Package opening device, mold for molding the opening device, and package equipped with the opening device.

Abstract

An opening device (3) for a pourable product filled in a package (1) having a spout is described. The opening device (3) has a collar (9) having a central axis (E) and a spout (11), a lid (8) connected to the collar (9) and angularly movable between a closed position and an open position about a hinge axis (G) so as to close / open the spout (11), and a closing element (20) having a plurality of leg elements (38) configured to close a given spout, detachably and / or breakably attached to the collar (9) and connected to the closing element (20), and projecting from the closing element (20) and connected to the lid (8). One of the plurality of leg elements (38), a main leg element (38a), is further away from the hinge axis (G) than the other leg elements (38). The main leg element (38a) intersects with an intersection plane (H) containing the central axis (E). The leg elements (38;38a) are not symmetrical to each other and are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the intersecting plane (H).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an opening device for packages, preferably to a package having a body formed from a multilayer packaging material and filled with a pourable product, more specifically a pourable food product.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a mold for forming an opening device for packages, preferably an opening device for a package having a body formed from a multilayer packaging material and filled with a pourable product, more specifically a pourable food product.

[0003] Advantageously, the present invention also relates to a package having a body formed from a multilayer packaging material and filled with a pourable product, more specifically a pourable food product, and provided with an opening device.

Background Art

[0004] As is well known, many liquid or pourable food products such as fruit juices, milk, milk beverages, drinking yogurts, wines, tomato sauces, salts, sugars, etc. are sold in packages made of sterilized packaging materials, particularly sealed packages.

[0005] As a typical example, there is a parallelepiped-shaped package for fluid foods known as Tetra Brik Aseptic (registered trademark). This is manufactured by sealing and folding a laminated strip of packaging material. The packaging material has a multilayer structure in which both sides of a carton layer and / or a paper base layer are coated with a layer of a heat-sealable plastic material such as polyethylene. In the case of a sterile package for long-term storage products, the packaging material further includes a layer of an oxygen barrier material such as aluminum foil, which is laid on top of the layer of the heat-sealable plastic material and is finally covered with another layer of a heat-sealable plastic material forming the inner surface of the package that contacts the food.

[0006] Therefore, this type of package has a body formed from multilayer packaging material, a predetermined spout for dispensing a product that can be poured from the package, and an opening device positioned around the predetermined spout. The opening device is designed to seal the package before the first opening.

[0007] Some variations of the package include a body with an inclined top wall; that is, the top wall of the body is inclined relative to the bottom wall of the body. Therefore, the opening device is connected to the inclined top wall.

[0008] More specifically, the opening device includes a closing element configured to close a given spout and detachably connected to the inner surface of a collar of the opening device, and a lid detachably coupled to the collar and movable between a closed position and an open position. Furthermore, the opening device includes a connecting element to which the closing element and the lid are connected, and is configured such that the closing element is detached from the collar when the lid moves from the closed position to the open position.

[0009] Known opening devices include leg elements interposed between the main wall of the closing element and the connecting element. The leg elements are arranged symmetrically with respect to a plane of symmetry that intersects the two leg elements. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] While currently known opening devices yield good results, the industry recognizes the need for further improvements to opening devices and / or packages. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved opening device for a package, preferably a package formed from a multilayer packaging material, and filled with a dispensable product, more preferably a dispensable food.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a mold for molding a package opening device, which has a body formed from a multilayer packaging material, and which is filled with a dispenseable product, more preferably a dispenseable food.

[0013] Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved package, preferably having a body formed from a multilayer packaging material, filled with a dispensable product, preferably a dispensable food, and equipped with an opening device.

[0014] According to the present invention, an opening device and package as described in each independent claim are provided.

[0015] Further advantageous embodiments of the opening device and package are provided in the claims that depend directly or indirectly on each independent claim.

[0016] According to the present invention, the mold described in claim 8 is provided.

[0017] Non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a part of a package equipped with an opening device according to the present invention, with some parts removed for clarity. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a perspective view focusing on the details of the opening device of the package, with some parts removed for clarity. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a magnified top view of the details of the opening device, with some parts removed for clarity. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view showing details of Figure 3, with some parts removed for clarity. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing a part of the details of Figure 3, with some parts removed for clarity.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Number 1 shows, as a whole, a package (only partially shown within the scope necessary for understanding the present invention) and includes the following: - A main body 2, preferably formed from a multilayer packaging material, filled with a pourable product, preferably a pourable food product, and / or capable of being filled, and preferably having a predetermined pouring spout (not shown, known as such) configured such that the pourable product can flow out from the main body 2; and - An opening device 3, preferably formed from a polymeric material, coupled to the main body 2 around the predetermined pouring spout, configured to seal the predetermined pouring spout, and controllable to open the predetermined pouring spout so that the pourable product can flow out.

