Lid-spout assembly for a package and package having a lid-spout assembly

Abstract

A lid and spout assembly (3) is described comprising at least: a spout (9) having a pouring outlet (10); a lid (11) configured to selectively close and open the pouring outlet (10); a tether element (12) fixed to the lid (11) and the spout (9); and an anti-tamper element (13) frangibly fixed to one of the lid (11) and the spout (9) and fixedly connected to the other of the lid (11) and the spout (9).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a lid and spout assembly for packaging, particularly a package having a sealing body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable food.

[0002] Advantageously, the present invention also relates to a package, particularly a package having a sealed body, filled with a pourable product, or even more particularly filled with a pourable food and including a lid and spout assembly. Background Technology

[0003] Many liquids or pourable foods, such as fruit juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature) milk, wine, and ketchup, are known to be sold in aseptic packaging materials (especially sealed packaging).

[0004] A typical example is a parallelepiped-shaped package for pourable food, called Tetra Pak Aseptic (registered trademark), which is made from a strip of packaged material that has been sealed and folded together. The packaging material has a multi-layered structure, comprising a cardboard box and / or a paper base layer, covered on both sides with heat-sealable plastic material layers (e.g., polyethylene). In the case of aseptic packaging for products intended for long-term storage, the packaging material also includes an oxygen barrier layer, such as aluminum foil, stacked on top of a heat-sealable plastic material layer, which is then covered with another heat-sealable plastic material layer, forming the inner surface of the package that ultimately contacts the food.

[0005] Some known packaging is designed for consumption en route, meaning that the packaging is equipped with a device that allows consumers to consume the pourable product without having to pour it into another container (such as a wine glass or beverage glass) before consuming it.

[0006] One known device is a straw, which is introduced into the main body of the packaging, which contains the pourable product. Before use, the straw is encased in a sleeve, which is typically attached to the main body along with the straw. Therefore, the straw must be removed from the sleeve before first use. A disadvantage of this packaging is that the presence of the straw and its sleeve can lead to unwanted or undesirable littering of the sleeve and / or straw.

[0007] Alternative solutions are described in European patent applications EP-A-3590856 and EP-A-3590857 by the same applicant. Both of these European patent applications describe corresponding packaging that addresses the inconveniences associated with packaging containing a straw and its seal. Each of the packaging disclosed in the aforementioned European patent applications includes a sealed body with a designated pouring opening, and a cap and spout assembly arranged around the designated pouring opening on the body and configured to allow controlled pouring of the pourable product, enabling the consumer to consume the pourable product directly from the packaging.

[0008] Each cap and spout assembly includes a spout with a pouring outlet, and a cap removably coupled to the spout for selectively closing and opening the pouring outlet. In particular, the cap is movable at least between a closed position (where the cap covers the pouring outlet) and an open position (where the cap opens the pouring outlet).

[0009] Before the cover is first switched from the closed configuration to the open configuration, it can be brokenly secured to the collar to seal the flow channel of the collar, thereby sealing the internal space of the body.

[0010] The spout includes a base frame for coupling the spout to the body around a designated pouring opening; and a collar that carries the pouring outlet and protrudes from the base frame.

[0011] To prevent any unwanted carelessness with the cap, the cap and spout assembly also includes a fastening element that connects the cap and spout to each other. Specifically, the fastening element is secured to the cap and the base frame.

[0012] While the good functionality of this lid and spout assembly is satisfactory, further improvements are needed in this field, particularly to ensure that consumers can understand whether the lid has been controlled from the closed position to the open position at least once. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide an improved cap and spout assembly for packaging in a simple and low-cost manner, the packaging having a sealing body, filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly filled with a pourable food.

[0014] 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 packaging, especially packaging having a sealing body, filled with a pourable product, or even more particularly filled with a pourable food, the lid and spout assembly ensuring that the user knows whether the lid has been controlled from the closed position to the open position at least once.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a package in a simple and low-cost manner, which in particular has a sealing body, is filled with a pourable product, especially a pourable food, and has a lid and spout assembly, wherein the lid and spout assembly is designed to ensure that the user knows whether the lid has been controlled from the closed position to the open position at least once.

[0016] According to the present invention, a lid and spout assembly as described in the independent claims is provided.

