimensioning of internal screw thread 77 can be fully
optimized in advance for co-action with external screw thread 78 of
closing element 72.
[0074] FIG. 10a shows a side view of an assembled assembly 80 of a
ninth embodiment variant of a preform 81 according to the invention
and a closing element 82 co-acting with preform 81. Preform 81
comprises a sleeve-like body 83 provided with a support ring 84
arranged close to an open outer end 85 of sleeve-like body 83.
Closing element 82 comprises an intermediate ring 86 which is
arranged fixed in preform 81. Intermediate ring 86 is here provided
with a (longitudinal) groove 87 extending in axial direction. An
operating element 88 is connected rotatably to intermediate ring 86
via a coupling flange 89. Operating element 88 is provided with a
beverage passage opening 90 and an internal screw thread 91.
Closing element 82 further comprises a closing member 92 connected
to operating element 88. Closing member 92 is provided with
external screw thread 93 which co-acts with internal screw thread
91 of operating element 88. Closing member 92 also co-acts with a
longitudinal groove 87 of intermediate ring 86 in order to prevent
axial rotation of closing member 92. Closing member 92 will be
displaced upward or downward in axial direction by rotating
operating element 88 relative to intermediate ring 86. When closing
member 92 is herein displaced in downward direction, the beverage
passage opening 90 will be opened, whereby taking a drink from the
bottle (to be formed) is possible (FIG. 10b). Displacing of closing
member 92 in upward direction via operating element 88 is possible
until the closing member engages on intermediate ring 86 such that
the beverage passage opening 90 is closed in substantially
medium-tight manner (FIG. 10c). This closing element 82 is
particularly suitable for enabling long-lasting conservation of
carbonated drinks.
[0075] FIG. 11 shows a cross-section of a part of a neck 94 of a
bottle according to the invention. The neck is provided with an
internal screw thread 95 which continues up to an upper edge 96 of
neck 94, which facilitates removal of a closing element (not shown)
closing the bottle and which is moreover advantageous from a
production engineering viewpoint. Neck 94 is also provided with a
support ring 97 enabling mechanical engagement of the bottle during
production and transport. Support ring 97 is positioned at a
distance from upper edge 96. In this exemplary embodiment the wall
thickness T.sub.N is 1.9 millimetres, the ring thickness T.sub.R
3.75 millimetres, the ring height H.sub.R 1.5 millimetres and the
distance H.sub.N between support ring 97 and the upper edge 1.5
millimetres.
[0076] FIGS. 12a-12d show different production stages for
manufacturing a plastic PET bottle 101 on the basis of a preform
100, wherein a support ring 102 forming part of respectively
preform 100 and PET bottle 101 plays a particularly important part.
FIG. 12a shows that preform 101 is removed from a forming pin 103
by rotating preform 100 axially and simultaneously exerting an
axially directed force on support ring 102. FIG. 12b shows that
preform 100 is inflated to form PET bottle 101, wherein support
ring 102 supports on a plate 104 to enable stabilizing of preform
101 during blow moulding. Support ring 102 and a shown internal
screw thread 105 of preform 101 will not otherwise deform during
the blow moulding. FIG. 12c shows the transport of PET bottle 101
by having support ring 102 of the PET bottle support on a
mechanical engaging member 106. FIG. 12d then shows that a cap 107
is arranged on PET bottle 101, wherein support ring 102 functions
for the purpose of fixing PET bottle 101.
[0077] FIG. 13a shows a perspective view of a closing element 108
according to the invention for closing a bottle 109 according to
the invention. Closing element 108 comprises a bush-like element
110 provided with an external interrupted screw thread 111. The
bush-like element is adapted to be at least partially received in a
space enclosed by bottle 109. Closing element 108 further comprises
a circular groove 112 for receiving an upper edge 113 of bottle
109. Circular groove 112 is provided with a sealing ring 114 which
is manufactured from an elastomer and which can optionally form an
integral part of closing element 108. In addition, closing element
108 comprises an inward protruding flange 115 adapted for co-action
with a support ring 116 forming part of bottle 109. Closing element
108 is particularly suitable for medium-tight sealing of bottle
109, wherein the actual sealing is realized in that bush-like
element 110 is positioned at least partially in bottle 109, wherein
the external screw thread 111 co-acts with an internal screw thread
117 arranged in bottle 109 in that the upper edge 113 of bottle 109
is clamped in the circular groove 112 provided with sealing ring
114 and in that the inward protruding flange 115 engages under bias
on an underside of support ring 116 (FIG. 13c).