[0020] Examples of the pourable product include milk, tomato sauce, milk beverages, yogurt beverages, yogurt, water, sugar, salt, juice, emulsion, etc.

[0021] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the packaging material may comprise at least one layer of fibrous material layer such as a paper or cardboard layer, and at least two layers of heat-sealable plastic material layers sandwiching the fibrous material layers, such as polyethylene layers. One of these two layers of heat-sealable plastic material may define the inner surface of the main body 2 in contact with the pourable product.

[0022] Preferably, the packaging material may comprise a layer of gas-barrier and light-barrier material, such as an aluminum foil or an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film. In particular, this layer is disposed between any of the layers of heat-sealable plastic material and the layer of fibrous material. Preferably, but not necessarily, the packaging material may comprise an additional layer of heat-sealable plastic material intervening between the gas- and light-blocking material layer and the fibrous material layer.

[0023] Preferably, package 1, particularly body 2, may be obtained from a packaging blank of multilayer packaging material. Preferably, the packaging blank may define a precursor of package 1, particularly body 2.

[0024] More particularly, the packaging blank may comprise a predetermined pouring spout. According to some possible embodiments, the predetermined pouring spout may be covered by a separating membrane. The separating membrane may be formed from a gas barrier material. Preferably, the separating membrane may be defined from a part of a layer of a gas barrier material and a light barrier material.

[0025] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the multilayer packaging material may be provided in the form of a web, whereby the packaging blanks may be arranged continuously with respect to one another. During the formation of package 1, the web is formed into a tube, sealed longitudinally, filled with a pourable product, sealed transversely, and cut at opposite ends of the packaging blank.

[0026] According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, a part of the opening device 3 may be mounted on body 2 or on the packaging blank, preferably by molding. Preferably, the opening device 3 may be molded on the packaging blank around a predetermined opening. In particular, as will be described later, a first part of the opening device 3 may be molded on the packaging blank and a second part may be attached to the first part after the molding of the first part.

[0027] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, body 2 may extend along a longitudinal axis A, a first transverse axis B perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, and a second transverse axis C perpendicular to both the first transverse axis B and the longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the dimension of body 2 along the longitudinal axis A may be greater than the dimensions along the first transverse axis B and the second transverse axis C.

[0028] Preferably, body 2 may be in the shape of a parallelepiped.

[0029] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the body 2 may include a first wall (not shown, but known as such). This first wall is preferably positioned laterally with respect to the longitudinal axis A, more preferably perpendicularly, and the body 2 may extend along the longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the first wall defines a support surface for the package 1, preferably the body 2, and may be designed to contact a support such as a shelf when in use, for example, when displayed or stored in a sales location. Preferably, when positioned on a support, the first wall may define a bottom wall.

[0030] Preferably, the main body 2 may be (fixedly) connected to the first wall and may have side walls 4 extending from the first wall along the vertical axis A.

[0031] Preferably, the main body 2 may include a second wall 5 that faces the first wall and is (fixedly) connected to the side wall 4.

[0032] Preferably, the side wall 4 may be interposed between the first wall and the second wall 5.

[0033] Preferably, the second wall 5 can define the upper wall of the package 1, for example, when the package 1 is placed on a support.

[0034] According to the non-limiting embodiments shown, the first wall and the second wall 5 may be inclined with respect to each other. In particular, the second wall 5 may be inclined with respect to the first wall and / or the longitudinal axis A.

[0035] In particular, the second wall 5 may define an inclined upper surface or a part of a gable roof.

[0036] Alternatively, the first wall and the second wall 5 may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0037] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the second wall 5 may carry and / or provide a predetermined spout, and the opening device 3 may be connected to the second wall 5.

[0038] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the package 1, preferably the body 2, may have an internal space configured to contain and / or to contain a dispensable product. In particular, a first wall, a side wall 4 and a second wall 5 may define the internal space.

