Tamper-evident closure for a container

Abstract

tamper-evident closure (210) for a container, the closure includes a base and a lid, the lid includes a cap (230) and a retaining ring (225), the retaining ring connects the lid to the base, the cap is connected to the retaining ring by a hinge, the closure includes a tamper-evident element (240) which is detached from the closure lid and remains adjacent to the base following the first opening of the lid to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident element (240) includes an opening (250) and at least one projection (244), the retaining ring (225) includes a rear hook (262) which can engage the opening during the first opening of the lid and a front hook (227) which can engage the at least one projection during the opening of the lid,and in which the base reveals a fastening arrangement that allows axial separation of the base from the container while remaining attached, via the fastening arrangement, to the container. Figure 11,

Description

Title of the invention: TAMPER-EVIDENT CLOSURE FOR A CONTAINER

[0001] The present invention relates generally to closures, and in particular, although not exclusively, to tamper-evident closures and / or attached closures.

[0002] Tamper-evident closures are well known and include certain means of indicating that the closure has been opened / used at least once. In order for such closures to be effective, the tamper-evident mechanism must be reliable, that is, it must activate when the closure is opened for the first time.

[0003] Attached closures are a type of closure that is permanently attached to a container / bottle, preventing it from separating and becoming stuck together during or after the product has been consumed. Arranged on the lower edge of the cap wall of this type of closure is a retaining / attaching ring that typically engages below a ridge on a container opening when the closure is in position. After the container is opened, the upper portion of the cap can be removed for disposal, while the lower retaining ring remains firmly attached to the container.

[0004] The present invention seeks to provide improvements for or relating to closures.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention provides a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprises a tamper-evident element which moves following the first opening of the lid to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident element comprises a hollow and the closure further comprises a projection which, in the closed position, is positioned out of the hollow and which can engage the hollow during the first opening to cause or help cause the movement of the tamper-evident element.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides a tamper-evident closure for a container. The closure comprises a base and a lid. The lid is movable between a closed and an open position via a hinge. The closure includes a tamper-evident element that detaches from the closure lid and remains adjacent to the base after the lid is first opened to indicate that the closure has been opened. The tamper-evident element comprises an opening and at least one projection. The closure base comprises a projection that engages the opening during the first opening, and at least one projection engages with... engagement means positioned at the level of the external surface of the side skirt of the base to cause or help cause the movement of the tamper-proof element.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprises a tamper-evident element which moves following the first opening of the lid to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident element comprises a hollow and the closure further comprises a projection which engages the hollow during the first opening to cause or help cause the movement of the tamper-evident element.

[0008] The (or each) hollow can be a through hole or a depression.

[0009] The projection(s) for the hollow can (may) be engaged before opening and / or during opening hours.

[0010] The closure may, for example, include projections (e.g., hooks) for engaging an element from two sides. In one embodiment, for example, the internal and external hooks / projections are provided for engaging a tamper-evident tab from both sides. Each or two of the hooks may engage the hole (and / or another part(s) of the element).

[0011] The tamper-evident element may further include a hook portion. The hook portion may, for example, engage a part of the closure (e.g., a lip) when the lid is open, causing it to break. In some embodiments, a tamper-evident tab is provided with a hook at its lower end, to engage an inward protrusion with a retaining ring. The protrusion may cause a tab held in a frangible manner to detach from a cap.

[0012] The tamper-evident element may be a tab or similar.

[0013] In some embodiments, the tamper-proof element is initially connected, in a frangible way, to the closure and when the cover is opened, it falls (descends).

[0014] In certain embodiments, in the closed position, at least part of the tamper-evident element is visible and in which, following the first opening, the tamper-evident element moves so as to be at least partially concealed from view.

[0015] The cover may include a cap and a retaining ring, and it is the cap that moves between the closed and open positions. The retaining ring may be fixed to the base.

[0016] In some embodiments, the tamper-evident element is positioned on the cap and the fixing ring can define, at least partially, a void, and the tamper-evident element can move at least partially in the void following the first opening of the closure.

[0017] The tamper-evident element can be connected, in a frangible manner, to the cap and said frangible connections are breakable following the first opening of the closure.

[0018] The closure may include a dispensing spout. The spout may be formed integrally with the base, or may be formed separately from the base and may be attached thereto.

[0019] The closure may further include a retaining ring arranged under the base to retain the closure on the container.

[0020] The closure may include an attachment arrangement which allows axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container while remaining attached to the ring.

[0021] The attachment arrangement may include first and second arms which are connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the base at one end and connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the ring at the other end.

[0022] The closure may include a hinge arrangement so that the cover is movable between the closed and open positions.

[0023] In embodiments in which the cover comprises a cap and a retaining ring, the cap can be connected to the ring by a hinge arrangement. In other embodiments, a cover is attached, by hinge, to a base.

[0024] In some embodiments, the attachment arrangement is generally provided in a diametrically opposite manner to the hinge.

[0025] The closures formed according to the present invention can be configured in the form of a sport closure with a flap.

[0026] Another aspect proposes a flap closure for a container, comprising a base and a lid, the lid and the base are connected to each other by a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the base, the closure further includes a retaining ring arranged under the base to retain the closure on the container.

[0027] Another aspect proposes a sport flap closure for a container, comprising a base and a lid, the closure includes a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the base, the closure further includes a retaining ring arranged under the base to retain the closure on the container.

[0028] In embodiments in which the cover includes a cap and a fixing ring, the cap can be connected to the ring by a hinge arrangement.

[0029] The closure may include an attachment arrangement which allows axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container, while remaining attached to the ring.

[0030] The attachment arrangement may include first and second arms which are connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the base at one end and connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the ring at the other end.

[0031] The fastening arrangement (which can itself function as a hinge) can generally be provided in a diametrically opposite manner to the hinge arrangement for the lid (or lid cap).

[0032] The fastening arrangement may include a tab to provide a stable open position for the lid. The tab may, for example, engage with the neck of the container or the retaining ring to provide the stable open position.

[0033] The closure may further include tamper-proof means; for example, a tamper-proof flap tab, as described herein.

[0034] In embodiments of the present invention, the closure can be formed (for example molded from a plastic material) in an open position and then closed (optionally in the mold).

