Magnetic Sealing Arrangement with Securing Mechanism

Provided is a sealing arrangement for sealing an opening that is formed between a first closing portion and a second closing portion. The sealing arrangement includes a first sealing part for arrangement on the first closing portion and a second sealing part for arrangement on the second closing portion. The sealing arrangement includes an additional securing mechanism via which a closure compound is secured, which is disposed in a sealing position and includes a first and a second sealing part.

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Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is the United States national phase of International Patent Application No. PCT/EP2022/055413, filed on Mar. 3, 2022, and claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2021 202 821.7, filed on Mar. 23, 2021, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The proposed solution relates to a sealing arrangement for sealing an opening that is formed between a first closing portion and a second closing portion.

Description of Related Art

The closing portions can be parts of a storage device. Via the opening sealed by means of the sealing arrangement, a cavity in a hollow body of the storage device can then be sealed. Such a storage device is provided for example for receiving an object, for example an electronic object such as a mobile phone, a camera of a tablet or laptop computer or the like or also another object of daily life, for example a wallet or a means of payment such as a credit card. Such a storage device serves to receive and protect objects, in particular against moisture or dirt or also other external influences. This is to enable objects to be carried in difficult environments, such as during water sports, but also, for example, at work.

Such a hollow body then includes a cavity, for example formed between a first wall and a second wall, in which the object to be received in the storage device can be stored. For sealing the hollow body, the sealing arrangement then is provided, which comprises a first sealing part and a second sealing part. In one design variant, the first sealing part includes a first strip body longitudinally extended along a transverse direction and is arranged on a first closing portion of the first wall, and the second sealing part includes a second strip body longitudinally extended along the transverse direction and is arranged on a second closing portion of the second wall. The first sealing part and the second sealing part cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner in such a way that in a closed position, in which the hollow body is sealed, the first closing portion and the second closing portion rest against each other. Such a storage device is known for example from EP 2 571 391 B1.

In this context it is also known that in a closed position of the sealing arrangement the first and second sealing parts form a closure compound that can be adjusted from a release position into a sealing position. In the release position of the closure compound, the first and second closing portions can again be properly separated from each other against a magnetic force applied by the first and second sealing parts, in order to clear the opening. In the sealing position, the closure compound and a third sealing part cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner in such a way that the closure compound is maintained in the sealing position, in which clearing of the opening is not possible. Consequently, the closure compound must first be adjusted from the sealing position into the release position in order to again clear the opening. An adjustment of the closure compound into the sealing position is effected for example by folding or rolling the closure compound at least once so that by means of the third sealing part the closure compound then is maintained in a folded or rolled sealing position.

Although via the magnetic securement between closure compound and third sealing part the sealing arrangement is effectively secured against inadvertent opening on the part of a user and a comparatively simple handling is ensured, a further need of improvement exists in such a sealing arrangement. In particular with regard to increased loads acting on the sealing arrangement, for example due to an increased internal pressure in a cavity sealed by the sealing arrangement, (increased) shear forces may act on the sealing parts of the sealing arrangement, which possibly cause a removal of the closure compound from the third sealing part and/or a separation of the first and second closing portions from each other.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In this respect, a sealing arrangement as described herein represents an improvement over the solutions known from the prior art.

A proposed sealing arrangement comprises an additional securing mechanism, via which the closure compound disposed in a sealing position is additionally secured against removal from a sealing position.

According to a first aspect of the proposed solution, the sealing arrangement on a first closing portion additionally comprises a third sealing part with which the closure compound in its sealing position cooperates in a magnetically attracting manner. Via the additional securing mechanism, the sealing position can additionally be secured mechanically so that the securing mechanism prevents an inadvertent removal of the closure compound from the third sealing part.

In principle, however, the proposed solution also is advantageous without such a third sealing part cooperating with the closure compound in a magnetically attracting manner. Correspondingly, a second aspect of the proposed solution provides a sealing arrangement in which the closing portions can be adjusted into the sealing position by folding or rolling at least once, and the securing mechanism secures the closure compound against removal from its sealing position taken in this way due to an increased internal pressure in a hollow body that is sealed at the opening by the sealing arrangement. A proposed sealing arrangement (in particular independently of a third sealing part magnetically cooperating with the closure compound) was found to be advantageous in order to secure a sealing position taken by folding or rolling at least once against inadvertent opening, when due to an increased internal pressure shear and/or lifting forces act on the first and second sealing parts on a hollow body sealed by the sealing arrangement. Via an additional securing mechanism, it here is possible to effectively counteract in particular shear forces which in a middle portion of the strip bodies of the first and second sealing parts act in a direction perpendicular to a direction of longitudinal extension of the strip bodies, and/or lifting forces which act on the closure compound at the longitudinal ends and by action of which the sealing parts strive to move away from each other.

Regardless of a design variant according to the first or second aspect of the proposed solution, the securing mechanism in the sealing position accordingly can be adapted to

    • counteract a lifting force acting on the first and second strip bodies at the longitudinal ends and resulting from the increased internal pressure, by action of which mutually opposite longitudinal ends of the first and second strip bodies strive to move away from each other, and/or
    • counteract a shear force resulting from the increased internal pressure, which in a middle area of the first and second strip bodies acts on the sealing arrangement in a plane extending parallel to the first and second closing portions.

Accordingly, the securing mechanism in particular can be adapted to counteract a shear force that acts between the first and second sealing parts, between the closure compound and a third sealing part, or between the closure compound and a wall which the closure compound faces in the sealing position.

The proposed solution proceeds from the underlying idea to additionally mechanically secure the closure compound in its sealing position against a displacement into the release position with the closing portions resting against each other in the closed position, in any case as long as no release force applied by a user acts on the closure compound along a particular, specified direction of action. In this way, in particular an inadvertent opening of the closure compound can be prevented. Thus, the additional securing mechanism can be actuated manually and hence can be released in order to be able to again adjust the closure compound into the release position.

Without a deliberate release of the securing mechanism on the part of the user, the closure compound however remains blocked against an adjustment into the release position. Via the first and second sealing parts with their strip bodies, a (possibly sealing) termination thus is provided at the closing portions, which is mechanically secured via the securing mechanism. Thus, removal from the sealing position, against which a mechanical protection is provided via the securing mechanism, thus not only is understood to be an inadvertent removal by a user actively acting on the sealing arrangement, but in particular an (at least partial) removal from the sealing position, which results from a load acting on the sealing arrangement, which is not applied by a user.

In the sealing position, the first and second closing portions can be present in folded or rolled form, in particular in that the first and second closing portions and hence walls including the closing portions are bent over by 180° at least once, as seen along a path of extension in a cross-section perpendicular to the transverse direction.

The strip bodies are arranged on the closing portions and thus act on the closing portions, wherein the sealing parts cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner and the closing portions thus are magnetically held in contact with each other when the first and second sealing parts are in their closed position.

To provide a magnetic interaction, the first strip body and/or the second strip body can each be formed of a magnetic material, for example in that the strip bodies are formed of a plastic material, in particular a polymer material, or a silicone material to which a magnetic material in the form of magnetic particles is admixed. Alternatively, the strip bodies can each receive a magnet arrangement of discrete magnetic elements so that the strip bodies cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner by interaction of the magnet arrangements. It is conceivable that each sealing part acts as a permanent magnet, for example in that the strip bodies are formed with permanent magnetic particles and thus are made of a permanent magnetic material, or in that the magnet arrangements of the sealing parts are each formed of an arrangement of permanent magnets. Alternatively, however, it is also possible that one sealing part acts as a permanent magnet and the other sealing part acts as a ferromagnetic armature, for example in that the ferromagnetically acting sealing part has a strip body of a ferromagnetic material (for example of a plastic material to which ferromagnetic particles are admixed) or includes discrete ferromagnetic elements.