[0017] Other advantageous embodiments of the cap and spout assembly are detailed in the corresponding dependent claims.

[0018] According to the present invention, packaging according to any one of claims 14 to 16 is also provided. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Non-limiting embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1A It is a schematic perspective view of a package having a cap and spout assembly according to the invention in a first configuration, wherein parts have been removed for clarity;

[0021] Figure 1B The lid and spout assembly are in the second configuration. Figure 1A A schematic perspective view of the packaging, with some parts removed for clarity;

[0022] Figure 2 It is in the first configuration Figure 1A An enlarged perspective view of the lid and spout assembly, with some parts removed for clarity;

[0023] Figure 3 This is an enlarged side view of the cap and spout assembly in the first configuration, with some parts removed for clarity;

[0024] Figure 4 This is an enlarged side view of the cap and spout assembly in the second configuration, with some parts removed for clarity; and

[0025] Figure 5 This is an enlarged perspective view of the lid and spout assembly in the second configuration, with some parts removed for clarity. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Mark 1 generally indicates packaging, which includes: - A (sealed) body 2, particularly a sealed cardboard box, filled with a pourable product, particularly a pourable food, and having a designated pouring opening (not shown but known in itself), configured to allow the pourable product to flow out of the body 2; and - A lid and spout assembly 3, coupled to the body 2, arranged around and / or may be arranged around a designated pouring opening, and configured to allow pourable product to be poured out of the body 2 in a controlled manner, particularly enabling consumers to consume the pourable product directly through the lid and spout assembly 3 and / or from the packaging 1.

[0027] Preferably, the package 1 is designed for consumption en route, meaning that the consumer can consume the pourable product directly from the package 1 without any intermediate means such as a wine glass, beverage cup, or the like.

[0028] Preferably, the lid and spout assembly 3 is designed for consumption on the go, meaning that consumers can directly consume the pourable product through the lid and spout assembly 3.

[0029] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the main body 2 is obtained from packaging materials having a multi-layered structure (not shown but known in itself), particularly composite packaging materials.

[0030] Preferably, the packaging material is provided in the form of webs.

[0031] Preferably, the main body 2 is obtained by forming a tube from packaging material, a longitudinally sealed tube, filling the tube with a pourable product, and then sealing and cutting the tube laterally.

[0032] Preferably, the packaging material comprises at least one layer of fibrous material (e.g., paper or cardboard) and at least two layers of heat-sealed plastic material (e.g., polyethylene) interposed between the fibrous material layers. One of the two heat-sealed material layers defines the inner surface of the body 2 that contacts the pourable product.

[0033] Preferably, the packaging material further includes a gas and light barrier layer, such as aluminum foil or ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, which is particularly disposed between one of the heat-sealing plastic material layers and the fiber material layer. Preferably, the packaging material further includes another heat-sealing plastic material layer, which is inserted between the gas and light barrier layer and the fiber material layer.

[0034] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the cap and spout assembly 3 is applied to the packaging material before the packaging material is placed inside the packaging machine or during the process of the packaging material moving through the packaging machine to form, fill and seal the body 2 by the packaging material carrying the cap and spout assembly 3.

[0035] Specifically, the cap and spout assembly 3 are applied to the packaging material by means of molding processes and / or adhesive bonding and / or ultrasonic bonding.

[0036] Special Reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B The main body 2 extends along longitudinal axis A, first transverse axis B, and second transverse axis C. In particular, the extension of the packaging 2 along longitudinal axis A is greater than the extension of the packaging 2 along first transverse axis B and second longitudinal axis C.

[0037] Preferably, the main body 2 is in the shape of a parallelepiped.

[0038] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the body 2 includes a first wall portion 4, which is particularly transverse to, and even more particularly perpendicular to, the longitudinal axis A, from which the body 2 extends along the longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the first wall portion 4 defines a support surface of the packaging 1, and particularly a support surface of the body 2, which is designed to contact supports (e.g., shelves) during use, such as when exposed at the point of sale or during storage. In particular, when arranged on supports, the first wall portion 4 defines a bottom wall portion.

[0039] Preferably, the body 2 also includes a plurality of sidewalls 5 which are (fixedly) connected to the first wall portion 4 and extend from the first wall portion 4, particularly extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A.