[0039] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the second wall 5 may include a lateral sealing portion 6 that extends, for example, laterally, preferably perpendicularly, with respect to the longitudinal axis A, and / or parallel to the second lateral axis C.

[0040] In particular, the lateral sealing portion 6 is obtained by sealing and cutting the tube that forms the main body 2 in the lateral direction during manufacturing.

[0041] Furthermore, each package 1, preferably the main body 2, may be provided with a vertical sealing portion 16. The vertical sealing portion 16 may be created by overlapping the vertical edges of a web of packaging material and sealing them vertically.

[0042] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the opening device 3 may include a connecting portion 7 connected to the main body 2 around a predetermined spout, and a lid 8 coupled to the connecting portion 7.

[0043] In particular, the connecting portion 7 may define the first part of the opening device 3, and the lid 8 may define the second part of the opening device 3.

[0044] Referring to Figures 2 to 4, the opening device 3, preferably the connecting portion 7, comprises a collar 9 extending along the central axis E, which preferably defines and / or defines the flow path 10.

[0045] Furthermore, the color 9 may be aligned with a predetermined spout.

[0046] During use, the dispenseable product flows from the internal space of the main body 2 into the channel 10 and out through the channel 10.

[0047] More specifically, the flow path 10 may extend between a spout 11 (of collar 9) configured to allow the outflow of a dispensable product and an inlet 12 (of collar 9) configured to allow the dispensable product to be introduced into the flow path 10.

[0048] Preferably, the lid 8 may be connected to the collar 9 and configured to selectively open and close the spout 11. Preferably, the lid 8 is movable between a closed position and an open position, in which case the lid 8 closes the spout 11, and in which case the lid 8 opens the spout 11, thereby preventing or allowing the outflow of the dispensable product from the flow path 10, respectively.

[0049] More preferably, the lid 8 is angularly movable about the hinge axis G. More specifically, the lid 8 is angularly movable about the hinge axis G, allowing the lid 8 to move between a closed position and an open position.

[0050] More specifically, the lid 8 may be at a first angular position with respect to the hinge axis G when in the closed position, and at a second angular position with respect to the hinge axis G when in the open position.

[0051] Referring to Figure 2, the opening device 3 may be coupled to the collar 9 and may include a coupling ring 14 surrounding the collar.

[0052] Furthermore, the lid 8 may be hinged to the coupling ring 14.

[0053] Furthermore, the opening device 3 may include a hinge 15 that hinges the lid 8 to the connecting ring 14. The hinge 15 may define a hinge axis G.

[0054] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the opening device 3, preferably the connecting portion 7, may include a base frame 13 configured to fix and / or secure the opening device 3 around the package 1, preferably the main body 2, more preferably the second wall 5, and a predetermined spout.

[0055] Preferably, the collar 9 may extend from the base frame 13.

[0056] More specifically, the base frame 13 may be connected to an edge that defines a predetermined spout.

[0057] Referring to Figures 2 to 5, the opening device 3, preferably the connecting portion 7, includes a closing element 20 for closing / closing a predetermined spout.

[0058] More specifically, the closing element 20 is controllable between an operating position (see Figures 2-4) in which the closing element 20 is configured to cover and / or close a predetermined spout, and a non-operating position (not shown) in which the closing element 20 is configured to leave the predetermined spout open. Before the closing element 20 first moves from the operating position to the non-operating position, the closing element 20 is configured to seal the predetermined spout and the internal space of the body 2. After the closing element 20 first moves from the operating position to the non-operating position, it is possible to position the closing element 20 again to an operating position for covering (but not sealing) the predetermined spout.

[0059] More specifically, the closing element 20 may be detachably and / or detachably connected to the inner surface 21 of the collar 9. Furthermore, after the closing element 20 is first moved from the operating position to the non-operating position, it loses its detachable and / or detachable connection to the inner surface 21, and after being newly positioned, for example, in the operating position, the closing element 20 is in contact with the inner surface 21 only.

[0060] Preferably, the closing element 20 may be formed as a single component integrated with the collar 9.

[0061] More specifically, the closing element 20 may be connected to the collar 9, preferably the inner surface 21 of the collar 9, by a breakable portion 19 that is irreversibly broken when the closing element 20 is first moved from the operating position to the non-operating position.

[0062] More specifically, the closing element 20 may be located within the flow path 10, especially when it is in the operating position.

