Closure device for container and mold for forming the closure device

Abstract

A closure device for a container and a mold for forming the closure device, the container having a neck along an annular flange, the closure device comprising: a cover body; a TE band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange; a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover body; a first and a second tie connecting the cover body to the TE band, the first tie interconnecting the first hinge with the TE band, and the second tie interconnecting the second hinge with the TE band; the first and second tie originating from a separated position on the TE band; a tongue protruding from the cover body between the first hinge and the second hinge; when the cover body is actuated from a closed configuration relative to the neck to a fully open position: the first tie and the second tie are configured to separate from the TE band during opening, but remain connected to the TE band; the interaction of the tongue and the TE band is configured to keep the cover body in the fully open position.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the following application: application number is 202010318237.X, application date is April 21, 2020, and the name of the invention is closing device for container. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a closure device for a container and a mold for forming the closure device. Background Art

[0003] Containers, such as bottles, are often provided with closures, such as caps, to seal the container against fluids. In recent years, there has been a need to tether the closure to the container to avoid losing the closure. This is not only a matter of convenience, but has also become a legal requirement in some jurisdictions.

[0004] Tethering the closure to its respective container includes certain mechanisms that allow the closure to be attached to a tamper-evident tape (TE tape) at the open end of the container. Such mechanisms typically allow for severing of a breakable connection between the closure and the TE tape during opening of the closure, and also allow the closure to remain connected to the TE tape, and thus to the container, when in an open configuration. Typical mechanisms also allow the closure to be actuated between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0005] In JP 5574582, a cap 2 is described having a tongue 46 arranged between two ties. The tongue 46 abuts against an annular ring 68 of the neck, allowing the cap to be kept in the open position.

[0006] US 9,010,555 describes a one-piece cap with two weakening lines (20 / 34) that break when the cap is twisted off. The top portion of the cap remains attached to the TE band via strip 36. A groove 32 separates bridges 301 and 302. However, there is no mechanism to hold the cap in the open position.

[0007] In US 6,474,491 a lid is described which has a tongue 21 between two film hinges 5. The two film hinges 5 are connected to a ring 3 via respective arms 4. When the lid is in the open position, the tongue can abut against the neck of the container, allowing the lid to remain in the open position.

[0008] US2012 / 0024815 describes an integrated cover including a cut line 34 below a hinge 35 to extend the coupling length of the support ring 33 and the cover body 31. In some embodiments, the cover body 31 includes a wedge k1 which is held between the support step 15 and the support ring 33 when opened.

[0009] In JP49096441 a cover is described with two tie-downs 40 which act as hinges between the TE straps 20 and the cover body 10. A hook 11 is provided between the straps 40. When the cover body 10 is removed, the hook 11 engages the TE straps 20 and the jaws A of the neck portion. Summary of the invention

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention have been developed based on the inventor's recognition of at least one disadvantage associated with prior art solutions and methods for retaining a closure device on a container and allowing the closure device to remain in an open position relative to the container. The inventor has noted that prior art solutions that attempt to retain a cap relative to a container are unable to do so at an angle that allows a user to comfortably approach the container. In the case of a drinking bottle, for example, the cap, when open, prevents the user from drinking from the bottle.

[0011] Therefore, in certain aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure, a closure device is provided that can be actuated between a closed configuration and an open configuration, the open configuration enabling the lid to be in a plurality of open positions relative to the container. A retaining mechanism of the closure device can retain the lid in a fully open position.

[0012] According to one aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container having a neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover; a tie connected to the TE band, the first hinge and the second hinge; the tie allowing the cover to be separated from the TE band during opening but remaining connected to the TE band via the tie; a tongue protruding from the cover between the first hinge and the second hinge; when the cover is actuated from a closed configuration to a fully open position relative to the neck: the tie is configured to hold the cover to the TE band; the interaction of the tongue and the neck is configured to hold the cover in the fully open position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the interaction between the tongue and the neck is direct. The direct interaction may be between a lip at the free end of the tongue and an annular flange.

[0014] In some embodiments, the interaction of the tongue and the neck is indirectly performed via a ratchet defined on the TE strap.The ratchet may be located on the TE strap between the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the cover and the TE band are implemented in a flip cover arrangement via a first hinge and a second hinge.

[0016] In certain embodiments, after the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position relative to the neck, the cover is configured to actuate back to the closed configuration and be retained in the closed configuration.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the cap is retained in a closed configuration with the neck by means of a threaded interface.

[0018] In some embodiments, the tie down is sized to allow the cover sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the cover is initially connected to the TE band via a breakable connection.