[0040] Preferably, the body 2 further includes a second wall portion 6, which is opposite to the first wall portion 4 and (fixedly) connected to at least some side walls 5. Specifically, the side walls 5 are inserted between the first wall portion 4 and the second wall portion 6. Specifically, when the body 2 is arranged on a support, the second wall portion 6 defines a top wall portion.

[0041] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the first wall portion 4 and the second wall portion 6 can be parallel to each other.

[0042] According to a non-limiting alternative embodiment not shown, the first wall portion 4 and the second wall portion 6 may be inclined relative to each other.

[0043] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the second wall portion 6 carries and / or includes a designated dumping opening.

[0044] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the package 1, particularly the body 2, includes an internal space 7 that accommodates and / or is configured to accommodate a pourable product. Specifically, at least the first wall portion 4, the side walls 5, and the second wall portion 6 define the internal space 7.

[0045] Special Reference Figures 1A to 5 The lid and spout assembly 3 includes at least: - Spout 9, which is connected to or can be connected to the body 2 around a designated pouring opening, and has a pouring outlet 10 configured to allow pourable product to flow out from the spout 9 itself (together with the body 2 and / or the package 1) (in a controlled manner); - Lid 11, which is coupled to spout 9 and configured to selectively close and open pouring outlet 10; and - Attachment element 12, which (permanently) attaches and / or couples the cap 11 to the spout 9; and -Anti-tamper element 13, which is ruptureably fixed to one of the cap 11 and the spout 9, in the specific case disclosed, ruptureably fixed to the spout 9; and (unruptureably / permanently) fixed to the other of the cap 11 and the spout 9, in the specific case disclosed, (unruptureably / permanently) fixed to the cap 11.

[0046] In particular, in the context of this application, "fractureable fastening" means that the connection between the tamper-evident element 13 and the cap 11 or spout 9 (in the disclosed specific embodiment, spout 9) can be interrupted (broken). In other words, "fractureable fastening" indicates that it is possible to detach and / or separate the tamper-evident element 13 from the cap 11 or spout 9. Specifically, the connection can be detached and / or interrupted by applying force, which is consistent with the normal and / or desired use of the cap and spout assembly 3.

[0047] Specifically, and further, within the scope of this application, the term "fixed" means that the corresponding connection between the cap 11 and the other of the spout 9 (in the specific disclosed embodiment with the cap 11) is permanent. In particular, during normal use of the cap and spout assembly 3, the tamper-evident element 13 cannot be separated from the other of the cap 11 and the other of the spout 9 (in the specific disclosed embodiment with the cap 11).

[0048] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, cover 11 can be controlled to be at least between the following positions: - Close location (see Figure 1A , Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), wherein the cover 11 is configured to cover and / or cover the pouring outlet 10, particularly for preventing pourable product from flowing out of the pouring outlet 10; and -Open location (see Figure 1B , Figure 4 and Figure 5 ), wherein the cover 11 is removed from the pouring outlet 10 and / or configured to do so, in particular to allow pourable products to flow out through the pouring outlet 10.

[0049] Specifically, the cover 11 is configured to close and open the pouring outlet 10 when it is in the closed position and the open position, respectively.

[0050] Preferably, when controlled in the closed position and the open position respectively, the cover 11 is in a first angular position and a second angular position relative to the hinge axis F.

[0051] It should be noted that package 1 is in its initial configuration immediately after its formation, with lid 11 in the closed position. Package 1 is distributed and / or sold to consumers while in its initial configuration (and lid 11 has not yet been moved from the closed position to the open position).

[0052] Advantageously, before the cap 11 is initially controlled from the closed position to the open position, the tamper-evident element 13 is breakably secured to one of the cap 11 and the spout 9 (in the disclosed specific case, to the spout 9), and (unbreakably) secured to the other of the cap 11 and the spout 9 (in the disclosed specific case, to the cap 11). Specifically, the tamper-evident element 13 is designed such that during use and during the initial control of the cap 11 from the closed position to the open position, the tamper-evident element 13 separates from the cap 11 or the spout 9, in the disclosed specific case, from the spout 9, and even more specifically, from the spout 9, due to the corresponding connection being designed to break. In particular, breakable securing also means that the break is irreversible. Therefore, once the corresponding connection breaks, the connection cannot be re-established.

