Closure device

Abstract

A closure device for a container for storing a flowable material therein comprises a base element, a mouth located within the base element and a top cover connected to the base element by a hinge, the top cover being movable back and forth between a closed position and an open position, the mouth being inaccessible in the closed position but accessible in the open position, an anti-tamper indicator device being used to visually indicate whether the top cover of the closure device has been moved out of its closed position, the anti-tamper indicator device comprising a first indicator ring and at least a second indicator ring connected by at least one frangible bridge, the frangible bridge being configured to be destroyed when the top cover is moved from its closed position, causing the first indicator ring to move axially relative to the second indicator ring, the first indicator ring being connected to a spring arrangement, causing the first indicator ring to be spring-loaded in the direction of the container before one / more frangible bridges are disconnected, whereby the spring force applied to the first indicator ring is configured to maintain the first indicator ring in a defined position after one / more frangible bridges are disconnected.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a closure device for a container in which a flowable material is stored, the closure device comprising a base element that can be fastened to a container opening of the container, a mouth with a dispensing opening, wherein the mouth is located within the base element, and a top cover connected to the base element by a hinge, wherein the top cover can be moved back and forth between a closed position and an open position, in which the top cover closes the dispensing opening so that the flowable material remains in the container, and in the open position, the flowable material can be released from the container, and an anti-tamper indicator device is used to visually indicate whether the top cover of the closure device has been moved out of its closed position.

[0002] Closures for containers are well known in the art. In order to increase consumer confidence in closures and containers, there has always been a need for tamper-proof indicators to show consumers whether the closure has been opened.

[0003] The technical problem sought to be solved by the present invention is to provide a closure device with an improved tamper-proof indicator, in particular an tamper-proof indicator which is economical to produce, can be assembled easily during production and which provides a safe function and a high-quality perception by the user.

[0004] The problem is solved by a closure device for a container in which a flowable material is stored, the closure device comprising a base element fastenable to a container opening of the container, a mouth with a dispensing opening, wherein the mouth is located within the base element, and a top cover connected to the base element by a hinge, wherein the top cover is movable back and forth between a closed position and an open position, in which the top cover closes the dispensing opening so that the mouth is not accessible, and an open position in which the mouth is accessible, and an anti-tamper indicator device for visually indicating whether the top cover of the closure device has been moved out of its closed position position, wherein the anti-tamper indicator device includes a first indicator ring and at least a second indicator ring, wherein the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring are connected by at least one frangible bridge, the frangible bridge being configured to be broken when the top cover is moved from its closed position, so that the first indicator ring moves axially relative to the second indicator ring, wherein the first indicator ring is connected to a spring arrangement, so that the first indicator ring is spring-loaded in the direction of the container before the one / more frangible bridges are broken, whereby the spring force applied to the first indicator ring is configured to maintain the first indicator ring in a defined position after the one / more frangible bridges are broken.

[0005] By means of this construction, it is ensured that the first indicator ring cannot move freely in the closure device after the breaking of the one / more frangible bridges. This will in particular prevent unwelcome rattling noises that the first indicator ring may cause, which are generally perceived by consumers as an indication of low quality. In addition, the axial sliding movement of the first indicator ring into its defined position after the breaking of the one / more frangible bridges is supported by a spring force applied to the first indicator ring. Compared to the movement of the first indicator ring based on pure gravity, this ensures a safety function even in the presence of a certain degree of static friction between the first indicator ring and the base element and / or the mouth. The spring arrangement is preferably configured to keep the first indicator ring in its defined position after the breaking of the one / more frangible bridges, even when the consumer shakes the container, thereby avoiding the generation of rattling noises.

[0006] The container according to the invention is any container or enclosure for holding a product during storage, packaging and transport. The flowable material stored inside the container is protected by being inside its structure. The container according to the invention can be selected in particular from the group of bottles, in particular plastic bottles, cans or bags. The container can be pressurized or non-pressurized in its initial closed state.

[0007] The flowable material according to the invention may be selected from liquids, gels, pastes, gases, granular solids or mixtures thereof. The flowable material according to the invention may be selected in particular from the group of carbonated and non-carbonated beverages, in particular sports drinks, including water, mineral water, isotonic sports drinks.

[0008] The top cover according to the present invention, also referred to as the cover, is considered to be a part of the closure device, which serves as a closure and / or seal for the dispensing opening, in particular to completely close the dispensing opening. Preferably, the top cover is made of a transparent plastic material. The top cover can also be configured such that the shell surface of the top cover is partially or entirely made of a transparent plastic material to allow the anti-tampering device to be seen from outside the closure device. It is particularly preferred that the transparency of the top cover is 40-100%, highly preferably 50-95%, and most preferably 60-90%. The transparency can be determined with reference to standards such as ASTM D 1003, ISO 13468, 14782, etc.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, the anti-tamper indication device includes a first indicator ring and at least a second indicator ring, which is coaxially arranged in the first indicator ring, wherein the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring are connected by at least one radially oriented frangible bridge portion, and the frangible bridge portion is configured to be destroyed when the top cover is moved from its closed position, so that the first indicator ring moves axially relative to the second indicator ring, wherein the first indicator ring has a first optical property and the second indicator ring has a second optical property different from the first optical property.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the optical properties can be set to be selected from a group including light absorption properties, light reflection properties, transparency, opacity, gloss, surface structure, in particular one or more openings, one or more protrusions, one or more recesses and any combination of these properties.