[0035] Another aspect of the present invention provides a closure comprising a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprising alignment means for aligning the lid as it moves into the closed position.

[0036] The closure can generally be cylindrical. The alignment can be rotary and / or axial.

[0037] In some embodiments, cooperative alignment means are provided on a lid and a base, for example in a one-piece closure.

[0038] The lid can be (directly) connected to the base by a hinge.

[0039] In some embodiments, the lid comprises a cap and a retaining ring. The retaining ring may be connected or connectable to a base, for example in a two-part closure. Cooperating alignment means may be provided on the cap and the ring.

[0040] The cap can be connected to the fixing ring by a hinge.

[0041] The cover (which may be a cap) may include a side wall and alignment means may be provided on or through the side wall, for example at its free end.

[0042] The alignment means may comprise one or more flanges / wings. In some embodiments, for example, the alignment means are provided in the form of a pair of flanges, such as side flanges. Side flanges diametrically opposed can be provided on a generally cylindrical side wall.

[0043] The closure may include one or more recesses to receive the flange(s). In some embodiments, for example, recesses are provided on a fixing ring to receive the flanges on a cap. The reverse arrangement is possible, i.e., one or more flanges on a fixing ring and one or more recesses on a cap.

[0044] The closure may include tamper-evident means. The tamper-evident means may include a tab, a band, a ring, or the like. The tamper-evident means may be connected in a frangible manner.

[0045] The tamper-proof element can initially be connected, in a frangible manner, to the closure and when the cover is opened, it can descend.

[0046] In the closed position, at least part of the tamper-evident element may be visible and following the first opening, the tamper-evident element may move so as to be at least partially concealed from view.

[0047] The tamper-evident element can be positioned on the cap and the base fixing ring can define, at least partially, a pocket, and the tamper-evident element can move at least partially into the pocket, following the first opening of the closure.

[0048] The closure can be formed so that a tamper-proof element is initially connected, in a frangible manner, (for example to a stopper) and the frangible connection can be breakable following the first opening of the closure (for example the first movement from the closed position to the open position).

[0049] The closure can be formed (for example molded from a plastic material) with the lid in an open position.

[0050] In some embodiments, the lid is moved into an initially closed position by the closure in the mold.

[0051] The closure may include a dispensing spout. The spout may be formed as an integral part of the base or may be formed separately from the latter and may be attached thereto.

[0052] The closure may further include a retaining ring arranged under the base to retain the closure on the container.

[0053] The closure may include an attachment arrangement which allows axial separation of the base from the retaining ring and allows the base to be removed from the container while remaining attached to the ring.

[0054] The attachment arrangement may include a pair of arms connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the base and the ring. The arms may be connected to the base by film hinges. A tab may be provided between the arms, for example extend from the base between the film hinges. The circumferential extent of the tongue may be greater than the sum of the circumferential extents of the film hinges.

[0055] The attachment arrangement may include first and second arms which are connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the base at one end and connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the ring at the other end.

[0056] The closure may include a hinge arrangement and the fastening arrangement is generally provided (diametrically) opposite the hinge arrangement.

[0057] Another aspect proposes a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid comprises a cap and a retaining ring, the retaining ring connects the lid to the base, the cap is connected to the retaining ring by a hinge, the closure comprises a tamper-evident element which is detached from the closure lid and remains adjacent to the base following the first opening of the lid to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident element comprises an opening and at least one projection, the retaining ring comprises a rear hook which can engage the opening during the first opening of the lid and a front hook which can engage at least one projection during the opening of the lid, and wherein the base exposes a fastening arrangement which allows axial separation of the base from the container while remaining attached,via the attachment arrangement, to the container. In one embodiment, the rear hook engages the opening by deforming the element during the initial opening of the lid.

[0058] Another aspect proposes a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure includes a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure includes a tamper-evident element which moves following the first opening of the lid to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident element includes a hollow and the closure further includes a projection which, in the closed position, is positioned outside the hollow and which can move inside the hollow during the first opening to cause or help cause the movement of the tamper-evident element.

[0059] The closures formed according to the present invention can be configured as a sport flap closure.

[0060] The present invention also proposes a closure, as described herein, in combination with a container, for example a beverage container.

[0061] Other aspects and other embodiments are listed in the following numbered paragraphs.

[0062] 1. Tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position via a hinge, the closure includes a tamper-proof element which is detached from the closure cover and remains adjacent to the base, following the first opening of the cover to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-proof element includes an opening and at least one projection and the closure base further includes a projection which engages the opening during the first opening and the at least one projection engages with engaging means positioned at the level of the external surface of the side skirt of the base to cause or assist in causing the movement of the tamper-proof element.

[0063] 2. Closure according to paragraph 1, wherein the recess is an opening / window (a through hole).

[0064] 3. Closure according to paragraph 1 or paragraph 2, in which the closure includes projections to engage the element from both sides (e.g. front and rear).

[0065] 4. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the tamper-evident element further includes a hook part, with an opening, preferably in which the closure provides two hooks (for example at the front and back of the tab).

[0066] 5. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which The tamper-evident element is a tab or similar.

[0067] 6. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which The tamper-proof element is initially connected, in a frangible way, to the closure and when the lid is opened, it descends.

[0068] 7. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which, in the unopened position, at least part of the tamper-proof element is visible and in which, following the first opening, the tamper-proof element moves so as to be at least partially concealed from view.

[0069] 8. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the The lid includes a cap and a fixing ring, and the lid cap moves between the closed and open positions.

[0070] 9. Closure according to paragraph 8, in which the tamper-evident element is positioned on the cap and the fixing ring defines, at least partially, a vacuum, and in which the tamper-evident element moves at least partially in the vacuum following the first opening of the closure.

[0071] 10. Closure according to paragraph 9, in which the tamper-evident element is connected, in a frangible manner, at the stopper and said frangible connections are breakable following the first opening of the closure.

[0072] 11. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising a spout dispensing dispenser.

[0073] 12. Closure according to paragraph 11, in which the spout is formed, of in solidarity, with the grassroots.

[0074] 13. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the The closure also includes a retaining ring arranged under the base to hold the closure onto the container.

[0075] 14. Closure according to paragraph 13, in which the closure includes a attachment arrangement which allows axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container, while remaining attached to the ring.