[0053] For more details, please refer to the following references. Figures 1A to 5 The spout 9 includes at least: - A base frame 14, which couples the spout 9 to the body 2 around a designated pouring opening, particularly to the second wall portion 6 and / or is configured to do so; and - A collar 15, which carries (including) a pouring outlet 10 and is fixed to and protrudes from the base frame 14.

[0054] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the cap and spout assembly 3, particularly the spout 9, cap 11 and latching element 12, and even more particularly the tamper-proof element 13, are formed as a single piece.

[0055] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the cap and spout assembly 3, particularly the spout 9, cap 11, latching element 12, and tamper-evident element 13, is formed and / or molded from a polymer, particularly simultaneously molded, preferably molded as a single piece. In particular, the cap and spout assembly 3 is molded directly onto the packaging material around the designated pouring opening.

[0056] Preferably, the collar 15 extends along the longitudinal axis E, particularly laterally, and even more particularly perpendicular to the wall portion 6, and carries (including) a pouring outlet 10 at a first axial end of the collar 15 itself, and particularly carries an inlet opening 16 for pourable products at a second axial end of the collar 15 itself opposite to the first axial end.

[0057] Preferably, the collar 15 defines (and / or includes) a flow channel 17 for the pourable product, which extends particularly between the inlet opening 16 and the pouring outlet 10. In use, the collar 15 is configured to receive the pourable product from the interior space 7 through the inlet opening 16 and to allow the pourable product to flow out of the pouring outlet 10, particularly when the cover 11 is in the open position (otherwise, when the cover 11 is in the closed position, the cover 11 prevents the flow of the pourable product).

[0058] Preferably, the collar 15 includes an inner surface 18 defining the flow channel 17 and an outer surface 19 opposite to the inner surface 18.

[0059] Preferably, the collar 15 has a tubular structure.

[0060] Preferably, the collar 15 has an annular cross-sectional profile relative to a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis E. In particular, the annular cross-sectional profile is elliptical. Alternatively, the annular cross-sectional profile may be circular, square, elliptical, or rectangular.

[0061] Preferably, the collar 15 includes a first edge 20 defining a pourable outlet 10, and in particular a second edge opposite to the first edge 20 and defining an inlet opening 16. Specifically, the first edge 20 is disposed at a first axial end of the collar 15 and the second edge is disposed at a second axial end of the collar 15.

[0062] In particular, the first edge 20, and even more specifically the second edge, each has an elliptical shape. Alternatively, the first edge 20 and / or the second edge may have a square and / or rectangular and / or elliptical and / or circular shape.

[0063] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the collar 15, in particular the first edge 20, is designed to allow the consumer to drink from the spout 9, in particular from the collar 15.

[0064] Preferably, the collar 15 is shaped to facilitate the flow of pourable product from the collar 15 itself.

[0065] Special Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The base frame 14 includes a first annular portion 24 and a second annular portion 25, which are axially offset from each other relative to the longitudinal axis E, and a portion of the body 2, particularly the second wall portion 6, is inserted between and / or configured to do so. In particular, this portion of the body 2, particularly the second wall portion 6, is located at a designated pouring opening.

[0066] Preferably, the first annular portion 24 includes a first engagement surface configured to contact the outer surface of the body 2, and the second annular portion 25 includes a second engagement surface configured to contact the inner surface of the body 2, the inner surface facing the interior space 7. In particular, the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface face each other.

[0067] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the cover 11 includes at least one main portion 26 configured to at least partially protrude into the flow channel 17, and in particular, when arranged in the closed position, seals the pouring outlet 10.

[0068] Preferably, the main part 26 is shaped like a hat or a hat-like shape.

[0069] Preferably, the cover 11 also includes a gripping element 27 that protrudes from the body portion 26, particularly laterally, and is specifically configured to allow a consumer to grip the gripping element 27 itself so that the consumer can control the cover 11 between a closed position and an open position. In particular, the gripping element 27 includes ribs 28, thereby improving the gripping characteristics of the gripping element 27.

[0070] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the main part 26 includes at least: - Central section 29, which at least partially protrudes and / or is configured to at least partially protrude into flow channel 17, particularly when cover 11 is in the closed position; and - The outer section 30, which is connected to and surrounds the central section 29 and is configured to engage and / or engage the collar 15, particularly the first edge 20.

