EP4069596B1 - Lidless container and method for assembling the container - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to the field of packaging allowing good preservation of the product it contains, in particular dairy product which can be kept cool, and more particularly to the field of containers without loseable parts. The product can be solid at a refrigeration temperature, semi-liquid, liquid or in a viscous state, possibly in a form which facilitates its recovery/distribution, the product can optionally be consumed using a spoon for example.

TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

Containers having an integrated closure system, of the type not separated from the side wall, are known. For example, the document US 6164488 describes a cup made of paper or similar material that includes a flexible panel formed in its side wall. The flexible panel is folded down to close above the cup, leaving a narrow opening for drinking. However, to prevent overflow, these designs rely on creating a seal between the flexible panel and the internal wall against which it abuts. As a result, the geometry and manufacturing of these types of cups are complex, which limits their application. The document GB 2269811 provides a similar arrangement for closing a container with an integrated closure portion on one side of the side wall. A hinge effect makes it possible to pass the closing part (thinner than the stop region, opposite) from an externally convex conformation, corresponding to the open state of the container, to an externally convex conformation. concave corresponding to a state joined against a complementary interior face of the side wall. This type of container must, however, be made of plastic and is also relatively complex, in particular to obtain a bistable character of the closure part, which limits the interest of this solution.

The document US 5352466 describes a coffee package whose easy opening system has a pair of grip tabs, capable of being pulled to separate opposite walls connected together by bellows, and thus allow the package to be opened with a spacing which remains limited.

The document WO 01/26980 describes another configuration in which a plurality of tabs are hingedly attached to the upper edge of the side wall of the container/cup. The legs are each generally trapezoidal in shape with respective hook extensions that engage with each other and around a straw when the legs are bent flush with the top edge of the cup. The document DE1052305 B describes a container also provided with a complex closure to produce, this container making it possible to contain a liquid such as milk.

However, closing cups of this type can prove problematic, for example, in the fast food sector where a large number of drinks are served in a relatively short period of time, or even in the field of high-speed packaging of products, requiring an easy closing operation. This is for example the case for filled containers that must be immediately refrigerated and transported to marketing destinations. It would also be desirable to improve the reliability of the seal (well airtight) in order to ensure that the contents of the container remain intact, the seal having to withstand transport constraints (vibrations in particular).

Thus, there remains a need for containers which, at least in preferred embodiments, have integrally formed closure portions, but which remain relatively simple to produce and use.

SUMMARY

• le récipient ayant une configuration fermée et comportant en outre deux protrusions (ou deux oreilles) distinctes pour obtenir la configuration fermée, dans laquelle les deux protrusions sont (en particulier simultanément) :
  • en saillie à l'opposé du fond, depuis l'extrémité annulaire de la paroi latérale, et
  • scellées l'une sur l'autre de manière à former une zone de scellage pour fermer hermétiquement l'ouverture,
• le récipient présentant deux portions de saisie, réparties sur les deux protrusions, chacune des deux portions de saisie étant agencée au-delà de la zone de scellage.

With regard to one or more of the observations made above, a container is proposed for packaging a product, comprising: a bottom, a side wall delimiting an interior volume, the side wall extending upwards ( vertically/in an ascending manner) from the bottom to an annular end delimiting an access opening to the interior volume;

• the container having a closed configuration and further comprising two distinct protrusions (or two ears) to obtain the closed configuration, in which the two protrusions are (in particular simultaneously):
  • projecting opposite the bottom, from the annular end of the side wall, and
  • sealed on top of each other so as to form a sealing zone to hermetically close the opening,
• the container having two gripping portions, distributed over the two protrusions, each of the two gripping portions being arranged beyond the sealing zone.

Thanks to this construction, it is enough to move the two protrusions apart from each other, by grasping the gripping portions. Using the container remains simple. The manufacture of the container can be simple and the sealing robust. In embodiments, a spoon, a fork, a straw (if the product is sufficiently liquid), chopsticks, or tongs can make it possible to recover the product through the opening. This design is also well suited for the use of paper or cardboard or laminates comprising a layer of paper or cardboard, which is easy to recycle.

The two protrusions result for example from a cut and project upwards before and after tubular shaping of the side wall, the side wall and the protrusions being formed from a sheet material, preferably a same room. The sheet material may be a material based on paper or cardboard, for example a laminate comprising at least one layer of paper or cardboard and possibly several layers of metal and/or plastic and/or other materials improving properties. barrier Sheet material may be in the form of reels or pre-cut units. The material to constitute the bottom can be identical to that to form the side wall and protrusions. More generally, we understand that the two protrusions cannot be lost. After emptying the container, the consumer can throw it away in one piece. This type of container is thus well suited for nomadic uses, being able to be transported in a backpack or various containers, possibly thermally insulated for the case of a fresh product contained in the container, limiting the risk of losing a lid or other loseable part.

In one embodiment, the container has an opening configuration (in a vertically erect state), in which a first protrusion of the two protrusions remains projecting upwardly, away from the bottom, while all or part of the other or second protrusion is turned over or folded down on an exterior face of the side wall, downwards. The container can therefore be placed by its base on store shelves. Alternatively, one of the protrusions can be used to form rows of containers supported by a support rod passing through an orifice included in the protrusion, or to assemble containers in a group held together by a collar, cord or fixing element common passing through this type of orifice.

The bottom and the opening can each extend along a respective transverse plane, preferably perpendicular to the side wall. The opening thus forms access to the interior volume from above, which allows for example to hold the container vertically by hand when consuming the product (if necessary using a spoon or other utensil for collecting the product). It is understood that the container can minimize the parts to be thrown away and keeps the gripping areas away from the internal surfaces in contact with the product (surfaces located under the sealing zone, below the level of the opening in practice).

Of course, the expression "the side wall extending upward (vertically) from the bottom" should be understood in the broad sense, that is, it is not necessary that the side wall or cylindrical: it must more generally be understood that the side wall has a generally vertical extension (the wall can be flared upwards having a geometry which varies according to the height level of the wall).

The term "tubular" must be understood in the broad sense when it describes the side wall, that is to say that it is not necessary that the side wall have a symmetry of revolution: on the contrary, a tubular wall can designate here a wall which extends from a narrower annular end and/or having a first determined shape to another wider annular end and/or having a second geometric shape different from the first geometric shape.

Typically, the two input portions are offset from each other. It is understood that the container is of the quick-opening type. Advantageously, a simple gesture is enough to obtain the opening, without tools. In variants, carrying out the movement of separating the gripping portions can be conditioned on unlocking or the removal of a security element (removable and/or peelable).

It is for example provided that at least one of the two protrusions is a protrusion having or consisting of an outward flap. Preferably, it is a folding (fully folding) outward protrusion.

A single part can include the side wall and each of the protrusions. Optionally, the folding protrusion is of the folding type between a position projecting upwards relative to the level of the opening and a folded position below the level of the opening. The foldable protrusion may include a region forming a peelable attachment layer for forming the sealing zone. Such a region can extend for example intermediately between the upper end of the side wall and the gripping portion provided in the folding protrusion.

