Spout for packaging, lid for packaging and spout assembly, and packaging having a spout

Abstract

Describes a spout (4, 4', 4”) for a package (1) having a designated pouring opening and filled with a pourable product. The spout (4, 4', 4”) comprises at least: a collar (13) extending along a longitudinal axis (E), carrying a pouring outlet (12) at a first axial end (17) and an inlet opening (18) for the pourable product at a second axial end (18), and defining a flow channel (20) for the pourable product between the pouring outlet (12) and the inlet opening (18); and a closing element (14) configured to interrupt the fluid connection between the pouring outlet (12) and the inlet opening (18). The closing element (14) is interposed between the inlet opening (18) and the pouring outlet (12) and is frangibly fixed to the inner surface (21) of the collar (13).

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a spout for a package, in particular a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable foodstuff.

[0002] Advantageously, the present invention relates to a lid and spout assembly for a package, in particular a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable foodstuff.

[0003] Advantageously, the present invention also relates to a package, in particular a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable foodstuff, and comprising a spout. Background Art

[0004] Many liquid or pourable foodstuffs are known to be sold in packages, in particular sealed packages, made of aseptic packaging material. Examples include fruit juices, UHT (ultra-high temperature treated) milk, wine, tomato ketchup, etc.

[0005] A typical example is the parallelepiped package for pourable foodstuffs known as Tetra Brik Aseptic (registered trademark), which is made by sealing and folding a laminated strip of packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layer structure, which includes a paperboard and / or paper base layer, covered on both sides with layers of heat-sealable plastic material (such as polyethylene). In the case of aseptic packages for long-term storage of products, the packaging material also includes a layer of oxygen barrier material, such as aluminum foil, which is stacked on a layer of heat-sealable plastic material and is in turn covered with another layer of heat-sealable plastic material, which forms the inner surface of the package that finally contacts the foodstuff.

[0006] Some known packages, in particular the corresponding sealed bodies of packages formed by packaging material, include designated pouring openings that allow a pourable product to be poured out of the package. Usually, the designated pouring openings are covered by a separating membrane that separates the interior of the package from the external environment and will be opened or removed or broken or cut or pierced before the first pouring of the pourable product, in order to allow the pourable product to be poured out through the designated pouring openings. It is also known to arrange a lid and spout assembly having a spout and a lid around the designated pouring opening on the body. The spout has a pouring outlet to allow the pourable product to be poured out of the package in a controlled manner, and the lid allows the pouring outlet to be selectively closed and opened.

[0007] The spout includes a collar that bears a pouring outlet at a first axial end and an inlet opening at a second axial end. After the integrity of the separating membrane is lost, the pourable product can be poured out of the interior space of the package by removing the lid from the spout. The pourable product flows from the interior space of the package through the inlet opening towards the pouring outlet. Once the lid is again arranged on the spout, the lid prevents the pourable product from flowing out of the pouring outlet. However, the pourable product can still flow into a flow channel extending between the inlet opening and the pouring opening of the collar depending on the orientation of the package.

[0008] A known type of lid and spout assembly is designed to prevent the possibility of the pourable product entering the flow channel when the lid closes the pouring outlet. Such a lid and spout assembly is provided with a spout that includes a closing element coupled to the lid by a coupling member. This closing element is fused to and / or at least partially defines the separating membrane and is positioned to seal the inlet opening. In particular, the closing element is configured to contact an edge portion of the collar that defines the inlet opening.

[0009] Typically, such a spout also includes a coupling membrane that connects the closing element to the edge portion and ruptures when the lid is first removed from the spout.

[0010] It is known to form such a package starting from a substantially flat packaging material that bears the spout, which is folded, filled with the pourable product and sealed. More specifically, the applicant has applied a technique that is based on the following: the packaging material is provided in the form of an annular web that is advanced within an automatic packaging machine. During the advancement, the spout is applied to the packaging material by molding, in particular injection molding. Then, the web is folded into a tube, longitudinally sealed, filled with the pourable product, and transversely sealed and cut to obtain individual packages. Finally, the lids are applied to the respective spouts.

[0011] It has been observed that during the formation, the spout is subjected to forces that can cause the spout to deform.

[0012] It has also been found that the presence of the coupling member can cause possible deformation of the closing element and a loss of the positioning accuracy of the closing element within the spout.

[0013] Therefore, there is a need in the art to improve such a spout in order to overcome the inconveniences encountered. Summary of the Invention

[0014] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved spout for a package, in a simple and low-cost manner, the package being in particular a package with a sealed body that is filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable food product.

[0015] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide, in a simple and low-cost manner, an improved spout for a package, in particular a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable foodstuff, which increases the stability of the spout and / or allows for a more precise positioning of the closure element of the spout.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide, in a simple and low-cost manner, an improved lid and spout assembly for a package, in particular a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable foodstuff.

[0017] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide, in a simple and low-cost manner, an improved lid and spout assembly for a package, in particular a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable foodstuff, which increases the stability of the lid and spout assembly and / or allows for a more precise positioning of the closure element of the spout.

[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide, in a simple and low-cost manner, a package, in particular a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, in particular a pourable foodstuff, having a spout, in particular a spout designed such that the stability of the spout is increased and / or allows for a more precise positioning of the closure element of the spout.