[0071] Specifically, the gripping element 27 protrudes laterally from the outer peripheral section 30.

[0072] Preferably, the central section 29 includes at least: - The central wall 31, which is particularly transverse and even more particularly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis E when the cover 11 is in the closed position; and - Side wall 32, which is fixed to and protrudes from the central wall 31, and is specifically configured to engage with the inner surface 18 when the cover 11 is in the closed position.

[0073] Specifically, the sidewall 32 is fixed to the central wall 31 at a first end of the sidewall 32 itself, and fixed to the peripheral section 30 at a second end of the sidewall 32 itself.

[0074] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, when the cover 11 is arranged in a closed configuration, the central wall 31 is arranged within the flow channel 17, particularly between the pouring outlet 10 and the inlet opening 16.

[0075] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the cover 11 is fractureably secured to the collar 15, particularly the first edge 20, especially before the cover 11 is initially controlled from the closed position to the open position. Specifically, the cover 11, preferably the main portion 26, and even more particularly the central section 29 and / or the peripheral section 30, is irreversibly fractureably secured to the collar 15, particularly the first edge 20. Therefore, after the cover 11 is initially controlled from the closed position to the open position, it can be controlled back to the closed position and contact can be established between the cover 11 and the collar 15, but the cover 11 is no longer secured to the collar 15.

[0076] Preferably, the cap and spout assembly 3 also includes a coupling film, particularly an annular coupling film, which can breakably secure the cap 11 and the collar 15 to each other, especially before the cap 11 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position.

[0077] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the coupling membrane is inserted between the inner surface 18 and the sidewall 32 and fixed to the inner surface 18 and the sidewall 32.

[0078] According to some non-limiting embodiments, cover 11, particularly the main part 26, and even more particularly the central section 29, includes a coupling membrane.

[0079] According to an alternative, non-limiting embodiment, the collar 15 includes a coupling membrane.

[0080] According to an alternative, non-limiting embodiment, the cover 11 and the collar 15 each include a corresponding portion of the coupling membrane.

[0081] In particular, the cover 11 (especially by means of a coupling membrane) is ruptureably secured to the collar 15 in order to seal the flow channel 17 (and thus the internal space 7) and isolate it from the external environment.

[0082] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the cover 11 (particularly by means of a coupling membrane) is bonded and / or welded and / or molded to the collar 15 so as to breakably secure the cover 11 to the collar 15.

[0083] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the cap and spout assembly 3 also includes a retaining group 33 configured to interact with the latching element 12 and / or the cap 11 for (at least) temporarily holding the cap 11 in the open position. In particular, "temporarily holding" means that the interaction allows the latching element 12 and / or the cap 11 to disengage from the retaining group 33 again.

[0084] Specifically, the tethering element 12 is designed to be (temporarily) coupled to the retaining assembly 33 to hold the cover 11 in the open position.

[0085] Preferably, the cap and spout assembly 3 further includes a connecting base 34, which is fixed to and protrudes from the base frame 14, particularly laterally, and carries the retaining assembly 33. In particular, the connecting base 34 is substantially parallel to the base frame 14.

[0086] In particular, the connecting base 34 is connected to the second annular portion 25, and even more specifically, protrudes laterally from the second annular portion 25.

[0087] Preferably, the retaining assembly 33 includes a hook element 35 configured to interact with the tethering element 12 to hold the cover 11 in the open position.

[0088] Preferably, the hook element 35 extends laterally from the connecting base 34, and more particularly vertically.

[0089] Specifically, the hook element 35 includes a support rod 36, which is fixed to the connecting base 34 and protrudes laterally, particularly vertically, from the connecting base 34; and a hook 37, which protrudes laterally from the support rod 36.

[0090] Advantageously, the fastening element 12 includes a first end 38 fixed to the cover 11 and a second end 39 fixed to the collar 15, the second end 39 being particularly opposite to the first end 38.

[0091] Preferably, the tethering element 12 is fixed to the outer surface 19.

[0092] Even more preferably, the tethering element 12 is fixed to the central portion 40 of the collar 15.