[0011] The light absorption of a surface or solid body can be determined by the reflected color spectrum of the surface or solid body using a spectrophotometer (also called a spectroreflectometer or reflectometer). Further reference is made to standards such as DIN 5033, ASTM E 1347, ASTM E 805, etc.

[0012] The gloss of a surface or a solid body can be determined according to the standards DIN 67530, ASTM E 430, DIN EN ISO 2813. The gloss can be determined in particular with a gloss meter. The gloss measurement is preferably carried out at a measuring angle of 60°. According to the invention, a high gloss is considered to be a gloss unit (GU) > 50 at a measuring angle of 60°. According to the invention, a low gloss is considered to be a gloss unit (GU) < 30 at a measuring angle of 60°.

[0013]

[0014] The table specifies non-limiting examples of possible advantageous combinations of optical properties of the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring, as well as advantageous additional combinations of optical properties of the mouthpiece.

[0015] According to a first particularly preferred combination of optical properties, the first indicator ring is made of an opaque material, has a color perceived as white, and has a low gloss surface, while the second indicator ring is made of an opaque material, has a color perceived as different from white, preferably perceived as red, orange, blue or purple, and has a high gloss surface. Due to the higher optical contrast of the second indicator ring due to the different color and gloss properties, the optical distinction of the anti-tamper device in its original closed position and in its opened position is improved.

[0016] According to a second particularly preferred combination of optical properties, the first indicator ring is made of an opaque material having a color that is perceived as white, and the second indicator ring is made of a transparent material having a color that is perceived as different from white, preferably perceived as red, orange, blue or purple, with a preferably high-gloss surface. The mouthpiece preferably has a color that is perceived as white, with a high-gloss surface. Here, a high optical contrast is achieved by the different colors and optical depths of the transparent second indicator ring, which can be formed by the white mouthpiece that is perceived as having a high-gloss surface.

[0017] According to a third very preferred combination of optical properties, the first indicator ring is made of an opaque material having a color perceived as white, and the second indicator ring is made of an opaque material having a color perceived as white, wherein the second indicator ring comprises, for example, an opening in the shape of a letter. The mouthpiece preferably has a color perceived as different from white, preferably perceived as red, orange, blue or purple. Here, a high optical contrast is achieved by the different colors between the second indicator, its opening and the color of the mouthpiece. This embodiment has the advantage that the anti-tampering device can have the same color and can be manufactured in a single injection molding process without having to color one of the indicator rings after molding.

[0018] According to a fourth highly preferred combination of optical properties, the first indicator ring is made of an opaque material, the color of which is perceived as white, and has, for example, letter-shaped protrusions and / or depressions in its surface, while the second indicator ring is made of an opaque material, the color of which is perceived as white. Again, an advantage of this embodiment is that the anti-tampering device can have the same color and can be manufactured in a single injection molding process without the need to color one of the indicator rings after molding.

[0019] According to a fifth particularly preferred combination of optical properties, the first indicator ring is made of an opaque material having a color that is considered white, and the second indicator ring is made of a transparent material having a color that is considered different from white, preferably being considered red, orange, blue or purple. The mouthpiece preferably has a color that is considered different from white, with a preferably high-gloss surface. Here, a high optical contrast is achieved by the different colors and optical depths of the transparent second indicator ring, which can form an additional contrast by the mouthpiece being considered different from white with a high-gloss surface.

[0020] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, it can also be provided that the first optical property is light absorption in the range of 380-750 nm and the second optical property is light absorption in the range of 380-750 nm, whereby the light absorption ranges of the first optical property and the second optical property are different from each other. By this configuration, a visual improvement can be achieved and an optical indication of anti-tampering of the closure device that is easily distinguishable to the consumer can be provided.

[0021] Furthermore, according to an equally advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first optical property can be provided to be a light absorption rate of less than 5% in the range of 380-750 nm and the second optical property to be a light absorption rate of more than 50% in the range of 380-750 nm. The advantageous effect of this embodiment is based on the fact that the optical contrast between the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring is increased, so as to further improve the visual distinction between the initial closed state and the opened state of the closure device.

[0022] According to another particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first optical characteristic can be set to be a light absorption rate of less than 5% in the range of 380-750 nm, the second optical characteristic can be set to be a light absorption rate of more than 50% in the range of 380-750 nm, and the light absorption rate of the mouth in the range of 380-750 nm can be set to be less than 5%. Specifically, this will have the following effect: the optical contrast of the second indicator ring relative to the mouth and the first indicator ring is further improved. It is further preferred that the first indicator ring is considered to be white, the mouth is considered to be white, and the second indicator ring is considered to have a color other than white, in particular, a color of red, orange, blue or purple.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention can be further developed such that the first indicator ring has a first axial height and the second indicator ring has a second axial height, whereby in the non-disconnected state the second axial height is completely covered by the first axial height. Preferably, the first axial height and the second axial height are selected to be between 1,5:1-5:1. It is further preferred that the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring are aligned at their top edges.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, it can be further configured that: the first indicator ring has a first radial ring width, and the second indicator ring has a second radial ring width, and the second radial ring width is different from the first radial ring width. In this way, the anti-tamper indicator device can be further customized according to specific needs.