[0019] According to the present invention, there is provided a spout for a package having a designated pouring opening and filled with a pourable product; wherein the spout at least comprises: a collar extending along a longitudinal axis, carrying a pouring outlet at a first axial end and an inlet opening for the pourable product at a second axial end, and defining a flow channel for the pourable product between the pouring outlet and the inlet opening; and a closure element configured to interrupt the fluid connection between the pouring outlet and the inlet opening, wherein the closure element is interposed between the inlet opening and the pouring outlet and is frangibly fixed to the inner surface of the collar.

[0020] One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the closing element can be controlled between an active position and an inactive position, in which active position the closing element is configured to interrupt the fluid connection between the pouring outlet and the inlet opening, and in which inactive position the closing element is configured to allow the fluid connection between the pouring outlet and the inlet opening; before the closing element is first controlled from the active position to the inactive position, the closing element is frangibly fixed to the inner surface. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the collar extends along a central axis and includes a first edge disposed at the first axial end and defining the pouring outlet and a second edge disposed at the second axial end and defining the inlet opening; wherein the closing element is axially displaced from the first edge and the second edge. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the spout includes a base frame configured to couple the spout to the body of the package and to carry the collar; wherein the base frame includes a first annular portion and a second annular portion; wherein the first annular portion and the second annular portion are axially displaced from each other to insert a portion of the body therebetween; wherein the first annular portion is configured to contact the outer surface of the body and the second annular portion is configured to contact the inner surface of the body; wherein the closing element is axially displaced at least from the second annular portion. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the first annular portion includes a first engagement surface configured to contact the outer surface of the body, and the second annular portion includes a second engagement surface configured to contact the inner surface of the body; wherein the closing element is axially displaced at least from the second engagement surface. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the closing element includes a peripheral portion frangibly fixed to the inner surface along an initial contact portion of the inner surface; wherein the inner surface includes: a main surface portion extending from the initial contact portion towards the pouring outlet; and an auxiliary surface portion extending from the initial contact portion to the inlet opening. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the initial contact portion is axially displaced from the inlet opening towards the pouring outlet. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the initial contact portion is annular in shape. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the auxiliary surface portion defines and / or bounds an auxiliary space having a frustoconical shape or a cylindrical shape. One of the advantageous embodiments of the spout, wherein the pouring outlet extends in a first plane, the inlet opening extends in a second plane different from the first plane, and the initial contact portion extends in a third plane different from the first plane and the second plane; wherein the third plane is between the first plane and the second plane.One advantageous embodiment of the spout, wherein the closing element includes a coupling membrane that irreversibly fixes the closing element to the inner surface; wherein the coupling membrane is configured to irreversibly rupture during the first removal of the closing element from the inner surface.

[0021] According to the present invention, there is also provided a cap and spout assembly for a package, the package having a designated pouring opening and filled with a pourable product; the cap and spout assembly includes a spout and a cap coupled to the spout and configured to selectively open and close the pouring outlet. Wherein the cap can be controlled at least between a closed configuration and an open configuration, in the closed configuration, the cap covers the pouring outlet, and in the open configuration, the cap is removed from the pouring outlet; wherein the cap and the closing element are coupled such that when the cap is in the closed configuration and the open configuration respectively, the closing element is in the active position and the inactive position. The cap and spout assembly further includes a coupling ring coupled to the spout; wherein the cap is hinged to the coupling ring; wherein the cap can move angularly about a corresponding hinge axis.

[0022] According to the present invention, there is also provided a package filled with a pourable product and including at least one spout. Description of the Drawings

[0023] Three non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0024] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a part of a package having a spout according to a first embodiment of the present invention coupled to a corresponding cap, wherein some components are removed for clarity;

[0025] Figure 2 is Figure 1 an enlarged top view of a part of the package, wherein some components are removed for clarity; and

[0026] Figure 3 is Figure 1 an enlarged perspective view of details of the spout, wherein some components are removed for clarity;

[0027] Figure 4 and 5 is Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of certain parts of the spout in different configurations, wherein some components are removed for clarity;

[0028] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of some details of a spout according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein some components are removed for clarity; and

[0029] Figure 7Is a cross-sectional view of some details of the spout according to the third embodiment of the present invention, with some components removed for clarity. Detailed Description

[0030] Reference numeral 1 generally denotes a package (only partially shown to the extent necessary for understanding the present invention), which includes:

[0031] - A sealed body 2, in particular a sealed carton body, which is filled with a pourable product, in particular a pourable food, and particularly has a designated pouring opening (not shown and known per se), which is configured to allow the pourable product to flow out of the body 2; and

[0032] - A lid and spout assembly 3, which is coupled to the sealed body 2 and has at least one spout 4 arranged and / or arrangeable around the designated pouring opening, and a lid 5 coupled and / or couplable to the spout 4.

[0033] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the body 2 is obtained from a packaging material, which is in particular a composite packaging material having a multi-layer structure (not shown and known per se).

[0034] Preferably, the packaging material is provided in the form of a roll.

[0035] Preferably, the body 2 is obtained by forming a tube from the packaging material, longitudinally sealing the tube, filling the tube with the pourable product, and transversely sealing and cutting the tube.

[0036] Preferably, the packaging material includes at least one layer of fibrous material (such as paper or cardboard), and at least two layers of heat-sealable plastic material (such as polyethylene) inserted between the fibrous material layers. One of the two heat-sealable plastic material layers defines the inner surface of the body 2 in contact with the pourable product.