[0078] FIG. 14a shows a perspective view of an alternative preform
118 according to the invention. Preform 118 is manufactured from
plastic and adapted to form a bottle. The most important difference
with the preforms shown in the foregoing figures is the replacement
of the conventional support ring by a plurality of recesses 119
arranged in preform 118. Just as the conventional support ring, the
recesses 119 shown here are adapted for mechanical engagement of
preform 118 (and the bottle to be formed on the basis thereof) for
the purpose of production and transport. The advantage of applying
recesses 119 compared to applying a support ring is the realization
of a further weight-saving in preform 118, and thereby in the
bottle to be formed. Preform 118 is further provided with an
internal screw thread 120 which runs through to an upper edge 121
of the preform.
[0079] FIGS. 15a-15d show successive process steps of a first
method for manufacturing a preform 122 according to the invention.
Preform 122 is manufactured in an injection mould 123, which
injection mould 123 comprises a mould and two closing parts 125a,
125b connecting onto mould 124. In addition, injection mould 123
comprises a forming pin 126. Forming pin 126 is partly enclosed by
a displaceable jacket 128 provided with an external screw thread
127. Preform 122 can be provided with an internal screw thread 129
by applying the external screw thread 127. After forming of preform
122 (FIG. 15a) the mould 124 is removed (FIG. 15b), after which
jacket 128 is removed from preform 122 by rotating forming pin 126
(FIG. 15c). Forming pin 126 and closing parts 125a, 125b will then
be removed from preform 122 (FIG. 15d), after which preform 122 can
be transformed into a bottle.
[0080] FIGS. 16a-16f show successive process steps of a second
method for manufacturing a preform 130 according to the invention.
Preform 130 is manufactured by means of an injection mould 131,
comprising a mould 132, a forming pin 133 and a plurality of
closing parts 134a, 134b. After removal of mould 132 (FIG. 16b),
forming pin 133 and closing parts 134a, 134b (FIG. 16c), an
internal screw thread 135 is arranged in preform 130 by applying a
bush 137 provided with an external screw thread 136. Bush 137 is
here arranged for axial rotation in preform 130 to form the
internal screw thread 135 (FIGS. 16d-16f).
[0081] FIGS. 17a-17d show successive process steps of a third
method for manufacturing a preform 138 according to the invention.
Preform 138 is manufactured in an injection mould 139, which
injection mould 139 comprises a mould 140 and two closing parts
141a, 141b connecting onto mould 140. In addition, injection mould
140 comprises a forming pin 142. Forming pin 142 is partially
enclosed by a displaceable jacket 144 provided with an external
screw thread 143. Preform 138 can be provided with an internal
screw thread 145 by applying the external screw thread 143. After
forming of preform 138 (FIG. 17a) the mould 140 is removed (FIG.
17b), after which the forming pin 142 and both closing parts 141a,
141b are removed. Jacket 144 is then removed from preform 138,
after which preform 138 can be transformed into a bottle.
[0082] FIGS. 18a-8d show successive process steps of a fourth
method for manufacturing a preform 146 according to the invention.
Preform 146 is manufactured in an injection mould 147, which
injection mould 147 comprises a mould 148 and two closing parts
149a, 149b connecting to mould 148. In addition, injection mould
147 comprises a forming pin 150. Forming pin 150 is enclosed by
three displaceable jacket segments 151a, 151b, 151c, wherein each
jacket segment 151a, 151b, 151c is provided with an external screw
thread 152. Preform 146 can be provided with an internal screw
thread 153 by applying the external screw thread 152. After forming
of preform 146 (FIG. 18a) the mould 148 is removed (FIG. 18b),
after which forming pin 150 is removed from preform 146. During
removal of forming pin 150 from preform 146 jacket segments 151a,
151b, 151c will connect to a less thick part of forming pin 150,
whereby jacket segments 151a, 151b, 151c will displace toward each
other (FIG. 18c) such that jacket segments 151a, 151b, 151c can
only be removed from preform 146 by axial displacement of forming
pin 150 (FIG. 18d). Closing parts 149a, 149b will here also be
removed from preform 146. FIG. 18e shows a perspective view of
forming pin 150 for use in an injection mould 147 as shown in FIGS.