[0063] Preferably, the closing element 20 may be positioned coaxially with respect to the collar 9 and / or the central axis E.

[0064] Referring to Figures 2 to 5, the closing element 20 may include a main wall 22 configured to cover a predetermined inlet, and is detachably and / or detachably attached to the collar 9.

[0065] More specifically, the central axis E may be perpendicular to the closing element 20, preferably the main wall 22.

[0066] Preferably, the closing element 20 may comprise a plurality of radially extending ridge elements 23, three in the particular example shown.

[0067] More specifically, the main wall 22 may have a peripheral portion 24, which is preferably annular, and more preferably circular.

[0068] Furthermore, the main wall 22 may have a center 25.

[0069] More specifically, the ridge element 23 may be configured to extend along the longitudinal axis F from the peripheral portion 24 toward the center 25.

[0070] Preferably, the ridge element 23 may be integrated with the main wall 22.

[0071] Preferably, the ridge element 23 may protrude from the main wall 22 toward the spout 11.

[0072] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the ridge element 23 may comprise a first end 30 and a second end 31 opposite the first end 32. The first end may be located in the peripheral portion 24. Preferably, the second end 31 may be located at a distance from the center 25 (i.e., the ridge element 23 is adjacent to the center 25 but does not extend to the center 25).

[0073] In the illustrated example, the two ridge elements 23 may be connected to each other at the second end 31.

[0074] Preferably, the main wall 22 may include a first surface 32 and a second surface 33 facing the first surface 32. In particular, the first surface 32 and the second surface 33 are configured to face in directions away from and toward a predetermined spout.

[0075] Preferably, the opening device 3 can be molded so that the separation membrane is peeled off from the web of the packaging material and adheres to the area of ​​the first surface 32.

[0076] Preferably, the ridge element 23 may extend from the first surface 32.

[0077] More specifically, the ridge element 23 may comprise an elongated upper portion preferably extending along the longitudinal axis F, two side portions extending laterally from the upper portion (and inclined with respect to the upper portion), and a front portion (particularly extending from the upper portion at the second end 31 of the ridge element 32).

[0078] Preferably, the ridge elements 23 may be arranged angularly offset from each other around the central axis E. More preferably, the ridge elements 23 may be unevenly distributed around the central axis E.

[0079] In the illustrated example, the closing element 20 may comprise at least three ridge elements 23, or exactly three ridge elements 23.

[0080] Referring to Figures 2 to 5, the opening device 3, preferably the connecting portion 7, may include a closing element 20, preferably the main wall 22, more preferably the first surface 32, and a connecting structure 37 connected to the lid 8. Preferably, the connecting structure 37 may be connected to the peripheral portion 24.

[0081] Preferably, the connecting structure 37 may connect the closing element 20, preferably the main wall 22, to the lid 8 such that any movement of the lid 8 results in the simultaneous movement of the closing element 20. For example, when the lid 8 moves between a closed position and an open position, the closing element 20 moves between an activated position and a deactivated position.

[0082] Note that in Figure 2, the lid 8 is in the open position, the closing element 20 is in the operating position, and the connecting structure 37 is not attached to the lid 8. However, this is for illustrative purposes only in this description, and such illustrated conditions do not occur in actual opening devices 3. In particular, Figure 2 is shown to highlight a specific aspect of the solution, which will be further described below.

[0083] Preferably, the connecting structure 37 may be integrally connected to the closing element 20, more preferably to the main wall 22, and even more preferably to the peripheral portion 24.

[0084] Preferably, the collar 9, closing element 20, base frame 13, and connecting structure 37 may be integrally formed, particularly during the resin molding process.

[0085] Preferably, the collar 9, closing element 20, base frame 13, and connecting structure 37 may be formed during the molding process, and more preferably, they may be formed during the process of molding the opening device 3 into the packaging blank.

[0086] Furthermore, the lid 8 may be attached to the collar 9 after the collar 9 and closing element 20 have been formed.

[0087] Furthermore, the lid 8 may be fused and / or welded and / or bonded to the connecting structure 37 after it has been attached to the collar 9.

[0088] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the opening device 3, preferably the connecting structure 37, may further include a plurality of leg elements 38 connected to and extending from a closing element 20, preferably a main wall 22, more preferably a peripheral portion 24.

[0089] Preferably, the leg element 38 may be formed integrally with the closing element 20, and more preferably integrally with the connecting structure 37.