[0037] Preferably, the packaging material further includes a gas and light barrier material layer, such as an aluminum foil or an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, in particular arranged between one of the heat-sealable plastic material layers and the fibrous material layer. Preferably but not necessarily, the packaging material further includes another heat-sealable plastic material layer between the gas and light barrier material layer and the fibrous material layer.

[0038] According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the spout 4 is applied to the base package 2 before, during or after the formation, filling and sealing of the body 2.

[0039] Alternatively, the spout 4 can be applied to the packaging material before the packaging material is arranged in the packaging machine or during the advancement of the packaging material through the packaging machine to form, fill and seal the body 2 from the packaging material.

[0040] In particular, the spout 4 is applied to the packaging material or the body 2 by means of a molding process and / or adhesive bonding and / or ultrasonic bonding.

[0041] Preferably, the lid 5 is coupled to the spout 4 before or after the spout 4 is applied to the body 2 or the packaging material.

[0042] With particular reference Figure 1 , the body 2 extends along a longitudinal axis A, a first transverse axis B and a second transverse axis C. In particular, the packaging 2 extends more along the longitudinal axis A than along the first transverse axis B and the second transverse axis C.

[0043] Preferably, the body 2 is in the shape of a parallelepiped.

[0044] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the body 2 includes a first wall portion (not shown and known per se), which is particularly transverse to, and even more particularly perpendicular to, the longitudinal axis A, and the body 2 extends from this first wall portion along the longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the first wall portion defines a support surface of the packaging 1 (particularly the body 2), which is designed to come into contact with a support (such as a bracket) in use, for example when exposed within a point of sale or during storage. In particular, when arranged on the support, the first wall portion defines a bottom wall portion.

[0045] Preferably, the body 2 also includes a plurality of side walls 6, which are (fixedly) connected to the first wall portion and extend from the first wall portion, particularly extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A.

[0046] Preferably, the body 2 also includes a second wall portion 7, which is opposite to the first wall portion and (fixedly) connected to at least some of the side walls 6. In particular, the side walls 6 are interposed between the first wall portion and the second wall portion 7. In particular, when arranged on the support, the second wall portion 7 defines a top wall portion.

[0047] According to some non - limiting embodiments, the first wall portion and the second wall portion 7 can be parallel to each other.

[0048] According to a non - limiting alternative embodiment (not shown), the first wall portion and the second wall portion 7 can be inclined relative to each other.

[0049] According to some non - limiting embodiments, the second wall portion 7 bears and / or includes a designated pouring opening.

[0050] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the packaging 1, particularly the body 2, includes an internal space 8 configured to receive and / or accommodate a pourable product. In particular, the first wall portion, the side walls 6 and the second wall portion 7 define the internal space 8.

[0051] According to a preferred non - limiting embodiment, the body 2 includes a separating membrane (not shown and known per se) covering the designated pouring opening. In particular, the separating membrane separates the internal space 8 from the external environment in the region of the internal space 8 of the designated pouring opening, particularly at the designated pouring opening. Preferably, the separating membrane includes a gas and light barrier material, such as, for example, an aluminum foil or an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) membrane.

[0052] In particular, during the first use (see further below for more details), the separating membrane is at least partially removed to allow the pourable product to flow out of the internal space 8 and the body 2.

[0053] According to a preferred non - limiting embodiment, the separating membrane is defined by a part of the packaging material, particularly by a part of the layers of the packaging material different from the fibrous material layer.

[0054] Alternatively, the separating membrane can be partially or completely defined by other parts of the packaging 1.

[0055] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the body 2, particularly the second wall part 7, includes a respective inner surface 9 facing the internal space 8 and a respective outer surface 10 opposite to the inner surface 9. In particular, the inner surface 9 is in contact with the pourable product.

[0056] With particular reference to Figures 1 to 6 , the spout 4 at least includes:

[0057] - a pouring outlet 12, which is configured to allow the pourable product to flow out of the packaging 1; and

[0058] - a collar 13 that bears (includes) the pouring outlet 12; and

[0059] - a closing element 14, which is configured to selectively control the fluid connection between the pouring outlet 12 and the internal space 8, particularly operatively coupled to the lid 5.

[0060] Preferably, the spout 4 further includes a base frame 15 that couples the spout 4 to the body 2 around the designated pouring opening and / or is configured to couple the spout 4 to the body 2 around the designated pouring opening, particularly to the second wall part 7.

[0061] Preferably, the spout 4 further includes one or more coupling members 16 that are connected to the closing element 14 and the lid 5 and are configured to operatively connect the closing element 14 and the lid 5 to each other. In particular, the coupling members 16 are configured to couple the lid 5 and the closing element 14 in such a way that any movement of the lid 5 causes a simultaneous movement of the closing element 14. Even more particularly, the coupling members 16 are inseparably connected (under normal operating conditions) to the lid 5 and the closing element 14.

[0062] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the spout 4, in particular the collar 13 and the closing element 14, and preferably also the base frame 15 and the coupling member 16, are formed and / or molded from a polymer.

[0063] Preferably, the lid 5 is also formed and / or molded from a polymer.

[0064] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the coupling member 16 is fused and / or welded and / or glued and / or molded to the lid 5, in particular after the lid 5 is applied to the spout 4.