• le fond, la paroi latérale et les protrusions sont en matériaux en feuille à base de papier ou carton, par exemple des laminés comprenant au moins une couche de papier ou carton et éventuellement une plusieurs couches de métal et/ou de plastique et/ou d'autres matériaux améliorant des propriétés barrière. Le matériau en feuille peut être sous forme de bobines ou d'unités prédécoupées.
• la paroi latérale est conformée en manchon, de façon à ce que les positions par défaut des deux protrusions soit des positions d'extension vers le haut avec une distance horizontale entre elles.
• chacune des deux protrusions a une base connectée à la paroi latérale, les deux bases formant deux moitiés d'une périphérie entourant l'ouverture du récipient.
• une des deux protrusions, de préférence une seule des deux protrusions, est raccordée à la paroi latérale par une ligne de pliage prédéterminée, une strie dans la pièce (pièce formant la paroi latérale et les deux protrusions) permettant de définir la ligne de pliage prédéterminée.
• le récipient est à base de papier ou carton, de préférence du carton laminé et/ou revêtu d'une couche protectrice, par exemple hydrophobe, pour un effet barrière aux liquides.
• on prévoit de recouvrir une zone de chevauchement (bord sur bord) de la paroi latérale, par une bande de revêtements de protection, empêchant du liquide ou substance aqueuse de migrer vers une couche interne poreuse (couche fibreuse, en papier ou en carton typiquement) constitutive de la paroi latérale.
• le périmètre de la paroi latérale augmente avec la distance par rapport au fond (cette disposition permet d'améliorer l'accessibilité au produit après l'ouverture du récipient).
• les deux protrusions sont d'un seul tenant avec la paroi latérale.
• la paroi latérale et les deux protrusions sont réalisées d'une seule pièce, de préférence une pièce se présentant sous la forme d'une découpe d'un matériau laminé ou en feuille.
• la pièce pour former la paroi latérale et les protrusions est à base d'un matériau déformable incluant un matériau cellulosique et conformée en manchon par chevauchement de deux portions de bande.
• les deux portions de bande incluent chacune un bord latéral de la paroi latérale, et sont fixées l'une sur l'autre de façon à former une barrière étanche aux liquides.
• un effet barrière étanche au gaz peut être réalisé, dans une zone/ligne de jonction de maintien en forme annulaire/tubulaire de la paroi latérale, en particulier à l'aide d'un revêtement extérieur sur une zone de chevauchement des deux portions de bande.
• au moins une des deux protrusions est une protrusion rabattable vers l'extérieur.
• l'ouverture est en partie délimitée par une ligne de pliage permettant de rabattre la protrusion rabattable, de préférence de façon à ce que la protrusion rabattable s'étende vers le bas depuis la ligne de pliage.
• la protrusion rabattable est déplaçable entre une première position pour fermer le récipient et une deuxième position ; cette protrusion est typiquement accolée contre la face intérieure de l'autre des deux protrusions dans la première position (la protrusion rabattable s'étendant vers le haut depuis une ligne de pliage parallèle au fond), tandis que dans une deuxième position, le récipient est ouvert grâce au pliage de la protrusion rabattable, ce pliage étant réalisé vers l'extérieur à l'opposé de l'autre protrusion (qui reste de préférence en saillie vers le haut).
• la protrusion rabattable inclut une partie d'actionnement formée par l'une des deux portions de saisie.
• dans la configuration fermée, la partie d'actionnement de la protrusion rabattable fait saillie vers le haut depuis/par rapport à un bord supérieur de l'autre protrusion, de sorte que la partie d'actionnement est une partie d'extrémité libre de la protrusion rabattable.
• l'autre protrusion comprend une des portions de saisie, qui est décalée par rapport à la partie d'actionnement, et en saillie axialement vers le haut par rapport à un bord supérieur de la protrusion rabattable, de façon à former une partie d'extrémité libre de l'autre protrusion.
• deux régions d'actionnement sont formées typiquement dans deux portions de saisie décalées, en étant librement accessibles par le haut du récipient (haut du récipient qui peut constituer des moyens de fermeture/ouverture, en particulier des moyens d'ouverture par traction pour ouvrir le récipient).
• les moyens d'ouverture du récipient peuvent être plats dans la configuration fermée plate des deux protrusions.
• pour obtenir le scellage, il peut être prévu l'adjonction d'un matériau adhésif sur au moins une des protrusions (sur une zone interne), de préférence les deux protrusions, ou l'intégration d'un matériau adhésif, pour un scellage à au moins une partie d'au moins une des protrusions (cette disposition étant de préférence réalisée pour l'ensemble de la zone de scellage).
• l'adhésion dans la zone de scellage est activée par simple mise en contact et/ou par action spécifique impliquant une pression et/ou un chauffage, par exemple par thermoscellage ; les(s) matériau(x) adhésif(s) sont typiquement choisis de manière à pouvoir être activés.
• l'adhésion et les matériaux sont tels que le scellage est détruit après ouverture (par exemple en rendant impossible une re-fermeture dans cette zone de scellage) ; ou l'adhésion et les matériaux sont tels qu'un scellage peut être de nouveau obtenu (avec par exemple un matériau adhésif rendant les protrusions repositionnables), le cas échéant moins fort, après ouverture, le récipient étant re-scellable.
• la zone de scellage s'étend transversalement à un axe central de la paroi latérale qui est tubulaire et/ou évasée.
• la zone de scellage s'étend entre deux extrémités opposées qui, dans la configuration fermée et dans un état dressé verticalement de la paroi latérale, sont espacées horizontalement l'une de l'autre d'une distance déterminée supérieure à la plus grande dimension caractéristique du fond (qui s'étend horizontalement).
• la paroi latérale est obtenue à partir d'une découpe ayant deux bords latéraux qui s'éloignent l'un de l'autre en s'approchant de la ligne de pliage qui est typiquement horizontale.
• la paroi latérale peut définir à elle seule la hauteur du récipient.
• dans une configuration à plat, la pièce formant la paroi latérale et les protrusions est plus large (entre les deux bords latéraux) que haute, tandis que dans la conformation en manchon, la paroi latérale a une largeur maximale inférieure à la hauteur totale du récipient.
• une extrémité de la zone de scellage peut être adjacente à une première région de créneau ou interstice bordée par le bas par l'extrémité annulaire et séparant les deux protrusions ; l'autre extrémité de la zone de scellage peut être adjacente à une deuxième région de créneau ou interstice bordée par le bas par l'extrémité annulaire et séparant les deux protrusions.
• les interstices correspondent à des entailles qui peuvent être décalées par rapport à la zone de scellage, optionnellement en s'étendant plus haut que les extrémités opposées de la zone de scellage.
• la zone de scellage s'étend linéairement ou suivant deux dimensions et définit un plan de scellage.
• les deux protrusions sont accolées au moins en partie l'une à l'autre pour s'étendre parallèlement à ce plan de scellage.
• le fond présente un bord externe par exemple de forme circulaire, ovale, polygonale, régulière ou non, à sommets de préférence arrondis; par exemple triangulaire, carrée, ou rectangulaire, de préférence à sommets ou coins arrondis.
• le fond est de forme non circulaire.
• le fond est allongé suivant une direction générale, de préférence horizontale, parallèle au plan de scellage ; dans tout ce qui suit, on parle de plan de scellage lorsque les protrusions s'étendent vers le haut, dans une configuration fermée du récipient avec accès par le haut aux portions de saisie.
• le fond s'étend horizontalement.
• dans la configuration fermée du récipient, la paroi latérale présente sous le niveau de l'ouverture, une forme (première forme géométrique) qui est trapézoïdale en s'élargissant vers l'ouverture, cette forme étant perçue en vue de face par rapport au plan de scellage.
• dans la configuration fermée du récipient, la paroi latérale présente sous le niveau de l'ouverture, une forme (deuxième forme géométrique) qui est sensiblement triangulaire ou tronconique en s'élargissant vers le fond, cette forme étant perçue en vue de côté par rapport au plan de scellage.
• l'extension horizontale maximale du premier profil ou première forme géométrique peut être supérieure à l'extension horizontale maximale du deuxième profil ou deuxième forme géométrique et, typiquement l'extension horizontale minimale de la première forme (trapézoïdale) est supérieure à l'extension horizontale maximale de la deuxième forme (la dimension horizontale étant bien entendu considérée à l'état dressé du récipient, avec la paroi de fond en bas).
• en vue de face par rapport au plan de scellage, les deux protrusions se rétrécissent vers le haut, de préférence en se rétrécissant de façon moins progressive que la paroi latérale.
• en vue de face par rapport au plan de scellage, l'angle d'inclinaison par rapport à la verticale de chaque bord latéral des protrusions (qui peut être un bord rectiligne ou non) peut être supérieur ou égal à 30°, par exemple supérieur ou égal à 45°, tandis que en vue en coupe longitudinale/verticale, l'angle d'inclinaison de la paroi latérale par rapport à la verticale est plus petit et typiquement compris entre 5 et 30°.
• les deux protrusions sont raccordées à la paroi latérale au niveau d'une région annulaire définissant un plan de l'ouverture qui est parallèle au fond.
• les deux protrusions sont les deux seules parties saillantes par rapport à l'extrémité annulaire de la paroi annulaire.
• les deux protrusions comprennent ou consistent en une première oreille, ayant une face intérieure s'étendant dans le prolongement vertical d'une face interne de la paroi latérale, et une deuxième oreille, ayant une face intérieure s'étendant dans le prolongement vertical de la face interne de la paroi latérale.
• les première et deuxième oreilles sont en contact l'une contre l'autre dans la configuration fermée par leurs faces intérieures.
• l'une au moins des deux protrusions se rétrécit vers le haut dans la configuration fermée en étant délimitée par deux bords de délimitation et présente une portion de saisie vers laquelle convergent les deux bords de délimitation.
• une des deux protrusions, de préférence une seule des deux protrusions, est raccordée à la paroi latérale par une ligne de pliage prédéterminée, une strie dans la pièce formant la paroi latérale et les deux protrusions permettant de définir la ligne de pliage prédéterminée.
• l'une au moins des deux protrusions, qui est rabattable vers l'extérieur, présente des stries formées parallèlement à l'ouverture.
• les stries d'une protrusion rabattable constituent chacune une ligne de pliage prédéterminé, l'ensemble de ces stries, qui sont parallèles, assistant et guidant le pliage vers l'extérieur et vers le bas de la protrusion (il est ainsi permis de rabattre rapidement la protrusion dans un premier temps, sans trop élargir l'ouverture ; puis dans un second temps, à l'état abaissé de la protrusion rabattable, il est aisé d'élargir l'ouverture sans déplier la protrusion ainsi le rabattue).
• la protrusion rabattable, à l'état ouvert du récipient, s'étend vers le bas depuis la ligne de pliage, par exemple en longeant et en étant en contact avec une face extérieure de la paroi latérale.
• la ligne de pliage permettant de rabattre la protrusion est par exemple rectiligne à l'état fermé du récipient (ligne horizontale) ; cette ligne de pliage peut éventuellement être courbée, de façon à augmenter la taille d'ouverture, à l'état ouvert du récipient dans la configuration rabattue de la protrusion rabattable.
• le fond a un bord externe annulaire de forme ovale, de façon à présenter un plus grand diamètre ou diamètre maximal et un plus petit diamètre (cette disposition confère aussi une stabilité accrue par rapport à un fond circulaire).
• la paroi latérale est configurée pour élargir, par écartement entre les deux protrusions dans un état ouvert du récipient, une dimension de l'ouverture suivant une direction d'élargissement parallèle à la direction du plus petit diamètre.
• la zone de scellage a une forme de « V » inversé et/ou présente localement au moins une zone supérieure (ou point) de rebroussement ; cette disposition permet de rehausser localement la zone de scellage, pour faciliter la déconnexion (déconnexion par simple traction de portions de saisie éloignées de l'extrémité supérieure de la paroi latérale et pouvant être intégrées dans les protrusions, tout en permettant une fermeture hermétique).
• la zone de scellage se décompose en ou inclut une première bande adhésive solidaire et inséparable d'une des protrusions et une deuxième bande adhésive solidaire et inséparable de l'autre des protrusions, la deuxième bande adhésive ayant une extrémité en chevauchement sur la première bande adhésive, ces deux bandes adhésives ayant par exemple des directions d'extension différentes.
• le détachement l'une de l'autre des protrusions est permis par le caractère pelable d'une ou plusieurs couches autocollantes prévues dans la zone de scellage.
• le récipient ne comprend pas de partie séparable. Cette caractéristique évite à l'utilisateur d'avoir à manipuler différentes parties, et évite que certaines parties soient perdues et/ou non recyclées. L'ouverture est typiquement réalisée sans déchirure, rupture ou coupe dans les parois du récipient.