When a sealing part includes a magnet arrangement of discrete magnetic elements, the discrete magnetic elements for example can be lined up linearly along the transverse direction, wherein the discrete magnetic elements for example can be regularly spaced apart from each other along the transverse direction. It is also conceivable and possible, however, to arrange the discrete magnetic elements in rows and columns with reference to a two-dimensional matrix.

In principle, a third sealing part also can include a third strip body extended along the transverse direction. For example, the third sealing part is arranged on an offset portion of a first wall, which is different from the first closing portion. In the closed position, the third sealing part for example can cooperate with the first sealing part in a magnetically attracting manner in order to hold the closure compound in the sealing position.

The third sealing part can be arranged spatially offset from the first closing portion perpendicularly to the transverse direction. In such a design variant, the third sealing part thus is designed with its third strip body extending parallel to the first strip body of the first sealing part, but offset transversely to the first sealing part.

In the closed position, the third strip body and the first strip body for example can be in flat opposition to each other with surfaces facing each other. The sealing parts cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner so that the first sealing part is held in a defined positional relation to the third sealing part.

In one design variant, the first strip body and/or the second strip body and/or a third strip body of a third sealing part are of elastic design. A strip body for example can have an increased rigidity with respect to walls of a hollow body at which the closure device is inserted, but at the same time is so elastic that it can be bent, in particular about a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse direction.

Via the securing mechanism, an additional connection between the closure compound and a wall connected to the first closing portion and/or between the closure compound and the third sealing part can be provided when the closure compound is disposed in the sealing position. A connection between the closure compound and the third sealing part for example includes the fact that in the sealing position a connection between the first sealing part and the third sealing part or between the second sealing part and the third sealing part is provided via the securing mechanism. The additional connection provided via the securing mechanism can be of the positive type and be provided for absorbing shear forces acting on the sealing arrangement.

For example, the securing mechanism includes at least one securing part which via a positive connection secures the closure compound against removal from the third sealing part. The positive connection in principle can exist already in the sealing position of the closure compound. However, this also includes a design variant in which a positive connection for securing the closure compound against removal from the third sealing part only exists when a certain load acts on the sealing arrangement.

In a development, the securing mechanism includes at least two securing parts which in the sealing position of the closure compound positively cooperate with each other in order to secure the closure compound against removal from the third sealing part. These at least two securing parts likewise can positively get into engagement with each other already on reaching of the sealing position by the closure compound or, alternatively, can at least be brought into a relative position to each other, in which under a load acting on the sealing arrangement the positive engagement of the two securing parts into each other is realized automatically.

In a development based thereon, a first securing part and a second securing part are provided, wherein the first securing part is adapted to engage behind the second securing part in order to secure the closure compound against removal from the third sealing part. By correspondingly engaging behind and hence by an undercut formed on the securing mechanism, an effective positive securement of the two securing parts to each other on the one hand can be ensured. On the other hand, it can thereby also be achieved comparatively easily that the securing parts can again be brought out of engagement only by a targeted release movement. An inadvertent separation of the securing parts, in particular in a loaded state of the sealing arrangement, thus is excluded.

In principle, a securing part of the securing mechanism can also be formed on one of the sealing parts. Alternatively or additionally, a securing part can be formed by a component of the sealing arrangement separate from a sealing part.

In one design variant, the sealing arrangement comprises at least one magnetic element by action of which at least one securing part of the securing mechanism is positioned in a securing position in which the at least one securing part can block the closure compound against removal from the third sealing part via a positive connection. A corresponding magnetic element here can also be formed by magnetic material in the form of magnetic particles. Alternatively, a magnetic element can comprise a permanent magnet that is arranged at a corresponding point on the sealing arrangement.

In a securing position, in which a securing part of the securing mechanism is positioned by action of at least one magnetic element, the securing part can already be in positive engagement in order to secure the closure compound against being adjusted into the release position. It can, however, also be provided that the securing part in its securing position still is disposed in an intermediate position from which the securing part only is displaced into an engagement position by action of an additional load on the sealing arrangement, in which engagement position the blocking positive engagement then exists.

One design variant furthermore provides that by action of the at least one magnetic element the at least one securing part also is adjusted into the securing position already on transfer of the closure compound into its sealing position. Thus, the at least one magnetic element ensures that the at least one securing part is disposed in its securing position when the closure compound reaches the sealing position.

In an alternative design variant, the at least one securing part can be adjusted into its sealing position only after transfer of the closure compound and hence subsequently in the direction of the securing position. This subsequent adjustment can then be supported by the at least one magnetic element—at least in a last piece of an adjustment path before reaching the securing position—in order to support the taking of a specified position by the at least one securing part in the securing position by magnetic attraction.

In principle, an additional positive connection can be provided between the closure compound and a wall to which the first closing portion is connected, in order to secure a taken engagement position. For example, one design variant therefor provides at least one form-fit element on the side of the closure compound, e.g. in the form of a latching nose or a latching web, which engages into a wall-side latching opening when the securing part is disposed in the engagement position.

In one design variant, an additional securing element is provided on the closure compound, to which at least one securing part of the securing mechanism is fixed at a distance to the first and second sealing parts. The securing element for example has a flexible or rigid carrier body to which the at least one securing part is fixed. For example, the securing part is provided offset from the first and second sealing parts in a spatial direction that extends transversely to the direction of extension of the strip bodies of the first and second sealing parts. Via the securing part provided on the additional securing element, a mechanical arrestment of the closure compound in the sealing position can thus be provided at a distance to the first and second sealing parts and possibly also at a distance to the third sealing part. Referring to a variant already mentioned above, this for example includes the fact that the securing part provided on the additional securing element forms a first securing part, which in the sealing position of the closure compound is positively connected to a second securing part that is provided on a wall connected to the first closing portion and in particular is fixed thereto. The first and second securing parts in particular can form part of a magnetic closure via which the closure compound in its sealing position is additionally secured against an adjustment into the release position.

In one design variant, the securing mechanism includes at least one securing part which after the transfer of the closure compound into its sealing position by pivoting about at least one joint axis can be adjusted into a securing position securing the closure compound. In the securing position, the at least one securing part consequently secures the closure compound disposed in its sealing position against removal from the third sealing part. Pivoting of the securing part about its joint axis into its securing position here can be provided after the closure compound has been adjusted into the sealing position. In this design variant, the at least one securing part then for example subsequently is specifically pivoted into its securing position by a user in order to additionally secure the closure compound.

The joint axis for example can be defined by a joint via which the at least one securing part is articulated to the closure compound, to a third sealing part of the sealing arrangement, or to a wall connected to the first or second closing portion. In the latter case, the securing part thus can be articulated to a front, first or rear, second wall along a viewing direction (extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension of the first and second strip bodies) onto the closure compound disposed in its sealing position.

For example, the joint axis is defined by a film hinge or a film. Via a film hinge or a film, a pivotable securing part can be provided on the sealing arrangement at comparatively low cost. For example, the film defining the joint axis can be a portion of a wall, to which one of the closing portions is connected.

To keep the sealing arrangement as compact as possible, one design variant provides that via the film hinge the at least one securing part is connected to the third sealing part. Via the film hinge, the at least one securing part then consequently is articulated to the third sealing part and consequently need not be provided on a separate component.