[0065] More specifically, the collar 13 extends along a central axis E (in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis A), and at a first axial end 17 of the collar 13 itself, it bears (includes) the pouring outlet 12 and at a second axial end 19 of the collar 13 itself, opposite the first axial end 17, it bears an inlet opening 18 for the pourable product. In particular, the collar 13 delimits (and / or includes) a flow channel 20 for the pourable product that extends between the inlet opening 18 and the pouring outlet 12. In use, the collar 13 is configured such that the pourable product is received from the internal space 8 through the inlet opening 18 and such that the pourable product flows out from the pouring outlet 12.

[0066] Advantageously, the closing element 14 is configured to control the fluid connection between the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18, in particular to control the fluid connection between the pouring outlet 12 and the internal space 8.

[0067] Preferably, the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18 extend in a first plane H1 and a second plane H2 respectively, and the second plane H2 is axially offset from the first plane H1 with respect to the central axis E. In particular, the first plane H1 and the second plane H2 are perpendicular to the central axis E.

[0068] Preferably, the collar 13 includes an inner surface 21, in particular the inner surface 21 that defines the flow channel 20.

[0069] Even more preferably, the collar 13 further includes an outer surface 22 opposite to the inner surface 21.

[0070] Preferably, the collar 13 includes a first edge 23 arranged at the first axial end 17 and defining the pouring outlet 12, and a second edge 24 arranged at the second axial end 18 and defining the inlet opening 18.

[0071] In particular, the collar 13 has a tubular structure.

[0072] Even more particularly, the collar 13 has an annular cross - sectional profile with respect to a cross - section perpendicular to the central axis E.

[0073] In particular, the collar 13 is fluidly connected or controllably fluidly connected to the designated pouring opening, and / or at least partially extends through the designated pouring opening and into the internal space 8.

[0074] More specifically, the closing element 14 is operatively coupled to the lid 5, in particular via a coupling member 16, and is arranged and / or arrangeable within the flow channel 18. In particular, the closing element 14 is configured to selectively control the fluid connection between the inlet opening 18 and the pouring outlet 12.

[0075] More specifically, the closing element 14 can be controlled at least once from an active position (see Figure 2 , 3 , 4 and 6), wherein the closing element 14 is configured to interrupt the fluid connection between the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18, and can be controlled at least once from an inactive position (see Figure 5 ), wherein the closing element 14 is configured to allow the fluid connection between the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18. Preferably, the closing element 14 is repeatedly controllable between the active position and the inactive position.

[0076] In particular, the initial configuration of the spout 4 is such that the closing element 14 is arranged in the active position.

[0077] Even more particularly, the package 1 is distributed to the end consumer, with the spout 4 in the initial configuration.

[0078] According to some preferred non - restrictive embodiments, when the lid 5 is first attached to the spout 4, the spout 4 is in the initial configuration.

[0079] According to some preferred non - restrictive embodiments, the closing element 14 is connected, in particular fused, to a separating membrane. In particular, during the control of the closing element 14 between the active position and the inactive position, the separating membrane also changes its position.

[0080] According to some non - restrictive alternative embodiments, the closing element 14 partially or fully defines the separating membrane.

[0081] According to a preferred non - restrictive embodiment, the closing element 14 and the collar 13 are molded as a single piece.

[0082] According to some preferred non - restrictive embodiments, the lid 5 is controllable between at least the following:

[0083] - A closed configuration, wherein the lid 5 is configured to cover and / or overlie the pouring outlet 12, in particular for preventing the pourable product from flowing out of the pouring outlet 12; and

[0084] - Open the configuration, where the lid 5 is configured to pour out of the pouring outlet 12 and / or separate from the pouring outlet 12, particularly allowing the pourable product to flow out through the pouring outlet 12.

[0085] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the lid 5 includes a top wall 25 and a side wall 26. The top wall 25 is configured to cover the pouring outlet 12. The lid 5 is controlled in a closed configuration. The side wall 26 projects from the top wall 25 and is configured to at least partially surround the collar 13, where the lid 5 is arranged in the closed configuration.

[0086] Preferably, the top wall 25 and the side wall 26 define an internal space that is (substantially) cylindrical. In particular, the internal space houses at least a part of the collar 13 and the flow channel 20, where the lid 5 is arranged in the closed configuration.

[0087] Preferably, the coupling member 16 is connected to the top wall 25, particularly to the inner surface of the top wall 25, and the inner surface of the top wall 25 faces the internal space.

[0088] Please note that Figures 2 to 6 The lid 5 is not shown. In particular, during the formation of the package 1, the lid 5 is applied to the spout 4, and the spout 4 has been coupled to the body 2. Preferably, once the lid 5 has been coupled to the spout 4 and the coupling member 16, the lid 5 and the coupling member 16 are always interconnected to ensure the permanent connection of the lid 5 and the closing element 14.

[0089] Advantageously, the lid - spout assembly 3 further includes a coupling ring 27, which is configured to be arranged around at least a part of the spout 4 and / or arranged, particularly around at least a part of the collar 13, particularly such that the coupling ring 27 is inseparable from the spout 4, particularly from the collar 13.