[0025] It is also advantageous to further develop the invention in such a way that the anti-tamper indicator is formed from one or more plastic materials by double injection molding. This has the advantage that different optical properties of the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring can be realized and formed in one manufacturing step with the molding of the anti-tamper indicator.

[0026] The tamper-proof indicator device may also be painted to achieve different optical properties between the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring.

[0027] One / more fragile bridges may be formed integrally with the first indicator ring. Preferably, the second indicator ring is connected to the one / more fragile bridges. In this case, it is particularly preferred that the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring with the one / more fragile bridges are formed in a double injection molding process, the plastic material of the second indicator ring being different from the plastic material of the first indicator ring and the one / more fragile bridges. The connection between the second indicator ring and the one / more fragile bridges is preferably configured to disconnect once the top cover is removed from its initial closed position. Therefore, the bridge remains with the first indicator ring after disconnection. This will make the second indicator ring visible without the fragile bridge, while the consumer still cannot see the fragile bridge on the first indicator ring.

[0028] It is particularly preferred that the one / more frangible bridges are in the form of a ring or a ring segment. It is most preferred that the ring or the ring segment is flat, so that the thickness of the ring or the ring segment is less than the radial length. In a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the one / more frangible bridges have a radial length between 0,3-1,2 mm, more preferably between 0,5-1 mm. It is further preferred that the axial thickness of the one / more frangible bridges is selected to be between 0,1-1,0 mm, more preferably between 0,15-0,8 mm, and the height is preferably between 0,2-0,6 mm. In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the anti-tampering indicator device comprises a plurality of frangible bridges, whereby it is preferred that the number of frangible bridges is selected to be between 3-12, more preferably 4-9, and the height is preferably 4-8, and most preferably 6. It is highly preferred that the plurality of frangible bridges are substantially identical in shape. It is further preferred that the plurality of frangible bridges are equidistantly positioned between the first and second indicator rings. In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, six substantially identical frangible bridges are positioned equidistantly between the first and second indicator rings at an angle of 60°.

[0029] According to another preferred embodiment of the object of the present invention, a second indicator ring can be provided in connection with the top cover, whereby the axial movement of the first indicator ring is limited to a defined position within the base element along the opening direction of the top cover, so that the radially oriented frangible bridge is broken when the top cover is moved out of its closed position.

[0030] This will achieve the effect that the indication of whether the closure device has been opened is irreversible.

[0031] The present invention can be further advantageously improved to the effect that the top cover comprises a nozzle sealing ring which protrudes axially inwardly from the bottom of the top cover into the closure device and contacts the outer surface of the nozzle, wherein the second indicator ring is connected to the nozzle sealing ring.

[0032] The mouth sealing ring may be formed integrally with the top cover. Further preferably, the mouth sealing ring is made of a transparent plastic material so that the mouth is visible through the mouth sealing ring from outside the closure device. Alternatively, the mouth sealing ring may be partially or completely made of an opaque plastic material, which may partially or completely prevent the mouth from being seen from outside the closure device.

[0033] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the inner surface of the second indicator ring is completely in contact with the outer surface of the nozzle sealing ring. Alternatively, the inner surface of the second indicator ring is only partially in contact with the outer surface of the sealing ring. In this case, the second indicator can protrude axially in the direction of the container with the cylinder segment in contact with the nozzle sealing ring and the cylinder ring segment not in contact with the nozzle sealing ring. By this embodiment, the optical contrast of the second indicator ring can be further improved, especially when the second indicator ring is transparent and the nozzle and the nozzle sealing ring have different optical properties.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, it is contemplated that the first indicator ring comprises a flange which projects radially to the outside of the closure device at its distal end facing the container. The advantages that can be achieved by this configuration are that the first indicator ring can be located in the closure device to prevent loss, and the first indicator ring has a center of gravity which is shifted toward the distal end of the first indicator ring facing the container, which improves the controlled linear axial movement of the first indicator ring after the breaking of one or more frangible bridges.

[0035] It is further preferred that the invention is configured such that the second indicator ring comprises an interlocking device for fixing the second indicator ring on the mouth sealing ring. This will achieve the benefits of a snap connection between the second indicator ring and the mouth sealing ring, which supports a simple assembly of the closure device without any additional welding or gluing measures.

[0036] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, it can be provided that the top cover comprises a shell surface, whereby the shell surface is at least partially concave. Under this preferred configuration, the radial distance between the shell surface of the top cover and the second indicator ring is reduced, thereby improving the optical visibility of the anti-tampering indicator device.

[0037] It is also preferred that the radial distance between the inner shell surface of the top cover and the outer surface of the mouth is between 1-10 mm, preferably between 2-7 mm, and particularly preferably between 2-5 mm. The advantage achieved by this preferred embodiment is that the visibility of the anti-tamper indicator is further improved.