Via the at least one securing part disposed in its securing position, a connection absorbing form-fitting forces and hence in particular shear forces and/or lifting forces in one design variant is provided between the closure compound disposed in the sealing position and the third sealing part. Via the film hinge, the securing part for example can also be pivoted relative to a third strip body of the third sealing part into its securing position and can then be positively connected to the closure compound, after the closure compound has taken the sealing position. Via the film hinge, the securing part can be provided at a longitudinal end of the third strip body. For example, the securing part is of tab-shaped, in particular strip-shaped design.

For a positive connection via the securing part in the securing position pivoted about the joint axis, at least one receptacle can be provided on the at least one securing part, into which a further securing part of the securing mechanism positively engages in the securing position. For example, an opening therefor is provided in the securing part, into which a protruding pin or web of the further securing part engages in the securing position. Alternatively or additionally, at least one form-fit element can be provided at the at least one securing part, which in the securing position engages into a receptacle of a further securing part of the securing mechanism. A corresponding form-fit element then can be formed by a pin or web here as well, which is inserted into a corresponding receptacle of a further securing part. A further securing part as mentioned above can be formed in particular on a sealing part of the closure compound, i.e. for example on the first sealing part.

Alternatively or additionally, the securing mechanism can include at least one securing part for the targeted mechanical securing of ends of the closure compound present on the long side (with respect to a direction of longitudinal extension of the strip bodies and hence to the transverse direction) on a wall or on a third sealing part. Such securing on the side of the longitudinal ends above all counteracts lifting off vertically, possibly in addition counteracts shearing. A securing part to be used for this purpose for example in particular includes an articulated securing part as already mentioned above. However, this also refers to an alternative design variant in which for example a securing part is formed with a Velcro tape, an O-ring or a sleeve put over a longitudinal end.

As already mentioned above, the closure compound with the first and second sealing parts disposed in the closed position can be transferred from the release position into the sealing position by pivoting the closure compound about a pivot axis parallel to a first spatial direction (e.g. with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system of the x-direction). The closure compound here consequently is folded about the pivot axis parallel to the first spatial direction, for example by about 180°. A (resultant) magnetic force for holding the closure compound in its sealing position with respect to the third sealing part then acts along a spatial axis that is parallel to a second spatial direction (y) extending perpendicularly to the first spatial direction. Via the securing mechanism in such a variant, the closure compound is secured against removal from the third sealing part due to shear force, i.e. against removal due to a shear force pointing in a third spatial direction (−z), which is both perpendicular to the first spatial direction (x) and perpendicular to the second spatial direction (y). Consequently, when a shear force pointing in the third spatial direction acts on the closure compound, the closure compound is secured via the securing mechanism against a displacement into this spatial direction and hence against a displacement into the release position.

For example, the closure compound can be folded from the release position into the sealing position, in which the securing mechanism then secures the closure compound against a displacement relative to the third sealing part beyond a permitted degree along the third spatial direction, and hence also against being folded back. This third spatial direction is just opposite to a directional component along which the closure compound is folded into the sealing position. The securing mechanism thereby can also prevent lifting or shearing of the closure compound off from the third sealing part as a result of a load applied onto the sealing arrangement, for instance a load resulting from an increased internal pressure in a cavity sealed by the sealing arrangement.

One design variant provides that a securing part, which blocks the closure compound against an adjustment along the third spatial direction, initially is disposed in an intermediate position when the closure compound reaches the sealing position, and only then can be displaced into an engagement position. It can be provided here that due to magnetic attraction the securing part of the securing mechanism (merely) is positioned in the intermediate position when the closure compound is transferred into its sealing position.

In one variant, again alternatively or additionally, the displacement into the engagement position, in which for example the one securing part engages behind another securing part of the securing mechanism, can be supported by at least one (additional) magnetic element. There can be provided at least one magnetic element, by action of which the at least one securing element is adjusted from the intermediate position into the engagement position. When the closure compound has taken its sealing position and hence the securing part is in the intermediate position, a further adjustment of the securing part into the engagement position consequently is supported by action of a magnetic force.

The magnetically supported adjustment from the intermediate position into the engagement position also can include the fact that via a magnet arrangement of the securing mechanism a bistable state is specified for the position of the securing part, when the closure compound is in its sealing position. The securing part then initially is held in the intermediate position via the magnet arrangement. However, when a load via which the closure compound would be moved in the direction of the release position is acting on the sealing arrangement, a related minor displacing movement of the securing part leads to a change in magnetic elements having an attracting effect on each other, and as a result to a magnetically supported displacement of the securing part into the engagement position. This in particular includes the fact that a securing mechanism is adapted to permit a minor displacing movement of the securing part in the direction of action of the shear force by action of a shear force acting on the closure compound, which then however leads to the magnetically supported displacement of the securing part into the engagement position.

Independent of whether the securing part is moved from the intermediate position into the engagement position with magnetic support, one design variant can provide that the at least one securing part can be displaced from the intermediate position into the engagement position by action of an increased internal pressure in a cavity accessible via the opening. The securing mechanism consequently is configured here in such a way that the securing part is automatically displaced into the engagement position when an increased internal pressure, i.e. a pressure exceeding a threshold value, is acting in the cavity. Such a variant in particular is advantageous when the sealing arrangement is to be used to seal a cavity on a liquid reservoir with flexible walls. After filling liquid into the cavity, in particular during transport or under a load, an internal pressure can increase to such an extent that the securing part on the securing mechanism of the sealing arrangement automatically is displaced from the intermediate position into the engagement position. In such a design variant of the proposed sealing arrangement, a sealing position of the closure compound consequently is automatically, i.e. without the user acting on the securing mechanism, additionally mechanically secured against an adjustment into the release position. After the elimination of the load on the liquid reservoir, a return of the securing part into the intermediate position can then also be effected automatically, which in turn facilitates the release of the securing mechanism and hence the opening of the sealing arrangement. For a user, the mechanical securement of the sealing position additionally provided by the securing mechanism thus is without any disturbing influence on the opening of the sealing arrangement.

Thus, the proposed solution is advantageous in particular for use on a liquid reservoir, for example a drink bladder. Via a design variant of a proposed sealing arrangement, a hollow body of the liquid reservoir provided for receiving a liquid can be sealed at an opening via which—with an open sealing arrangement—liquid can be filled into the hollow body. A securing mechanism of the sealing arrangement here can counteract in particular a removal of the closure compound from the third sealing part due to an increased internal pressure in the hollow body at least partly filled with liquid.

In this context it can be provided in particular that the hollow body is bordered by at least one flexible wall to which a closing portion of the sealing arrangement is connected. By introducing liquid into the hollow body, but also by a pressure applied onto a flexible wall from outside with a hollow body at least partly filled with liquid, quite considerable shear forces can act on the sealing parts at the sealing arrangement sealing the opening. Via the additionally provided securing mechanism, it then is ensured that such shear forces do not lead to an undesired opening of the sealing arrangement.

The proposed solution furthermore comprises a drink bladder with a design variant of a proposed sealing arrangement, in which a hollow body provided for receiving liquid is bordered by flexible walls and the sealing parts of the sealing arrangement are provided at correspondingly flexible closing portions connected to an associated wall.

In one design variant, the first strip body of the first sealing part then for example is enclosed between an inner layer and an outer layer of a first wall that borders a cavity of the hollow body to be sealed by the sealing arrangement. Additionally or alternatively, the second strip body of the second sealing part can be enclosed between an inner layer and an outer layer of a second wall of the hollow body. The respective strip body, which can be designed as a massive strip-shaped tape, thus is disposed in an intermediate layer between the inner layer and the outer layer and thus is enclosed between the layers and hence inwardly covered by the inner layer and outwardly covered by the outer layer.