[0020] In some embodiments, the breakable connection is more breakable than the tie.A plurality of breakable connections may be provided that are located outside the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the annular flange and the TE band are sized such that the annular flange retains the TE band after the cap is actuated relative to the neck from a closed configuration to a fully open position.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the tie-down is configured to allow the cover to have rotational freedom to separate the cover from the neck while retaining the cover on the TE band.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the interaction is an interaction of the tongue with the tie down at an upper portion of the annular flange.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the first hinge and the second hinge define a first pivot axis; the tie-down originates from a pivot point on the TE strap, the pivot point defining a second pivot axis.

[0025] According to another aspect, a mold for forming a closure device by injection molding is provided, the mold comprising a female mold cavity piece and a male mold core piece defining a molding cavity configured to form the closure device of claim 1 .

[0026] According to another aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container having a neck including an annular flange along the outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover; a tie connected to the TE band, the first hinge and the second hinge; the tie allowing the cover to be separated from the TE band during opening but remaining connected to the TE band via the tie; a tongue protruding from the cover between the first hinge and the second hinge; when the cover is actuated from a closed configuration to a fully open position relative to the neck: the tie is configured to allow the cover to have rotational freedom to separate the cover from the neck while holding the cover to the TE band; the interaction of the tongue and the neck is configured to hold the cover in the fully open position.

[0027] In some embodiments, the interaction between the tongue and the neck is direct. The interaction may be between a lip at the free end of the tongue and an annular flange.

[0028] In some embodiments, the interaction of the tongue and the neck is indirectly performed via a ratchet defined on the TE strap.The ratchet may be located on the TE strap between the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the cover and the TE band are implemented in a flip cover arrangement via a first hinge and a second hinge.

[0030] In certain embodiments, after the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position relative to the neck, the cover is configured to actuate back to the closed configuration and be retained in the closed configuration.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the cap is retained in a closed configuration with the neck by means of a threaded interface.

[0032] In some embodiments, the tie down is sized to allow the cover sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the cover is initially connected to the TE band via a breakable connection.

[0034] In some embodiments, the breakable connection is more breakable than the tie.A plurality of breakable connections may be provided that are located outside the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the annular flange and the TE band are sized such that the annular flange retains the TE band after the cap is actuated relative to the neck from a closed configuration to a fully open position.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the tie-down is configured to retain the cover on the TE band.

[0037] In certain embodiments, the interaction is an interaction of the tongue with the tie down at an upper portion of the annular flange.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the first hinge and the second hinge define a first pivot axis; the tie-down originates from a pivot point on the TE strap, the pivot point defining a second pivot axis.

[0039] According to another aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container having a neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange; a first tie and a second tie connecting the cover to the TE band, the first tie and the second tie starting from separate positions on the cover and converging toward a pivot area on the TE band, the pivot area defining a pivot axis; a tongue protruding from the cover; when the cover is actuated from a closed configuration to a fully open position relative to the neck about the pivot axis: the first tie and the second tie are configured to retain the cover on the TE band; the interaction of the tongue and the neck is configured to retain the cover in the fully open position.

[0040] In some embodiments, the interaction between the tongue and the neck is direct.

[0041] The interaction may be between the tongue and an interaction area of ​​the neck, the interaction area of ​​the neck comprising an annular flange.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the interaction of the tongue and the neck is indirect via ratchets defined on the TE band.The ratchets may be wedge-shaped and have a free end that is thinner than the portion of the ratchets connected to the TE band.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the cover and the TE band are implemented in a flip cover arrangement via a first hinge and a second hinge.

[0044] In certain embodiments, after the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position relative to the neck, the cover is configured to actuate back to the closed configuration and be retained in the closed configuration.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the cap is retained in a closed configuration with the neck by means of a threaded interface.

[0046] In some embodiments, the tie down is sized to allow the cover sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the cover is initially connected to the TE band via a breakable connection.

[0048] In some embodiments, the breakable connection is more breakable than the tie.A plurality of breakable connections may be provided that are located outside the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the annular flange and the TE band are sized such that the annular flange retains the TE band after the cap is actuated relative to the neck from a closed configuration to a fully open position.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the tie-down is configured to allow the cover to have rotational freedom to separate the cover from the neck while retaining the cover on the TE band.

[0051] In certain embodiments, the interaction is an interaction of the tongue with the tie down at an upper portion of the annular flange.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the closure device further comprises a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover and positioned one on each side of the tongue. A first pivot axis; the tie-down originates from a pivot point on the TE band, the pivot point defining a second pivot axis.

[0053] According to another aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container having a neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover; a tie connected to the TE band, the first hinge and the second hinge; the tie allowing the cover to be separated from the TE band during opening but remaining connected to the TE band via the tie; a tongue protruding from the cover between the first hinge and the second hinge; and when the cover is actuated from a closed configuration to a fully open position relative to the neck: the interaction between the tongue and the tie at an upper portion of the annular flange holds the cover in an open position.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the cover and the TE band are implemented in a flip cover arrangement via a first hinge and a second hinge.

[0055] In certain embodiments, after the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position relative to the neck, the cover is configured to actuate back to the closed configuration and be retained in the closed configuration.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the cap is retained in a closed configuration with the neck by means of a threaded interface.