18a-18d. An upper part of forming pin 150 is given a conical form
and provided with three guide elements 154 for guiding jacket
segments 151a, 151b, 151c. A lower part of forming pin 150 is
relatively thin relative to the upper part of forming pin 150,
whereby jacket segments 151a, 151b, 151c can be displaced as far as
possible toward each other in order to facilitate removal of
forming pin 150 from preform 146.
[0083] FIGS. 19a-19d show successive process steps of a fifth
method for manufacturing a preform 155 according to the invention.
Preform 155 is manufactured in an injection mould 156, which
injection mould 156 comprises a mould 157 and two closing parts
158a, 158b connecting onto mould 157. In addition, injection mould
156 comprises a forming pin 159 for forming an inner side of
preform 155. Forming pin 159 is provided with an external screw
thread 160. Preform 155 can be provided with an internal screw
thread 161 by applying the external screw thread 160. After forming
of preform 155 (FIG. 19a) mould 157 is removed (FIG. 19b), after
which closing parts 158a, 158b are removed from preform 155.
Finally, preform 155 will be removed from forming pin 159 by axial
rotation of preform 155. It will generally be advantageous here to
cool forming pin 159, whereby some shrinkage of forming pin 159
will occur and removal of preform 155 from forming pin 159 can take
place in facilitated manner.
[0084] FIGS. 20a-20d show successive process steps of a sixth
method for manufacturing a plastic preform 162 according to the
invention. Preform 162 is manufactured in an injection mould 163,
which injection mould 163 comprises a mould 164 for forming a lower
part of the outer side of preform 162. Injection mould 163 also
comprises a plurality of closing parts 165a, 165b connecting onto
mould 164 for the purpose of forming an upper part of the outer
side of preform 162, including a support ring 197 to enable
mechanical holding of the preform, and the bottle to be formed
therefrom, during a subsequent blow moulding process. Injection
mould 163 further comprises a segmented forming pin 166 provided
with an external screw thread 167 for forming an inner side of
preform 162. Forming pin 166 comprises two jacket parts 166a, 166b,
between which jacket parts 166a, 166b a removable plate-like pin
core 166c is arranged (FIG. 20a). After forming of preform 162
(FIG. 20a) the mould 164 is removed, wherein pin core 166c is also
removed from jacket parts 166a, 166b of forming pin 166 (FIG. 20b),
after which jacket parts 166a, 166b are displaced toward each
other. Owing to the transformation of forming pin 166 the volume
enclosed by forming pin 166 is reduced such that forming pin 166
can be removed relatively easily from preform 162 (FIGS. 20c and
20d). Closing parts 165a, 165b will here also be removed from
preform 162. It will then be possible to deform the preform 162 to
form a plastic bottle for food products, in particular beverages.
This takes place by mechanical clamping of support ring 197, after
which the preform is stretched (inflated) to the final bottle by
means of a blowing process. This blowing process is also referred
to as blow moulding.
[0085] FIGS. 21a-21c show cross-sections of an assembly 170 of a
preform 171 according to the invention and a closing element 172 in
successively a closed position (FIG. 21a), an intermediate position
(FIG. 21b) and an opened position (FIG. 21c). Preform 171 comprises
a sleeve-like body 173. Sleeve-like body 173 is provided with a
support ring 174 and a flange 175 protruding relative to a top side
of support ring 174. Flange 175 herein protrudes a maximum of 5
millimetres relative to support ring 174 in order to realize an
intended weight-saving in preform 171, and thereby in a bottle to
be formed. An inner wall 176 of sleeve-like body 172 is provided at
the position of support ring 173 with an annular groove 177.