[0090] More specifically, the leg elements 38 may be arranged at an angle to each other around the central axis E. Preferably, the leg elements 38 may be unevenly distributed around the central axis E.

[0091] Preferably, the leg element 38 may project from the closing element 20, preferably the main wall 22, more preferably the peripheral portion 24, toward the spout 11 and / or substantially parallel to the central axis E and / or collar 9.

[0092] More specifically, the leg element 38 may be integrally connected to the closing element 20, preferably the main wall 22, and more preferably the peripheral portion 24.

[0093] Furthermore, the leg element 38 may include a first end connected to the closing element 20 and a second end opposite to the first end.

[0094] Preferably, the opening device 3, in particular the connecting portion 7, may include a connecting body, in particular a connecting ring 39, which is (integrally) connected to the leg element 38, in particular to the second end. Furthermore, the connecting ring 39 may be connected to the lid 8, in particular fused and / or bonded and / or welded.

[0095] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, each ridge element 23 may be associated with one leg element 38. Preferably, the ridge elements 23 and leg elements 38 may be connected to each other. More preferably, the ridge elements 23 may be in contact with the first end.

[0096] More specifically, the ridge element 23 may extend from the leg element 38 toward the center 25 and / or may be in contact with the leg element 38.

[0097] Preferably, the number of leg elements 38 may be equal to the number of ridge elements 23.

[0098] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, each leg element 38 may be positioned at the same angular position as each ridge element 23 with respect to the central axis E.

[0099] Furthermore, one of the leg elements 38 may be further away from the hinge axis G and / or hinge 15 than the other leg elements 38. Hereafter, this particular leg element 38 will be referred to as the main leg element 38a to distinguish it.

[0100] It should be noted that the main leg element 38a is subjected to higher stress than the other leg elements 38 when the cover 8 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position.

[0101] The position of each leg element 38 may be defined by the angular distance from the hinge axis G and / or hinge 15 with respect to the central axis E. The hinge axis G and / or hinge 15 are assumed to be positioned at a predetermined angular position, and the angular distance of each leg element 38(38a) from the hinge axis G and / or hinge 15 may be intended as the difference between the predetermined angular position and the angular position of a particular leg element 38(38a).

[0102] Referring to the specific example shown, if, for example, the hinge axis G (and the hinge 15 accordingly) is considered to be positioned at a predetermined angular position, then the leg element 38a is positioned at an angular position of 180° from the predetermined angular position with respect to the central axis E, and therefore the angular distance between the hinge axis G and the leg element 38a is equal to 180°. Furthermore, the leg element 38 opposite to the leg element 38a is positioned at 0° from the predetermined angular position with respect to the central axis E, and therefore the annular distance between the hinge axis G and / or hinge 15 and the leg element 38 opposite to the leg element 38a is 0°. Furthermore, the third leg element 38 shown in a certain non-limiting example is positioned at an angular position of approximately 70° from the predetermined angular position with respect to the central axis E, and therefore the distance between the hinge axis G and / or hinge 15 and the third leg element 38 is equal to 70°.

[0103] Therefore, the main leg element 38a is the leg element 38 that is furthest from the hinge axis G and / or the hinge 15. In particular, it is understood that the maximum distance that the leg element 38 can take from the hinge axis G and / or the hinge 15 is 180°.

[0104] Furthermore, the main leg element 38a may be associated with the first part of the collar 9, and the hinge axis G and / or hinge 15 may be associated with the second part of the collar 9. In particular, the first and second parts are opposite each other with respect to the central axis E and / or center 25.

[0105] Furthermore, the main landing gear element 38a may intersect with an intersecting surface H that includes the central axis E. Preferably, the ridge element 23 associated with (e.g., connected to) the main landing gear element 38a also intersects with the intersecting surface H, and the intersecting surface H may include the longitudinal axis F.

[0106] Preferably, the main leg element 38a may be symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane H. More preferably, the ridge element 23 associated with (e.g., connected to) the main leg element 38a may also be symmetrical with respect to the intersection plane H.

[0107] Advantageously, the leg elements 38 (including the main leg element 38a) may be arranged asymmetrically with respect to each other and with respect to the intersecting surface H.

[0108] More specifically, the main leg element 38a may be positioned at a first angular position 26 with respect to the central axis E.