[0093] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the first end 38 is connected to the main portion 26, particularly the peripheral section 30. Specifically, the first end 38 is connected to a first region of the main portion 26, particularly the peripheral section 30, and the gripping element 27 is connected to a second region of the main portion 26, particularly the peripheral section 30. Preferably, the first region and the second region are opposite each other.

[0094] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the tethering element 12 has a (substantially) two-dimensional shape, specifically such that, when not under stress, the tethering element 12 extends along a respective longitudinal axis and a second axis transverse to the longitudinal axis. In particular, the extension of the tethering element 12 along the longitudinal axis is larger than the extension of the tethering element 12 along the second axis. Even more specifically, the extension along a third axis transverse to the longitudinal and second axes is negligible and / or smaller than the corresponding extensions along the longitudinal and second axes.

[0095] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the tethering element 12 is bendable and / or flexible and / or deflectable.

[0096] Preferably, the bolting element 12 is configured to change its shape according to the position of the cover 11.

[0097] Preferably, the tethering element 12 can be controlled to be in at least one of the following configurations: in a first configuration when the cover 11 is in the closed position; and in a second configuration (different from the first configuration) when the cover 11 is in the open position.

[0098] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the tethering element 12 includes a flexible portion 41 configured to change its shape according to the position of the cover 11. In particular, the flexible portion 41 is configured to change its shape between controlling the cover 11 in a closed position and an open position (and correspondingly, between the first configuration and the second configuration).

[0099] Preferably, the tethering element 12 further includes a first straight portion 42 having a second end 39, and is particularly of a fixed shape. Specifically, the first straight portion 42 is connected to the flexible portion 41 and protrudes laterally from the outer surface 19. Even more preferably, the straight portion 42 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis E.

[0100] Even more preferably, the first straight portion 42 defines the hinge axis F.

[0101] Preferably, the first straight portion 42 protrudes laterally (and laterally) from the collar 15, and particularly vertically (and laterally).

[0102] Preferably, the first straight portion 42 extends (substantially) parallel to the base frame 14 and / or the second wall portion 6, especially regardless of whether the cover 11 is in the closed or open position.

[0103] Preferably, the tethering element 12 further includes a second straight portion 43 having a first end 38 and a particularly fixed shape. In particular, the second straight portion 43 is connected to the flexible portion 41 and protrudes laterally, and particularly vertically, from the cover 11, particularly from the main portion 26, and even more particularly from the outer peripheral section 30.

[0104] Preferably, when the cover 11 is in the open configuration (particularly when the cover 11 and / or the fastening element 12 interact with the retaining assembly 33), the second straight portion 43 is (substantially) parallel to the base frame 14 and / or the second wall portion 6.

[0105] In this context, "practically parallel" means that the second straight portion 43 may deviate from perfect parallel alignment. However, the angle between the second straight portion 43 and the base frame 14 and / or the second wall portion 6 (considering appropriate hypothetical extension) is negligible.

[0106] Preferably, the flexible portion 41 is inserted between the first straight portion 42 and the second straight portion 43.

[0107] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, when in the first configuration and / or when the cover 11 is in the closed configuration, the fastening element 12, in particular the flexible portion 41, takes on a curved shape, particularly a curved U-shape.

[0108] Preferably, when the cover 11 is in the open configuration (especially when the cover 11 and / or the fastening element 12 interact with the retaining assembly 33), the fastening element 12, particularly the flexible portion 41, is S-shaped.

[0109] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the tethering element 12 includes a recess 44 configured to engage the retaining assembly 33, in particular the hook element 35, so as to (at least) temporarily secure the cover 11 in the open position.

[0110] Specifically, the recess 44 is designed such that the bolt element 12 engages a portion of the support rod 36 and a portion of the hook 37 to keep the cover 11 in the open configuration.

[0111] Preferably, the recess 44 is defined by a main surface and two auxiliary surfaces, which are spaced apart from each other and are transverse, and in particular perpendicular to the main surface. In particular, the auxiliary surfaces are designed such that a portion of the support rod 36 is inserted between each other when the tethering element 12 is coupled to the retaining assembly 33.

[0112] Preferably, the hook element 35, particularly the hook 37, includes an abutting surface, particularly facing the body 2, particularly the second wall portion 6, and the tethering element 12 is configured to abut against the abutting surface when coupled to the retaining assembly 33.