[0057] In some embodiments, the tie down is sized to allow the cover sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the cover is initially connected to the TE band via a breakable connection.

[0059] In some embodiments, the breakable connection is more breakable than the tie.A plurality of breakable connections may be provided that are located outside the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the annular flange and the TE band are sized such that the annular flange retains the TE band after the cap is actuated relative to the neck from a closed configuration to a fully open position.

[0061] In certain embodiments, the tie-down is configured to allow the cover to have rotational freedom to separate the cover from the neck while retaining the cover on the TE band.

[0062] In certain embodiments, the first hinge and the second hinge define a first pivot axis; the tie-down originates from a pivot point on the TE strap, the pivot point defining a second pivot axis.

[0063] According to another aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container being provided with a neck, the neck including an annular flange along the outer surface of the neck, the closure device including: a cover body; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover body for defining a first pivot axis; a tie interconnecting the first hinge and the second hinge to the TE band, the tie starting from a pivot point on the TE band, the pivot point defining a second pivot axis; the tie allowing the cover body to be separated from the TE band during opening, but remaining connected to the TE band via the tie; a tongue protruding from the cover body between the first hinge and the second hinge; when the cover body is actuated from a closed configuration to a fully open position relative to the neck: the tongue engages the annular flange to hold the cover body in the open position.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the cover and the TE band are implemented in a flip cover arrangement via a first hinge and a second hinge.

[0065] In certain embodiments, after the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position relative to the neck, the cover is configured to actuate back to the closed configuration and be retained in the closed configuration.

[0066] In certain embodiments, the cap is retained in a closed configuration with the neck by means of a threaded interface.

[0067] In some embodiments, the tie down is sized to allow the cover sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface.

[0068] In certain embodiments, the cover is initially connected to the TE band via a breakable connection.

[0069] In some embodiments, the breakable connection is more breakable than the tie.In some embodiments, a plurality of breakable connections are provided that are located outside the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the annular flange and the TE band are sized such that the annular flange retains the TE band after the cap is actuated relative to the neck from a closed configuration to a fully open position.

[0071] In certain embodiments, the tie-down is configured to allow the cover to have rotational freedom to separate the cover from the neck while retaining the cover on the TE band.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the interaction is an interaction of the tongue with the tie down at an upper portion of the annular flange.

[0073] According to another aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container having a neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange; a first tie and a second tie connecting the cover to the TE band, the first tie and the second tie starting from a plurality of separate positions on the cover and converging toward a pivot area on the TE band, the pivot area defining a pivot axis; a tongue protruding from the cover; a ratchet disposed on the TE band; wherein when the cover moves from a closed configuration to a fully open position relative to the neck, interaction between contact surfaces of the tongue and the ratchet holds the cover in an open position.

[0074] In certain embodiments, the closure device further comprises a first hinge and a second hinge on the TE band, the ratchet being located between the first hinge and the second hinge.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the first and second tethers each have an expandable configuration.

[0076] In certain embodiments, the expandable configuration is elbow-shaped.

[0077] In certain embodiments, the ratchet teeth are wedge-shaped and have free ends that are thinner than the portion connected to the TE band.

[0078] In certain embodiments, the cover and the TE band are implemented in a flip cover arrangement via a first hinge and a second hinge.

[0079] In certain embodiments, after the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position relative to the neck, the cover is configured to actuate back to the closed configuration and be retained in the closed configuration.

[0080] In certain embodiments, the cap is retained in a closed configuration with the neck by means of a threaded interface.

[0081] In some embodiments, the tie down is sized to allow the cover sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface.

[0082] In certain embodiments, the cover is initially connected to the TE band via a breakable connection.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the breakable connector is more breakable than the tie down.

[0084] In certain embodiments, the closure device further comprises a breakable connection between each of the first and second tie members and one or more of the cover and the TE band, the breakable connection being more breakable than the first and second tie members.

[0085] In certain embodiments, the annular flange and the TE band are sized such that the annular flange retains the TE band after the cap is actuated relative to the neck from a closed configuration to a fully open position.

[0086] In certain embodiments, the tie-down is configured to allow the cover to have rotational freedom to separate the cover from the neck while retaining the cover on the TE band.

[0087] According to another aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container having a neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover; a first tie and a second tie connecting the cover to the TE band, the first tie interconnecting the first hinge with the TE band, and the second tie interconnecting the second hinge with the TE band; the first tie and the second tie starting from separate positions on the TE band; a tongue protruding from the cover between the first hinge and the second hinge; when the cover is actuated from a closed configuration to a fully open position relative to the neck: the first tie and the second tie are configured to separate from the TE band during opening, but remain connected to the TE band to hold the cover to the TE band; the interaction of the tongue and the TE band is configured to hold the cover in the fully open position.