In various embodiments of the container according to the invention, it is possible to also use one and/or the other of the following arrangements:

• the bottom, the side wall and the protrusions are made of sheet materials based on paper or cardboard, for example laminates comprising at least one layer of paper or cardboard and possibly several layers of metal and/or plastic and/or d other materials improving barrier properties. The sheet material may be in the form of reels or pre-cut units.
• the side wall is shaped like a sleeve, so that the default positions of the two protrusions are upward extension positions with a horizontal distance between them.
• each of the two protrusions has a base connected to the side wall, the two bases forming two halves of a periphery surrounding the opening of the container.
• one of the two protrusions, preferably only one of the two protrusions, is connected to the side wall by a predetermined folding line, a groove in the part (part forming the side wall and the two protrusions) making it possible to define the predetermined folding line .
• the container is based on paper or cardboard, preferably laminated cardboard and/or coated with a protective layer, for example hydrophobic, for a barrier effect to liquids.
• it is planned to cover an overlapping zone (edge to edge) of the side wall, with a strip of protective coverings, preventing liquid or aqueous substance from migrating towards a porous internal layer (fibrous layer, typically made of paper or cardboard) constituting the side wall.
• the perimeter of the side wall increases with the distance from the bottom (this arrangement improves accessibility to the product after opening the container).
• the two protrusions are in one piece with the side wall.
• the side wall and the two protrusions are made in one piece, preferably one piece in the form of a cutout of a laminated or sheet material.
• the part to form the side wall and the protrusions is based on a deformable material including a cellulosic material and shaped into a sleeve by overlapping two strip portions.
• the two strip portions each include a side edge of the side wall, and are attached to each other so as to form a liquid-tight barrier.
• a gas-tight barrier effect can be achieved, in a zone/junction line maintaining the annular/tubular shape of the side wall, in particular using an exterior covering on an overlapping zone of the two strip portions .
• at least one of the two protrusions is an outward folding protrusion.
• the opening is partly delimited by a fold line allowing the folding protrusion to be folded down, preferably so that the folding protrusion extends downwards from the folding line.
• the folding protrusion is movable between a first position for closing the container and a second position; this protrusion is typically abutted against the interior face of the other of the two protrusions in the first position (the folding protrusion extending upwards from a folding line parallel to the bottom), while in a second position, the container is opened thanks to the folding of the folding protrusion, this folding being carried out outwards opposite the other protrusion (which preferably remains projecting upwards).
• the folding protrusion includes an actuation part formed by one of the two gripping portions.
• in the closed configuration, the operating part of the folding protrusion projects upward from/relative to an upper edge of the other protrusion, such that the operating part is a free end part of the folding protrusion.
• the other protrusion comprises one of the gripping portions, which is offset relative to the actuation portion, and projects axially upwards relative to an upper edge of the folding protrusion, so as to form an end portion free from the other protrusion.
• two actuation regions are typically formed in two offset gripping portions, being freely accessible from the top of the container (top of the container which can constitute closing/opening means, in particular opening means by traction to open the container).
• the container opening means may be flat in the flat closed configuration of the two protrusions.
• to obtain the seal, provision can be made for the addition of an adhesive material to at least one of the protrusions (on an internal zone), preferably both protrusions, or the integration of an adhesive material, for sealing at at least part of at least one of the protrusions (this arrangement preferably being made for the entire sealing zone).
• adhesion in the sealing zone is activated by simple contact and/or by specific action involving pressure and/or heating, for example by heat sealing; the adhesive material(s) are typically chosen so that they can be activated.
• the adhesion and the materials are such that the seal is destroyed after opening (for example by making re-closure impossible in this sealing zone); or the adhesion and the materials are such that a seal can be obtained again (with for example an adhesive material making the protrusions repositionable), if necessary less strong, after opening, the container being re-sealable.
• the sealing zone extends transversely to a central axis of the side wall which is tubular and/or flared.
• the sealing zone extends between two opposite ends which, in the closed configuration and in a vertically erect state of the side wall, are spaced horizontally from each other by a determined distance greater than the largest characteristic dimension from the bottom (which extends horizontally).
• the side wall is obtained from a cutout having two side edges which move away from each other approaching the fold line which is typically horizontal.
• the side wall alone can define the height of the container.
• in a flat configuration, the part forming the side wall and the protrusions is wider (between the two side edges) than tall, while in the sleeve conformation, the side wall has a maximum width less than the total height of the container .
• one end of the sealing zone may be adjacent to a first slot region or interstice bordered from below by the annular end and separating the two protrusions; the other end of the sealing zone may be adjacent to a second slot region or interstice bordered from below by the annular end and separating the two protrusions.
• the gaps correspond to notches which can be offset relative to the sealing zone, optionally extending higher than the opposite ends of the sealing zone.
• the sealing zone extends linearly or in two dimensions and defines a sealing plane.
• the two protrusions are attached at least partly to each other to extend parallel to this sealing plane.
• the bottom has an external edge, for example circular, oval, polygonal, regular or not, with preferably rounded tops; for example triangular, square, or rectangular, preferably with rounded corners or vertices.
• the bottom is non-circular in shape.
• the bottom is elongated in a general direction, preferably horizontal, parallel to the sealing plane; in all that follows, we speak of a sealing plane when the protrusions extend upwards, in a closed configuration of the container with access from above to the gripping portions.
• the bottom extends horizontally.
• in the closed configuration of the container, the side wall has, below the level of the opening, a shape (first geometric shape) which is trapezoidal in widening towards the opening, this shape being seen in front view relative to the plane sealing.
• in the closed configuration of the container, the side wall has, below the level of the opening, a shape (second geometric shape) which is substantially triangular or frustoconical widening towards the bottom, this shape being perceived in side view relative to to the sealing plan.
• the maximum horizontal extension of the first profile or first geometric shape may be greater than the maximum horizontal extension of the second profile or second geometric shape and, typically the minimum horizontal extension of the first (trapezoidal) shape is greater than the horizontal extension maximum of the second shape (the horizontal dimension being of course considered in the erect state of the container, with the bottom wall at the bottom).
• in front view relative to the sealing plane, the two protrusions taper upwards, preferably tapering less gradually than the side wall.
• in front view with respect to the sealing plane, the angle of inclination relative to the vertical of each lateral edge of the protrusions (which may be a rectilinear edge or not) may be greater than or equal to 30°, for example greater or equal to 45°, while in longitudinal/vertical sectional view, the angle of inclination of the side wall relative to the vertical is smaller and typically between 5 and 30°.
• the two protrusions are connected to the side wall at an annular region defining a plane of the opening which is parallel to the bottom.
• the two protrusions are the only two parts projecting from the annular end of the annular wall.
• the two protrusions comprise or consist of a first ear, having an interior face extending in the vertical extension of an internal face of the side wall, and a second ear, having an interior face extending in the vertical extension of the internal face of the side wall.
• the first and second ears are in contact with each other in the closed configuration by their interior faces.
• at least one of the two protrusions tapers upwards in the closed configuration by being delimited by two delimiting edges and has a gripping portion towards which the two delimiting edges converge.
• one of the two protrusions, preferably only one of the two protrusions, is connected to the side wall by a predetermined folding line, a groove in the part forming the side wall and the two protrusions making it possible to define the predetermined folding line.
• at least one of the two protrusions, which folds outwards, has grooves formed parallel to the opening.
• the grooves of a folding protrusion each constitute a predetermined folding line, all of these grooves, which are parallel, assisting and guiding the folding outwards and downwards of the protrusion (it is thus possible to quickly fold the protrusion initially, without widening the opening too much; then secondly, in the lowered state of the folding protrusion, it is easy to widen the opening without unfolding the protrusion thus folding it).
• the folding protrusion, in the open state of the container, extends downwards from the folding line, for example along and being in contact with an exterior face of the side wall.
• the folding line allowing the protrusion to be folded down is for example rectilinear in the closed state of the container (horizontal line); this folding line can optionally be curved, so as to increase the opening size, in the open state of the container in the folded configuration of the folding protrusion.
• the bottom has an annular outer edge of oval shape, so as to have a larger diameter or maximum diameter and a smaller diameter (this arrangement also gives increased stability compared to a circular bottom).
• the side wall is configured to widen, by spacing between the two protrusions in an open state of the container, a dimension of the opening in a direction of widening parallel to the direction of the smallest diameter.
• the sealing zone has an inverted “V” shape and/or locally has at least one upper zone (or point) of cusp; this arrangement makes it possible to locally raise the sealing zone, to facilitate disconnection (disconnection by simple traction of gripping portions distant from the upper end of the side wall and which can be integrated into the protrusions, while allowing hermetic closure).
• the sealing zone is broken down into or includes a first adhesive strip secured and inseparable from one of the protrusions and a second adhesive strip secured and inseparable from the other of the protrusions, the second adhesive strip having one end overlapping the first adhesive strip , these two adhesive strips having for example different directions of extension.
• the detachment from one another of the protrusions is made possible by the peelable nature of one or more self-adhesive layers provided in the sealing zone.
• the container does not include a separable part. This feature prevents the user from having to handle different parts, and prevents certain parts from being lost and/or not recycled. The opening is typically made without tearing, breaking or cutting into the walls of the container.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a container which can be aesthetically pleasing, quick to open and capable of effectively preserving the contents/product, where appropriate for a fresh product to be consumed before warming to room temperature. It is also allowed great flexibility in the geometry of the protrusions which allow hermetic sealing.