In one design variant, the first closing portion is formed by the inner layer of the first wall and the second closing portion is formed by the inner layer of the second wall. The closing portion of the respective wall thus is integrally molded to the inner layer of the respective wall. In the closed position, the closing portions flatly rest against each other and produce a sealing termination so that the hollow body is sealingly closed towards the outside, in particular so fluid-tightly that no moisture can get into the interior of the hollow body.

In one design variant, the first wall and/or the second wall are flexible. In particular, both the first wall and the second wall can be flexible and pliable so that the hollow body can be deformed in a flexible, easily moldable way and thus can adapt in its shape to receive an object. Due to the walls, the hollow body thus is designed in the form of a bag in which an object, in particular an electronic object such as a mobile phone or another object of daily life, can be received or be enclosed in a protective way. Alternatively, the hollow body can be configured for receiving a liquid and hence e.g. as part of a drink bladder.

In principle, first and second walls to which the first and second closing portions of a proposed closure device are connected can be part of a continuous wall element. Thus, the first and second walls in particular can be formed in one piece. For example, first and second walls facing each other in a cross-sectional view can be formed by a single, one-piece wall element in the form of a blow-molded part.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The attached Figures by way of example illustrate possible design variants of the proposed solution.

FIG. 1 shows a view of a storage device with a hollow body and a sealing arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the arrangement of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A shows a frontal view of the storage device;

FIG. 3B shows a sectional view along line A-A of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C shows an enlarged view in section B of FIG. 3B;

FIG. 4 shows a view of a storage device with a hollow body and a sealing arrangement according to another exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 5 shows an exploded view of the arrangement of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6A shows a frontal view of the storage device;

FIG. 6B shows a sectional view along line C-C of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C shows an enlarged view in section C of FIG. 6B;

FIG. 7 shows a view of a storage device with a hollow body and a sealing arrangement according to yet another exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 8 shows an exploded view of the arrangement of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9A shows a frontal view of the storage device;

FIG. 9B shows a sectional view along line A-A of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9C shows an enlarged view in section B of FIG. 9B;

FIGS. 10A-10B show a development of the storage device shown in FIGS. 1 to 9C, on which a proposed securing mechanism additionally is provided, which is shown in two different positions;

FIGS. 11A-11B show another design variant with an additional securing mechanism, which here includes two strip-shaped securing tabs, which in FIG. 11A are folded down and in FIG. 11B are pivoted into a securing position;

FIG. 12 in a sectional view corresponding with FIG. 3C shows another design variant in which a securing mechanism is provided, which comprises two securing parts engaging one behind the other under a load;

FIG. 13 in a view corresponding with FIG. 12 shows a development in which the reaching of a desired position of a securing part of the securing mechanism is magnetically supported;

FIG. 14 in a view corresponding with FIG. 12 shows another development in which an additional mechanical securement is provided via a protruding securing web;

FIG. 15 shows a front view of another design variant of a proposed storage device in the form of a drink bladder with a design variant of a proposed sealing arrangement;

FIG. 15A shows a sectional view corresponding to the sectional line A-A of FIG. 15;

FIGS. 16A-16C each in an enlarged view of section C of FIG. 15A show a development of the sealing arrangement in different phases on closing and opening, in which a securing part of the closure compound is displaced into an engagement position under magnetic force control, when the closure compound takes a sealing position and the engagement position is defined by an additional form-fit element on the side of the closure compound;

FIGS. 17A-17B in views corresponding with FIGS. 16A-16C show another design variant in different phases on closing of the closure device;

FIGS. 18A-18B in views corresponding with FIGS. 17A and 17B show another design variant in which a securing part on the side of the closure compound is provided on the first sealing part.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1 to 3A-3C show views of a first exemplary embodiment of a storage device 1 which has a hollow body 10 that is bordered by walls 100, 101 and is designed to hold an object, in particular an electronic object such as a mobile phone or another object of daily life, for example a wallet or a means of payment. The storage device 1 can also be a liquid reservoir, such as for example a drink bladder. In the hollow body 10 a liquid then is stored, which can flow off via an outlet 10A provided at the hollow body 10, e.g. into a drinking tube connected thereto.

The walls 100, 101 are connected to each other for example by welding on parallel lateral edges spaced apart from each other along a transverse direction x and on a lower edge along a vertical direction z and are to be sealed by a sealing arrangement 2 in the region of an upper end so that an inner volume of the hollow body 10 or a cavity defined therewith is sealingly closed in a closed position of the storage device 1. As can be taken from the sectional view of FIG. 3C, each wall 100, 101 is formed by two layers 106, 107, of which an inner layer 106 points towards the inner volume of the hollow body 10 and an outer layer 107 points towards the outside.

The walls 100, 101 are of flexible design so that the hollow body 10 is flexibly deformable, in particular in order to be able to flexibly receive an object therein or to expand on receipt of a liquid in the hollow body 10.

The closure device 2 includes three sealing parts 20, 21, 22. Of these sealing parts 20, 21, 22 a first sealing part 21 is arranged on a closing portion 104 of the first wall 100, while a second sealing part 20 is arranged on a closing portion 105 of the second wall 101 in such a way that the sealing parts 20, 21 extend along the vertical direction z at the same height on the respectively associated wall 100, 101. The sealing parts 20, 21 cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner so that in the closed position of the sealing arrangement 2 the closing portions 104, 105, which are each formed by the inner layer 106 of the associated wall 100, 101, flatly and thus sealingly rest against each other and form a closure compound 2V.

A third sealing part 22 is arranged on a portion 102 of the first wall 100 which is offset from the closing portion 104 of the first wall 100 and, as seen along a path of extension proceeding from the closing portion 104 in a cross-section as shown in FIG. 3C, arranged transversely offset from the first sealing part 21.

The sealing parts 20, 21, 22 each include a strip body 202, 212, 222 that is longitudinally extended along the transverse direction x and thus extends transversely to the vertical direction z.

The sealing parts 20, 21, 22 are designed to cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the strip bodies 202, 212, 222 are each formed from a magnetically acting material, for example in that the strip bodies 202, 212, 222 are made of a plastic material or a silicone material in which magnetically active particles are embedded. The strip bodies 202, 212, 222 can each act as permanent magnets and then face each other in pairs with unlike poles in such a way that in the sequence shown in FIG. 3C the strip bodies 202, 212, 222 magnetically attract each other. Alternatively, for example, merely the strip body 212 of the first sealing part 21 can act as a permanent magnet, while the other strip bodies 202, 222 are of the ferromagnetic type so that the associated sealing parts 20, 22 act as a magnetic armature. It is also conceivable, for example, that the sealing parts 20, 21 are designed to be permanently magnetic at their strip bodies 202, 212, while the strip body 222 of the third sealing part 22 acts ferromagnetically.

As can be taken for example from FIG. 3C, the strip bodies 202, 212, 222 are enclosed between the inner layer 106 and the outer layer 107 of the respectively associated wall 100, 101. The strip bodies 212, 222 of the sealing parts 21, 22 are enclosed between the inner layer 106 and the outer layer 107 of the first wall 100, while the strip body 202 of the sealing part 20 is enclosed between the inner layer 106 and the outer layer 107 of the second wall 101.