Closing element 172 is in fact constructed from two parts: a
closing base structure 178 and a locking top structure 179
connected displaceably to base structure 178. Base structure 178 is
herein provided with a plurality of resilient pins 181 which are
provided with a stop 180 and around which the top structure 179 is
positioned by means of snapping. Base structure 178 is adapted to
be received substantially wholly in preform 171. Base structure 178
comprises a segmented skirt 182 provided with a peripheral
protrusion 183. The peripheral protrusion 183 is adapted for
co-action with annular groove 176 in order to enable realization of
a sealing of preform 171, and thereby a sealing of a bottle to be
formed on the basis of preform 171. This sealing can be
consolidated by displacing top structure 179 against skirt 182 of
base structure 178 (FIG. 21a), whereby skirt 182 is urged in an
outward direction, and the peripheral protrusion 183 is thereby
urged into groove 177. Unintentional removal of closing element 172
from preform 171 can be prevented by this locking. The removal of
closing element 172 from preform 171 can be brought about by
displacing top structure 179 in a direction away from base
structure 178 (FIG. 21b), whereby skirt 182 can displace in an
inward direction. Pulling top structure 179 further in a direction
away from preform 171 will result in a deformation of skirt 182,
and thereby in uncoupling of closing element 172 relative to
preform 171. A prospective cross-section of the opened position of
an upper part of assembly 170 is shown in FIG. 21d. It is noted
that the closed position of assembly 170 can optionally be
stabilized by providing for instance an outer side of pins 181 of
base structure 178 with screw thread, whereby a threaded coupling
is realized between base structure 178 and top structure 179. It is
also possible to envisage having top structure 179 co-act with
support ring 174 by means of for instance a snap connection to
enable stabilizing of the closed position.
[0086] FIGS. 22a-22e show perspective views of different positions
of another assembly 184 of a preform 185 and a closing element 186
according to the invention, and FIG. 22f shows a side view and
cross-section of preform 185 as according to FIGS. 22a-22e. Preform
185 comprises a sleeve-like body 187 adapted to be transformed into
a bottle. Preform 185 also comprises a top structure 188 connected
integrally to sleeve-like body 187. Top structure 188 will not
deform during transformation of sleeve-like body 187. An underside
of the top structure is formed by a laterally protruding first
(lower) ring 189, usually also referred to as so-called saturn
ring. Top structure 188 also comprises an intermediate neck part
190 and a laterally protruding second (upper) ring 191, wherein
second ring 191 also defines an upper edge of preform 185. The
distance between a top side of first ring 189 and a top side of
second ring 191 amounts to a maximum of 5 millimetres. Closing
element 186 is provided with a removable tamper-evident strip 192,
this tamper-evident strip 192 being provided with a pull-tab 193.
The tamper-evident strip 192 is provided with an inward protruding
edge 194, this edge 194 being adapted for co-action with second
ring 191 in order to enable tamper-evident sealing of preform 185.
Closing element 186 also comprises a tubular element 195 adapted to
be at least partially received in top structure 188 of preform 185.
An external side of tubular element 195 is here provided with
sealing ribs 196 adapted for connection to an inner side of top
structure 188 in order to guarantee a substantially medium-tight,
or at least substantially liquid-tight, closure of preform 185.
Closing element 186 is preferably made from a (somewhat) flexible
material in order to enable optimization of the sealing of preform
185. FIGS. 22a-22e show successively a side view of a sealed
situation of assembly 184 (FIG. 22a), a cross-section of the sealed
situation of assembly 184 (FIG. 22b), a side view of assembly 184
wherein tamper-evident strip 192 has been partially detached (FIG.
22c), a side view of assembly 184 wherein tamper-evident strip 192
has been completely removed (FIG. 22d) and a side view of assembly
184 wherein closing element 186 has been removed from preform 185
(FIG. 22e). FIG. 22f shows clearly that both the diameter and the
height (thickness) of first ring 189 are greater than the diameter
and height of second ring 191. First ring 189 is applied
particularly to enable clamping of the preform during the
production process of the bottle. Second ring 191 also contributes
toward realizing an improved closure of the preform and/or the
formed bottle by applying closing element 186. Provided it is
sufficiently largely dimensioned, second ring 191 could optionally
be applied to allow mechanical engagement by a transport fork for
the purpose of transporting the preform and/or the formed bottle.