[0113] Advantageous, especially for reference Figures 1A to 5 The connection between the spout 9 and the tamper-proof element 13 is established through contact between the tamper-proof element 13 and the collar 15 and / or the base frame 14. In other words, the tamper-proof element 13 is fixed (unbreakable / permanently) or breakably fixed (in the specific case disclosed, breakably fixed) to the collar 15 and / or the base frame 14.

[0114] Preferably, the tamper-evident element 13 is connected, particularly fractically secured, to the collar 15, especially the outer surface 19. It should be considered that, according to the illustrated embodiment, the tamper-evident element 13 is fractically secured to the collar 15 such that the tamper-evident element 13 separates from the collar 15 when the cover 11 is first moved from the closed position to the open position.

[0115] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, when the cover 11 is in the closed position, the tamper element 13 is connected, in particular (indestructibly / permanently) fixed to the gripping element 27, especially the first surface of the gripping element 27 facing the base frame 14.

[0116] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the tamper-proof element 13 includes a first end 48 and a second end 49 opposite to the first end 48. In particular, the first end 48 is detachably secured to one of the cap 11 and the spout 9, and the second end 49 is fixedly connected to the other of the cap 11 and the spout 9.

[0117] According to the embodiment shown, the first end 48 is detachably fixed to the spout 9, in particular the collar 15, and even more particularly the outer surface 19, and the second end 49 is fixed to the cap 11, in particular the gripping element 27, and even more particularly the first surface of the gripping element 27.

[0118] Preferably, the tamper-proof element 13 extends along a central extension axis between the first end 48 and the second end 49. In particular, the central extension axis is defined by a plurality of midpoints of the tamper-proof element 13.

[0119] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the tamper element 13 is curved (as is the central extending axis). In particular, the tamper element 13 (and the central extending axis) has a raised shape relative to the outer surface 19, especially when the cover 11 is in the closed position.

[0120] Alternatively, the tamper-evident element 13 may have any other shape, such as a concave shape relative to the outer surface 19, especially when the cover 11 is in the closed position, or a flat shape or even a more complex shape.

[0121] Preferably, the tamper-proof element 13 has an elliptical cross-sectional profile, particularly an elliptical cross-sectional profile relative to a cross-sectional plane that is transverse to, and particularly perpendicular to, the central extending axis. Alternatively, the tamper-proof element 13 may have a circular cross-sectional profile.

[0122] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the tamper-evident element 13, particularly the first end 48, includes a first contact surface that is detachably secured to one of the cap 11 and the spout 9, in the specific example shown, detachably secured to the spout 9, particularly the collar 15, and even more particularly the outer surface 19. Furthermore, the tamper-evident element 13, particularly the second end 49, includes a second contact surface that is secured to the other of the cap 11 and the spout 9, in the specific case shown, secured to the cap 11, particularly to the gripping element 27, and even more particularly to the first surface of the gripping element 27.

[0123] Preferably, the first contact surface is smaller than the second contact surface.

[0124] Preferably, the tamper-proof element 13 has a first cross-sectional profile at a first end 48, particularly relative to a cross-sectional plane that is transverse to and particularly perpendicular to the central extension axis, and a second cross-sectional profile at a second end 49, particularly relative to a cross-sectional plane that is transverse to and particularly perpendicular to the central extension axis. The first cross-sectional profile is smaller than the second cross-sectional profile.

[0125] In use, to pour the pourable product out of the packaging 1, the lid 11 needs to be moved from the closed position to the open position in order to open the pouring outlet 10.

[0126] When the cover 11 is first moved from the closed position to the open position, the cover 11 is separated from the collar 15 so that when the cover 11 is placed back in the closed position the next time, the cover 11 is only connected to the collar 15, but not fixed to the collar 15.

[0127] Furthermore, when the cap 11 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position, with particular reference to the disclosed embodiment, the tamper-evident element 13 separates from the spout 9. In an alternative embodiment (not shown) where the tamper-evident element 13 can be brokenably secured to the cap 11, the tamper-evident element 13 separates from the cap 11 during the initial control of the cap 11 from the closed position to the open position.

[0128] The advantages of the cap and spout assembly 3 and / or packaging 1 according to the present invention will become apparent from the above description.