The closing portions 104, 105 are urged into flat contact with each other by the first sealing part 21 and the second sealing part 20 in such a way that the closing portions 104, 105 formed by the inner layers 106 of the walls 100, 101 rest against each other in the manner of membranes and thus sealingly close the hollow body 10. The closure compound 2V formed by the sealing parts 21 is held in a defined sealing position by the third sealing part 22, wherein a 180° convolution of the walls 100, 101 in a region between the closing portions 104, 105 and portions 102, 103 transversely offset from the closing portions 104, 105 is effected, as this can be taken from FIG. 3C. The tightness of the closure device 2 in the closed position thereby is still improved.

The first sealing part 21 and the second sealing part 20 each include a handle element 200, 210 which can be grasped by a user. By action on the sealing parts 20, 21, the sealing parts 20, 21 can be released in particular from the further, third sealing part 22 and be adjusted into a release position. In this release position, the sealing parts 20, 21 can be moved away from each other along an opening direction y, which is perpendicular to the transverse direction x and to the vertical direction z, and hence the closing portions 104, 105 can be separated from each other so that the interior of the hollow body 10 is accessible through the opening cleared thereby.

In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 to 6A-6C, the strip bodies 202, 212, 222 are not entirely made of a magnetic material, but each include an arrangement of receiving openings 201, 211, 221 in which discrete magnetic elements of one magnet arrangement 23, 24, 25 each are received. The discrete magnetic elements are lined up one beside the other along the transverse direction x and thus form a linear array of magnetic elements, wherein in the closed position the magnet arrangements 23, 24, 25 of the different sealing parts 20, 21, 22 cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner and thus sealingly close the hollow body 10 via the closing portions 104, 105.

The discrete magnetic elements of the magnet arrangements 23, 24, 25 can each be formed by discrete permanent magnets, for example from a neodymium material. It is also conceivable, however, that merely one magnet arrangement 23, 24, 25 or two of the magnet arrangements 23, 24, 25 include discrete permanent magnets, while the other magnet arrangements 23, 24, 25 are formed of discrete ferromagnetically active elements.

Otherwise, the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 4 to 6A-6C is functionally identical to the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3A-3C, in particular also with regard to the manufacture of parts of the storage device 1 from a material containing an antimicrobially active additive so that in this respect reference fully will be made to the preceding explanations.

The exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 7 to 9A-9C corresponds to the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 4 to 6A-6C, wherein in this case there is no third sealing part 22, like in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 4 to 6A-6C, and the sealing arrangement 2 thus is formed by merely two sealing parts 20, 21. Otherwise, the storage device 1 is functionally identical to the storage device 1 of FIGS. 4 to 6A-6C.

FIGS. 10A to 18B show design variants of the proposed solution, in which the sealing arrangement 2 is further developed with a securing mechanism S. Via this securing mechanism S, the sealing position of the closure compound 2V additionally is mechanically secured. The securing mechanism S in particular is adapted to absorb shear forces (in the xz-plane or in the vertical direction z, −z) and/or lifting forces (in the spatial direction y), which act as a result of an increased internal pressure in the hollow body 10, for example due to a liquid received therein. Under the effect of these shear forces there is otherwise an increased risk for the closure compound 2V to be moved away from the third sealing part 22 and to be folded about the spatial axis parallel to the x-direction (upwards) into the release position, and in addition for the two sealing parts 20 and 21 to be moved away from each other.

In the design variant of FIGS. 10A and 10B, an additional securing element in the form of a securing tab 3 is arranged on the closure compound 2V. This securing tab 3 is fixed to the second sealing part 20 and forms a carrier body for a pair of first securing parts 3.1, 3.2. The first securing parts 3.1 and 3.2 protrude from an inner surface 31 of the securing tab 3 with a securing pin and in the sealing position of the closure compound 2V are completely covered by an outer surface of the securing tab 3.

When the closure compound 2V is folded into its sealing position corresponding to FIG. 10B, the first securing parts 3.1, 3.2 automatically positively snap into second securing parts 4.1 and 4.2 of the securing mechanism S, which are arranged on the wall 100. On the second securing parts 4.1 and 4.2, which are arranged at a distance to the third sealing part 22 in z-direction, engagement openings 41 and 42 are formed, into each of which the securing pins of the first securing parts 3.1 and 3.2 snap into place. In the present case, a magnet arrangement each is provided in a pair of first and second securing parts 3.1/4.1, 3.2/4.2 in such a way that the first securing parts 3.1 or 3.2 each are adjusted into a positive locking position on the respective second securing part 4.1 or 4.2 with magnetic support, when on folding of the closure compound 2V the first securing part 3.1, 3.2 has been approached sufficiently to the associated second securing part 4.1, 4.2 and hence to the securing tab 3. By action of the respective magnet arrangement, the respective first securing part 3.1, 3.2 is displaced into the proper locking position along an insertion gap 410 or 420, which is provided on the engagement opening 41, 42 of its associated second securing part 4.1 or 4.2 and extends radially with respect to the engagement opening 41 or 42. Thus, a pair of securing parts 3.1/4.1, 3.2/4.2 each forms a magnetically supported closure.

When the closure compound 2V is in the proper sealing position with respect to the third sealing part 22, the securing mechanism S and the interlocking securing parts 3.1/4.1, 3.2/4.2 additionally mechanically secure the closure compound 2V against folding back into the release position. To release the securing mechanism S, a release force FL must specifically be applied onto the securing tab 3 by a user in order to bring the first and second securing parts 3.1/4.1, 3.2/4.2 out of engagement. The release force FL must be applied in order to displace the first securing parts 3.1, 3.2, which are fixed to the securing tab 3, along the respective insertion gap 410 or 420 out of an engagement opening 41 and 42 of the associated wall-side second securing part 4.1 and 4.2. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the insertion gaps 410 and 420 extend parallel to each other in the z-direction so that the release force FL must be applied onto the securing tab 3 along the z-direction.

Alternatively, however, another orientation of the insertion gaps 410, 420 is of course also possible. In particular, it is conceivable that the insertion gaps 410, 420 each are open in the transverse direction x and hence the securing tab 3 initially must be displaced transversely, before folding back of the closure compound 2V and hence a complete removal from the third sealing part 22 is possible.

In the design variant of FIGS. 11A and 11B, the securing mechanism S includes two securing parts in the form of narrow, strip-shaped securing tabs 223A, 223B which are provided via one film hinge 222A or 222B each at a respective longitudinal end of the third strip body 222 of the third sealing part 22. The securing tabs 223A and 223B thus are each articulated to the strip body 222 of the third sealing part 22 via a film hinge 222A or 222B.

In addition, additional securing parts of the securing mechanism S in the form of securing pins 204A and 204B are formed on the second strip body 202 of the second sealing part 20. The securing pins 204A and 204B protrude from the strip body 202 in the y-direction, when the closure compound 2V is in its sealing position with respect to the third sealing part 22. On the securing tabs 223A and 223B, (shear force) receptacles 224A and 224B in the form of through openings are each formed, which by folding the securing tabs 223A and 223B about a joint axis defined with the respective film hinge 222A and 222B and extending parallel to the z-direction can be positively brought in engagement with an associated securing pin 204A or 204B.

The securing pins 204A and 204B each are provided at a distance to a longitudinal end of the strip body 202 so that a securing tab 223A or 223B always encloses at least one end of the strip body 202 when its receptacle 224A or 224B has been brought in engagement with the associated securing pin 204A or 204B. A flat portion of the respective securing tab 223A or 223B hence is disposed directly opposite a portion of the strip body 202.