[0090] Preferably, the lid - spout assembly 3 further includes a frangible coupling bridge that connects the coupling ring 27 and the lid 5 to each other. The coupling bridge is designed to irreversibly break during the first control of the lid 5 from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0091] Preferably, the lid 5 is hinged to the coupling ring 27 and is adapted to move angularly about the hinge axis. In particular, the hinge axis is transverse to, particularly perpendicular to, the central axis E and / or the longitudinal axis A.

[0092] Preferably, the lid 5 is movable about the hinge axis between at least a first angular position and a second angular position, at which the lid 5 is respectively controlled in the closed configuration and the open configuration.

[0093] Preferably, the lid 5 and the closing element 14 are coupled such that the closing element 14 is in an active position and an inactive position, while the lid 5 is in the closed configuration and the open configuration respectively.

[0094] In particular, when in the active position and in the inactive position respectively, the closing element 14 is in a respective first angular position relative to the hinge axis (see Figure 2 、 3 and 4) and a respective second angular position (see Figure 5 ), and is configured to move angularly about the hinge axis between the first angular position and the second angular position.

[0095] It should be noted that the package 1 is in the initial configuration immediately after its formation (where the lid 5 and the closing element 14 are in the closed configuration and the active position respectively). The package 1 is distributed and / or sold to the user when in the initial configuration.

[0096] With particular reference to Figure 3 、 4 and 5, the chassis 15 includes a first annular portion 28 and a second annular portion 29 which are axially displaced from each other relative to the central axis E and are configured to insert and / or interpose a part of the body 2 (in particular the second wall portion 7). In particular, a part of the body 2, in particular the second wall portion 7, is at the designated pouring outlet.

[0097] Preferably, the first annular portion 28 includes a first engagement surface configured to contact the outer surface 10, and the second annular portion 29 includes a second engagement surface configured to contact the inner surface 9. In particular, the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface face each other.

[0098] Advantageously and with particular reference to Figures 2 to 5 , the closing element 14 is inserted between the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18 and is frangibly fixed to the inner surface 21. In particular, when the spout 4 is in the initial configuration, the closing element 14 is frangibly fixed to the inner surface 21. In other words, before the closing element 14 first moves from the active position to the inactive position, the closing element 14 is frangibly fixed to the inner surface 21.

[0099] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the closing element 14 is configured to be repeatedly controlled between the active position and the inactive position. In particular, each time the closing element 14 is controlled to be in the active position, the closing element 14 is inserted between the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18.

[0100] In particular, the closing element 14 is axially displaced from the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18 (relative to the central axis E), particularly when in the active position. In other words, the closing element 14 is axially displaced from the first edge 23 and the second edge 24 (relative to the central axis E).

[0101] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, when the closing element 14 is in the active position, the closing element 14 is axially displaced from the second annular portion 29, particularly from the second engagement surface, with respect to the central axis E. Preferably, the closing element 14 is axially positioned so as not to be inserted between the first annular portion 28 (particularly the first engagement surface) and the second annular portion 29 (particularly the second engagement surface).

[0102] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the closing element 14 includes at least one peripheral portion 30, which particularly has an annular shape and contacts the inner surface 21 and / or is configured to contact the inner surface 21 at the corresponding contact portions of the inner surface 21 when the closing element 14 is in the active position.

[0103] Preferably, the closing element 14 further includes a central wall 31 that is connected to and extends from the peripheral portion 30, particularly radially, particularly towards the center of the closing element 14.

[0104] In particular, the closing element 14 is integral and / or continuous, which means that the closing element 14, particularly the peripheral portion 30 and the central wall 31, do not include any channels and / or through - holes.

[0105] According to the shown preferred non - limiting embodiment, when the closing element 14 is in the active position, the central wall 31 protrudes with respect to the first plane H1.

[0106] Preferably, when the spout 4 is in the initial configuration, the central wall 31 is curved towards the inlet opening 18 and / or the second edge 24. In particular, the central wall 31 is curved such that when the spout 4 is in the initial configuration, the center point of the central wall is arranged closer to the inlet opening 18 and / or the second edge 24 with respect to the central axis E than the peripheral portion 30.

[0107] Alternatively, when the spout 4 is in the initial configuration, the central wall 31 is curved towards the pouring outlet 12 and / or the first edge 23. In particular, according to this alternative, the central wall 31 is curved such that when the spout 4 is in the initial configuration, the center point of the central wall is arranged closer to the pouring outlet 12 and / or the first edge 23 with respect to the central axis E than the peripheral portion 30.

[0108] Advantageously, before the first actuation of the closing element 14 from the active position to the inactive position (i.e., when the spout 4 is in the initial configuration), the peripheral portion 30 contacts and is frangibly fixed to the inner surface 21 along the initial contact portion 32 (particularly having an annular shape) of the inner surface 21.

[0109] In particular, by the contact of the peripheral portion 30 with the inner surface 21, a sealing effect is achieved at the interface between the peripheral portion 30 and the inner surface 21.

[0110] According to some non - limiting embodiments, the initial contact portion 32 is arranged such that the inner surface 21 includes:

[0111] - A main surface portion 33 that extends (and extends to the pouring outlet 12 and / or the first edge 23) from the initial contact portion 32 towards the pouring outlet 12 and / or the first edge 23; and

[0112] - An auxiliary surface portion 34 that extends from the initial contact portion 32 towards the inlet opening 18 and / or the second edge 24 and extends to the inlet opening 18 and / or the second edge 24.