[0129] In particular, by providing the tamper-proof element 13, consumers obtain a clear and visible indication of whether the cover 11 has been or has not been controlled from the closed position to the open position at least once.

[0130] Another advantage is that the tamper-proof element 13 has an effective and robust design, and in particular, the break point is clearly defined.

[0131] Obviously, changes can be made to the cap and spout assembly 3 and / or packaging 1 as described herein, without departing from the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A lid and spout assembly (3) for a package (1), the package (1) having a body (2) including a designated pouring opening and filled with a pourable product, the body (2) including an internal space (7) configured to accommodate the pourable product; The cap and spout assembly (3) includes at least: - A spout (9) with a pouring outlet (10); - Cover (11), which is configured to selectively close and open the pouring outlet (10); as well as - A fastening element (12) is attached to the cap (11) and the spout (9); The spout (9) mentioned therein includes at least: - A base frame (14) configured to couple the spout (9) to the body (2) around the designated pouring opening; as well as - A collar (15) that carries the pouring outlet (10) and protrudes from the base frame (14), wherein the collar (15) includes an inner surface (18) defining a flow channel (17) and an outer surface (19) opposite to the inner surface (18); The cover (11) can be controlled to be at least between the following positions: - Closed position, wherein the cover (11) covers the pouring outlet (10); and - Open position, wherein the cover (11) is configured to open the pouring outlet (10); The cap and spout assembly (3) also includes an annular coupling membrane that can breakably secure the cap (11) and the collar (15) to each other before the cap (11) is first controlled from the closed position to the open position; The cap and spout assembly (3) further includes an anti-tamper element (13) which is detachably secured to one of the cap (11) and the collar (15) and fixedly connected to the other of the cap (11) and the collar (15); The spout (9), the cap (11), the fastening element (12) and the tamper-evident element (13) are formed as a single piece, wherein the cap (11) is ruptureably secured to the collar (15) by means of the coupling membrane in order to seal the flow channel (17) and thus isolate the internal space (7) from the external environment.

2. The cap and spout assembly according to claim 1, The tamper-proof element (13) is ruptureably secured to the outer surface (19).

3. The cap and spout assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cap (11) includes a gripping element (27); The tamper-proof element is detachably secured or fixed to the gripping element (27).

4. The cap and spout assembly according to claim 3, wherein the cap (11) includes at least one main portion (26) configured to at least partially protrude into the flow channel (17); The gripping element (27) protrudes from the main part (26).

5. The cap and spout assembly according to claim 4, wherein the main portion (26) comprises at least: The central section (29) protrudes at least partially into the flow channel (17); And an outer section (30) which connects to and surrounds the central section (29) and engages and / or is configured to engage the edge (20) of the collar (15) that defines the pouring outlet (10).

6. The cap and spout assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4 or 5, wherein the tamper-proof element (13) comprises a first end (48) and a second end (49); The first end (48) is ruptureably fixed to one of the cap (11) and the spout (9), and the second end (49) is fixedly connected to the other of the cap (11) and the spout (9).

7. The cap and spout assembly according to claim 6, The tamper-evident element (13) is designed such that, during use, when the cover (11) is first moved from the closed position to the open position, the first end (48) breaks irreversibly.

8. The cap and spout assembly according to claim 6, wherein the tamper-proof element (13) has a first cross-sectional profile at the first end (48) and a second cross-sectional profile at the second end (49); The first cross-sectional profile is smaller than the second cross-sectional profile.

9. The cap and spout assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 or 8, wherein the tamper-evident element (13) comprises a first contact surface that is ruptureably secured to one of the cap (11) and the spout (9); and a second contact surface that is secured to the other of the cap (11) and the spout (9); The first contact surface is smaller than the second contact surface.

10. The cap and spout assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 or 8, wherein the tamper-evident element (13) is bent.

11. The cap and spout assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 or 8, wherein the anti-tamper element (13) has an elliptical or circular cross-section.

12. The cap and spout assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 or 8, wherein the tamper-evident element (13) is ruptureably secured to the collar (15).

13. A package (1) comprising a body (2) filled with a pourable product and at least one cap and spout assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims and coupled to the body (2).

14. The packaging of claim 13, wherein the packaging is designed for consumption en route.

15. The packaging according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the body (2) is formed of a multilayer composite packaging material.

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