[0088] In certain embodiments, the closure device further comprises a protrusion extending from the TE band toward the tongue, wherein the interaction of the tongue with the protrusion is configured for retaining the lid in the fully open position.

[0089] In certain embodiments, the tongue includes a lip extending outwardly from a free end of the tongue, the lip being of sufficient length to allow the cover to be rotated more than 180° from the closed configuration to the fully open position.

[0090] In some embodiments, the first and second restraints each have sufficient length to allow the TE band to be separated from the neck while rotating the cover from a closed configuration toward a fully open position, and when the cover is released in the fully open position, the protrusion contacts the neck, thereby generating an audible signal.

[0091] In some embodiments, the auditory signal is a click. In some embodiments, the TE band includes at least one rib extending along the TE band from the lower end of the TE band to the upper end of the TE band. The at least one rib stops at the insufficient upper end of the TE band. When in the open position, the lip abuts against the end of the at least one rib near the upper end of the TE band. In some embodiments, the end of the rib defines a rotation point around which the lip rotates relative to the TE band.

[0092] From another aspect, there is provided a closure device for a container, the container having a neck, the neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; at least one hinge defined on the cover; at least one tie, the at least one tie connected to the TE band and the at least one hinge, the at least one tie allowing the cover to be separated from the TE band during opening but remaining connected to the TE band via the at least one tie; a tongue protruding from the cover adjacent to the at least one hinge, the tongue having a lip extending therefrom; at least one rib, the at least one rib being on the TE band and positioned below the tongue when the cover is in a closed configuration relative to the neck, wherein when the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to a fully open position: the at least one tie is configured to hold the cover to the TE band; and the lip is configured to interact with the at least one rib when the cover is in the fully open position.

[0093] In some embodiments, the at least one rib extends in a direction from the TE belt to the cover body. In some embodiments, the at least one rib extends from the lower end of the TE belt and stops at the insufficient upper end of the TE belt. In some embodiments, the at least one rib includes two ribs, which are spaced apart from each other on the TE belt and extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0094] In certain embodiments, the connection point of at least one tie to the TE band is circumferentially spaced apart from the connection point of at least one tie to the at least one hinge.

[0095] In some embodiments, at least one of the tie-downs has an elongated tie-down body that extends approximately circumferentially around a portion of the TE band and has a fold in the elongated tie-down body. In some embodiments, the fold has a fold angle that can be increased during opening to extend the length of the tie. In some embodiments, the fold is located approximately midway along the elongated tie-down body. In some embodiments, when the cover is in a closed configuration, a portion of the elongated tie-down body that does not include the fold extends substantially parallel to an edge of the cover. In some embodiments, the fold includes a first fold arm that is movably connected to a second fold arm, the first fold arm and the second fold arm being positioned approximately transversely to the portion of the elongated tie-down body that does not include the fold. In some embodiments, when the cover is in a closed configuration, a portion of the fold extends into a correspondingly shaped cutout in the TE band.

[0096] In some embodiments, the length of the restraint is elastically extendable.

[0097] In certain embodiments, the at least one tie comprises two tie members, and the at least one hinge comprises two hinges, each hinge of the two tie members being connected to a TE band and a given hinge, the tongue protruding from the cover between the two hinges.

[0098] In some embodiments, the closure device further includes a groove defined in the outer surface of the cover and extending at least partially circumferentially around the cover and positioned above the tongue, such that when the cover is in the fully open position, the groove is arranged to interact with a support flange on the outer surface of the neck to retain the cover in the fully open position. In some embodiments, the groove extends partially around the circumference of the cover.

[0099] In some embodiments, the free end of the lip extends from the tongue greater than the rib and the TE band. In some embodiments, the tongue protrudes downward from the cover, and the lip extends generally laterally from the free end of the tongue, so that the profile of the tongue and the lip is "L" shaped.

[0100] From another aspect, a closure device for a container is provided, the container having a neck, the neck including an annular flange along the outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a cover; a tamper-evident (TE) band, the TE band being defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; at least one hinge defined on the cover; at least one tie, the at least one tie connected to the TE band, the at least one tie allowing the cover to be separated from the TE band during opening but remaining connected to the TE band via the at least one tie; the at least one tie having an elongated tie body, the elongated tie body extending generally circumferentially around a portion of the TE band and having a folded portion in the elongated tie body; wherein, when the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position: the at least one tie is configured to hold the cover to the TE band; and the folding angle of the folded portion of the at least one tie is increased to increase the distance between the cover and the TE band.

[0101] In some embodiments, the fold is located approximately midway along the elongated tie body. In some embodiments, when the cover is in the closed configuration, a portion of the elongated tie body that does not include the fold extends in a manner substantially parallel to an edge of the cover. In some embodiments, the fold includes a first fold arm movably connected to a second fold arm, and the first fold arm and the second fold arm are positioned approximately transverse to the portion of the elongated tie body that does not include the fold. In some embodiments, when the cover is in the closed configuration, a portion of the fold extends into a correspondingly shaped cutout in the TE band.