[0038] The invention can also preferably be modified in such a way that the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring are located inside the closure device, so that the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring are not in direct contact with the environment surrounding the closure device. This makes it possible to realize an anti-tampering indicator device that is protected from potential manipulation attempts from outside the closure device. This is particularly important because the intended manipulation of the anti-tampering indicator is a safety-critical aspect of the closure device. The term "no direct contact with the surrounding environment" refers to mechanical contact. There may be a slight exchange of gaseous substances such as air, air humidity or liquid substances. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, one / more frangible bridges are radially oriented, which further increases the safety of the anti-tampering device from the outside of the closure device.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intended that the base element comprises a flange protruding radially toward the inside of the closure device, which flange defines a tube for the mouth to pass through, whereby the mouth comprises a flange protruding radially toward the outside of the closure device, wherein the mouth is at least partially positioned inside the base element, so that an annular channel is formed between the mouth flange and the base element flange. The advantage that can be achieved by this configuration is that the annular channel serves as a defined receiving space for the first indicator ring after the one / more frangible bridges are broken. The first indicator ring is preferably located in the annular channel in a defined position after the one / more frangible bridges are broken.

[0040] It is further preferred to configure the invention in such a way that the base element and the mouth are configured to define an axial linear sliding bearing in which the first indicator ring is guided into its defined position after the breaking of the one / more frangible bridges. The linear sliding bearing ensures a defined axial movement of the first indicator ring into its defined position after the breaking of the one / more frangible bridges. Preferably, the inner surface of the first indicator ring can be guided by an axial section of the mouth. The outer surface of the first indicator ring is preferably guided by the axial front surface of the base element flange.

[0041] According to another particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring are positioned coaxially with each other and have an axially overlapping portion before and after the top cover of the closure device has been moved out of its closed position. This will provide a labyrinth-type sealing arrangement, which supports the protection of the mouth from the intrusion of dust or insects. Therefore, the mouth is protected by the anti-tamper indicator ring both before and after the first opening. Since the direction of potential dust inhalation into the closure device is mainly in the radial direction, the overlapping anti-tamper indicator rings hide the mouth by positioning one above the other in the axial direction. Another advantageous effect of the overlapping section of the first and second indicator rings is that the disconnected connection between the second indicator ring and one or more frangible bridges is still covered by the first indicator ring, thus supporting the aesthetic appearance of the second indicator ring.

[0042] Furthermore, according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that after the cover has been moved out of its closed position, its axial overlap section is between 5-20% of the first indicator ring. This means that 5-20% of the axial height of the first indicator ring overlaps the axial height of the second indicator ring. The advantageous effect of this embodiment is based on the fact that a good anti-tampering indication and mouth protection is achieved.

[0043] Furthermore, the invention can be further developed to the effect that the bridge(s) remain at the first indicator ring after it has been disconnected from the second indicator ring. This prevents particles from being sucked into the mouthpiece from the outside, further increasing safety, since it creates a labyrinth-like passageway which cannot be migrated by particles such as dust, sand or insects at all, and thus provides the mouthpiece with good protection against such particles.

[0044] The spring arrangement may comprise a plurality of spring elements. This will result in a higher redundancy in case one of the spring elements fails to function properly.

[0045] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the closure device, the spring element is integrally formed with the base element. This results in fewer separate parts to be assembled during manufacture and makes the assembly of the closure device more convenient. However, alternatively the spring arrangement and / or the spring element may be a separate component, for example placed in the base element.

[0046] In order to achieve a functionally efficient spring arrangement, it is also conceivable that the spring element is supported at its first distal end by the base ring and at its second distal end at the flange of the first indicator ring.

[0047] Due to the spring arrangement, the closure device can also be used as a head-mounted closure device, in which the container opening faces in the direction of gravity. Such head-mounted closure devices are particularly known and convenient for pasty and highly viscous products, such as honey, ketchup, mayonnaise, toothpaste or similar products. Therefore, the spring arrangement can be configured to move the first indicator ring into its defined position against the direction of gravity after the breaking of the one / more frangible bridges. Therefore, the anti-tamper indicator device of the closure device according to the invention can be applied to conventional closure devices as well as head-mounted closure devices, without the need to change the design of the anti-tamper device and / or the closure device.

[0048] It has proven to be particularly advantageous if the spring element can be configured as a spring tongue, in particular with a flat cubic spatial form. Spring tongues can be manufactured relatively easily and at the same time they provide good spring properties for the intended application.

[0049] In order to ensure that the spring force is evenly distributed to the first indicator ring, the spring elements are preferably arranged equidistantly around the inner surface of the cylindrical annular base element. This measure also helps prevent the first indicator ring from tilting when it moves into its defined position after one or more frangible bridges are broken.

[0050] In order to exert a sufficient spring force on the first indicator ring, it is foreseen that the radial length of the spring element is equal to the radial length of the flange of the base element.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the spring arrangement is coupled to the flange of the first indicator ring so that the spring force of the spring arrangement is applied to the flange. By means of the radial protrusion of the flange, an axially directed spring force can be applied in such a way as to ensure safe operation of the anti-tamper indicator device. Most preferably, the free end of the spring element, preferably configured as a spring tongue, rests on the flange in the non-disconnected state of one or more frangible bridges, with the spring loading.

[0052] The manufacturing process for producing a closure device according to the present invention may comprise the following steps:

[0053] - a molded base element, the top cover and the hinges together with the top cover are molded in their open position,

[0054] - Close the top cover,

[0055] - a moulded anti-tamper indicator device, wherein the anti-tamper indicator device comprises a first indicator ring and a second indicator ring positioned coaxially with each other and connected by at least one radially oriented frangible bridge, preferably by a double injection moulding process,

[0056] - assembling the tamper-proof indicator into the base element and the top cover,

[0057] - Assemble the mouthpiece into the base element.