[0076] 15. Closure according to paragraph 14, in which the attachment arrangement includes first and second arms which are connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the base at one end and connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the ring at the other end.

[0077] 16. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the The closure includes a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between the closed and open positions.

[0078] 17. Closure according to paragraph 16, where it depends on paragraph 15 or the paragraph 16, in which the attachment arrangement is generally provided in a diametrically opposite manner to the hinge arrangement.

[0079] 18. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs and configured like a sporty flap closure.

[0080] 19. Sports closure with a hinged flap for a container, comprising a base and a lid, The closure includes a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the base; the closure further includes a retaining ring arranged under the base to retain the closure on the container.

[0081] 20. Closure according to paragraph 19, in which the closure includes a attachment arrangement which allows axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container while remaining attached to the ring.

[0082] 21. Closure according to paragraph 20, in which the attachment arrangement includes first and second arms which are connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the base at one end and connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the ring at the other end.

[0083] 22. Closure according to paragraph 20 or paragraph 21, in which The attachment arrangement is generally provided in a diametrically opposite manner to the hinge arrangement.

[0084] 23. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 20 to 22, in which The fastening arrangement includes a tab to provide a stable open position for the lid.

[0085] 24. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 23, including further inviolable means.

[0086] 25. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs in combination with a container.

[0087] 26. Closure comprising a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure including alignment means to align the cover as it moves into the closed position.

[0088] 27. Closure according to paragraph 26, in which alignment means Cooperators are provided on the lid and the base.

[0089] 28. Closure according to paragraph 27, in which the cover is connected to the base by a hinge.

[0090] 29. Closure according to paragraph 26, wherein the cover comprises a a plug and a fixing ring and wherein cooperating alignment means are provided on the plug and the ring.

[0091] 30. Closure according to paragraph 29, in which the stopper is connected to the fixing ring by a hinge.

[0092] 31. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the The cover includes a side wall and alignment means are provided on or through the side wall.

[0093] 32. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the Alignment methods include one or more flanges.

[0094] 33. Closure according to paragraph 32, comprising a pair of side straps.

[0095] 34. Closure according to paragraph 32 or paragraph 33, comprising one or several recesses to receive the flange(s).

[0096] 35. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, including inviolable means.

[0097] 36. Closure according to paragraph 10, in which the inviolable means include a tab, a band, a ring or similar.

[0098] 37. Closure according to paragraph 35 or paragraph 36, in which the element The tamper-proof lock is initially connected, in a frangible manner, to the closure and when the lid is opened, it descends.

[0099] 38. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 35 to 37, in which, in the position not opened, at least part of the tamper-proof element is visible and in which, following the first opening, the tamper-proof element moves so as to be at least partially concealed from view.

[0100] 39. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 35 to 38, in which the tamper-evident element is positioned on the cap and the fixing ring defines at at least partially a void, and in which the tamper-proof element moves at least partially into the void following the first opening of the closure.

[0101] 40. Closure according to paragraph 39, in which the tamper-proof element is connected, in a frangible manner, at the stopper and the frangible connection can break following the first opening of the closure.

[0102] 41. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the The closure is molded with the lid in an open position.

[0103] 42. Closure according to paragraph 41, wherein the cover is moved into a initially closed position due to the closure in the mold.

[0104] 43. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising a spout dispensing dispenser.

[0105] 44. Closure according to paragraph 43, in which the spout is formed, of in solidarity, with the grassroots.

[0106] 45. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the The closure also includes a retaining ring arranged under the base to hold the closure onto the container.

[0107] 46. Closure according to paragraph 45, in which the closure includes a attachment arrangement that allows axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container while remaining attached to the ring.

[0108] 47. Closure according to paragraph 46, in which the attachment arrangement includes first and second arms which are connected, in a non-frangible manner, to the base at one end and connected in a non-frangible manner to the ring at the other end.

[0109] 48. Closure in accordance with paragraph 45 or paragraph 46 or paragraph 47, in which the fastening arrangement includes a tongue between the arms, in which the arms are connected to the base by film hinges and in which the circumferential length of the tongue is greater than the sum of the circumferential lengths of the film hinges, and in which the closure includes a hinge arrangement and the fastening arrangement is generally provided in a diametrically opposite manner to the hinge arrangement.

[0110] 49. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs and configured like a sporty flap closure.

[0111] 50. Closure according to any one of the preceding paragraphs in combination with a container.

[0112] 51. Closure for a container, the closure comprising a stopper portion comprising a skirt, a retaining part to hold the closure onto the neck of the container, a tab extending from the cap skirt towards the retaining part, and a first arm and a second arm positioned on either side of the tab and connecting the cap skirt to the retaining part, the first arm and the second arm enabling the cap part to be withdrawn from the neck of the container while remaining attached to the retaining part, and when the cap part is actuated into a fully open position, the first arm and the second arm cause the tab to exert a force against the neck of the container to retain the cap body in an open position, the first arm and the second arm each comprising a first part and a second part, the first part and the second part being positioned at an angle to each other, when the closure device is in a fully closed position, in which the first part is in a plane substantially parallel to the retaining part, while the second part extends at an angle from this plane towards the skirt.

[0113] 52. Closure according to paragraph 51, in which each arm is connected to the skirt by a hinge, which is significantly thinner than the tongue, preferably twice as thin as the tongue.

[0114] 53. Closure according to paragraph 52, in which the circumferential extent of the The tongue is more important than the combined circumferential / angular extent of the hinges.

[0115] 54. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 51 to 53, in which the part the retaining mechanism includes a notch corresponding to the tongue.

[0116] 55. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 51 to 54, in which the part The restraint system includes inclined parts corresponding to the second parts of the arms.

[0117] 56. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 52 to 55, in which the hinges connect to the skirt at a point axially above the free end of the skirt.

[0118] 57. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 52 to 56, in which the The hinges are supported by the second parts of the arms.

[0119] 58. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 51 to 57, in which the The tongue is initially connected to the retaining part by one or more frangible bridges.

[0120] 59. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 51 to 58, in which the arms are connected to the cap skirt and / or the retaining part by one or more frangible bridges.

[0121] 60. Closure according to paragraph 58 or 59, in which the bridges are formed by molding.

[0122] 61. Closure according to paragraph 58 or 59, in which the bridges are formed by split.