[0102] In certain embodiments, the restraint is configured such that the length of the restraint is elastically extendable.

[0103] In certain embodiments, the connection point of at least one tie to the TE band is circumferentially spaced apart from the connection point of at least one tie to the at least one hinge.

[0104] In certain embodiments, the at least one tie comprises two tie members and the at least one hinge comprises two hinges, each hinge of the two tie members being connected to the TE band and to the given hinge.

[0105] In certain embodiments, the closure device further includes a tongue protruding from the cover between the two tie members, the tongue having a lip extending therefrom.

[0106] In certain embodiments, the closure device further comprises a tongue protruding from the cover adjacent the at least one hinge, the tongue having a lip extending therefrom.

[0107] In certain embodiments, the tongue projects downwardly from the cover, and the lip extends generally laterally from a free end of the tongue such that the tongue and lip are "L" shaped in profile.

[0108] In some embodiments, the closure device further includes a groove defined in the outer surface of the cover and extending at least partially circumferentially around the cover and positioned above the tongue, such that when the cover is in the fully open position, the groove is arranged to interact with a support flange on the outer surface of the neck to retain the cover in the fully open position. In some embodiments, the groove extends partially around the circumference of the cover.

[0109] In some embodiments, the closure device further includes at least one rib, which is on the TE band and is positioned below the tongue when the cover is in the closed configuration relative to the neck, wherein when the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position: the lip is arranged to interact with the at least one rib in the fully open position. In some embodiments, the at least one rib extends in a direction from the TE band to the cover. In some embodiments, the at least one rib extends from the lower end of the TE band and stops at the insufficient upper end of the TE band. In some embodiments, the at least one rib includes two ribs, which are spaced apart from each other on the TE band and extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0110] In certain embodiments, the free end of the lip extends from the tongue a greater distance than the rib extends from the TE band.

[0111] From another aspect, there is provided a closure device for a container, the container having a neck, the neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: a lid; a tamper-evident (TE) band defined so that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith; at least one hinge defined on the lid; at least one tie, the at least one tie connected to the TE band and the at least one hinge, the at least one tie allowing the lid to be separated from the TE band during opening, but being retained via the at least one tie; a tie remains connected to the TE band; a tongue protruding from the cover body adjacent to the at least one hinge, the tongue having a lip extending outwardly therefrom; a groove defined in the outer surface of the cover body and extending at least partially circumferentially around the cover body and positioned above the tongue, wherein when the cover body is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position: the at least one tie is configured to retain the cover body to the TE band; the lip is configured to interact with the outer surface of the TE band when the cover body is in the fully open position; the groove is configured to interact with the annular flange and retain the cover body in the fully open position. In some embodiments, the groove extends partially around the circumference of the cover body.

[0112] In certain embodiments, the at least one restraint has an elongated restraint body that generally extends circumferentially around a portion of the TE band and provides a folded portion in the elongated restraint body; wherein, when the cover body is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position: the at least one restraint is configured to hold the cover body to the TE band; and the folding angle of the folded portion of the at least one restraint increases, so that the length of the at least one restraint increases.

[0113] In certain embodiments, the restraint is configured such that the length of the restraint can be elastically extended.

[0114] In some embodiments, the fold is located approximately midway along the elongated tie body. In some embodiments, when the cover is in the closed configuration, a portion of the elongated tie body that does not include the fold extends in a manner substantially parallel to an edge of the cover. In some embodiments, the fold includes a first fold arm movably connected to a second fold arm, and the first fold arm and the second fold arm are positioned approximately transverse to the portion of the elongated tie body that does not include the fold. In some embodiments, when the cover is in the closed configuration, a portion of the fold extends into a correspondingly shaped cutout in the TE band.

[0115] In certain embodiments, the connection point of at least one tie to the TE band is circumferentially spaced apart from the connection point of at least one tie to the at least one hinge.

[0116] In certain embodiments, the at least one tie comprises two tie members and the at least one hinge comprises two hinges, each hinge of the two tie members being connected to the TE band and to the given hinge.

[0117] In some embodiments, the tongue protrudes downward from the cover, and the lip extends approximately laterally from the free end of the tongue, so that the profile of the tongue and the lip is "L" shaped. In some embodiments, the closure device further includes at least one rib, which is on the TE band and is positioned below the tongue when the cover is in the closed configuration relative to the neck, wherein when the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position, the lip is arranged to interact with the at least one rib in the fully open position. In some embodiments, the at least one rib extends in the direction from the TE band to the cover. In some embodiments, the at least one rib extends from the lower end of the TE band and stops at the insufficient upper end of the TE band. In some embodiments, the at least one rib includes two ribs, which are spaced apart from each other on the TE band and extend substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the free end of the lip extends from the tongue to a greater distance than the rib extends from the TE band.