[0058] This process will provide an economical and safe manufacturing process for closures having tamper-evident indicators.

[0059] For the manufacturing process, it is particularly preferred that the top cover comprises a mouth sealing ring which protrudes axially inwards from the bottom of the top cover into the closure device and contacts the outer surface of the mouth, wherein the second indicator ring is connected to the mouth sealing ring in its assembled state by an interlocking device (such as a snap-in connection). This will further improve the simple and convenient assembly of the anti-tamper indicator device in the closure device.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment of the manufacturing process, the assembly of the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring is supported by an assembly shaft, which enables the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring to be axially moved towards the closure top cover until the interlocking means of the second indicator ring and the mouth sealing ring are engaged. The assembly shaft ensures that the frangible bridge connecting the first indicator ring and the second indicator ring will not break during its assembly. However, once the frangible bridge / bridges are assembled to the closure device, the frangible bridge / bridges can provide some compensation of rotational and axial stresses during closing the cover.

[0061] It is further preferred for the manufacturing process that the first indicator ring is coupled to a spring arrangement such that the first indicator ring is spring-loaded in the direction of the container before the one / multiple frangible bridges are disconnected, whereby the spring force applied to the first indicator ring is configured to hold the first indicator ring in a defined position after the one / multiple frangible bridges are disconnected, wherein the spring element is formed integrally with the base element during the molding process of the base element. Alternatively, the spring arrangement can also be molded as a separate component and assembled to the base element in a separate manufacturing step. In this alternative, the spring arrangement can be configured as a leaf spring or a disc spring.

[0062] It is highly preferred that the spring element is spring loaded during assembly of the anti-tamper indicating device.Therefore, spring arrangement and preloading can be realized in a very economical and integrated manner during manufacture.

[0063] Hereinafter, without being limited to the general concept of the present invention, the present invention will be explained in more detail based on the drawings.

[0064] Figure 1 Isometric view of a closed and opened closure.

[0065] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a closed closure device.

[0066] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view of a closed but previously opened closure.

[0067] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an open closure device.

[0068] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view of the anti-tamper indicator device.

[0069] Figure 6 Schematic diagrams of different embodiments of anti-tamper indicating devices.

[0070] Figure 7 Schematic diagrams of different embodiments of anti-tamper indicating devices.

[0071] Figure 8Detail of a sectional view of a closure device with a spring arrangement in an initially closed state and in a previously opened state.

[0072] Fig. 9 Detailed cross-sectional view of a headstock closure with a spring arrangement in an initially closed state and in an opened state.

[0073] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional detail of the closure device with the spring arrangement in an initially closed state and in an opened state, and

[0074] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of the anti-tamper indicating device with the assembly shaft during assembly.

[0075] Figure 1 An isometric view of the closure device 1 is shown closed and open. Figure 1 The left part of FIG. 1 shows the closure device 1 in the closed position 9, while Figure 1 The right part of FIG. 2 shows the closure device 1 in the open position 10 . Figure 1 The closure device 1 is shown fixed to a container 2, in which a flowable material 3 is stored. The substantially annular base element 4 of the closure device 1 may be fastened on a corresponding container opening 5 of the container 2, for example by screwing and / or snapping means.

[0076] From the illustration of the closure device 1 in its open position 10 , it can be seen that a substantially cylindrical mouth 11 is located within the base element 4 and has a dispensing opening 7 protruding axially from the base element 4 .

[0077] The cup-shaped cover 8 is connected to the base element 4 by a hinge 12. The cover 8 has a circular cover bottom 18, and a cylindrical annular shell surface 30 protrudes axially from the cover bottom 18 into the direction of the container 2. Preferably, the cover 8 is made of a transparent plastic material. The cover 8 can also be configured so that the shell surface 30 is partially or completely made of a transparent plastic material to allow visibility of the anti-tampering device 13 from the outside of the closure device 1.

[0078] The cover 8 can be moved back and forth between a closed position 9, in which the cover 8 closes the dispensing opening 7, thereby retaining the flowable material 3 in the container 2, and an open position 10, in which the flowable material 3 can be released from the container 2. A hinge 12 is formed by a material bridge between the base element 4 and the cover 8. The hinge 12 is preferably formed integrally with the base element 4 and the cover 8. The cover 8 is made of a transparent plastic material configured to allow visibility of the anti-tamper indicator 13 in its initial closed state from outside the dispensing device 1.

[0079] With reference to the closure device 1 in the open position 10, it can be seen that the closure device 1 comprises an anti-tamper indicator 13 for visually indicating whether the top cover 8 of the closure device 1 has been moved out of its closed position 9. The anti-tamper indicator 13 comprises a first indicator ring 14 and a second indicator ring 15. Figure 2-5 Explain the function of the anti-tamper device in more detail.

[0080] Further, the base element 4 includes a flange 26, which radially protrudes into the interior of the closure device 1, defining a tube 27 for the mouth 11 to pass through, wherein the mouth 11 includes a flange 28, which radially protrudes to the outside of the closure device 1, wherein the mouth 11 is at least partially located inside the base element 4, so that an annular channel 29 is formed between the mouth flange 28 and the base element flange 26.

[0081] Figure 2 A sectional view of a closed closure device 1 is shown, which has not been opened after initial closure.