[0113] In particular, the initial contact portion 32 is axially displaced (with respect to the central axis E) from the inlet opening 18 and / or the second edge 24 and towards the pouring outlet 12 and / or the first edge 23.

[0114] Preferably, the initial contact portion 32 is also axially displaced with respect to the central axis E from the second annular portion 29 and towards the pouring outlet 12 and / or the first edge 23.

[0115] Preferably, the initial contact portion 32 is located in a third plane H3 (in particular different from and parallel to the first plane H1 and the second plane H2). In particular, the third plane H3 is perpendicular to the central axis E.

[0116] In particular, the third plane H3 is between the first plane H1 and the second plane H2.

[0117] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the axial distance (with respect to the central axis E) between the second plane H2 and the third plane H3 is greater than the thickness of the peripheral portion 30. In particular, the axial distance is at least twice, preferably at least three times, and even more particularly at least four times the thickness of the peripheral portion 30.

[0118] According to some preferred non - limiting embodiments, the collar 13 includes a main portion 35 having a main surface portion 33 and an auxiliary portion 36, particularly of an annular shape, having an auxiliary surface portion 34.

[0119] Preferably, the main surface portion 33 and the auxiliary surface portion 34 respectively define and / or delimit a main space 37 and an auxiliary space 38 of the flow channel 20.

[0120] In particular, the closing element 14 is configured to prevent any pourable product from entering the main space 37 when the arrangement is in the active position.

[0121] In particular, the auxiliary space 38 has a cylindrical shape.

[0122] Preferably, the main space 37 has a frustoconical-shaped portion, in particular a portion that tapers towards the inlet opening 18 and / or the second edge 24.

[0123] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the auxiliary surface portion 34 is transverse to the main surface portion 33. In particular, the auxiliary surface portion 34 is parallel to the central axis E and the main surface portion 33 is transverse to the central axis E.

[0124] Preferably, the first inclined surface of the auxiliary surface portion 34 and the second inclined surface of the main surface portion 33 are such that the initial contact portion 32 defines a plurality of inflection points. In particular, the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are defined with respect to an intersecting plane including the longitudinal axis E (i.e., the longitudinal axis E lies on the intersecting plane and the longitudinal axis E and the intersecting plane are parallel to each other). The intersecting plane intersects the inner surface 21 to obtain a one-dimensional curve (in particular, two one-dimensional curves because the intersecting plane intersects two different portions of the inner surface 21). Each one-dimensional curve includes a first portion and a second portion located on the auxiliary surface portion 34 and the main surface portion 33, respectively. The corresponding intersection points between the first portion and the second portion correspond to the corresponding points of the initial contact portion 32. Preferably, each intersection point is an inflection point of the corresponding one-dimensional curve.

[0125] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the inner surface 9 and the outer surface 10 are respectively arranged in a fourth plane H4 and a fifth plane H5, in particular transverse to, and even more particularly perpendicular to, the central axis E, especially arranged at the designated pouring outlet.

[0126] Preferably, the third plane H3 is axially spaced from the fifth plane H5.

[0127] Preferably, the third plane H3 coincides with the fifth plane H5 or is axially displaced from the fifth plane H5 with respect to the central axis E and towards the pouring outlet 12.

[0128] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the spout 4, in particular the closing element 14, and even more particularly the peripheral portion 30, further includes a coupling membrane 39 that fixes the closing element 14 to the inner surface 21 in a frangible manner, especially when the spout 4 is in the initial configuration, or in other words, before the first control of the closing element 14 from the active position to the inactive position. In particular, the coupling membrane 39 ensures the sealing of the internal space 8 before the first control of the closing element 14 from the active position to the inactive position.

[0129] Preferably, the coupling membrane 39 is configured to irreversibly rupture during the first removal of the closing element 14 from the inner surface 21, especially during the first control of the closing element 14 from the active position to the inactive position (see Figures 4 to 6)。This means that after the coupling membrane 39 ruptures, the closing element 21 remains in contact with the inner surface 21 while no longer being fixed to the inner surface 21. This ensures that each time the closing element 14 is arranged again within the flow channel 20, and in particular each time the closing element 14 is arranged again in the active position, the fluid connection between the inlet opening 18 and the pouring outlet 12 (see Figure 6 ) is interrupted.

[0130] In use, the user receives the package 1 with the lid 5 and the closing element 14 in the closed configuration and the active position respectively so as to cover the pouring outlet 12 and prevent any fluid connection between the inlet opening 18 and the pouring outlet 12.

[0131] Before the first actuation of the lid 5 from the closed configuration to the open configuration and of the closing element 14 from the active position to the inactive position, the peripheral portion 30 contacts the initial contact portion 32. In particular, the sealing effect obtained is (initially) ensured by the coupling membrane 39.

[0132] To access the pourable product, the user needs to actuate the lid 5 from the closed configuration to the open configuration, which results in actuating the closing element 14 from the active position to the inactive position, thereby allowing the pourable product to flow from the internal space 8 through the inlet opening 18 into the flow channel 20 and out of the flow channel 20 through the pouring outlet 12.

[0133] When the closing element 14 is first moved from the active position to the inactive position, the coupling membrane 39 ruptures irreversibly.