[0118] According to another aspect, there is provided a mold for forming a closure device by injection molding, the mold comprising a female mold cavity piece and a male mold core piece defining a molding cavity configured to form a closure device as described herein.

[0119] These and other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments will now become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following description of certain non-limiting embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0120] Non-limiting embodiments will be more fully understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0121] Figure 1 is a side view of a closure device on a container when the closure device is in a closed and locked configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0122] Figure 2 According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in the closed and unlocked configurations Figure 1 A side view of a closure device;

[0123] Figure 3 According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in a fully open position of the open configuration, Figure 1 A perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device, the cross-sectional view being taken along Figure 2 The line A-A' is intercepted by

[0124] Figure 4 According to some embodiments of the present invention Figure 3 A perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device of FIG. 1 and illustrating different open positions of an open configuration;

[0125] Figure 5 According to some embodiments of the present invention Figure 1 sectional views of the closure device in different embodiments of the container;

[0126] Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C Depicts a plurality of opening positions of an open configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 4 an enlarged portion of a perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device;

[0127] Figure 7 is a side view of another embodiment of a closure device on a container when the closure device is in a closed and locked configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0128] Figure 8 According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in the closed and unlocked configurations Figure 7 A side view of a closure device;

[0129] Fig. 9 According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in a fully open position of the open configuration, Figure 7 A perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device, the cross-sectional view being taken along Figure 2 The line B-B' intercepts the

[0130] Fig.10 According to some embodiments of the present invention Figure 7 sectional views of the closure device in different embodiments of the container;

[0131] Fig.11A , Fig. 11B , Fig. 11C and Fig.11D Depicts different open positions of the open configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 9 an enlarged portion of a perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device;

[0132] Fig.12 is a side view of yet another embodiment of a closure device on a container when the closure device is in a closed and unlocked configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0133] Fig.13 According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in a fully open position of the open configuration, Fig.12A perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device, the cross-sectional view being taken along Fig.12 The line C-C' is intercepted;

[0134] Fig.14A , Fig. 14B , Fig. 14C and Fig.14D Depicts different open positions of the open configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig.13 an enlarged portion of a perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device;

[0135] Fig.15 is a side view of yet another embodiment of a closure device on a container when the closure device is in a closed and unlocked configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0136] Fig.16 According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in a fully open position of the open configuration, Fig.15 A perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device, the cross-sectional view being taken along Fig.15 The line D-D' intercepts;

[0137] Fig.17A , Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C Depicts different open positions of the open configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig.15 an enlarged portion of a perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device;

[0138] Fig.18A is a side view of another embodiment of a closure device on a container when the closure device is in a closed and locked configuration according to some non-limiting embodiments of the present invention;

[0139] Fig.18B is a profile view of an enlarged portion of a closure device showing a tongue portion having an extended lip;

[0140] Fig.19 According to some non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, the closure device is in the closed and unlocked configurations. Fig.18A A side view of a closure device;

[0141] Fig. 20 According to some non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in a fully open position of the open configuration, Fig.18A A perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device, the cross-sectional view being taken along Fig.18A intercepted by the line E-E'; and

[0142] Fig.21A , Fig. 21B and Fig. 21CDepicts different open positions of the open configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 20 an enlarged portion of a perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device;

[0143] Fig. 22 According to some non-limiting embodiments of the present invention Fig.18A A side view of another embodiment of a closure device when the closure device is in a closed and locked configuration;

[0144] Fig.23 is a side view of yet another embodiment of a closure device according to some embodiments of the present invention when the closure device is in a closed and locked configuration;

[0145] Fig.24 According to some embodiments of the present invention Fig.23 A side view of the closure device on the container;

[0146] Fig.25 According to some embodiments of the present invention Fig.23 A profile view of the closure device on the container;

[0147] Fig.26 According to some embodiments of the present invention Fig.23 A perspective cross-sectional view of a closure device, the cross-sectional view being taken along Fig.23 The line FF|intercepted;

[0148] Fig.27A and 27B When the closure device is in the closed and unlocked configurations according to some embodiments of the present invention, respectively Fig.23 A profile view and a side view of a closure device;

[0149] Fig.28A and 28B According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in the open configuration, during the opening process Fig.23 A side view and a profile view of a closure device;

[0150] Fig.28A and 28B According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the closure device is in the open configuration, during the opening process Fig.23 A side view and a profile view of a closure device;

[0151] Fig.29A and 29B According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the sealing device is in a Fig.28A and 28B The closure device is more open when the configuration, Fig.23A profile view and a cross-sectional view of the closure device during the opening process;

[0152] Fig. 30A and 30B According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the sealing device is in a Fig.29A and 29B The closure device is more open when the configuration, Fig.23 A profile view and a cross-sectional view of the closure device during the opening process;

[0153] Fig.31A and 31B According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the sealing device is in a Fig. 30A and 30B The closure device is more open when the configuration, Fig.23 A profile view and a cross-sectional view of the closure device during the opening process;

[0154] Fig.32A and 32B According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the sealing device is in a Fig.31A and 31B The closure device is more open when the configuration, Fig.23 A profile view and a cross-sectional view of the closure device during the opening process;

[0155] Fig.33A , 33B and 33C are respectively when the closure device is in a fully open configuration according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig.23 Outline, cross-sectional and side views of the closure device; and

[0156] Fig.34A and 34B According to some embodiments of the present invention Fig.23 Side view and side view of another embodiment of a closure device.