[0109] Furthermore, the opening device 3 may include a second leg element 38 positioned at a second angular position 28 with respect to the central axis E.

[0110] Furthermore, the opening device 3 may include a third leg element 38 positioned at a third angular position 27 with respect to the central axis E.

[0111] Preferably, the leg element 38a may be defined to be positioned at an angular position of 0°. Furthermore, according to such a definition, assuming that the position angles increase counterclockwise when the leg element 38(38a) and the closing element 20 are viewed from above, the second position angle corresponding to the second angular position 28 may be greater than the first position angle corresponding to the first angular position 26 and less than the third position angle corresponding to the third angular position 27.

[0112] Preferably, the angular distance between the first angular position 26 and the second angular position 28 may be in the range of 85° to 135°, preferably in the range of 100° to 120°.

[0113] In the illustrated example, the angular difference between the first angular position 26 and the second angular position 28 may be substantially equal to 110°.

[0114] Preferably, the angular difference between the first angular position 26 and the third angular position 27 may be in the range of 160° to 210°, preferably in the range of 170° to 190°.

[0115] In the illustrated example, the angular difference between the first angular position 26 and the third angular position 27 is substantially equal to 180°.

[0116] In the illustrated example, the intersecting surface H intersects with the second leg element 38 (also shown as 38b in Figures 4 and 5). Preferably, the second leg element 38 (38b) is symmetrical with respect to the intersecting surface H.

[0117] Preferably, the ridge element 23 associated with the main leg element 38a may also be positioned at the first angular position 26.

[0118] Furthermore, one ridge element 23 may be positioned at a second angular position 28, and preferably another ridge element 23 may be positioned at a third angular position 27.

[0119] Advantageously, the free region 29 of the opening device 3 can be defined as the region where no leg elements 38 exist. In the illustrated example, the free region 29 extends from the third angular position 27 to the first angular position 26.

[0120] Furthermore, the leg element 38 (including 38a) is positioned in the occupied area 34. In the illustrated example, the occupied area 34 extends from the first angular position 26 to the third angular position 27.

[0121] Preferably, as described above, the angular difference between the third angular position 27 and the first angular position 26 is at least equal to 160° (i.e., this angular difference is 160° or more).

[0122] In other words, the free region 29 extends along an angular length of at least 160°.

[0123] In particular, as mentioned above, the leg element 38a may be defined to be positioned at an angular position of 0°. Furthermore, according to such a definition, and assuming that the leg element 38(38a) and the closing element 20 increase counterclockwise when viewed from above, the position angle corresponding to any position in the free region 29 (extending between the third angular position 27 and the first angular position 26) is greater than the position angle corresponding to the third angular position 27, i.e., the third position angle defined above.

[0124] In another embodiment (not shown), the opening device 3 may consist of only two leg elements 38 (including a main leg element 38a). In such an embodiment, the occupied area 34 may be defined between a first angular position 26 and a second angular position 28, and the free area 29 may be defined between the second angular position 28 and the first angular position 26.

[0125] Preferably, the opening device 3, preferably the connecting portion 7, may be configured such that the free area 29 (an area where no leg elements 38 exist) is located closer to the center of the second wall 5 and / or the lateral sealing portion 6 than the occupied area 34 (an area where leg elements 38 are provided).

[0126] Therefore, according to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, a portion of the main wall 22 that does not have any ridge elements 23 is associated with the free region 29.

[0127] Similarly, according to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, a portion of the main wall 22 on which the ridge element 23 is provided is associated with the occupied area 34.

[0128] Referring to Figure 1, the lid 8 may include a covering portion 40 configured to cover the spout 11, and gripping lips 41 that protrude radially from the covering portion 40 and are configured to facilitate moving the lid 8 from a closed position to an open position.

[0129] Preferably, the main leg element 38a may be positioned closer to the gripping lip 41 than the other leg elements 38.

[0130] Preferably, the gripping lip 41 may extend radially in a direction substantially parallel to the lateral sealing portion 6, especially when the lid 8 is in the closed position.

[0131] Preferably, the gripping lip 41 may be configured to be engaged by the user when moving the lid 8 from the closed position to the open position.

[0132] It should be noted that immediately after formation, package 1 may be in an initial configuration in which the lid 8 is in the closed position and the closing element 20 is in the operating position. Package 1 may be distributed and / or sold to users in this initial configuration.