Although closing element 186 is arranged on preform 185 in the
shown FIGS. 22a-22e, the shown closing element 186 will in practice
generally be arranged only on the bottle formed on the basis of
preform 185.
[0087] FIG. 23a shows a side view of yet another plastic preform
198 according to the invention. Preform 198 comprises a sleeve-like
body 199 and neck 200 connecting to sleeve-like body 199. As also
shown in further detail in the cross-sections according to FIGS.
23b and 23c, neck 200 is provided with two rings 201, 202
protruding laterally relative to neck 200. Also shown is that both
rings 201, 202 lie at a distance from an upper edge 203 of neck
200. An inner side of neck 200 is provided with an internal screw
thread 204 which extends from upper edge 203 of neck 200 to a
position beyond the lower protruding ring 201. As shown in FIGS.
23d and 23e, screw thread 204 functions as coupling means to enable
coupling of preform 198 to a closing element 205. Both rings 201,
202 are adapted for mechanical engagement of preform 198 (and the
bottle to be formed therefrom) during the production process and/or
transport. As shown clearly in the figures, lower ring 201 has
larger dimensions than upper ring 202, since lower ring 201 is also
adapted to enable mechanical holding of preform 198 during blow
moulding of preform 198 to a plastic bottle at increased
temperature and pressure. The use of a plurality of rings 201, 202
has the important advantage that preform 198 (and the bottle to be
formed therefrom) can be transferred mechanically in relatively
simple and efficient manner from a first transport element to a
second transport element (not shown). As shown in FIG. 23b, the
large ring 201 protrudes a distance a of 2.40 mm relative to neck
200, and the small ring 202 protrudes a distance b of 1.30 mm
relative to neck 200. As shown in FIG. 23c, the shortest distance c
between upper edge 203 of neck 200 and the large ring 201 equals
5.20 mm, and the shortest distance d between upper edge 203 of neck
200 and the small ring 202 equals 1 mm. The distance e between the
two rings 201, 202 amounts to 4.20 mm in this exemplary embodiment.
The part of neck 200 above the small ring 202 has a wall thickness
f equal to 1.30 mm. This wall thickness f is smaller than the wall
thickness of a lower-lying part of neck 200, since the higher part
of neck 200 is adapted for co-action with closing element 205 for
the purpose of realizing a substantially medium-tight closure of
preform 198 (and the bottle to be formed therefrom). This co-action
is shown in more detail in FIGS. 23d and 23e. Shown is that in the
closed position of preform 198 the upper edge 203 of neck 200, as
well as an upper part of neck 200 connecting to upper edge 203 of
neck 200, is received in a sealing element 207 which is provided
with a receiving space 206 and which forms part of closing element
205. Sealing element 207 has a wedge-shaped cross-section, whereby
sealing element 207 can engage multilaterally, and in this case
trilaterally, under bias on the upper part of neck 200, whereby a
substantially medium-tight seal is realized. This medium-tight seal
can be optimized to further extent by arranging a sealing ring (not
shown) on upper edge 203 of neck 200 and/or in receiving space 206
of sealing element 207. Is also possible here to envisage the
sealing element 207 as such already being at least partially
manufactured from a substantially flexible material. In addition,
closing element 205 initially co-acts with the large ring 201 in
order to realize a tamper-evident closure of preform 198 (and the
bottle to be formed therefrom). Closing element 205 is provided for
this purpose with a tear-off sealing edge 208 which engages
initially (prior to first use) on large ring 201. Also shown is
that closing element 205 is provided with a protruding central bush
209 provided with an external screw thread 210 for the purpose of
realizing a threaded connection in neck 200 of preform 198 (and the
bottle to be formed therefrom). It is noted that closing element
205 is in practice generally arranged on the bottle after
manufacture of the bottle, and is so generally not arranged
directly on preform 198. As already noted in the foregoing
description however, the design and dimensioning of neck 200 will
not change at all during blow moulding of preform 198 into a
bottle, whereby the shown coupling between neck 200 and closing
element 205 are shown accurately.
[0088] It will be apparent that the intention is not limited to the
exemplary embodiments shown and described here, but that within the
scope of the appended claims numerous variants are possible which
will be self-evident to the skilled person in this field.
* * * * *