[0157] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and may be illustrated using phantom lines, diagrams, and partial views. In certain cases, details that are not necessary for understanding the embodiments or that make other details difficult to understand may be omitted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0158] Reference will now be made in detail to various non-limiting embodiments of closure devices for containers. It should be understood that, in view of the non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein, other non-limiting embodiments, modifications and equivalents will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and these variations should be within the scope of the appended claims.

[0159] In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain structural and operational details of the non-limiting embodiments discussed below may be modified or omitted entirely (ie, not required). In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, and components are not described in detail.

[0160] According to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a closure device 10 for a container 12 is provided. The container 12 that can be used together with the closure device 10 is not limited in its use, configuration or material. In the embodiment shown herein, the container 12 is a bottle, such as a beverage bottle made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). For example, the container 12 can be a blow-molded bottle for filling a still beverage or another light beverage. Or, the container 12 can be used for carbonated beverages. In other embodiments, the container 12 can be used for hot-filled beverages (e.g., drinkable yogurt, juice, etc.). However, the closure device 10 can be used with other types of containers.

[0161] First refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The closure device 10 includes a cover 14 that is frangibly attached to a tamper-evident strip (TE strip) 16 and can be in a closed configuration 18 (also referred to as a "closed position") ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 ) and open configuration 20( Figure 3 , Figure 4 6). The cover 14 is configured to be actuated between the closed configuration 18 to the open configuration 20, and from the open configuration 20 to the closed configuration 18. The closed configuration 18 has a locked mode ( Figure 1 ) and unlock mode ( Figure 2 ). In an open configuration, several different open positions are possible, such as Figure 4 and Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C Best shown in Figure 6C . The actuation of the lid 14 between any of the locked closed configuration, the unlocked closed configuration, and the open configuration is generally referred to herein as the action of "opening" the closure 10. The actuation of the lid 14 from the open configuration to the unlocked closed configuration is generally referred to herein as the action of "closing" the closure 10.

[0162] A retaining mechanism 22 is provided in association with one or both of the lid 14 and the tamper-evident strip 16 to retain the closure 10 in the fully open position.

[0163] The cap 14 and TE band 16 are sized and shaped to be received around a neck 24 of the container 12, the neck 24 defining an open end 26 of the container 12, and the cap 14 is arranged to close and fluidly seal the open end 26 when in the closed configuration 18. The TE band 16 and the cap 14 are arranged to be at least partially separated from each other. As is known in the art, the separation (partial in this case) of the TE band 16 and the cap 14 allows for a "tamper indication," i.e., an indication that the container 12 has been opened.

[0164] The container 12 also includes an annular flange 28 (also referred to as a "tamper-evident flange") extending around the outer surface 30 of the neck 24 and separated from the open end 26 of the container 12. The tamper-evident flange 28 protrudes a first distance 32 from the outer surface 30 of the neck 24. The TE band 16 of the closure device 10 is arranged to engage with the tamper-evident flange 28 of the container 12 to retain the TE band 16 on the container 12 during use. The first distance 32 of the TE flange 28 relative to the size of the TE band 16 is such that the TE flange 28 retains the TE band after the lid 14 is actuated from the closed configuration 18 to the fully open position.

[0165] The retaining mechanism 22 is arranged to engage with a portion of the neck 24 of the container 12 in use to retain the lid 14 in the open configuration 20. In certain non-limiting embodiments, this interaction is a direct interaction. Figure 2 In the non-limiting embodiment of the present invention specifically shown in FIG, the portion of the neck 24 is a tamper-evident flange 28. The manner in which the TE band 16 and the retention mechanism 22 engage the tamper-evident flange 28 will be described in more detail below.

[0166] The container 12 also has a support protrusion 34 extending around the outer surface 30 of the neck 24 and spaced apart from the tamper-evident flange 28. The support protrusion 34 is further away from the open end 26 of the container 12 than the tamper-evident flange 28. The support protrusion 34 protrudes a second distance 36 from the outer surface 30 of the neck 24 of the container 12, and the second distance 36 of the support protrusion 34 is greater than the first distance 32 of the tamper-evident flange 28. The diameter 38 of the TE band 16 of the closure device 10 is less than the diameter 40 of the neck 24 at the support protrusion 34, which is used to hold the closure device 10 above the support protrusion 34 at the neck 24 of the container 12. In other words, in use, the movement of the TE band 16 away from the open end 26 of the container 12 is limited by the support protrusion 34.