[0133] When in use, the user receives package 1 with the lid 8 and closing element 20 in the closed and operating positions, respectively, covering the spout 11 and a designated spout.

[0134] Before the lid 8 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position, and the closing element 20 is first controlled from the operating position to the non-operating position, the closing element 20 is fixed to the inner surface 21, i.e., it is integrated with it.

[0135] The user must operate the lid 8 from the closed position to the open position to access the dispenseable product, which moves the closing element 20 from the activated position to the deactivated position. This causes the breakable portion to break, and the closing element 20 to detach from the inner surface 21. This allows the dispenseable product to flow from the internal space through the flow path 10 and out of the flow path 10 through the spout 11.

[0136] Each time the lid 8 is moved to the closed position, the closing element 20 is placed back into the operating position, and the closing element 20 covers the predetermined pouring opening.

[0137] According to another aspect of the present invention, the opening device 3 may be joined to the main body 2 by a molding process. In particular, the opening device 3 may be joined to the main body 2 by molding the first portion of the opening device 3 onto the corresponding packaging blank.

[0138] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a mold that can form the opening device 3 into the main body 2 and / or packaging blank. More specifically, this mold may be configured to form and shape the first portion of the opening device 3.

[0139] In particular, the mold may be configured to enable the formation of the base frame 13, collar 9, closing element 20, and connecting structure 37.

[0140] The advantages of the opening device 3 and / or package 1 according to the present invention are clear from the above description.

[0141] In particular, because the leg element 38 is asymmetrical, gradually pulling the closing element 20 reduces the risk of the dispenseable product splashing when the closing element 20 is first controlled from the operating position to the non-operating position. Furthermore, the closing element 22 deforms gradually during the opening phase.

[0142] Furthermore, by providing the asymmetrical leg element 38, it is possible to reduce the overall rigidity of the assembly formed by the closing element 22, the leg element 38, and the lid 8.

[0143] Furthermore, the asymmetrical arrangement of the leg elements 38 allows the point at which the connection between the closing element 20 and the collar 9 ultimately breaks to be controlled to a desired position, thereby reducing the risk of scattering.

[0144] A further advantage is that the portion of the opening device 3 having a free region 29 detaches from the inner surface 21 later than the occupied region 34. This further reduces the risk of scattering, especially in packages 1 with an inclined top, where the portion of the second wall 5 adjacent to the lateral sealing portion 6 is further from the bottom wall of the package than the portion of the second wall 5 that is away from the lateral sealing portion 6. In this case, the portion of the closing element 22 that detaches from the inner surface 21 last is located in the free region 29.

[0145] Furthermore, the total amount of energy released into package 1 and its contents during the process of separating the closing element 20 from color 9 is lower compared to known solutions.

[0146] Furthermore, the risk of scattering is reduced due to the elastic rebound of package 1 after the closing element 20 is initially time-controlled from the operating position to the non-operating position.

[0147] Clearly, modifications may be made to the opening device 3 and / or package 1 described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An opening device (3) for a package (1) filled with a dispenseable product, wherein the opening device (3) is A collar (9) having a central axis (E) and a spout (11), A lid (8) connected to the collar (9) and angularly movable between a closed position and an open position around a hinge axis (G), the lid (8) having a position that closes the spout (11) and an open position, A closing element (20) configured to close the designated spout, the closing element (20) being integrally molded with the collar (9) and detachably and / or breakably attached to the collar (9), Multiple leg elements (38) are connected to the closing element (20) and protrude from the closing element (20) and connected to the lid (8), Equipped with, One of the plurality of leg elements (38), the main leg element (38a), is positioned further from the hinge axis (G) than the other leg elements (38). The main leg element (38a) intersects with the intersection plane (H) including the central axis (E), and the plurality of leg elements (38; 38a) are not symmetrical with respect to each other and are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the intersection plane (H). Mouth opening device (3).

2. The main leg element (38a) is symmetrical with respect to the intersecting surface (H), or The main leg element (38a) and another leg element (38) intersect the intersection surface (H), and are symmetrical with respect to the intersection surface (H). The opening device according to claim 1.