In one option, all or part of the sealing area is part of a folded end of the container in a modified closed configuration. It can be expected that the two protrusions are in a folded state on the same lateral side of the container in the modified closed configuration. It is understood that this modification can consist of a simple folding making it possible to limit the height of the container, which is advantageous for example during transport or when presenting the container on store shelves or shelves.

Optionally, a fastening element may be provided, for example an adhesive pad, making it possible to maintain the modified closed configuration. The adhesive pad is for example located on one fixing side and stuck laterally both on the side wall and on an end part of at least one of the gripping portions (after having folded down the two protrusions on the holding side /fixation).

• fournir une pièce initialement plane résultant d'une découpe d'un matériau en feuille, présentant deux protrusions ou oreilles distinctes en saillie par rapport à une partie de formation d'une paroi latérale du récipient,
• conformer de façon tubulaire la pièce pour obtenir la paroi latérale délimitant le volume intérieur,
• connecter à une première extrémité de la paroi latérale une paroi de fond pour constituer le fond, l'ouverture étant située à une deuxième extrémité (formant l'extrémité annulaire supérieure de la paroi latérale) opposée à la première extrémité, de sorte qu'à l'état verticalement dressé du récipient, la paroi latérale s'étend verticalement (ou de façon ascendante) à partir du fond jusqu'à une extrémité annulaire délimitant l'ouverture,
• remplir le volume intérieur en produit au travers de l'ouverture, et
• fermer l'ouverture de façon hermétique en rapprochant et en fixant entre elles les deux protrusions, de façon à ce que, dans un état fermé du récipient les deux protrusions soient simultanément en saillie à l'opposé du fond, depuis l'extrémité annulaire de la paroi latérale, et scellées l'une sur l'autre, de préférence par leur face intérieures respectives, en formant une zone de scellage permettant de fermer hermétiquement l'ouverture,

et dans lequel deux portions de saisie sont réparties sur les deux protrusions, chacune des deux portions de saisie étant agencée au-delà de la zone de scellage.According to another aspect, an assembly method is proposed to obtain the container according to the invention, by axially delimiting the interior volume between the bottom delimiting a bottom of the container and an axial closing part covering the access opening from above to the interior volume, the process successively comprising the steps essentially consisting of:

• provide an initially flat part resulting from a cutting of a sheet material, having two distinct protrusions or ears projecting relative to a part forming a side wall of the container,
• conform the part in a tubular manner to obtain the side wall delimiting the interior volume,
• connecting to a first end of the side wall a bottom wall to constitute the bottom, the opening being located at a second end (forming the upper annular end of the side wall) opposite the first end, so that the vertically erect state of the container, the side wall extends vertically (or upwards) from the bottom to an annular end delimiting the opening,
• fill the interior volume with product through the opening, and
• close the opening hermetically by bringing together and fixing the two protrusions together, so that, in a closed state of the container, the two protrusions are simultaneously projecting away from the bottom, from the annular end of the side wall, and sealed one on the other, preferably by their respective interior faces, forming a sealing zone making it possible to hermetically close the opening,

and in which two gripping portions are distributed over the two protrusions, each of the two gripping portions being arranged beyond the sealing zone.

Thanks to this type of assembly, the container can be produced with a minimum of parts that can be recycled (for example paper or cardboard) and superior sealing is allowed, at the stage of a final stage of production of the container which is easy to implement, without hindrance in relation to the product which has been poured into the interior volume (pouring of product without reaching or exceeding the level of the opening located under the sealing zone).

According to one particular feature, the first end of the side wall is shaped in an oval manner by attaching, from the inside, to an external edge of the oval-shaped bottom.

Typically, the part is cut and the side wall is shaped so that it has an increasing perimeter as we move away from the bottom. Optionally, the fixing between the two protrusions is carried out by forming the sealing zone transversely to a central axis of the side wall. Such a sealing zone can for example extend between two opposite ends which, in the closed configuration of the container and in a vertically erect state of the side wall, are spaced horizontally from one another by a greater determined distance to the largest characteristic dimension of the bottom (which extends horizontally).

• dressées à l'opposé du fond, dans la configuration fermée (configuration fermée compatible avec une ouverture),
• séparées l'une de l'autre en écartant les deux portions de saisie jusqu'à rabattre sélectivement une des deux protrusions vers l'extérieur,

ce grâce à quoi le récipient est ouvert en rompant une jonction de scellage réalisée entre les faces internes respectives des deux protrusions sans séparer l'une quelconque des deux protrusions de la paroi latérale.A use of the container according to the invention is also proposed, in which to open the container, the two protrusions are successively:

• erected opposite the bottom, in the closed configuration (closed configuration compatible with an opening),
• separated from each other by spreading the two gripping portions until one of the two protrusions is selectively folded outwards,

whereby the container is opened by breaking a sealing junction made between the respective internal faces of the two protrusions without separating any one of the two protrusions from the side wall.

We thus obtain a simple opening gesture, which can be compatible with a simple container design, possibly compact insofar as the sealing zone can be mobile with the protrusions, which are for example foldable. No breakage or tearing of the wall material constituting the enveloping wall of the product is required, nor any breakage or tearing of any end portion covering all or part of the opening.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

• La figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'un récipient avant sa fermeture, lors d'une phase de remplissage en produit, dont une portion peut être abattue pour permettre ensuite le scellage de l'ouverture du récipient ;
• La figure 2 est une vue de face d'un récipient conforme à l'invention, montrant par transparence une localisation possible d'une zone de scellage, la figure 2 correspondant à une vue de face par rapport à un plan de scellage ;
• La figure 3 illustre par une vue de côté un récipient identique ou similaire à celui de la figure 2, dont les portions supérieures en saillie (oreilles ou protrusions) sont accolées l'une contre l'autre en délimitant une zone de scellage située plus haut qu'une ligne de pliage d'une des protrusions, la figure 3 correspondant à une vue de côté par rapport au plan de scellage ;
• La figure 4 montre un exemple de fond pouvant se connecter à une paroi latérale du récipient ;
• La figure 5 montre un exemple de pièce permettant de constituer la paroi latérale du récipient, lorsqu'elle est à plat avant sa mise en forme tubulaire, dans un exemple de réalisation qui prévoit une ligne de jonction passant par l'une des protrusions ;
• La figure 6 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 2, illustrant un récipient selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• La figure 7 illustre schématiquement un exemple de dépliage de la protrusion fonctionnant comme un rabat, avec la possibilité de déformer la section transversale de la paroi latérale, typiquement en agrandissant une dimension de l'ouverture du récipient mesurée suivant une direction perpendiculaire à la ligne de pliage du rabat ;
• La figure 8 est un logigramme d'étapes permettant, suivant un mode de réalisation, de fabriquer un récipient conforme à l'invention à partir d'un matériau en feuille, par exemple à base de papier ou de carton laminé.
• La figure 9A illustre des étapes de manipulation d'un récipient conforme à l'invention dans un état fermé, afin d'obtenir la configuration fermée telle que montrées sur les figures 2, 3 et 6 en partant d'une configuration fermée modifiée, non opérationnelle pour permettre l'ouverture et dans laquelle les deux protrusions scellées sont rabattues.
• La figure 9B montre des étapes de manipulation permises après avoir redressé les protrusions du récipient illustré sur la figure 9A, pour passer de la configuration fermée opérationnelle à un état ouvert stable permettant de consommer le produit contenu par le récipient.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention emerge from the description given below, with reference to the appended drawings, which represent, by way of non-limiting examples, embodiments and implementation of the object of the invention. In these drawings:

• There figure 1 is a perspective view of a container before its closure, during a product filling phase, a portion of which can be knocked down to then allow the opening of the container to be sealed;
• There figure 2 is a front view of a container according to the invention, showing by transparency a possible location of a sealing zone, the figure 2 corresponding to a front view in relation to a sealing plane;
• There Figure 3 illustrates in a side view a container identical or similar to that of the figure 2 , whose upper projecting portions (ears or protrusions) are placed against each other by delimiting a sealing zone located higher than a fold line of one of the protrusions, the Figure 3 corresponding to a side view in relation to the sealing plane;
• There figure 4 shows an example of a bottom that can connect to a side wall of the container;
• There figure 5 shows an example of a part making it possible to constitute the side wall of the container, when it is flat before being shaped into a tubular shape, in an exemplary embodiment which provides a junction line passing through one of the protrusions;
• There Figure 6 is a view similar to that of the figure 2 , illustrating a container according to one embodiment of the invention;
• There Figure 7 schematically illustrates an example of unfolding the protrusion functioning as a flap, with the possibility of deforming the cross section of the side wall, typically by enlarging a dimension of the opening of the container measured in a direction perpendicular to the folding line of the flap ;
• There figure 8 is a flowchart of steps allowing, according to one embodiment, to manufacture a container according to the invention from a sheet material, for example based on paper or laminated cardboard.
• There Figure 9A illustrates steps for handling a container according to the invention in a closed state, in order to obtain the closed configuration as shown on the figures 2 , 3 And 6 starting from a modified closed configuration, non-operational to allow opening and in which the two sealed protrusions are folded down.
• There Figure 9B shows handling steps permitted after straightening the protrusions of the container shown in the Figure 9A , to move from the operational closed configuration to a stable open state allowing the product contained in the container to be consumed.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

In the different figures, the same numerical references designate similar elements of the different embodiments represented and described.

As shown on the figures 1, 2 And 3 , the container 10 comprises a bottom wall 1 and is adapted to delimit an interior volume V above this bottom wall 1, by forming a side wall 2 connected (tightly) to the bottom wall 1. The container has an opening O, here a single opening which can be substantially as wide as the bottom 1a of the container 10 (at least as wide as a smaller dimension D2 of the bottom 1a, if necessary). Product P, for example a food product, can be poured into the interior volume V via such an opening O, before a sealing step which is carried out by bringing together two protrusions 2a, 2b which are typically integrally formed with the side wall 2. The sealing, obtained by fixing the two protrusions 2a, 2b against each other, makes it possible to obtain the closed state of the container 10. The top or top of this container 10 is thus of the closed type without a separate cover, as visible on the figures 2 And 3 .

The container 10 can be made from two parts each made of a sheet material: one to constitute the bottom wall 1, the other to constitute the side wall 2. In alternative embodiments, the walls 1 and 2 can be made from the same part obtained by cutting a sheet material. In other options, a larger number of coins can be used in order to obtain container 10.

• un fond 1a sensiblement plan destiné à être en contact avec le produit P ; et
• une bordure tubulaire 1b qui s'étend vers le bas depuis la pliure LP (ligne de pliure annulaire).

The bottom wall 1 is shaped so as to be slightly deformable and ensure stability of the container 10 in a vertically erected state. By way of non-limiting example, as illustrated in the Figure 4 , the part forming the bottom wall 1 may have a peripheral LP fold, corresponding to a junction line between:

• a substantially flat bottom 1a intended to be in contact with the product P; And
• a tubular border 1b which extends downward from the LP fold (annular fold line).

The fold LP is continuously curved and the bottom 1a may have a non-round section, for example oval with a large diameter D1 greater than the small diameter D2. The D2:D1 ratio can be less than or equal to 0.9. The external face of the tubular edge 1b can be fixed against a lower annular fixing zone of the side wall 2, called in the following first fixing part FP1. On the figure 2 , it can be seen that the lower end 10a of the container 10 can optionally extend lower than the bottom 1a. The top or upper end 10b of the container 10 may, in the closed configuration, include ends of the two protrusions 2a, 2b. In the open configuration, on the other hand, only one of the protrusions, here protrusion 2a in the case of the figure 1 , remains erect projecting upwards to constitute what remains of the upper end 10b. In other options, the upper end 10b may include only one of the protrusions 2a, 2b, with in this case for example a lateral arrangement of the gripping portion associated with the protrusion of lower height.

The side wall 2 is shaped like a tube, around a central axis is allowed here to produce the side wall 2 and the two protrusions 2a, 2b by a single part 200, of the type illustrated on the figure 5 or similar. A cut of a laminated or sheet material can for example be carried out to obtain the part 200, which is initially plane or flat before being shaped.

In the examples illustrated, the part 200 is flexible, based on a deformable material and for example of the cellulosic type. This cellulosic material can optionally form more than 90 or 95% of the average thickness of the container 10 (thickness which can correspond to the thickness of the side wall 2). The part 200 is laterally cut so as to include two side edges B1, B2. In the example illustrated, the two lateral edges B1, B2 diverge from one another as one approaches a zone or folding line of the folding protrusion 2b. This makes it possible to enlarge the opening O for better accessibility of the product P.

In the option of figure 5 , a folding line is provided which is obtained by the addition of two deformation lines or initial striations S14a and S14b making it possible to obtain a folding line 14 of the type illustrated on the figure 1 . More generally, it can be expected that the lateral cut of the part 200 makes it possible to obtain an increasing profile of the perimeter of the side wall 2 (formed by this part 200), as one moves away from the bottom. 1a. In other words, by approaching the annular end 20 of the annular wall 2, and thus a folding line 14 making it possible to fold down at least one of the protrusions for the open configuration of the container 10, the section of the container 10 is progressively larger.

This is advantageous for recovering the product P with a spoon, and also for reducing the height of the filling volume. We can in fact lower such a height, in comparison to a side wall 2 having a constant perimeter, while facilitating gripping on the bottom side of the side wall 2, where the perimeter is smaller and where the rigidity is greater in due to the connection to the wall element 1. In addition, a downwardly flared shape is easier to hold in one hand for morphological reasons.

The first fixing part FP1 makes it possible to stiffen a first (lower) end of the side wall 2, by fixing it against the folded external annular face or edge 1b of the bottom wall 1. In this way the first end of the side wall 2 is stabilized and remains substantially constant/not deformed in section, without variation in geometry when passing from the closed configuration to the opening configuration of the container 10. Conversely, the second (top) end of the side wall 2 constitutes a annular end 20 of deformable section.

The second fixing part FP2, which can be extended following a longitudinal extension as illustrated in the Figure 5 , makes it possible to maintain the tubular conformation of the side wall 2 while allowing a spacing between the two protrusions 2a, 2b which is accompanied by a rounding of the top of the side wall 2, in top view. The fixing/overlapping width corresponding to the second fixing part FP2 may be less than or equal to 10 mm, for example between 3 and 8 mm. The second fixing part FP2 defines an exterior fixing surface which is covered by a corresponding interior zone (on the rear side of the part 200 as illustrated in the Figure 5 , so that the side edge B1 and the associated side margin forming the fixing part FP2 will be hidden by the other side margin including the side edge B2. These side margins can be fixed one on top of the other, forming a liquid-tight barrier, for example by depositing an additional layer of coating, after fixing with overlap of edge B1 by edge B2.

To change from the flat conformation, shown on the Figure 5 , in the tubular conformation, the cut sheet or part 200 thus has an overlapping region, with an overlap of the opposite edges B1, B2 of the part 200. We thus obtain a junction or junction line J allowing the side wall 2 to form a tubular wall delimiting the interior volume V. The bottom wall 1 can possibly also already be joined from the inside against the first fixing part FP1 during the shaping of the side wall 2.

In reference to the figure 5 , a single piece 200 cut from a sheet can make it possible to produce the side wall 2, which extends from a lower edge 25 to an irregular upper cutting edge 26. While the lower edge 25 can make it possible to define an annular section corresponding to a base plane of the container 10 at its lower end 10a, in the tubular conformation of the part 200, the upper cutting edge 26 includes two or three vertices T1, T2, T3 which may be part of input portions 4, 5.

In this example of the figure 5 , the fact of providing the junction line J at the level of one of the protrusions 2a, 2b, for example a longitudinal junction line passing through one of the gripping portions (here the gripping portion 5), makes it possible to extend the length of the fixing area. Optionally this junction line J corresponds to a maximum length of the side wall 2. This makes the container 10 more robust.

One of the two protrusions 2a, 2b can be obtained by joining two protrusions 11, 12 initially formed in the part 200 at two opposite lateral ends, by overlapping and corresponding/coinciding, possibly at the same height level, the summits T2 and T3. Here, we can obtain a single input portion 4 after having formed the junction line J (as visible on the figure 1 For example). In this non-limiting case, the grip portion 4 is entirely included in the protrusion 12 and forms the vertex T3 of the part 200 before assembly, the vertex T2 not being as high as the vertex T3. In other words, the junction line J can stop before the input portion 4 or be offset relative to this input portion 4.

More generally, different embodiments of the junction line J can be provided and the examples shown are only given by way of illustration. Although two rectilinear edges B1, B2 are shown, wavy cutouts or with one or more hollowed-out regions may possibly be provided, without this preventing the side wall 2 from being shaped in a tubular manner.

In reference to the Figure 3 , in the closed configuration of the container 10, the part of the container 10 constituted by the part 200 may be devoid of a zone folded at 90° or more along a line or horizontal hinge zone (parallel to the bottom 1a).

The container 10 can be adapted for various capacities of product P, which can be a fresh food product, for example a dairy product (yogurt-based depending on one option) and/or a compote, where appropriate a mixture of a solid product (such as Muesli, cereals, chocolate chips, etc.) in a fluid or semi-fluid base product. The product P can be semi-liquid, solid, or contain at least partly a liquid. The product P is for example well suited to being consumed using a spoon and has the ability to fit the interior face F of the side wall 2.