To support the positive connections between the securing tabs 223A, 223B of the third sealing part 22 and the second sealing part 20 of the closure compound 2V in the securing position of the securing tabs 223A, 223B defined therewith and illustrated in FIG. 11B, there can be provided a magnet arrangement with magnetic elements 205A, 205B on the closure compound 2V and magnetic elements 225A, 225B on the securing tabs 223A, 223B. The magnetic elements 205A, 205B of the closure compound 2V, which in FIG. 11A by way of example are arranged on the second strip body 202 of the second sealing part 20, cooperate with the magnetic elements 225A and 225B of the securing tabs 223A or 223B in a magnetically attracting manner. In this way, the abutment of the folded securing tabs 223A, 223B against the strip body 202 and the engagement of a respective securing pin 204A, 204B on the side of the strip body into a tab-side receptacle 224A or 224B are supported.

Via the securing tabs 223A and 223B of the securing mechanism S in the variant of FIGS. 11A and 11B, which each are unilaterally articulated to the third sealing part 22, in particular lifting of the closure compound 2V from the third sealing part 22 or of the longitudinal ends of the strip bodies of the sealing parts 20, 21, 22 from each other (in the spatial direction y) by action of an increased internal pressure in the hollow body 10, and hence an undesired opening of the sealing arrangement 2 in the case of a cavity 10 filled with liquid, is counteracted. The design variant of FIGS. 11A and 11B hence is also suitable in particular for a utilization of the storage device 1 as drink bladder.

In the design variants of FIGS. 12, 13 and 14, the sealing arrangement 2 is each shown in a sectional representation corresponding to FIG. 3C. In each of the design variants shown with FIGS. 12, 13 and 14, the sealing arrangement 2 is again formed with an additional securing mechanism S. This securing mechanism S again counteracts a removal of the closure compound 2V disposed in the sealing position from the third sealing part 22 and hence in particular a shearing off from the third sealing part 22 and possibly a separation of the two closing layers 104 and 105 from each other by a defined form fit—here between the closure compound 2V and the third sealing part 22. The securing mechanism S, however, each is configured in such a way that by pulling the closure compound 2V along the spatial direction y with a release force FL—in any case in an unloaded state of the sealing arrangement 2—the closure compound 2V can easily be removed from the third sealing part 22 by a user and can be folded back into the release position (upwards), when for example liquid is to be refilled into the hollow body 10 via the opening between the closing portions 104 and 105.

In the design variant of FIG. 12, the securing mechanism S includes a first securing part in the form of a securing hook 216 on the first sealing part 21. In the sealing position of the closure compound 2V, the securing hook 216 protrudes from the first sealing part 21 in the direction −y towards the (first) wall 100. For example, the securing hook 216 therefor is formed on the handle element 210.

In the sealing position of the closure compound 2V, the securing hook 216 is disposed opposite a securing cutout 226 of a second securing part of the securing mechanism S, which is formed by the third sealing part 22. The securing cutout 226 is open in the z-direction so that the securing hook 216 protruding from the first sealing part 21 in the −y-direction can positively engage into the securing cutout 226 with a hook end protruding in the −z-direction and hence can locally engage behind the third sealing part 22.

In the sealing position of the closure compound 2V, the securing hook 216 initially is in an intermediate position in which the securing hook 216 does not (yet) engage into the securing cutout 226 with its hook end. In the intermediate position, however, the securing hook 216 is disposed opposite the securing cutout 226 in such a way that under a load acting on the sealing arrangement 2 due to an increased internal pressure in the hollow body 10 and a resultant pressure or shear force component FD on the closure compound 2V, which acts in the direction −z, the securing hook 216 is brought into positive engagement with the securing cutout 226. Thus, by action of the increased internal pressure the securing hook 216 is displaced into an engagement position in which the securing hook 216 engages behind a portion of a second securing part formed by the third sealing part 22 and in this way blocks the closure compound 2V against removal from the third sealing part 22. Hence, the closure compound 2V is also blocked against folding (in FIG. 12 in clockwise direction) about the spatial axis parallel to the spatial direction −x into the release position.

In the development of FIG. 13, a positioning portion 227 protruding in the y-direction is provided on the wall 100 opposite the safety cutout 226. This wall-side positioning portion 227 carries a magnetic element 227M which cooperates with a magnetic element 210M of the first sealing part 21 in a magnetically attracting manner. The magnetic element 210M on the side of the sealing part here by way of example is integrated in the handle element 210. Via the force of magnetic attraction between the magnetic elements 210M and 227M, the proper positioning of the securing hook 216 with respect to the securing cutout 226 can be ensured by folding the closure compound 2V into its sealing position. In particular, it can thereby be ensured that upon folding of the closure compound 2V into its sealing position, the securing hook 216 engages into an engagement opening 2260 formed between the securing cutout 226 and the positioning pin 227, as desired, and is properly disposed opposite the securing cutout 226 in such a way that a positive, blocking engagement of the securing hook 216 into the securing cutout 226 is possible.

The magnetic elements 227M and 210M can also be used to support the securing hook 216 in taking the engagement position. The magnetic elements 227M and 210M can cooperate in such a way that the securing hook 216 is automatically displaced from the intermediate position shown in FIG. 13 into the engagement position or at least a corresponding adjustment into the engagement position is supported. Thus, when the securing hook 216 properly engages into the engagement opening 2260 with the closure compound 2V being folded into the sealing position, the securing hook 216 is driven further into the engagement position by action of the magnetic elements 227M and 210M. In the engagement position, the securing hook 216 then engages behind the third sealing part 22. In the securing position defined thereby, a positive blocking engagement between closure compound and third sealing part 22 thus is given already, which in the securing position of the design variant of FIG. 12 is produced only by loading the sealing arrangement 2.

In the design variant of FIG. 14, a securing part in the form of a securing web 207 is provided on the closure compound 2V as part of the securing mechanism S. This securing web 207 is formed on the second sealing part 20 and, in the sealing position of the closure compound 2V, protrudes from the second sealing part 20 in the direction of the first wall 100 and hence in the direction −y. The securing web 207 protrudes to such an extent that one end of the securing web 207 engages below or behind the third sealing part 22—as seen in the z-direction. Thus, in the −z-direction the securing web 207 and hence the closure compound 2V disposed in its sealing position cannot be displaced past the third sealing part 22. An adjustment of the closure compound 2V in the −z-direction thus is mechanically blocked by the cooperation of the securing web 207 with the third sealing part 22. A shear-force-related removal of the closure compound 2V from the third sealing part 22, for instance due to an increased internal pressure in the cavity 10, consequently also is prevented thereby. The securing web 207 first must be adjusted away from the wall 10 and hence also away from the third sealing part 22 by a targeted displacement of the closure compound 2V in the y-direction so that the securing web 207 no longer blocks folding of the closure compound 2V.

FIG. 15 shows a front view of another design variant of a proposed storage device in the form of a drink bladder 1 with an outlet 10A for the connection of a drinking tube to the hollow body 10. FIG. 15A shows the drink bladder 1 of FIG. 15 in a sectional view. FIGS. 16A-16C, 17A-17B and 18A-18B show further variants of the sealing arrangement 2 in an enlarged view corresponding to section C of FIG. 15A.

In the variant of FIGS. 16A-16C, analogous to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 13, the closure compound 2V is formed with an additional securing component in the form of a securing hook 206, which in the sealing position of the closure compound 2V can positively engage into a securing cutout 226 on the third sealing part 22 in order to additionally mechanically secure the sealing position of the closure compound 2V. In contrast to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 13, the securing hook 206 is not formed on the first sealing part 21, but on the second sealing part 20, here by way of example on a handle body 2000 of the handle element 200. Hence, the securing hook 206 in the design variant of FIGS. 16A to 16C is formed to protrude from that second sealing part in the direction of the wall 100 which in the sealing position of the closure compound 2V is located before the first and third sealing parts 21, 22 as seen along the direction −y (opposite to the opening direction y).