[0082] The closure device comprises an anti-tamper indicator device 13 with a first indicator ring 14 and a second indicator ring 15, the second indicator ring 15 being coaxially arranged in the first indicator ring 14. The first indicator ring 14 and the second indicator ring 15 are connected by a plurality of radially oriented frangible bridges 6, which are configured to break when the cover 8 is moved from its closed position 9. The breaking of the frangible bridges 6 causes the first indicator ring 14 to move axially relative to the second indicator ring 15, and the axial movement is compared Figure 2 and Figure 3 The positions of the first indicator ring 14 and the second indicator ring 15 can be clearly seen in the figure. In the embodiment shown, the first indicator ring 14 slides in the direction of gravity, while the second indicator ring 15 is held in place at the mouth sealing ring 17. When in the non-disconnected state, the first indicator ring 14 covers the consumer's view of the second indicator ring 15 from a substantially horizontal viewing direction. Therefore, the first indicator ring 14 has a first axial height 21 and the second indicator ring 15 has a second axial height 22, wherein in the non-disconnected state, the second axial height 22 is completely covered by the first axial height 21, and the first axial height 21 and the second axial height 22 are selected to be between 1.5:1-5:1, which can be seen in particular from Figure 5 It can be seen in.

[0083] The first indicator ring 14 has a first optical property, and the second indicator ring 15 has a second optical property different from the first optical property. Therefore, the consumer can optically distinguish between the initial closed state and the opened state of the closure device 1.

[0084] The optical properties may be selected from the group consisting of light absorbing properties, light reflecting properties, transparency, opacity, gloss, surface structure, in particular one or more openings, one or more protrusions, one or more depressions, and any combination of these properties.

[0085] exist Figure 2-3 In the illustrated embodiment, the first optical property is light absorption in the range of 380-750 nm, and the second optical property is light absorption in the range of 380-750 nm, wherein the light absorption ranges of the first optical property and the second optical property are different from each other. Even more preferably, the light absorption rate of the first optical property in the range of 380-750 nm is less than 5%, and the light absorption rate of the second optical property in the range of 380-750 nm is greater than 50%.

[0086] The anti-tamper indicator 13 is formed by double injection molding of one or more plastic materials.

[0087] The second indicator ring 15 is connected to the cover 8, and the axial movement of the first indicator ring 14 is limited in the opening direction of the cover 8 at a defined position 16 in the base element 4, so that the radially oriented frangible bridge 6 is broken when the cover 8 is moved out of its closed position 9. The first indicator ring 14 includes a flange 20, which projects radially to the outside of the closure device 1 at its distal end facing the container 2. The flange 20 is in contact with a base element flange 26, which defines the defined position 16 in the initial closed position 9 of the closure device 1.

[0088] The top cover 8 also includes a nozzle sealing ring 17, which protrudes axially inwardly from the bottom 18 of the cover into the closure device 1 and contacts the outer surface of the nozzle 11. The second indicator ring 15 is connected to the nozzle sealing ring 17 by an interlocking device 19 for fixing the second indicator ring 15 on the nozzle sealing ring 17.

[0089] The cover 8 has a shell surface 30 which is concave toward the interior of the closure device 1 .

[0090] from Figure 1 It can also be seen in FIG. 1 that first indicator ring 14 and second indicator ring 15 are positioned within closure device 1 such that first indicator ring 14 and second indicator ring 15 are not in direct contact with the environment surrounding closure device 1 .

[0091] By comparison Figure 2 and Figure 3It can be seen that the first indicator ring 14 and the second indicator ring 15 are coaxially positioned with respect to each other and that before and after the top cover 8 of the closure device 1 has been moved out of its closed position 9, the first indicator ring 14 and the second indicator ring 15 have an axial overlap 41. When the top cover 8 is in its closed position, the first indicator ring 14 and the second indicator ring 15 are coaxially positioned with respect to each other and that before and after the top cover 8 of the closure device 1 has been moved out of its closed position 9, the first indicator ring 14 and the second indicator ring 15 have an axial overlap 41.

[0092] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view is shown for an open closure device 1. A hinge 12 connects the top cover 8 to the base element 4 so that the top cover 8 can be pivoted back and forth to cover or uncover the spout 12. In the embodiment shown, the hinge 12 is a flexible material bridge formed integrally with the base element 4 and the top cover 8.

[0093] exist Figure 5 It is also shown in FIG. 1 that the first indicator ring 14 has a first radial ring width 23 and the second indicator ring 15 has a second radial ring width 24 which is different from the first radial ring width 23 .

[0094] One or more fragile bridges 6 are in the shape of a ring or a ring segment. The ring or ring segment is flat, so the axial thickness of the ring or ring segment is less than the radial length, which can be obtained from Figure 5 The detail shown below shows this well. Figure 5 The anti-tamper indicator device 13 in the illustrated embodiment is not visible, but comprises a plurality of frangible bridges 6, wherein the number of the frangible bridges 6 is 6. The ring segments of the plurality of frangible bridges 6 are substantially uniform in shape, and are equidistantly positioned between the first indicator ring 14 and the second indicator ring 15 at an angle of 60°.

[0095] Figure 6-7 Alternative combinations of optical properties are shown. Figure 6 In the embodiment shown in the upper part, the first indicator ring 14 is made of an opaque material, the color of which is considered to be white, and the second indicator ring 15 is made of an opaque material, the color of which is considered to be white. The second indicator ring 15 includes a letter-shaped opening 31, which becomes visible when the first indicator ring 14 moves axially below the second indicator ring 15. The mouth 11 preferably has a color that is considered to be different from white, such as red, orange, blue or purple, so that the opening contrasts with the white second indicator ring 15.