The interior face F of the side wall 2 and the upper face of the bottom wall 1 are contact faces made for example of a material and/or a film having low water permeability and approved for food contact. At the level of the interior faces F1, F2 of the protrusions 2a, 2b, the material may be identical to that of the interior face F, with the possible exception of an optional layer used to obtain the sealing zone Z or Z1, Z2.

On the external side, a material and/or a covering film can be provided which optionally is not flammable.

With reference to figures 3 and 4 , the oval shape of the bottom 1a can facilitate the formation of opposite panels 24, 25 constituting two main sub-parts of the side wall 2. The figure 2 shows, in front view, one of these panels 24 (front view in relation to the sealing zone or sealing plane SP). In the closed configuration of the container 10, these panels 24, 25 are connected to each other via narrow sub-parts folded/curved each inwards and extending vertically between the bottom wall 1 and the level of the opening O. In side view of the container 10 as shown on the Figure 3 , we can see that each narrow sub-part (narrow compared to the width of the panels 24, 25) has a geometric shape which is substantially triangular or frustoconical widening towards the bottom 1a. This shape is seen in side view in relation to the sealing plane SP. The two opposite narrow sub-parts are complementary to the panels 24, 25 and therefore complete the panels 24, 25 in the side wall 2.

The panels 24, 25, visible in the closed configuration, may have an identical or similar geometry, possibly with a difference in inclination relative to the vertical (more or less pronounced inclination, forming an angle more or less close to 90° relative to the bottom 1a which is here horizontal). These panels 24, 25, as seen opposite as on the figure 2 for example for panel 24, each have a contour or geometric shape which is trapezoidal widening towards the opening O.

In reference to the Figure 3 , the level H1 of filling with product P can vary slightly downwards by going from a closed state of the container 10 to an open state. Indeed, the sealing zone Z can be substantially planar (with an ascending/vertical component), by defining a sealing plane SP, which typically implies, in this example, a coplanar extension of the protrusions 2a and 2b, at least for part. This has the effect of making the two main panels 24, 25 converge towards each other. in the closed configuration of the container 10, so that the folding line 14 separating the folding protrusion 2b from the first panel 24 can be adjacent to the second panel 25 in its connection zone with the protrusion 2a which extends this panel 25 upwards. The tightening effect between the panels 24, 25 pushes the product P upwards (this product P having a fluid or semi-fluid character), to a level H1 which is greater than the level H1' shown to the right of the Figure 7 .

Indeed, when the opening O has been enlarged and the container 10 has a flared configuration/conformation even in side view (with a surface in the opening plane exceeding the surface of the bottom), as shown to the right of the Figure 7 , the product P has gone down a little. This flared configuration facilitates the recovery and consumption of the product P. These levels can verify the following relationship: H1'< H1 < H2
where H2 designates the height of the interior volume V, measured vertically from the bottom 1a to the upper annular end 20 where the fold line 14 is formed.

With reference to figures 1 And 7 , the interior face F1 of the protrusion 2a may include a self-adhesive layer or a contact fixing part, above the annular end 20 where the fold line 14 is defined. In the non-limiting example of the figure 1 , this layer is broken down into two regions 21, 22 which rise towards the upper end 10b, joining in a junction part close to the gripping portion 5. When detaching the two protrusions 2a, 2b which will be described in more detail further, this type of arrangement makes it possible to initiate the detachment from the start of the spacing manipulation of the respective gripping portions 4, 5 associated with the protrusions 2a, 2b. In embodiment options, the fixing parts are distributed differently on the interior faces F1, F2 of the protrusions 2a, 2b. More generally, we understand that the arrangement of the sealing zone can be planned so that a region thereof is close to at least one of the gripping portions 4, 5.

In reference to the figure 2 , we can see that the sealing zone Z1, Z2 extends entirely above the annular end 20 where the fold line 14 is defined. The sealing zone Z1, Z2 here has an inverted “V” shape being broken down into a first sealing sub-zone Z1 and a second sealing zone which joins the first sealing sub-zone Z2 for continuity of the sealed connection contact made by the sealing zone Z1, Z2. More generally, the sealing zone can have any type of geometry to close (here from the top) the opening O. It can be advantageous for the sealing zone Z to locally have at least one upper cussing zone (intermediate between two parts descending sealing) and ends 3a, 3b approaching as close as possible to the upper level of the product P, for example by reaching the level of the opening O. It is understood that, in all cases, the sealing zone Z or Z1 , Z2 extends transversely to a central axis X of the tubular side wall 2.

Typically, the sealing zone Z or Z1, Z2 extends continuously in the closed configuration between the two opposite ends 3a, 3b which are spaced horizontally from one another by a determined distance D3 greater than the largest characteristic dimension D1 of the bottom 1, as illustrated for example on the figure 2 .

Container material(s)

• une couche de polyéthylène ;
• une couche de carton ;
• une couche de polyéthylène.

In preferred embodiments, the container 10 comprises paper or a similar fibrous material (preferably of natural origin) making it possible to form the body of the container 10 which delimits the interior volume V. The bottom wall 1 and the side wall 2 are for example made from a cardboard-based material having a reduced thickness, for example a thickness less than or equal to 2 mm, preferably strictly less than 1.5 mm. Each sheet of cardboard can be obtained by being co-extruded with a number of layers of plastic coating. Optionally, the multilayer structure (typically laminated structure) of one and/or the other of the bottom wall 1 and the side wall 2 comprises:

• a layer of polyethylene;
• a layer of cardboard;
• a layer of polyethylene.

It is also permitted to use PLA polymer or other polymer well suited for welding or hot fixing, replacing polyethylene for at least one of the coating layers. In preferred embodiments, a joining edge of the side wall 2 present on the external face of this side wall 2 is covered with a plastic coating, for example deposited in the form of a jet/spray. This constitutes protection of the overlapping strip constituting the edge-to-edge junction J of the side wall 2 as shaped in a tubular manner, knowing that this junction J is located in a deformable part of the container 10.

With reference to figures 6 and 7 , we understand that the initially closed container 10 can be easily grasped respectively by the gripping portion 4 and the gripping portion 5, the consumer pinching these portions 4, 5 between his thumb and his index finger then spreading the gripping portions 4, 5 , so as to thus separate the protrusions 2a and 2b in a side view relative to the sealing plane. There Figure 7 shows the possibility of changing the spacing of the protrusions 2a, 2b during actuation, in particular by maintaining the gripping portion 5 in an erect position (with the protrusion 2a substantially vertical here) while continuing to move the portion of entry 4 provided in the folding protrusion 2b.

The material of the side wall 2 and the protrusions 2a, 2b is compatible with the formation of streaks, obtained for example by localized crushing of the fibrous and/or cellulose material integrated into the thickness of this material. One or more sets of grooves S14a, S14b, FL1, FL2, isolated groove or reliefs for assisting deformation and/or folding can facilitate obtaining, in the upper part of the side wall 2, a suitable geometry to the consumption of product P.

Example of integrating fold lines

At least in the folding protrusion 2b, grooves can be provided which each constitute a predetermined folding line. With reference to figures 5 And 6 , the grooves are provided exclusively in one of the two sub-parts or panels constituting the two opposite main faces of the container 10 in its closed configuration. An asymmetrical character of the container 10 can thus be obtained by placing horizontal grooves exclusively on the panel 24 connected to the protrusion 2b to be folded down to free and widen the opening O. The groove S14 placed in the plane of the opening O (this streak which may result from the combination of several streaks, for example the two streaks S14a, S14b shown on the figure 5 ) thus forms the fold line 14. The groove S14 can have a length substantially equal to half a perimeter of the annular end 20 bordering the opening O. Of course, any other local deformation or physicochemical treatment step can be used to form a folding line making it possible to form a folding protrusion 2b following a predetermined folding.

Other folding lines parallel to the folding line 14, already present in the closed configuration of the container 10, are optionally formed using ridges FL1 which can be distributed on the folding protrusion 2b, while the other protrusion 2a may be smooth and free of fold lines. It is typically expected that these fold lines, here formed by ridges spaced at least 3 mm apart from each other, are shorter than the fold line 14, as visible in front view in the closed configuration.

In reference to the Figure 7 , the folding of the flap formed by the protrusion 2b is done by quickly tilting the corresponding gripping/actuation portion (grasping portion 4 of the Figure 6 ) down. By breaking down the movement of the protrusion 2b, which can be carried out in one second for example, the reversal of orientation of the gripping portion 4 can be carried out before the protrusion 2b is folded back more than 45° around the line of folding 14, which is allowed using the small folding lines FL1. The end of the stroke can then consist of pulling the protrusion 2b downwards while continuing to fold and fold outwards the lowest part of the protrusion 2b, until obtaining the completely folded position of the type visible on the figure 1 , typically without significant widening of the opening O. Thus, assuming that the consumer uses his right hand to pull the gripping portion 4, he can in a single movement fold down the protrusion 2b. Then, using his left hand to grasp the container 10 by the periphery of the side wall 2, an additional gesture of pressure from the sides by his left hand, exerting pressure as illustrated on the right of the Figure 7 by the two arrows in opposite directions, is enough to widen the opening O by further separating the respective bases of the protrusions 2a and 2b.