[0123] 62. Closure according to any one of paragraphs 51 to 62, in which the skirt includes an internal screw thread.

[0124] 63. Tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure includes a tamper-proof element which moves, following the first opening of the lid to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-proof element includes a hollow and the closure further includes a projection which, in the closed position, is positioned outside (for example radially) of the hollow and which can move inside the hollow during the first opening to cause or help cause the movement of the tamper-proof element.

[0125] 64. Tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid includes a cap and a fixing ring, the fixing ring connects the lid to the base, the cap is connected to the fixing ring by a hinge, the closure includes a tamper-evident element which detaches from the closing lid and remains adjacent to the base following the first opening of the lid to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident element includes an opening and at least one projection, the fixing ring includes a rear hook which can engage the opening during the first opening of the lid and a front hook which can engage at least one projection during the opening of the lid, and wherein the base has an attached hinge arrangement which permits axial separation of the base while remaining attached, by means of the hinge arrangement, to the container.

[0126] Different aspects and different embodiments of the invention can be used separately or together.

[0127] Other particular and preferred aspects of the present invention are mentioned in the attached independent and dependent claims. The features of the dependent claims can be combined with the features of the independent claims if necessary and in combination with others than those explicitly mentioned in the claims. Each aspect can be implemented independently of the other aspects or in combination with one or more of the other aspects.

[0128] The present invention is now described more particularly, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Description of the figures

[0129] [Fig. 1] represents a known tamper-proof sports closure with a flap.

[0130] [Fig.2] represents the closure of [Fig.1] in the open position.

[0131] [Fig.3] represents the closure of [Fig.1] in section.

[0132] [Fig.4] represents a detail of the closure of [Fig.1].

[0133] [Fig.5] illustrates the problem with closures of the type shown in [Fig.1].

[0134] [Fig.6] represents a two-part closure with a tamper-evident flap according to the invention.

[0135] [Fig.7] represents the front of the closure of the [Fig.6] before opening.

[0136] [Fig.8] represents a detail of the closure of [Fig.6].

[0137] [Fig.9] represents the closure of the open [Fig.6].

[0138] [Fig. 10] represents the front of the closure of [Fig.6] after the first opening.

[0139] [Fig. 11] represents an embodiment of the closure according to the invention.

[0140] [Fig. 12] represents a detail of the closure of the [Fig. 11].

[0141] [Fig.13] represents yet another detail of the closure of [Fig.11].

[0142] [Fig.14] represents yet another detail of the closure of [Fig.11].

[0143] [Fig. 15] represents a detail of the closure of [Fig. 11].

[0144] [Fig.16] represents yet another detail of the closure of [Fig.11].

[0145] [Fig. 17] shows yet another detail of the closure of [Fig. 11] fitted with a ring of restraint.

[0146] [Fig.18] represents the closure of [Fig.11] before the first opening.

[0147] [Fig. 19] represents in particular the tamper-evident flap tab 240 of the closure beyond [Fig. II],

[0148] [Fig.20] represents the deformation of the tab 240 when the cap of the the closure of [Fig. 11] is open.

[0149] [Fig.21] illustrates the tab which fell off, after the first opening and the re closing.

[0150] [Fig.22] represents another view of the tongue which fell off, after the first opening and re-closing.

[0151] [Fig.23] represents the closure without a tab hole.

[0152] [Fig.24] represents the closure with tab hole.

[0153] [Fig.25] shows how, with the tab hole, the extraction force is increased by approximately 100%.

[0154] [Fig.26] represents an embodiment of the closure formed according to the present invention.

[0155] [Fig.27] is a view of the closure shown in [Fig.26].

[0156] [Fig.28] represents, seen from the left side, the closure shown in [Fig.26].

[0157] [Fig.29] represents, seen from the right side, the closure shown in [Fig.26].

[0158] [Fig.30] is a front view of the closure shown in [Fig.26].

[0159] [Fig.31] is a rear view of the closure shown in [Fig.26].

[0160] [Fig.32] is a top view of the closure shown in [Fig.26].

[0161] [Fig.33] represents a view from below of the closure shown in [Fig.26].

[0162] [Fig.34] illustrates the inclination of the sport cap 310 thanks to the tab.

[0163] [Fig.35] illustrates the inclination of the sport cap 310.

[0164] [Fig.36] represents a stable open position of the stopper.

[0165] [Fig.37] represents an embodiment of the closure formed according to the present invention.

[0166] [Fig.38] is a view of the closure shown in [Fig.37].

[0167] [Fig.39] is another view of the closure shown in [Fig.37].

[0168] [Fig.40] is another view of the closure shown in [Fig.37].

[0169] [Fig.41] is a top view of the closure shown in [Fig.37].

[0170] [Fig.42] is another view of the closure shown in [Fig.37].

[0171] [Fig.43] illustrates the closure with the fastening arrangement which attaches the base to a container neck.

[0172] [Fig.44] illustrates the closure with the fastening arrangement which attaches the base to a container neck.

[0173] [Fig.45] is another view of the closure shown in [Fig.37].

[0174] [Fig.46] is another view of the closure shown in [Fig.37] in progress opening.

[0175] [Fig.47] is another view of the closure shown in [Fig.37].

[0176] [Fig.48] is another view of the closure shown in [Fig.37], in progress opening.

[0177] [Fig.49] represents a closure formed according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0178] [Fig.50] represents the closure of [Fig.49] with the tab 591 and its extension 592.

[0179] [Fig.51] represents the closure of the [Fig.49] and in particular its 592 extension of the tongue.

[0180] [Fig.52] represents the closure of [Fig.51] seen from the other side.

[0181] [Fig.53] represents another embodiment of the closure according to the invention.

[0182] [Fig.54] represents a detail of the embodiment of [Fig.53].

[0183] [Fig.55] represents a detail of the embodiment of [Fig.53].

[0184] [Fig.56] represents a detail of the embodiment of [Fig.53].

[0185] [Fig.57] illustrates a rotation with the beginning of threading of the neck.

[0186] [Fig.58] illustrates unscrewing with the retaining ring 680 retained below the roll.

[0187] [Fig.59] is a BC-BC section of [Fig.60].

[0188] [Fig.60] represents the embodiment of the closure according to [Fig.53].