3. The main leg element (38a) is positioned at a first angular position (26) with respect to the central axis (E), Further leg elements (38) are positioned at a second angular position (28) with respect to the central axis (E), The angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the second angular position (28) is in the range of 85° to 135°. The opening device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The opening device comprises three leg elements (38; 38a), The main leg element (38a) is positioned at a first angular position (26) with respect to the central axis (E), the second leg element (38) is positioned at a second angular position (28) with respect to the central axis (E), and the third leg element (38) is positioned at a third angular position (27) with respect to the central axis (E). The second angular position (28) is interposed between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27), No leg elements are positioned at the angular position interposed between the third angular position (27) and the first angular position (26). The opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27) is in the range of 160° to 210°. The opening device according to claim 4.

6. The angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27) is substantially equal to 180°. The opening device according to claim 5.

7. The closing element (20) is A main wall (22) is configured to cover a predetermined inlet and is detachably and / or detachably attached to the collar (9). Multiple radially extending ridge elements (23), the ridge elements extending along the longitudinal axis (F), extending from the peripheral portion (24) of the main wall (22) toward the center (25) of the main wall (22), Equipped with, The ridge element (23) is associated with one leg element (38, 38a), The leg elements (38, 38a) extend from the peripheral portion (24), The ridge element (23) associated with the main leg element (38a) is intersected by the intersecting surface (H), the intersecting surface (H) includes the longitudinal axis (F) of the ridge element (23). An opening device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A mold configured to allow the opening device (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 to be molded on the body (2) of a package (1) of a dispenseable product and / or on a precursor of a package (1) of a dispenseable product.

9. A package (1) filled with and / or filled with a dispenseable product, comprising a body (2) having a predetermined spout, and an opening device (3) formed from a multilayer composite packaging material, which is attached to the body (2) and positioned around the predetermined spout, The aforementioned opening device (3) is A collar (9) having a central axis (E) and a spout (11), A lid (8) connected to the collar (9) and capable of angular movement around a hinge axis (G) between a closed position that closes the spout (11) and an open position that opens the spout (11), A closing element (20) is integrally molded with the collar (9) and is detachably and / or breakably attached to the collar (9), and is configured to close the predetermined spout, Multiple leg elements (38) are connected to the closing element (20), protruding from the closing element (20), and connected to the lid (8), Equipped with, One of the multiple leg elements (38) is positioned further from the hinge axis (G) than the other leg elements (38). The main leg element (38a) intersects with the intersecting surface (H) including the central axis (E), The plurality of leg elements (38; 38a) are not symmetrical to one another and are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the intersecting surface (H). Package (1).

10. The main leg element (38a) is symmetrical with respect to the intersecting surface (H), or The main leg element (38a) and another leg element (38) intersect the intersection surface (H) and are symmetrical with respect to the intersection surface (H). The package according to claim 9.

11. The main leg element (38a) is positioned at a first angular position (26) with respect to the central axis (E), Further leg elements (38) are positioned at a second angular position (28) with respect to the central axis (E). The angular difference between the first angular position (26) and the second angular position (28) is in the range of 85° to 135°. The package according to claim 9 or 10.

12. The opening device (3) comprises three leg elements (38, 38a), The main leg element (38a) is positioned at a first angular position (26) with respect to the central axis (E), the second leg element (38) is positioned at a second angular position (28) with respect to the central axis (E), and the third leg element (38) is positioned at a third angular position (27) with respect to the central axis (E). The second angular position (28) is interposed between the first angular position (26) and the third angular position (27), No leg elements are positioned at the angular position interposed between the third angular position (27) and the first angular position (26). The package according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

13. The opening device (3) comprises a free area (29) that does not have any of the leg elements (38; 38a) and an occupied area (34) that includes the leg elements (38; 38a), The free region (29) is demarcated by the main leg element (38a) and a further leg element (38). The angular difference between the angular position of the further leg element (38) and the angular position of the main leg element (38a) is equal to at least 160°. The free region (29) is closer to the lateral sealing portion (6) than the occupied region (34). The package according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The closing element (20) is A main wall (22) is configured to cover a predetermined inlet and is detachably and / or detachably attached to the collar (9). Multiple radially extending ridge elements (23), the ridge elements extending along the longitudinal axis (F), extending from the peripheral portion (24) of the main wall (22) toward the center (25) of the main wall (22), Equipped with, The ridge element (23) is associated with one leg element (38, 38a), The leg elements (38, 38a) extend from the peripheral portion (24), The ridge element (23) associated with the main leg element (38a) is intersected by the intersecting surface (H), the intersecting surface (H) includes the longitudinal axis (F) of the ridge element (23). The package according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

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