More generally, we understand that all of these grooves 14, FL1, which are parallel, assist and guide the outward and downward folding of the protrusion 2b. It is thus possible to quickly fold down the protrusion 2b initially, without too much widen the opening O. Then secondly, in the lowered state of the folding protrusion, it is easy to widen the opening O without unfolding the protrusion 2b which thus remains folded down. In other words, the presence of a series of grooves FL1, for example at least three parallel grooves, makes it possible to favor the drawing down action over the opening widening action O, when the protrusions 2a, 2b are separated from each other by traction in opposite directions at the gripping portions 4, 5.

In certain options, it is planned to form, for example asymmetrically and only on the panel 24, on the same side as the folding protrusion 2b, streaks FL2 or similar reliefs with vertical extension, as visible in particular on the figures 5 And 6 . The grooves FL2 can extend vertically on either side of the folding line 14 and contribute to assisting/helping the end of the stroke in the folding movement of the protrusion 2b, for example by avoiding the formation of an angle (s) blocking the movement of the flap.

In practice, these FL2 grooves (here at least five or six in number) can provide a guiding effect, in order to round the side wall 2 more easily and avoiding the formation of a pronounced angle or V-shaped profile which would be visible in top view. The rounding of the fold line 14 can then be close or identical to the illustration of the figure 1 , avoiding forming a pronounced angle near the junction line J.

In certain embodiments, on the side of the panel 25 where no fold, crease initiation or streak is provided (the protrusion 2a not being folded down), a smooth surface is obtained which can make it possible to produce a print. More generally, any type of marking (possibly embossing) can be made on the surface without a fold line, such a surface being favorable to the visibility of information, for example information about the product P contained in the interior volume. V. The flattened appearance of the panel 25 also makes reading such information easy for a consumer observing the container 10 in a stored state on a shelf in a store or in a similar presentation situation.

THE Figures 9A and 9B show the way in which the container 10 can be manipulated, going from a compact configuration to a deployed configuration, then to an open configuration allowing the consumption of the product P contained in the interior volume V of the side wall 2. Fold lines FL1 can also be provided in this embodiment to facilitate the folding of the protrusion 2b with an arcuate conformation (curved outwards) compatible with a wide opening O of the container 10. This is an optional embodiment .

As visible on the Figure 9A , the two protrusions 2a, 2b can be folded down on the same side against the external face of the side wall 2, in a modified closing configuration with all or part of the sealing zone folded down to extend below the level of an exterior folding line 14' here provided on the protrusion 2a. We understand that this configuration limits the height of the container 10.

More generally, all or part of the sealing zone can be mobile in the state sealed with the two protrusions 2a, 2b, in particular when it is desired to minimize the height of the container 10 during transport and/or storage stages. In other words, the container 10 has a movable end (by pivoting or folding along the line 14') so that it can be folded down into a modified closed configuration. As shown in Figure 9A , the user can release and/or grasp the movable end of the container 10 to straighten it, in order to move from the modified closed configuration to the closed configuration as shown on the figure 2 , 3 And 6 . In the modified closed configuration, the gripping portions 4, 5 are folded down with the protrusions 2a, 2b and thus protected from accidental opening manipulation. Optionally, a fastening element may be provided, for example an adhesive pad 60, making it possible to maintain the modified closed configuration. The adhesive pad 60 is for example located on one fixing side and stuck laterally both on the side wall 2 and on an end part of the container including at least one of the gripping portions, here the gripping portion 5 of the protrusion 2a.

The adhesive pad 60 includes a tab 60a or a similar pull tab constituting a gripping portion for detaching part of this pad and folding it downwards. In practice, after having peeled off this upper part of the adhesive pad 60, the user releases the mobile end which can straighten upwards. In this way, the gripping portions 4 and 5 can have an operational configuration allowing the opening of the container 10. In this non-limiting example, these gripping portions 4 and 5 extend upwards relative to the rest of the corresponding protrusions. 2a and 2b, which corresponds to the deployed closed configuration. More generally, we understand that in the closed configuration deployed/allowing the opening operation, we find the folding protrusion 2b in a position projecting upwards, from the folding line 14.

Referring now to the Figure 9B , the folding protrusion 2b can be folded outwards and come into contact with part of the adhesive face of the pad 60. Indeed, as this part of the adhesive face 61 has been turned outwards, it constitutes a support for fixing/maintaining the protrusion 2b in the folded position. In the example illustrated, the gripping portion 4 comes into contact with the adhesive face 61. It should be emphasized that this embodiment avoids completely detaching the pad 60, so that it does not constitute a loose and loseable part. In fact, there remains a fixed part 62, belonging to the pellet 60, which is not detached from the side wall 2.

The bonding of the pellet 60 can be carried out with two different adhesion forces: stronger for the part 62 which is fixed and weaker for the part 61 which is peelable. The pad 60 is made in one piece and may consist of a multilayer sheet material, preferably without a metal layer.

Obtaining a wide opening O is typically obtained in the same way already described with reference for example to the Figure 7 . Inward pressure by the user on the side wall 2, on either side of the folded protrusion 2b, makes it possible to enlarge the section of the opening O without raising the flap formed by the protrusion 2b . There consumption of the product P can then be done easily, for example by a utensil U such as a spoon, a fork or any other suitable utensil(s).

Options for producing input portions

In the illustrated embodiments, the gripping portions 4, 5 are asymmetrical and one of them has an orifice 50, 50' facilitating the support of the container in store shelves or departments. The gripping portions 4, 5 are typically integrated into the protrusions 2a, 2b, without folding or change of direction, by projecting upwards/extending higher respectively with respect to an edge facing the other protrusion 2a or 2b. The upper end of the container 10 can then include these two gripping portions 4, 5 in the closed state. Thus, the gripping portions 4, 5 can be aligned in a plane SP which includes the sealing zone Z; Z1, Z2.

Alternatively, different shapes, symmetrical or non-symmetrical, can be provided for the gripping portions 4, 5. For example, at least one of the gripping portions 4, 5 may not reach the upper end of the container 10 in the state closed and/or can form a tab placed externally to the SP sealing plane.

Each grip portion may extend, vertically or obliquely, from a base line to a free upper end. Each base line of the grip portion 4 or 5 is then aligned with a delimiting edge of the other protrusion, delimitation edge of which exceeds the grip portion considered 4 or 5. Typically, this base line is elongated and exceeds 25 or 30 mm for each of the protrusions 4, 5, which makes these protrusions robust and easy to grip. They are optionally made from laminated cardboard or similar cellulose material which is sufficiently compressed and/or protected by a coating to be resistant to tearing, so that in practice they are impossible to tear accidentally.

In reference to the figure 5 , the protrusions 2a, 2b can each - or at least one of them - taper upwards in the closed configuration by being delimited by two delimiting edges 41, 42 or 51, 52. It is understood that the portion input 4, 5 can correspond to a region of the protrusion towards which the two delimiting edges 41, 42 or respectively 51, 52 converge.

Example of manufacturing process

Referring now to figures 4, 5 And 8 , we describe a non-limiting example of manufacturing a container 10, by using sheet materials such as laminated cardboard.

Part 200 shown on the figure 5 can be obtained after a few steps including one or more cutting steps and processing steps making it possible to define the folding line 14 for folding the second folding protrusion 2b as well as other folding lines and/or weakening of material.

As visible on the figure 8 , it is possible to plan to unwind a roll R1 made of a sheet material having the suitable multilayer structure (as described above, for example PE/cardboard/PE). A cutting step 51 is carried out, optionally at high speed, by a UC cutting tool in order to obtain pieces of sheet, here in a trapezoidal shape. It is understood that the part 200 can result from a cut made in one go or possibly broken down into an initial cut and a secondary cut of a piece of MF sheet material. In the example illustrated, for simplification, the protrusions have been omitted in the cutting step 51. However, it may be preferred to produce the outline of the two protrusions 2a, 2b from this initial cut made in step 51. In other words, this cut makes it possible to define the final lower edge 25, the two sides or lateral edges B1, B2 (in a general shape which is then close to a trapezoid) and also the two protrusions 2a, 2b. We therefore obtain part 200. As shown on the Figure 5 , side edges B1, B2 are provided which move away from each other as we move away from the lower edge 25 and as we approach the level of the opening O This type of geometry of the side edges B1, B2 is advantageous for benefiting from an increased deformation effect at the level of the opening O.

Each part 200 is then subjected to a series of treatments for shaping. For example, we can directly heat the strip portions formed in the lateral margins of each piece (margins including the edges B1, B2) and shape the part 200 into a sleeve. A rotating impression with frustoconical geometry can form a support so that the part 200 is wrapped around this imprint, so that they form a sleeve due to the overlap of the margins or side strip portions. This shaping step 52 can optionally combine heating and winding of the part 200.

Typically, an edge protection step 53 is carried out in order to cover the edge(s) B1, B2, which are involved in forming the junction part J, with a coating which improves liquid tightness. In this way, the junction part J of the side wall 2 is permanently waterproof (taking into account the duration of transport/storage in, store then at the consumer's, in particular if it is a product to be kept at the fresh in a refrigerator). At the end of the shaping step 52 and this optional step 53, the part 200 is in its final conformation and already forms the side wall 2 provided with the protrusions 2a, 2b, without however being connected to the wall of background 1.