[0189] [Fig.61] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0190] [Fig.62] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0191] [Fig.63] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0192] [Fig.64] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0193] [Fig.65] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0194] [Fig.66] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0195] [Fig.67] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0196] [Fig.68] represents a stage in the progressive rotation of the base.

[0197] [Fig.69] illustrates how a stable anchoring position is achieved.

[0198] [Fig.70] represents a detail with the stable anchoring position achieved.

[0199] Description of embodiments of the invention

[0200] The exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable a person skilled in the art to embody and implement the systems and processes described herein. It is important to understand that the embodiments can be provided in many alternative forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the examples presented herein.

[0201] Therefore, while embodiments can be modified in various ways and take different forms as variants, their specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and described in detail below by way of example. It is not intended that the specific forms described be limited. On the contrary, all modifications, equivalents, and variants within the scope of the attached claims must be included. Elements of the exemplary embodiments are consistently designated by the same reference numbers throughout the drawings and the detailed description, where appropriate.

[0202] Unless otherwise indicated, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein shall be interpreted in their common usage in the art. It shall also be understood that commonly used terms shall be interpreted in their common usage in the art concerned and not in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless otherwise indicated.

[0203] In the following description, all orientation terms, such as superior, inferior, radially and axially, are used with respect to the drawings and shall not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0204] Figures 1 to 4 depict a known tamper-evident sports closure with a flap, generally indicated by reference number 10 and described in detail in document WO 2010 / 112801 AL

[0205] In short, the closure 10 comprises a base 15 and a cover 20. The cover 20 comprises a fixing ring 25 and a cap 30. The cap 30 is connected to the ring 25 by a hinge arrangement 35, so that it can be folded down from a closed position (Figures 1 and 3) to an open position ([Fig.2]).

[0206] The cap 30 includes a tamper-evident flap tab 40 which is fixed, in a frangible manner, to the "front" of the closure, generally opposite the hinge arrangement 35, by frangible bridges 44.

[0207] The tab 40 includes a lower hook 44 and the retaining ring 25 includes an inward-facing lip 27. When the cap 30 is first lifted and folded back into the open position, the interaction of the hook 44 and the lip 27 means that the tab 40 cannot follow and the bridges 42 are broken. For this reason, the tab 40 descends ([Fig. 4]) into and is retained in a void / box / cavity 43. The void is formed between the base and the ring.

[0208] At the open lower end of the base 15, a tamper-evident flap 17 is provided and defined by a frangible line 19. The base 15 is also provided with an integral drink spout 16.

[0209] A problem with closures of the type shown in Figures 1 to 4 is illustrated in [Fig. 5]. The tamper-evident seal is not sufficiently effective under forward pressure during opening. The tab 140 can protrude.

[0210] Figures 6 to 21 illustrate a two-part closure 210 with a tamper-evident flap tab design 240 on a cover 30. Upon first opening, a tab descends into a pocket 43.

[0211] Figure 12 shows the hole design in the tab to improve grip. The cap 230 is shown in its molded state, before closure onto a retaining ring.

[0212] A tamper-evident feature, for example a tab 240, is provided with an opening 250 (nearly central) which is generally rectangular in shape. It is envisaged that the opening 250 may have other shapes and sizes. For example, the opening 250 may be substantially square or substantially oval, or even two or more openings, or be designed as a horizontal slot or slots. In a preferred embodiment, the upper edge of the opening has a surface inclined at approximately 10, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and / or preferably 25° towards the outer wall of the closure and / or the base. This helps the engagement feature 227 to engage and slide into the opening 250, once the tamper-evident feature 250 has been pulled upwards during the attempt to open the cover.In a preferred embodiment, the upper surface of the engagement feature 227 shows the same angle of inclination towards the tamper-proof feature 240.

[0213] The tamper-evident feature 240 has a projection 244 on its lower end. As can be clearly seen in [Fig. 12], this projection can be in the form of a hook 244, having a concave, curved outer wall oriented towards the opening of the closure. Consequently, the central section 244c is thinner that the edges 244a, 244b, which appear in the form of two wings 244a and 244b. The overall appearance of this projection 244 and its specific characteristics 244a, 244b, 244c can vary and can also have a different shape such as being two separate productions having a substantially square shape, generally circular or generally oval. Furthermore, the location of the projection 244, as shown in the example in [Fig.12], is positioned below the opening 250, but those skilled in the art will note that the number of projections and the location can vary and be positioned at the edge of the tamper-evident feature 240 and / or next to the opening 250 and / or even above and / or behind the tamper-evident feature as long as there is a surface that can engage with at least one engagement feature 227 positioned at the inner side of the base and / or the outer wall of the cover.It is also possible to have two projections 244 of different sizes and / or generally offset and thus positioned at different locations on the tamper-evident feature 240. During the opening process, the upper surface of at least one of the projections 244a, 244b engages with the engagement feature 277 to prevent movement of the tamper-evident feature 240. These two wings and / or edges 244a and 244b mounted at the bottom of the tamper-evident feature engage with the hook projection 227, also referred to hereafter as the lip hook 227. Those skilled in the art will therefore note that the tamper-evident feature 240 has at least one projection that can engage with the lip hook 227 at the base of the closure. The hole in the tab improves the engagement.

[0214] Due to the presence of the opening 250, the projection 262 located on the inner side of the pocket 243, which in the present example has the shape of a lip hook 262 with a convex surface, also engages, during the opening process, with the tamper-evident feature 240, thus securing the tamper-evident feature 240 inside the pocket 243. The lip hook 262 can also be made with one or two barb hooks, and / or one or two tabs. The advantage of having a convex surface and / or a semi-disc shape lies in the fact that the hook 262 slides smoothly in the opening 250 and thus constantly increases the contact area with the tamper-evident feature 240 and therefore the engagement force. This makes it almost impossible for the tamper-proof feature 240 to escape from the engagement of the hook 227.While the convex protrusion / hook 262 is planar, the lower surface of the hook 262 is completely flat, similarly to the lower surface of the lip hook 227 and the lower surface of the opening 250, to provide a good engagement surface. Due to this double engagement of the hook (262, 227) with the tamper-proof feature 240, the tamper-proof feature 240 breaks, and the weakest points, which are the molded bridges on the top and / or side of the... tamper-evident feature 240. The tamper-evident feature 240 is released from the internal hook 262 and the lip hook 227 and falls inside the closure into the pocket 243.