[0134] The lid 5 and the closing element 14 can be reversibly actuated in the closed configuration and the open configuration and in the active position and the inactive position respectively so as to selectively control whether to prevent or allow the outflow of the pourable product.

[0135] Each time the closing element 14 is arranged again in the active position, the closing element 14 remains arranged between the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18. In particular, the peripheral portion 30 contacts the contact portion of the inner surface 21. The contact portion can correspond to but can also deviate from the initial contact portion 32.

[0136] In particular, when the closing element 14 is in the active position, the closing element 14 interrupts the fluid connection between the inlet opening 18 and the pouring outlet 12.

[0137] Reference Figure 6 , the reference numeral 4' denotes an alternative embodiment of the spout of the lid and spout assembly 3 according to the invention; since the spout 4' is similar to the spout 4, the following description is limited to the differences between them and, where possible, the same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding parts.

[0138] In particular, the spout 4' differs from the spout 4 in that the auxiliary part 36 includes at least one annular cover 46 which is connected to the main part 35 and projects from the main part 35 towards the inlet opening 18. Preferably, the annular cover 46 delimits a part of the auxiliary space 38 which in particular has a frustoconical shape. Preferably, a part of the auxiliary space 38 tapers towards the inlet opening 18 and / or the second edge 24. In particular, this also means that the auxiliary space 38 does not have a cylindrical shape as in the case of the spout 4.

[0139] In particular, the auxiliary surface part 34 is transverse to the central axis E.

[0140] Preferably, the terminal edge 47 of the annular cover 46 is inserted between the inlet opening 18 and the initial contact part 32 (in other words, the terminal edge 47 is inserted between the second plane H2 and the third plane H3).

[0141] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the auxiliary part 36 further includes an end part 48 which is connected to the annular cover 46 and bears the second edge 24. In particular, the end part 48 delimits another part of the auxiliary space 38 which in particular also has a frustoconical shape. In particular, another part of the auxiliary space 38 tapers from the inlet opening 18 towards the initial contact part 32.

[0142] Preferably, the minimum diameter of the end part 48 is greater than the diameter of the annular cover 46 at the terminal edge 4.

[0143] Since the operation of the package 1 with the spout 4' is similar to the operation of the package 1 with the spout 4, reference is made to the description provided above.

[0144] Reference Figure 7 , the reference numeral 4” denotes an alternative embodiment of the spout of the cap and spout assembly 3 according to the invention; since the spout 4” is similar to the spout 4, the following description is limited to the differences between them and the same reference numerals are used for the same or corresponding parts where possible.

[0145] In particular, the spout 4” differs from the spout 4 in that the closing element 14 further includes a contact ring 49 which is connected to the peripheral part 30 and projects from the peripheral part 30. Advantageously, the contact ring 49 is configured to contact the inner surface 21 when the cap 5 is in the active position, in particular to increase the sealing surface between the closing element 14 and the inner surface 21.

[0146] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the contact ring 49 extends from the peripheral part 30 towards the top wall 25.

[0147] In particular, the spout 4" also differs from the spout 4 in that the auxiliary part 36 further includes an annular limiting lip 50 disposed between the initial contact part 32 and the inlet opening 18. In particular, the annular limiting lip 50 protrudes towards the center of the auxiliary part 36.

[0148] Preferably, the diameter of the annular limiting cover 50 is smaller than the diameter of the auxiliary part 36 at the second edge 24.

[0149] Since the operation of the package 1 with the spout 4" is similar to the operation of the package 1 with the spout 4, reference is made to the description provided above.

[0150] The advantages of the spout 4, spout 4', spout 4" and / or the lid and spout assembly 3 and / or the package 1 according to the present invention will be apparent from the foregoing description.

[0151] In particular, by disposing the closing element 14 within the flow channel 20 and between the pouring outlet 12 and the inlet opening 18 (i.e., moving the closing element 14 away from the second edge 24 and towards the pouring outlet 12 relative to the solutions known in the prior art), a spout 4 or spout 4' or spout 4" is obtained, which increases the stability. Thus, the lid and spout assembly 3 is more stable during the formation of the package 1 within an automatic machine.

[0152] Another advantage is that by arranging the main surface part 33 and the auxiliary surface part 34 transversely to each other, a more precise cutting and / or rupture of the separating membrane and / or the closing element 14 can be obtained; and / or the control of the base frame 15 can be improved.

[0153] Yet another advantage is that the axial distance between the closing element 14 and the top wall 25 is smaller, which means that the coupling member 16 is shorter compared to the solutions known in the art. This also means that the deformation of a single coupling member 16 is smaller, thus increasing the stability of the closing element 14.

[0154] A further advantage is that due to the short coupling member 16, the amount of polymer required to form the spout 4 or spout 4' or spout 4" is reduced.

[0155] Even further advantage is that even in the case of deformation of the position of the closing element 14 (in the solutions known in the art, the position deformation would result in the formation of a fluid connection between the internal space 8 and the pouring outlet 12), the sealing effect of the closing element 14 is also improved due to the contact of the closing element 14 with the inner surface 21.

[0156] Obviously, changes can be made to the spout 4, spout 4', spout 4" and / or the lid and spout assembly 3 and / or the package 1 as described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

[0157] According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the control of the lid 5 between the closed configuration and the open configuration and thus the control of the closing element 14 between the active position and the inactive position are achieved by means of a screwing movement on the lid 5.