Thus, it is possible to produce a groove S14 or similar weakening to form the fold line 14 before the shaping step 52. In the same way, the groups of horizontal streaks FL1 in the protrusion 2b and/or of streaks FL2 with a vertical component on either side of the streak S14 can be produced before step 52, respectively by pressure of at least an organ with imprints/reliefs.

The orifice 50, 50' illustrated as formed in one of the protrusions 2a, 2b, here in the gripping part 5 of the protrusion 2a in the non-limiting example of figure 2 And 6 , can also be pierced before the shaping step 52. This type of orifice 50, 50' can facilitate the presentation and/or assembly (for example in a row) of a set of containers linked by a cord, necklace, carabiner or similar through connecting element each orifice of the containers of the same set. Optionally a sachet with contents that can be associated with the product P of the container can accompany the container 10 while also being attached to the necklace cord, carabiner or similar connecting element.

Parallel to the production of the parts 200 forming the side walls 2, bottom walls 1 are also designed from a roll of laminated material, preferably comprising a layer of paper or cardboard, for example the same material as the side wall 2. After a cutting step 54 which can use equipment similar to that of step 51, except for the type of cutting contour (which can be an oval cut), a shaping step 55 is carried out to fold the peripheral annular region of the corresponding part, so as to obtain the peripheral fold LP and create the border 1b, here surrounding an assembly member 18 with a frustoconical impression.

The connection between the wall elements 1 and 2 is for example carried out by a positioning step 61 with overlapping of the fixing part FP1 on the edge 1b, at the end of which the side wall 2 is maintained in a fixed predetermined position relative to the bottom wall 1. The figure 8 illustrates a final step 62 consisting of a hot fixing of the bottom wall 1. The container 10 ready to be filled can then be obtained by carrying out heating and possibly a pressure treatment, making it possible to attach the external face in a sealed manner. from the edge 1b inside the fixing part FP1.

In certain options, one or more sealing treatments can be carried out during step 62 or after step 62. For example, junction J can be sealed in an assembled state of walls 1 and 2.

The filling as shown on the figure 1 , using any type of product dose pouring system P, can then be carried out, before the final closing step by creating the sealing zone Z or Z1, Z2.

It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention permits embodiments in many other specific forms without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed.

Thus, although the figures show a container 10 whose side wall 2 is made in one piece, a side face including attached parts can be provided. It is also possible to insert into the side wall 2 all kinds of elements facilitating handling, in particular one or more textured surfaces, ribs or other comparable surface characteristics, only on the side of the protrusion 2b or elsewhere. In certain uses, a ring may be provided (possibly with an elastic return effect) or a sleeve, for example configured to surround an upper part of the external face of the side wall 2. A rigid cup with a section comparable to the section of the opening O of the container 10 in an open state can also form a support for the container 10. Such a reusable ring or cup makes it possible, for example, to pass more easily the cross section of the upper end of the side wall 2 d 'a shape elongated oval (elongated towards the respective interstices N1, N2 formed between the two protrusions 2a, 2b) to a substantially circular shape which can facilitate the consumption of the product P, if necessary using a spoon. The ring or cup can be used to obtain the conformation shown on the right of the Figure 7 , typically after having folded down the protrusion 2b.

Furthermore, although filling from the top is preferred as illustrated in the figure 1 , the filling with product P can be carried out in various ways, possibly from the bottom before carrying out a definitive closing step from the bottom in certain variants, the filling can then be carried out opposite the opening a provided for recover/consume the product P.

Claims (16)

1. A container (10), intended for packaging a product, comprising:

   - a bottom (1a);

   - a lateral wall (2) delimiting an interior volume (V), where the lateral wall (2) extending upward from the bottom (1a) up to an annular end (20) delimiting an opening (O) for access to the interior volume (V);

   where the container (10) has a closed configuration and is characterized in that it further comprises two distinct protrusions (2a, 2b) in order to get the closed configuration, wherein the two protrusions (2a, 2b) are simultaneously:

   - projecting opposite the bottom (1a), from the annular end (20) of the lateral wall (2); and

   - sealed to each other so as to form a sealing zone (Z; Z1, Z2) in order to hermetically close said opening (O);

   where the container (10) has two gripping portions (4, 5), distributed on the two protrusions (2a, 2b), where each of the gripping portions (4, 5) is arranged outside of the sealing zone (Z; Z1, Z2).
2. The container according to claim 1, wherein the two gripping portions (4, 5) are offset from each other.
3. The container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the two protrusions is a protrusion (2b) comprising a flap towards the outside.
4. The container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the two protrusions is a protrusion (2b) that can be turned down towards the outside,
   and wherein the opening (O) is in part delimited by a fold line (14) with which to turn down said foldable protrusion (2b), preferably such that the foldable protrusion (2b) extends downward from the fold line (14).
5. The container according to claim 4, wherein the foldable protrusion (2b), is movable between:

   - a first position for closing the container (10) by being joined against the inner surface of the other of the two protrusions (2a), where the foldable protrusion (2b) extends upward from the fold line (14) which is parallel to the bottom (1a); and

   - a second position, wherein the container (10) is open because of the folding of the foldable protrusion (2b), where this folding is done towards the outside opposite the other protrusion (2a), which preferably continues to project upward.
6. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the sealing zone extends transversely to a central axis (X) of the tubular lateral wall (2); where the sealing zone (Z; Z1, Z2) extends between two opposite ends (3a, 3b) which, in the closed configuration and in an upright state of the lateral wall (2), are spaced horizontally from each other by a set distance (D3) greater than the largest characteristic dimension (D1) of the bottom (1a) which extends horizontally.
7. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the lateral wall (2) and the two protrusions (2a, 2b) are made in one piece, preferably a piece (200) having the shape of a cutout of laminated or sheet material.
8. The container according to claim 7, wherein said part (200) is based on a deformable material including a cellulose material and conformed as a sleeve by overlapping two band portions which:

   - each includes one lateral edge (B1, B2) of the lateral wall (2); and

   - are fixed to each other so as to form a liquid-tight barrier.
9. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the sealing zone (Z; Z1, Z2) extends linearly or along two dimensions and defines a sealing plane (SP), where the two protrusions (2a, 2b) are joined at least in part one on the other for extending in parallel to this sealing plane (SP).
10. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the perimeter of the lateral wall (2) increases with the distance relative to the bottom (1a).
11. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one of the two protrusions (2a, 2b) narrow towards the top in the closed configuration by being delimited by two delimitation edges (41, 42; 51, 52) and having a gripping portion (4, 5), which is one among said two gripping portions, towards which the two delimitation edges (41, 42; 51, 52) converge.
12. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the bottom (1a) has one oval or polygonal shaped outer annular edge, preferably oval, so as to present a larger diameter (D1) or maximum diameter and a smaller diameter (D2, where the lateral wall (2) is configured for expanding, by separation between the two protrusions (2a, 2b) in an open state of the container (10), where one dimension of the opening (O) follows a direction of enlargement parallel to the direction of the smaller diameter (D2).
13. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the sealing zone (Z1, Z2) has an inverted V shape and/or has locally at least one turned-back upper zone.
14. The container according to any one of the preceding claims wherein all or part of the sealing zone (Z; Z1, Z2) is part of a folded end of the container (10) in a modified closed configuration, where the two protrusions (2a, 2b) are in a folded state of a single lateral side of the container in the modified closed configuration.
15. An assembly method for getting the container (10) according to any one of the preceding claims by axially delimiting the interior volume (V) between a bottom (1a) delimiting a bottom of the container and an axial closure part covering an access opening (O) from the top of the inner volume (V), where the process successively comprises the steps consisting essentially of:

    - supplying an initially flat part (200) having two distinct protrusions or ears (2a, 2b) projecting relative to a part for forming a lateral wall (2) of the container (10) that results from cutting a material in sheet form.

    - annularly conforming the part (200) in order to get the lateral wall (2) delimiting the interior volume (V);

    - connecting a bottom wall (1) to a first end of the lateral wall (2) in order to form the bottom (1a), where the opening (O) is located at a second end opposite the first end, such that in the upright state of the container (10), the lateral wall (2) extends ascending from the bottom (1a) up to an annular end (20) delimiting the opening (O);

    - filling the inner volume (V) with product (P) through the opening (O); and

    - hermetically closing the opening (O) by bringing the two protrusions (2a, 2b) together and attaching them to each other, such that in a closed state of the container (10), the two protrusions (2a, 2b) are simultaneously projecting opposite the bottom (1a), from an annular end (20) of the lateral wall (2), and sealed to each other by forming a sealing zone (Z; Z1, Z2) with which to hermetically close the opening (O);

    and wherein two gripping portions (4, 5) are distributed on the two protrusions (2a, 2b), where each of the gripping portions (4, 5) is arranged outside of the sealing zone (Z; Z1, Z2).
16. The use of the container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, in order to open the container (10), the two protrusions (2a, 2b) are successively:

    - brought upright opposite the bottom (1a) in a closed configuration;

    - separated from each other by separating the two gripping portions (4, 5) until selectively lowering one of the two protrusions (2b) towards the outside;

    in that way, the container (10) is opened by breaking a sealing junction made between the respective inner surfaces of the two protrusions (2a, 2b) without separating one or the other of the two protrusions (2a, 2b) from the lateral wall (2).

Images