On the wall 100 an engagement opening 2260 for the securing hook 206 on the side of the closure compound again is defined between the strip body 222 of the third sealing part 22 and a positioning portion 227 spaced apart therefrom in the vertical direction z. To facilitate the introduction of the securing hook 206 into the engagement opening 2260, the handle body 2000 is articulated to the strip body 202 of the second sealing part 20. For this purpose, a wall thickness in a transition portion A between the strip body 202 and the handle body 2000 adjoining thereto in the vertical direction z is reduced specifically and is visible as an indentation in the cross-section of FIGS. 16A to 16C. In this way, a specific elasticity is incorporated at the transition portion A between the strip body 202 and the handle body 2000 in order for a user to be able to displace the handle body 2000 relative to the strip body 202 about a joint axis extending parallel to the transverse direction x. Thus, the handle body 200 can be connected to the strip body 202 in particular via a film hinge defined with the transition portion A.

With the transfer of the closure compound 2V into its sealing position corresponding to FIG. 16A, the securing hook 206 is introduced into the engagement opening 2260 and initially is disposed in an intermediate position corresponding to FIG. 16A. Via magnetic elements 227M and 200M of the positioning portion 227M and of the handle body 2000, which have an attracting effect on each other, the closure compound 2V with the securing hook 206 then is moved along the vertical direction −z (upwards in FIGS. 16A to 16C). This results in a displacement of the securing hook 206 from the intermediate position into an engagement position in which the securing hook 206 positively engages into the securing cutout 226 on the third sealing part 22.

To specify and possibly additionally secure the engagement position between the securing hook 206 on the side of the closure compound and the third sealing part 22, there is provided a positive connection between the handle body 2000 and the positioning portion 27. A form-fit element in the form of a latching nose 200R is formed on the handle body 2000 at a distance to the securing hook 206. This latching nose 200R positively snaps into a latching opening 227R on the positioning portion 227 when the closure compound 2V with the securing hook 206 is displaced from the intermediate position into the engagement position (cf. FIG. 16B).

To release the securing mechanism S and hence again bring the securing hook 206 out of engagement with the third sealing part 22, it is sufficient for a user to grasp the handle element 200 and pivot the handle body 2000 about the joint axis defined with the transition portion A towards the outside, i.e. away from the wall 100. The position of the joint axis defined with the transition portion A and the securing cutout 226 as well as the securing hook 206 are adjusted to each other such that due to the corresponding pivotal movement the securing hook 206 is moved out of the securing cutout 226 and the engagement opening 2260. Hence, it is easily possible for a user to open the closure device 2, although in the sealing position the closure compound 2V is secured against inadvertent opening in several respects and in particular counteracts shear forces acting in the xz-plane and in the vertical direction −z, which result from an increased internal pressure in the hollow body 10.

The design variant of FIGS. 17A and 17B in principle is comparable with the design variant of FIGS. 16A to 16C. In contrast to the design variant of FIGS. 16A to 16C, merely the form fit in the engagement position between the handle body 2000 and the positioning portion 227 is designed differently in the design variant of FIGS. 17A and 17B. Instead of a latching nose, a latching web 200R protruding like a pin in cross-section is provided on the handle body 2000, which can engage into a correspondingly formed and e.g. slit-shaped latching opening 227R on the positioning portion 227R.

In the design variant of FIGS. 18A and 18B, analogously to the design variants of FIGS. 16A-16C and 17A-17B, a securing mechanism S is provided, in which the closure compound 2V with a securing part in the form of a securing hook 216 is displaced from an initially taken intermediate position into an engagement position controlled by magnetic force, in which engagement position the securing hook 216 positively engages into a securing cutout 226 on the third sealing part 22. In the design variant of FIGS. 18A-18B, the securing hook 216 is formed on the first strip body 212 of the first sealing part 21. The strip body 212 then also magnetically cooperates with the positioning portion 227 in order to control the automatic displacement of the closure compound 2V into the engagement position. In the design variant of FIGS. 18A-18B, by way of example, at least one additional magnetic element 212M therefor is provided in the strip body 212 in the vertical direction −z at a distance to the magnet arrangement 24. This at least one additional magnetic element 212M of the first sealing part 21 by way of example cooperates with at least one magnetic element 227M of the positioning portion 27 in order to displace the closure compound 2V folded in the direction of the wall 100 from the initially taken intermediate position in the vertical direction −z (upwards) into the engagement position.

In an alternative design variant it is of course also possible that the closure compound 2V is repeatedly folded or rolled about an axis parallel to the transverse direction x in order to take the sealing position on the wall 100. Furthermore, for securing the sealing position by means of the securing mechanism S, it is not absolutely necessary either that a third sealing part 22 cooperates with the closure compound 2V in a magnetically attracting manner. Consequently, in the design variants of FIGS. 10A to 18B, in particular a magnet arrangement 25 can be omitted in the strip body 222 of the third sealing part 22 without this impairing the functions of the securing mechanism S.

The idea underlying the proposed solution is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above, but can also be realized in an entirely different way.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

    • 1 storage device/drink bladder (liquid reservoir)
    • 10 hollow body
    • 10A outlet
    • 100, 101 wall
    • 102, 103 portion
    • 104, 105 closing portion
    • 106 inner layer
    • 107 outer layer
    • 2 sealing arrangement
    • 2V closure compound
    • 21, 22 sealing part
    • 200, 210 handle element
    • 200M magnetic element
    • 200R latching nose/latching web (form-fit element)
    • 2000 handle body
    • 201, 211, 221 receiving openings
    • 202, 212, 222 strip body
    • 204A, 204B securing pin (securing part)
    • 205A, 205B magnetic element
    • 206 securing hook (securing part)
    • 207 securing web (securing part)
    • 210M magnetic element
    • 212M magnetic element
    • 216 securing hook (securing part)
    • 222A, 222B film hinge
    • 223A, 223B securing tab (securing part)
    • 224A, 224B receptacle
    • 225A, 225B magnetic element
    • 226 securing cutout
    • 2260 engagement opening
    • 227 positioning portion
    • 227M magnetic element
    • 227R latching opening
    • 23, 24, 25 magnet arrangement
    • 3 securing tab (securing element)
    • 3.1, 3.2 first securing part
    • 30 outer surface
    • 31 inner surface
    • 4.1, 4.2 second securing part
    • 41, 42 engagement opening
    • 410, 420 insertion gap
    • A transition portion
    • FD pressure/shear force component
    • FL release force
    • S securing mechanism
    • x, y, z direction

Claims

1. A sealing arrangement for sealing an opening that is formed between a first closing portion and a second closing portion, wherein the sealing arrangement includes a first sealing part and a third sealing part for arrangement on the first closing portion and a second sealing part for arrangement on the second closing portion, wherein the sealing arrangement comprises an additional securing mechanism via which the closure compound disposed in its sealing position is additionally secured against removal from the third sealing part and hence against undesired opening in the sealing position.

the first sealing part has a first strip body longitudinally extended along a transverse direction,
the second sealing part has a second strip body longitudinally extended along the transverse direction,
the first sealing part and the second sealing part cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner in such a way that in a closed position of the closure device the first closing portion and the second closing portion rest against each other and form a closure compound with the first and second sealing parts,
the closure compound can be adjusted from a release position, in which the first and second closing portions can be properly separated from each other against a magnetic force applied by the first and second sealing parts to clear the opening, into a sealing position in which the closure compound and the third sealing part cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner in such a way that the closure compound is maintained in the sealing position, and

2. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the sealing arrangement is provided for sealing an opening via which a hollow body is accessible, which is bordered by at least one flexible wall.