[0096] exist Figure 6In the embodiment shown in the lower part, the first indicator ring 14 is made of an opaque material, the color of which is considered to be white, and the second indicator ring 15 is made of an opaque material, the color of which is considered to be white. The second indicator ring 15 comprises, for example, letter-shaped protrusions 32 and / or recesses 32, and when the first indicator ring 14 moves axially below the second indicator ring 15, the opening 31 becomes visible.

[0097] Figure 7 Another embodiment is shown, in which the first indicator ring 14 is made of an opaque material, the color of which is considered white, with projections 32 and / or depressions 32 in its surface, for example in the shape of letters, which projections 32 and / or depressions 32 become invisible when the first indicator ring 14 moves axially below the second indicator ring 15. The second indicator ring 15 is made of an opaque material, the color of which is considered white. The mouthpiece 11 preferably has a color that is considered different from white.

[0098] Now go to Figure 8-10 The spring arrangement of the closure device 1 will now be described in more detail. Figure 8-10 A detailed cross-sectional view of the anti-tamper indicator 13 is shown.

[0099] exist Figure 8-10 It can be clearly seen in FIG. 1 that the first indicator ring 14 is coupled to the spring arrangement 33, so that the first indicator ring 14 is spring-loaded in the direction of the container 2 before the one or more frangible bridges 6 are broken. The spring force applied to the first indicator ring 14 is configured to hold the first indicator ring 14 in a defined position 37 after the one or more frangible bridges 6 are broken, which is Fig.10 Shown in.

[0100] The base element 4 and the mouth 11 are configured to define an axial linear sliding bearing 40, such as Fig.10 As shown, in this sliding bearing 40, the first indicator ring 14 is guided into its defined position 37 after one / more frangible bridges 6 are broken. The inner surface of the first indicator ring 14 is guided by the axial portion 43 of the mouth 11. The outer surface of the first indicator ring 14 is guided by the axial front surface of the base element flange 26. Therefore, the first indicator ring 14 is prevented from tilting when moving its defined position 37 after one / more frangible bridges 6 are broken, and the functional safety of the anti-tamper indicator device 13 is improved.

[0101] The spring arrangement 33 comprises a plurality of spring elements 34, which are integrally formed with the base element 4. A first distal end 35 of the spring element 34 is supported by the base ring 4, and a second distal end 36 thereof is supported at the flange 20 of the first indicator ring 14. In the embodiment shown, the spring element 34 is configured as a spring tongue having a flat cuboid spatial form. The spring elements 34 are arranged equidistantly around the inner surface of the cylindrical annular base element 4.

[0102] The spring arrangement 33 is coupled to the flange 20 so that the spring force of the spring arrangement 33 is applied to the flange 20. The free end of the spring element 34 configured as a spring tongue rests on the flange 20 in a spring-loaded state in the non-broken state of the frangible bridge 6, which Figure 8 is shown in the upper part of the diagram.

[0103] In the lower configuration, the state of the anti-tamper indicator device 13 is shown after the breakage of one / more frangible bridges 6. Here, the first indicator ring 14 is held in its defined position 37 by the spring element 34, which still rests against the flange 20, ensuring that the first indicator ring 14 remains in the shown position 37. The elastic force of the spring element 34 also supports the first indicator ring 14 to move to its defined position 37 after the breakage of one / more frangible bridges 6.

[0104] Figure 8 The embodiment in FIG. 4 shows a conventional closure device 1 , in which the dispensing opening 7 of the closure device 1 is located above the container 2 in its intended transport and / or storage position.

[0105] Fig. 9 An embodiment is shown in which the closure device 1 is arranged in its intended transport and / or storage position below the container 2 , which is also referred to as a headstock closure device. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The structure of the closure device 1 is consistent with Fig. 9 The spring arrangement 33 of the headstock closure 1 is designed to move the first indicator ring 14 into its defined position 37 counter to the direction of gravity after the breaking of the frangible bridge(s) 6 .

[0106] Fig.10 It is particularly shown that the spring element 34 has a radial length 38 which is equal to a radial length 39 of the flange 26 of the base element 4 .

[0107] Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of the anti-tamper indicator device 13 during assembly with an assembly shaft 42 is shown. The assembly shaft is substantially cylindrical with a shoulder 44. Extending axially from the shoulder 44 is a shaft section having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the shoulder section of the assembly shaft 42, so that this smaller diameter section can be moved into the first indicator ring 14. The axial height of this smaller diameter section corresponds to the difference between the first axial height 21 and the second axial height 22. The anti-tamper indicator device 13 is placed on the cylindrical assembly shaft 42, which has a shoulder 44, on which the flange 20 of the first indicator ring 14 rests. The second indicator ring 15 rests against the front surface 45 of the assembly shaft 42. Thus, during assembly of the anti-tamper indicator device 13, the frangible bridge(s) 6 are not subjected to axial stresses and the positioning of the anti-tamper indicator device 13 during assembly is unambiguous.