[0215] Figure 7 shows the front of the closure before opening. Figure 10 shows the front of the closure after the first opening.

[0216] Figures 13 to 16 illustrate the corresponding retaining ring 225. The retaining ring 225 comprises an outer wall 226 and an inner wall 228. A slot 229 leading to the void 243 is formed between the walls 226, 228.

[0217] The inner wall 228 includes a retaining ring 260 which engages under a corresponding ring 214 on the dispensing spout 216 (for example, see [Fig.17]).

[0218] The inner wall 228 has an internal hook 262 which is opposite the lip hook 227. The hook 262 forms the rear of the slot 229 and the lip 227 forms the front wall of the slot 229. In this embodiment, the inner wall 228 also has stabilizing / guiding tabs 265 which project towards the outer wall.

[0219] Figures 17 and 18 represent the closure before the first opening, with the upper part of the tongue 240 visible and the hooks 227, 262 positioned at the level of the tongue hole 250.

[0220] As illustrated in [Fig. 20], when the cap 230 is opened (by pushing inwards and upwards), the tab 240 deforms, causing the rear hook 262 to enter the hole 250 and simultaneously causing the tab hook 244 to engage the front hook / lip 227 of the outer ring. In this embodiment, therefore, the rear hook 262 is a projection that enters / engages with the tab hole (the recess) during the initial opening to help cause the bridges 242 to break and the tamper-evident tab 240 to fall into the void 243 so that the tab is no longer visible. In practice, the floor 270 formed at the bottom of the tongue hole 250 comes against the rear hook 262. The tongue hook 244 is a continuation of the floor 270. With the tongue hole, the hooking is made from the internal and external side.

[0221] This embodiment includes a double hooking feature. The hook features originate from both the side and the opposite side. One hook feature is activated during normal opening of the cover (the two tab hooks 244 on the tab engage the front hook 227); the second is activated by pushing on the thumb recess feature (the hook 262 on the collar that goes into the tab hole 250).

[0222] In this embodiment, the tab does not have a second additional hook on top. Thus, the tab disappears completely (or almost completely) into the pocket, and only the bridges are visible. The opening is also not visible before The opening. Consequently, in the closed position, the opening is not in contact with either of the two protrusions (hooks) and / or the tab, once moved from the lid, is no longer visible. In this embodiment, a complete "hole" is provided in the tab, and the hook can penetrate the hole completely or partially; in other embodiments, a recess (a blind hole) is provided to engage with the internal hook.

[0223] Figures 21 and 22 represent the tab that fell off, after the first opening and re-closing.

[0224] As shown in [Fig.25], with the tongue hole, the extraction force is increased by approximately 100%.

[0225] Figures 26 to 33 represent top, bottom, left side, right side, front, rear, perspective views of an attached tamper-proof sports cap 310 formed according to the present invention.

[0226] The closure 310 comprises a base 315 and a cover 320.

[0227] The base 315 includes a side wall 316 generally cylindrical and a dispensing spout 317 attached to it.

[0228] The cover 320 includes a retaining ring 325 and a cap 330. The cap 430 includes a generally circular, flat upper plate 431 from which a side wall 432 extends. The cap 430 is connected to the ring 425 by a hinge arrangement 435 so that it can be folded down from a closed position (Figures 26 to 33) to an open position ([Fig. 36]). In this embodiment, the hinge arrangement is a double hinge, with a first hinge 436 and a second hinge 437. The first and second hinges operate independently of each other.

[0229] The sport cap 310 has a special orientation, with a tamper-proof arrangement 340 provided at the "front" and a hinge arrangement 335 is provided at the "rear".

[0230] The sport cap 310 also includes a fastening arrangement 380. The fastening arrangement is positioned at the front. The fastening arrangement allows the sport cap to be tilted if the base is unscrewed.

[0231] The base of the sport cap 310 includes a lower annular cap retaining part 383 (which cannot be removed from a container neck, once installed), two arms 384a, 384b, two hinges (with film) 385a, 385b.

[0232] Each arm 384a, 384b has the shape of an arc of a circle and is connected to part 386 on one side, and to the base on the other. Along the upper and lower edges of the arms, there are frangible bridges 387.

[0233] Each arm 384a, 384b is connected to the retaining part 383 at a location that is angularly distant from the hinges 385a, 385b to which it is connected.

[0234] The film hinges 385a, 385b comprise walls of reduced thickness, generally of quadrilateral shape (other shapes are possible, such as generally rectangular or square), connected to the basic side wall 316 on one side and to the respective arms 384a, 384b on the other.

[0235] The base also includes a tongue 391 extending axially between the two hinges 385a, 385b. The hinges 385a, 385b are symmetrical with respect to the median axis of the tongue 391.

[0236] The film hinges 385a, 385b are generally thinner and positioned radially inward relative to the arms 384a, 384b and on the outer side of the skirt / base. The arms 384a, 384b, while having substantially the same thickness, have a sloped section substantially based under the film hinges 385a, 385b in the direction of the tongue 391. This sloped section 389 is slightly larger than that of the sloped arms. This ensures that the torsional forces during the opening process can be transferred from the arms 384a, 384b to the film hinges, resulting in a smooth transfer of the rotational forces and a coordinated and strong bending of the film hinges 385a, 385b, which is necessary due to the prominent and rather large tongue 391.

[0237] Furthermore, the tab 391 is at least two, three, four, and / or even five times the thickness of the film hinges 385a; 385b. In a preferred embodiment, the tab 391 has a diameter substantially larger than the arms 385a, 385b and / or the lower tamper-evident strip and / or the side skirt of the closure / base. This has the effect that, when the closure is opened, the tab 391 folds precisely onto the neck engagement threads 310 in a tight and secure manner, as in a repeated opening and closing process, thus allowing for more convenient opening for the consumer. Repeated opening and closing of the closure is guaranteed since the reinforced tab 391 does not break or become fatigued due to the weight of the overall closure. In another preferred embodiment, the tab 391 is substantially rectangular in shape.In this example, the surface of the tongue 391 is substantially smooth. This is particularly beneficial if the threads for engaging the neck have a rounded edge, which increases the smooth rotation of the tongue surface during the opening process. However, those skilled in the art will note that one, two, three, four, five, and / or six ribs and / or one, two, three, and / or four lips can also be placed on the external surface of the tongue 391.