3. The sealing arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the securing mechanism is adapted to counteract a removal of the closure compound from the sealing position due to an increased internal pressure in the hollow body.

4. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the closure compound can be adjusted from the release position by folding or rolling the first and second closing portions at least once into the sealing position.

5. (canceled)

6. (canceled)

7. The sealing arrangement according to claim 3, wherein the first and second strip bodies have two longitudinal ends and, in the sealing position, the securing mechanism is adapted to at least one of

counteract a lifting force acting on the first and second strip bodies at the longitudinal ends and resulting from the increased internal pressure, by action of which mutually opposite longitudinal ends of the first and second strip bodies strive to move away from each other, and
counteract a shear force resulting from the increased internal pressure, which acts in a middle area of the first or second strip bodies on the sealing arrangement in a plane extending parallel to the first and second closing portions.

8. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein via the securing mechanism there is provided a connection at least one of

between the closure compound and a wall connected to the first closing portion and
between the closure compound, in particular the first or second sealing part, and the third sealing part of the sealing arrangement when the closure compound is disposed in the sealing position.

9. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the securing mechanism includes at least one securing part which secures the closure compound in the sealing position via a form fit.

10. The sealing arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the securing mechanism includes at least two securing parts which in the sealing position of the closure compound positively cooperate with each other in order to secure the closure compound in the sealing position.

11. (canceled)

12. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the sealing arrangement comprises at least one magnetic element by action of which at least one securing part of the securing mechanism is positioned in a securing position in which the at least one securing part can block the closure compound via a form fit against an adjustment into the release position.

13. The sealing arrangement according to claim 12, wherein at least one of

on transfer of the closure compound into its sealing position the at least one securing part is also adjusted into the securing position with the participation of the at least one magnetic element, and
the at least one securing part can be adjusted into the securing positon only after transfer of the closure compound into its sealing position.

14. (canceled)

15. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein an additional securing element is provided at the closure compound, to which at least one securing part of the securing mechanism is fixed at a distance to the first and second sealing parts.

16. The sealing arrangement according to claim 8, wherein an additional securing element is provided on the closure compound, to which at least one securing part of the securing mechanism is fixed at a distance to the first and second sealing parts, and wherein the securing part provided on the securing element forms a first securing part, which in the sealing position of the closure compound is positively connected to a second securing part that is provided on the wall.

17. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein after transfer of the closure compound into its sealing position at least one securing part of the securing mechanism can be adjusted into a securing position by pivoting about at least one joint axis, in which securing position the at least one securing part secures the closure compound disposed in its sealing position.

18. (canceled)

19. (canceled)

20. (canceled)

21. (canceled)

22. (canceled)

23. The sealing arrangement according claim 17, wherein on the at least one securing part at least one receptacle is provided, into which a further securing part of the securing mechanism positively engages in the securing position, and/or on the at least one securing part at least one form-fit element is provided, which in the securing position positively engages into a receptacle of a further securing part of the securing mechanism.

24. The sealing arrangement according to claim 1, wherein

the closure compound can be transferred from the release position into the sealing position by folding or rolling the closure compound at least once about a pivot axis parallel to a first spatial direction,
a magnetic force for holding the closure compound in its sealing position with respect to the third sealing part acts along a spatial axis that is parallel to a second spatial direction extending perpendicularly to the first spatial direction, and
via the securing mechanism the closure compound is secured against removal from the third sealing part by action of a shear force which points in a third spatial direction that is both perpendicular to the first spatial direction and perpendicular to the second spatial direction.

25. (canceled)

26. The sealing arrangement according to claim 17, wherein that the joint axis extends parallel to the third spatial direction and the securing mechanism includes at least one securing part which is disposed in an intermediate position when the closure compound reaches the sealing position, and the securing part can be displaced from the intermediate position into an engagement position in which the securing part blocks the closure compound against an adjustment along the third spatial direction.

27. The sealing arrangement according to claim 26, wherein at least one of

in the engagement position the at least one securing part blocks the closure compound against an adjustment along the third spatial direction and against an adjustment along the second spatial direction, in particular wherein the sealing arrangement comprises at least one magnetic element by action of which the at least one securing part of the securing mechanism is automatically positioned in the intermediate position when the closure compound is transferred into its sealing position, and
the sealing arrangement comprises at least one magnetic element which the participation of which the at least one securing part is adjusted from the intermediate position into the engagement position.

28. (canceled)

29. (canceled)

30. (canceled)

31. A liquid reservoir, comprising a hollow body for receiving a liquid, wherein the liquid can be filled into the hollow body via an opening that can be sealed by a sealing arrangement for sealing the opening that is formed between a first closing portion and a second closing portion, wherein the sealing arrangement includes a first sealing part and a third sealing part for arrangement on the first closing portion and a second sealing part for arrangement on the second closing portion, wherein

the first sealing part has a first strip body longitudinally extended along a transverse direction,
the second scaling part has a second strip body longitudinally extended along the transverse direction,
the first sealing part and the second sealing part cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner in such a way that in a closed position of the closure device the first closing portion and the second closing portion rest against each other and form a closure compound with the first and second sealing parts, and
the closure compound can be adjusted from a release position, in which the first and second closing portions can be properly separated from each other against a magnetic force applied by the first and second sealing parts to clear the opening, into a sealing position in which the closure compound and the third sealing part cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner in such a way that the closure compound is maintained in the sealing position, and
the sealing arrangement comprises an additional securing mechanism via which the closure compound disposed in its sealing position is additionally secured against removal from the third sealing part and hence against undesired opening in the sealing position.

32. (canceled)

33. The liquid reservoir according to claim 31, wherein the liquid reservoir is configured as a drink bladder.

34. A sealing arrangement for sealing an opening that is formed between a first closing portion and a second closing portion, and via which a hollow body is accessible, which is bordered by at least one flexible wall, wherein the sealing arrangement includes a first sealing part for arrangement on the first closing portion and a second sealing part for arrangement on the second closing portion, wherein

the first sealing part has a first strip body longitudinally extended along a transverse direction,
the second sealing part has a second strip body longitudinally extended along the transverse direction,
the first sealing part and the second sealing part cooperate in a magnetically attracting manner in such a way that in a closed position of the closure device the first closing portion and the second closing portion rest against each other and form a closure compound with the first and second sealing parts,
the closure compound can be adjusted from a release position, in which the first and second closing portions can be properly separated from each other against a magnetic force applied by the first and second sealing parts to clear the opening, by folding or rolling the first and second closing portions at least once into a sealing position, and
the sealing arrangement comprises a securing mechanism via which the closure compound disposed in its sealing position is secured against an inadvertent removal of the closure compound from the sealing position due to an increased internal pressure in the hollow body.
Patent History
Publication number: 20230380560
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 3, 2022
Publication Date: Nov 30, 2023
Inventors: Philip Naftali (Hod Hasharon), Izik Moalem (Hod Hasharon), Breido Botkus (Hannover), Joachim Fiedler (Hannover), Holger Knorr (Barsinghausen), Timo Severain (Melsungen), Joschan Aderhold (Hannover), Friedemann Richter (Hannover)
Application Number: 18/032,061
Classifications
International Classification: A45C 11/22 (20060101); A45C 13/00 (20060101); A45C 13/10 (20060101); A45F 3/20 (20060101);