[0108] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the figures. Therefore, the above description should not be regarded as restrictive, but rather as illustrative. The following schemes should be understood as naming features that exist in at least one embodiment of the present invention. This does not exclude the existence of other features. If the scheme of the present invention and the above description define a "first" and a "second" feature, this indication is to distinguish between two features of the same type, rather than to establish a priority order.

[0109] Reference numerals list

[0110] 1 Closure device

[0111] 2 Container

[0112] 3 Flowable materials

[0113] 4 Base elements

[0114] 5 Container opening

[0115] 6 Fragile bridge

[0116] 7 Distribution opening

[0117] 8 Top cover

[0118] 9 Closed position

[0119] 10 Open Position

[0120] 11 mouth

[0121] 12 Hinge

[0122] 13 Anti-tamper indicator

[0123] 14 First indicator ring

[0124] 15 Second indicator ring

[0125] 16 Position

[0126] 17 Nozzle sealing ring

[0127] 18 Top cover bottom

[0128] 19 Interlocking device

[0129] 20 Flange

[0130] 21 First axial height

[0131] 22 Second axial height

[0132] 23 Width of first radial ring

[0133] 24 Second radial ring width

[0134] 26 Base element flange

[0135] 30 Shell surface

[0136] 31 Opening

[0137] 32 Bumps / Depressions

[0138] 33 Spring arrangement

[0139] 34 Spring element

[0140] 35 First distal end

[0141] 36 Second distal end

[0142] 37 Positions

[0143] 38 Radial length

[0144] 39 Radial length

[0145] 40 Sliding bearings

[0146] 41 Axial overlap

[0147] 42 Assemble shaft

[0148] 43 Axial nozzle

[0149] 44 Shoulder

[0150] 45 front surface.

Claims

1. A closure device (1) for a container (2) in which a flowable material (3) is stored, comprising: - a base element (4) which can be fastened to a container opening (5) of the container (2) - a mouthpiece (11) with a dispensing opening (7) wherein the mouth (11) is located within the base element (4), and - a top cover (8) connected to the base element (4) by a hinge (12), The top cover (8) is movable back and forth between a closed position (9) and an open position (10), wherein in the closed position (9), the top cover (8) closes the dispensing opening (7) so that the mouth (11) is inaccessible, and in the open position (10), the mouth (11) is accessible. - an anti-tamper indicator (13) for visually indicating whether the cover (8) of the closure device (1) has been moved out of its closed position (9), The anti-tamper indicator device (13) comprises a first indicator ring (14) and at least a second indicator ring (15), wherein the first indicator ring (14) and the second indicator ring (15) are connected by at least one frangible bridge (6), the frangible bridge being configured to break when the top cover (8) is moved from its closed position (9), so that the first indicator ring (14) moves axially relative to the second indicator ring (15), The invention is characterized in that the first indicator ring (14) is connected to a spring arrangement (33) so that the first indicator ring (14) is spring-loaded in the direction of the container (2) before the one / multiple frangible bridges (6) are disconnected, whereby the spring force applied to the first indicator ring (14) is configured to hold the first indicator ring (14) in a defined position (37) after the one / multiple frangible bridges (6) are disconnected.

2. The closure device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The spring arrangement (33) comprises a plurality of spring elements (34).

3. The closure device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that The spring element (34) is formed integrally with the base element (4).

4. The closure device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The spring elements are supported at their first distal ends (35) by the base element (4) and at their second distal ends (36) at the flange (20) of the first indicator ring (14).

5. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The spring arrangement (33) is configured to move the first indicator ring (14) to its defined position (37) against the direction of gravity after the frangible bridge(s) (6) have been broken.

6. The closure device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The spring element (34) is designed as a spring tongue in the form of a flat cuboid space.

7. The closure device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The spring elements (34) are arranged equidistantly around the inner surface of the cylindrical annular base element (4).

8. The closure device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The radial length (38) of the spring element (34) is equal to the radial length (39) of the flange (26) of the base element (4).

9. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The base element (4), the mouth (11) and the first indicator ring (14) are configured to define an axial linear sliding bearing (40) in which the first indicator ring (14) is guided to its defined position (37) after the breaking of the one or more frangible bridges (6).

10. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The second indicator ring (15) is coaxially arranged in the first indicator ring (14).

11. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first indicator ring (14) and the second indicator ring (15) are connected via at least one radially oriented frangible bridge (6).

12. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The second indicator ring (15) is connected to the top cover (8), whereby the axial movement of the first indicator ring (14) is limited to a defined position (16) within the base element (4) along the opening direction of the top cover (8), so that when the top cover (8) is moved out of its closed position (9), the radially oriented frangible bridge (6) is disconnected, wherein the top cover (8) includes a nozzle sealing ring (17), which protrudes axially inwardly from the bottom (18) of the top cover into the closure device (1), and the nozzle sealing ring contacts the outer surface of the nozzle (11), whereby the second indicator ring (15) is connected to the nozzle sealing ring (17).

13. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first indicator ring (14) comprises a flange (20) which projects radially towards the outside of the closure device (1) at its distal end facing the container (2).

14. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The spring arrangement (33) is coupled to the flange (20) of the first indicator ring (14) such that a spring force of the spring arrangement (33) is applied to the flange (20) of the first indicator ring (14).

15. The closure device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that: The free end of the spring element (34), which is designed as a spring tongue, rests on the flange (20) of the first indicator ring (14) in a spring-loaded manner in the non-disconnected state of the frangible bridge(s) (6).

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