[0238] The base skirt 316 is provided with a helical screw thread which complements those of a container neck.

[0239] This tab 391 has a length such that, during the tilting of the sports cap 310 (figures 34 and 35), it rests against the neck of the container and exerts, via this support, a pull on the arms 384a, 384b. A stable open position can be obtained ([Fig.36]).

[0240] In practice, the closure is placed on the container by simply screwing it on (or the device can be added after the closure). During the initial unscrewing, the base gradually moves from its position axially close to the retaining part 383 until it reaches a position axially distant from the part 383, in which the helical threads of the container and the base are disengaged. The frangible bridges 387 break during this movement, and the arms 384a, 384b pivot from their folded position to the unfolded position shown here.

[0241] The sports cap can be tilted under the film hinges 385a, 385b and by rolling and deforming the tab 391 against the neck.

[0242] The base can be removed and replaced. The tongue, arms and hinge of the device effectively allow the sports cap to be of the "double flap" type, with the articulation movement provided by the hinge arrangement and the fastening arrangement which are opposed to each other.

[0243] With reference now to figures 37 to 48, a closure 410 formed according to the present invention is shown.

[0244] The closure 410 comprises a base 415 and a lid 420.

[0245] The base 415 includes a side wall 416 generally cylindrical and a dispensing spout 417 attached to it.

[0246] The cover 420 includes a retaining ring 425 and a cap 430. The cap 430 comprises a flat, generally circular, upper plate 431 from which a side wall 432 extends. The cap 430 is connected to the ring 425 by a hinge arrangement 435 so that it can be folded down from a closed position (Figures 34 to 39) to an open position (Figures 40 and 41). In this embodiment, the hinge arrangement is a double hinge, with a first hinge 436 and a second hinge 437.

[0247] The cap 430 includes a tamper-evident flap 440 which is fixed, in a frangible manner, to the side wall 432 at the "front" of the closure, generally opposite the hinge arrangement 435, by frangible bridges 444.

[0248] The tab 440 includes a hook (not shown) and the retaining ring 425 includes an inward-facing lip (not shown). When the cap 430 is first lifted and folded back into the open position, the interaction of the hook and the lip means that the tongue 440 cannot follow and that the bridges 444 are broken. For this reason, the tongue 440 descends into and is held in a pocket, as generally described with reference to Figures 5 to 25. The pocket is formed between the base and the fixing ring.

[0249] At the free end (opposite the upper plate) of the side wall 432 of the cap, two dependent flanges 450, 455 are provided (in this embodiment). The flanges 450, 455 are pointed in this embodiment. Consequently, the retaining ring 425 is provided with two recesses 460, 465. The "front" edge 461 of the recesses is generally axial / vertical; the rear edge 462 is inclined. The flanges are thus formed with a generally axial / vertical front edge 451 and an inclined rear edge 452. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the recesses are provided on or through the base; in other embodiments, a cap is directly connected to a base (there is no retaining ring).

[0250] The flanges / recesses aid in the alignment of the cap. In this embodiment, the lid is formed with the cap in an open position relative to the ring. When the lid is closed, the flanges enter the recesses. The corresponding angled edges help allow the flanges to enter the recess on a closing arc. When a molding tool is used to close the lid, the flanges / recesses aid in the alignment of the cap relative to the ring to provide a smooth closing operation. In addition, this helps protect the frangible bridges that connect the tab to the cap when the cap closes onto the ring; and can help protect the bridges when the lid is ejected.

[0251] In embodiments with a separate lid and base, and with a retaining ring used to connect the lid to the base, the lid and base can be formed separately or assembled (for example, in an automated process) in a separate operation. In some embodiments, in-mold assembly can be used.

[0252] The closure 410 is also provided with a fastening arrangement 470 which attaches the base to a container neck in use. The base can be removed (for example, unscrewed) but the fastening retains the closure so that it can be recycled together with a container.

[0253] Figures 49 to 52 represent a closure 510 formed according to another embodiment.

[0254] In this embodiment, the tongue 591 has an extension 592 that extends radially outwards. This allows the external surface of the tongue to fold precisely onto the threaded interfaces (ring 1 and ring 2) of the neck of the bottle is opened in a controlled manner, providing the customer with a very smooth opening experience. Furthermore, the thickness of the 591 tab ensures that no interference from other parts of the hinge and / or closure mechanism comes into contact with the neck, and thus the entire weight of the closure is transferred, after opening, to the 591 tab. This allows for a very controlled and rapid opening procedure. In addition, the 591 tab is also significantly thicker than the 585a and 585b hinges—preferably two, three, four, or even five times thicker. The lower edge of the 591 tab is locked under another threaded interface (a second "ring") of the neck, locking the 591 tab in that position.This does not mean that a lower edge of the 591 tab engages with the "second" neck ring directly and / or in a watertight manner, given that there is always a small gap between the second ring and the lower edge of the tab, but in the event of movement of the closure by the consumer, it will be shifted against the ring and thus prevent any further movement.

[0255] The surface of the tongue 591 can obviously have certain additional modifications. As those skilled in the art will note, adding more ribs to the surface increases the width of the tongue 591, and / or lips are possible. One or two, three, four, and / or five, etc., lips have the advantage of adding another means of engaging the tongue 591 to fix it to the neck. Such a snap-fit ​​engagement, in which, after the completion of the rolling process of the tongue 591, the lip to be placed on the upper part of the tongue 591 opposite the lower edge of the tongue 591 can engage and snap into place below the lower ring, onto which the tongue had turned in order to increase the stable open position.Of course, having two lips can be used to engage the closure at the height where the 591 tab engages with the threaded interface from both the top and bottom sides in order to lock the lower threaded interface / ring like a zipper.

[0256] Figures 53 to 56 represent an attachable closure 610 formed according to another embodiment.

[0257] The closure 610 comprises a cap portion 695 and a lower retaining ring 680 (which is part of a fastening arrangement) for retaining the closure on the neck of a container (not shown). In this embodiment, the closure is formed as a single piece (for example, by injection molding of plastic material).

[0258] The cap portion 695 includes a generally cylindrical side skirt 696 extending from a top plate 697.