[0158] According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the spout 4 or the spout 4' may include a contact ring 49.

[0159] According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the spout 4 or the spout 4' may include a limiting ring 50.

Claims

1. A lid and spout assembly (3) for a package (1), the package (1) having a designated pouring opening and filled with a pourable product; The lid and spout assembly (3) includes a spout (4, 4', 4”) and a lid (5) coupled to the spout (4, 4', 4”); Wherein the spout (4, 4', 4”) at least includes: - A collar (13) that extends along a central axis (E), bears a pouring outlet (12) at a first axial end (17) and an inlet opening (18) for the pourable product at a second axial end (19), and defines a flow channel (20) for the pourable product between the pouring outlet (12) and the inlet opening (18); And - A closing element (14) configured to interrupt the fluid connection between the pouring outlet (12) and the inlet opening (18); Wherein the lid (5) is configured to selectively open and close the pouring outlet (12); Wherein the closing element (14) is interposed between the inlet opening (18) and the pouring outlet (12) and is frangibly fixed to the inner surface (21) of the collar (13) along an initial contact portion (32) of the inner surface (21) of the collar (13); wherein the pouring outlet (12) extends in a first plane (H1), the inlet opening (18) extends in a second plane (H2) different from the first plane (H1), and the initial contact portion (32) extends in a third plane (H3) different from the first plane (H1) and the second plane (H2); wherein the third plane (H3) is interposed between the first plane (H1) and the second plane (H2); Wherein the lid (5) can be controlled to be at least between a closed configuration and an open configuration, in the closed configuration, the lid (5) covers the pouring outlet (12), and in the open configuration, the lid (5) is removed from the pouring outlet (12); Wherein the closing element (14) can be controlled to be between an active position and an inactive position, wherein the closing element (14) is frangibly fixed to the inner surface (21) before the closing element (14) is first controlled from the active position to the inactive position; Wherein the lid (5) and the closing element (14) are coupled such that when the lid (5) is in the closed configuration and the open configuration respectively, the closing element (14) is in the active position and the inactive position; Wherein the spout (4, 4', 4”) further includes a coupling member (16) that is inseparably connected to the lid (5) and the closing element (14); Wherein the inner surface (21) includes: a main surface portion (33) extending from the initial contact portion (32) toward the pouring outlet (12), and an auxiliary surface portion (34) extending from the initial contact portion (32) toward the inlet opening (18); wherein the collar (13) includes a main portion (35) having the main surface portion (33) and an auxiliary portion (36) having the auxiliary surface portion (34); wherein the auxiliary portion (36) includes at least one annular cover (46) that is connected to the main portion (35) and projects from the main portion (35) toward the inlet opening (18).

2. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 1, wherein in the active position, the closing element (14) is configured to interrupt the fluid connection between the pouring outlet (12) and the inlet opening (18), and in the inactive position, the closing element (14) is configured to allow fluid connection between the pouring outlet (12) and the inlet opening (18).

3. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the collar (13) extends along a central axis (E) and includes a first edge (23) disposed at the first axial end (17) and defining the pouring outlet (12) and a second edge (24) disposed at the second axial end (19) and defining the inlet opening (18); wherein the closing element (14) is axially displaced from the first edge (23) and the second edge (24).

4. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spout (4, 4', 4”) includes a base frame (15) configured to couple the spout (4, 4', 4”) to the body (2) of the package (1) and to carry the collar (13); wherein the base frame (15) includes a first annular portion (28) and a second annular portion (29); wherein the first annular portion (28) and the second annular portion (29) are axially displaced from each other to insert a portion of the body (2) therebetween; wherein the first annular portion (28) is configured to contact the outer surface (10) of the body (2) and the second annular portion (29) is configured to contact the inner surface (9) of the body (2); wherein the closing element (14) is axially displaced at least from the second annular portion (29).

5. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 4, wherein the first annular portion (28) includes a first engagement surface configured to contact the outer surface (10) of the body (2), and the second annular portion (29) includes a second engagement surface configured to contact the inner surface (9) of the body (2); wherein the closing element (14) is axially displaced at least from the second engagement surface.

6. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the closing element (14) includes a peripheral portion (30) that is frangibly fixed to the inner surface (21) along an initial contact portion (32) of the inner surface (21); Wherein said auxiliary surface portion (34) extends from said initial contact portion (32) to said inlet opening (18).

7. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 6, wherein said initial contact portion (32) is axially displaced from said inlet opening (18) towards said pouring outlet (12).

8. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 6, wherein said initial contact portion (32) is of annular shape.

9. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 6, wherein said auxiliary surface portion (34) defines and / or delimits an auxiliary space (38) having a frustoconical shape or a cylindrical shape.

10. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 1 or 2 above, wherein said closing element (14) comprises a coupling film (39) that fixes said closing element (14) to said inner surface (21) in a frangible manner; Wherein said coupling film (39) is configured to irreversibly rupture during a first removal of said closing element (14) from said inner surface (21).

11. The lid and spout assembly (3) according to claim 1, further comprising a coupling ring (27) coupled to said spout (4, 4', 4"); Wherein said lid (5) is hinged to said coupling ring (27); Wherein said lid (5) is angularly movable about a corresponding hinge axis.

12. A package (1) filled with a pourable product and comprising at least one lid and spout assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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