[0259] A tab 691 extends from the cap skirt 696 to the retaining ring 680. In other embodiments (not shown), no tab is provided.

[0260] A first arm 684a and a second arm 684b are provided. The first arm 684a and the second arm 684b each comprise a first part 688 and a second part 689. The first and second parts are positioned at an angle to each other when the closure device is in a fully closed position. The first parts of each arm lie in a plane substantially parallel to the plane XX of the retaining part, while the second parts extend at an angle from this plane towards the skirt.

[0261] The inclined portion 689 of each arm is connected to the cap skirt 696 by a hinge 685a, 685b. The arms and hinges allow the cap portion to be removed from the neck of the container while remaining attached to the retaining portion, and when the cap portion is actuated into a fully open position, the first arm and the second arm cause the tab to exert a force against the neck of the container to retain the cap body in an open position.

[0262] Each arm 684a, 684b is shaped like an arc of a circle. Along the upper and lower edges of the arms, there are frangible bridges 687. The frangible bridges 681 also connect the free end of the tongue to the retaining ring.

[0263] Each arm 684a, 684b is connected to the retaining ring 680 at a location that is angularly distant from the hinges 685a, 685b.

[0264] The hinges 685a, 685b comprise walls of reduced thickness, generally quadrilateral in shape (other shapes are possible, such as generally rectangular or square). The flexibility allows the cap to be tilted in use by means of the attachment arrangement if the base is unscrewed. As shown in Figures 57 to 70, the opening mechanism of the attached hinge is depicted.

[0265] In figures 57 to 60, the base is unscrewed. The retaining ring 680 is held below the neck rim 679 of the container by a retaining flap 682.

[0266] Figures 61 to 70 progressively represent the rotation of the base 615. In Figures 63 and 64, the tongue 691 engages the neck and with continuous rotation, the tongue rolls against the neck until a stable anchoring position is reached at approximately 160 degrees (Figures 69 and 70).

[0267] Therefore, while the opening angle of the attached hinge allows 100, 120, 130, 140, 150 and preferably 160°, as illustrated in the figures, the overall closure engages with the shoulder of the bottle and thus allows a stable open position, and the closure can no longer move in any direction.

[0268] The hinges 685a, 685b are symmetrical with respect to the median axis of the tongue 691.

[0269] The retaining ring 680 includes a notch 698 positioned below the tab. This allows the tab to rotate freely about its axis without interference from the lower TE and 680. The ring 680 also includes a part inclined 699a, 699b on each side of the notch and generally follows (parallel to) the inclination of each inclined arm part 689.

[0270] The angled arm portions 689 are substantially longer than the film hinges 685a and 685b and are positioned below the film hinges 685a and 685b. In another embodiment, the arms are substantially straight but exhibit a thickening of material below the film hinges 685a and 685b and / or only the lower end facing the tamper-evident strip and / or any other reinforcing feature with improved translation of the opening / torsional force of the arms on the film hinges 685a and 685b. The angled arm portions 689 allow for a more concentrated translation of the rotational forces on the lower end of the film hinges 685a and 685b and ensure coordinated and strong bending of the film hinges 685a and 685b.This effect is further enhanced by the placement of the film hinges 685a and 685b, which are positioned radially inwards relative to the tongue 691.

[0271] This fastening arrangement can be used for various types of closures, including caps for carbonated beverages and / or still water and / or food closures. In other words, for one-piece, two-part and three-part closures, sports closures and the like.

[0272] Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described in detail herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown and that various changes and modifications may be made to them by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the accompanying claims and their equivalents.

Claims

Demands

1. Tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure (10; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610) comprises a base (15; 315; 415; 615) and a lid (20; 320; 420), the lid comprises a stopper (30; 230; 310; 430) and a retaining ring (25; 225; 325; 425), the retaining ring connects the lid to the base, the stopper is connected to the retaining ring by a hinge (235, 335, 435), the closure comprises a tamper-evident element (240) which is detached from the closure lid and remains adjacent to the base following the first opening of the lid (20; 320; 420) to indicate that the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident element comprises an opening (250) and at least one projection (244), the fixing ring (25; 225; 325; 425) includes a rear hook (262) which can engage the opening during the first opening of the cover (20; 320;420) and a front hook (227) which can engage at least one projection during the opening of the lid, and in which the base reveals an attachment arrangement (380, 470) which allows axial separation of the base from the container while remaining attached, by means of the attachment arrangement, to the container.

2. Closure according to claim 1, wherein the rear hook engages the opening by deforming the element during the first opening of the cover.

3. Closure according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the tamper-evident element is a tab or similar.

4. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tamper-proof element is initially connected, in a frangible manner, to the closure.

5. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the unopened position, at least part of the tamper-evident element is visible and wherein, following the first opening of the cover, the tamper-evident element moves so as to be at least partially concealed from view.

6. Closure according to claim 5, the fixing ring (25; 225; 325; 425) defines at least partially a pocket, and in which the tamper-evident element moves at least partially into the pocket, following the opening of the lid for the first time.

7. Closure according to claim 6, wherein the tamper-evident element is connected, in a frangible manner, to the cap (30; 230; 310; 430) and said frangible connections can break following the opening for the first time of the closure.

8. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a dispensing spout.

9. Closure according to claim 8, wherein the spout is formed, in a unified manner, with the base.

10. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure further comprises a retaining ring (680) arranged under the base to retain the closure on the container.

11. Closure according to claim 10, wherein the attachment arrangement permits axial separation of the base from the retaining ring (680) and permits the base to be removed from the container while remaining attached to the retaining ring.

12. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening arrangement comprises two arms and a tongue between the arms to provide a stable open position of the lid, the arms are assembled to the base by film hinges (685a, 685b), the circumferential extent of the tongue is greater than the sum of the circumferential extents of the film hinges.

13. Closure according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the fastening arrangement (380, 470) is generally diametrically opposite to the hinge (235, 335, 435).

14. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cap (30; 230; 310; 430) and the fixing ring (25; 225; 325; 425) comprise cooperating alignment means.

15. Closure according to claim 14, wherein the alignment means comprise a pair of lateral flanges (450, 455) on the cover and a pair of corresponding recesses formed on the fixing ring.

16. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims and configured as a sport flap closure.

17. Closure according to any one of the preceding claims, in combination with a container.

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