[0167] The cap 14 is generally cylindrical and has a closed first end 42 and an open second end 44. The cap 14 is arranged to be received over the open end 26 of the container 12. In this regard, at least the second end 44 of the cap 14 has a diameter 46 at the open end 26 that is wider than a diameter 48 of the container 12 to allow the cap 14 to be retained on the neck 24.

[0168] The closure device 10 is arranged to be held in the closed configuration 18 by a threaded interface with the neck. The inner surface 50 of the cap 14 has threads 52 defined therein that are arranged to engage with threads 54 ( Figure 5 )cooperation. Figure 1-4 and Figure 6A-6B The thread 54 is omitted. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As best shown in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the inner surface 50 of the cap 14 has a threaded annular portion 56 that includes threads 52 and a non-threaded annular portion 58 that does not include any threads 52. The threaded annular portion 56 is proximate the open second end 44 of the cap 14. The cap 14 is retained in the closed configuration 18 by a threaded interface with the neck 24 of the container 12.

[0169] In alternative embodiments (not shown), one or both of the cap 14 and the neck 24 do not include the threads 54 and are sized and shaped to snap fit onto the neck 24 to close the open end 26 of the container 12 .

[0170] The outer surface 60 of the cover 14 is configured to facilitate gripping of the cover 14. Figure 1 As shown, the texture includes a plurality of ribs 62 (also referred to as "knurling") extending in a direction between the first end 42 and the second end 44 of the cover 14. It should be noted that the size and pattern of the plurality of ribs 62 are not limited to those described herein. It should also be noted that in alternative embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of ribs 62 may be omitted entirely.

[0171] The cover 14 is breakably connected to the TE band 16 by a plurality of breakable connections 64. The connections 64 are arranged to be severed when the cover 14 and the TE band 16 are rotatably moved relative to each other. The tensile strength of the connections 64 is lower than the tensile strength of the TE band 16, which means that the connections 64 will be severed before the tensile failure of the TE band 16.

[0172] In use, in the closed configuration ( Figure 1 ), the cover 14 is retained on the open end 26 of the container 12, adjacent the TE band 16, and is connected thereto by one or more connectors 64 and the retaining mechanism 22 when they are intact.

[0173] As previously described, the closed configuration 18 of the closure device 10 has a locked closed configuration ( Figure 1 ) and unlocked closed configuration ( Figure 2). In the locked closed configuration, the connector 64 is intact and connects the cover 14 to the TE band 16 (together with the retaining mechanism 22). In the unlocked closed configuration, the connector 64 is severed and the cover 14 is connected to the TE band 16 only by the retaining mechanism 22. The connector 64 is arranged to be severed by rotational movement of the cover 14 relative to the TE band 16. In this regard, the retaining mechanism 22 is arranged to allow sufficient rotational movement of the cover 14 relative to the TE band 16 to sever the connector 64.

[0174] The lid 14 is movable between the closed configuration 18 (in the unlocked mode) and the open configuration 20 by articulating movement about the pivot region of the retaining mechanism 22. The multiple open positions of the lid 14 are defined by an orientation angle 66 between an axis 68 of the lid 14 along a diametric plane of the lid 14 and an axis 70 of the neck 24 of the container 12 along a diametric plane of the neck 24. Figure 4 as well as Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C The open positions shown in the figure have positioning angles 66 of less than 90 degrees (e.g., about 45 degrees), 90 degrees, and between about 90 degrees and about 180 degrees (e.g., about 120 degrees). In some embodiments, the fully open position is defined by a positioning angle 66 greater than 90 degrees, such as about 120 degrees.

[0175] Now turn to the retaining mechanism 22, as in Figure 1 and Figure 2 As best shown in FIG. 1 , it enables the lid 14 to be retained on the container 12 in both the closed configuration 18 and the open configuration 20 , and enables the lid 14 to be retained in a fully open position in the open configuration.

[0176] As in Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C As best shown in FIG. 1 , the retaining mechanism 22 includes a first hinge 72 and a second hinge 74 defined on the cover 14. A tie 76 is provided to connect to the TE strap 16, the first hinge 72, and the second hinge 74. The tie 76 is connected to the TE strap 16 at a first connection point 75 and a second connection point 77. The first connection point 75 and the second connection point 77 are located on either side of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74, respectively. A tongue 78 extends from the cover 14 between the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74.

[0177] The first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 are circumferentially spaced from each other around the second end 44 of the cover 14. Each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 includes a hinge body 80 extending from the second end 44 of the cover 14. Each hinge body 80 has a hinge end 82 hingedly connected to the cover 14 and a tie end 84 connected to the tie 76.

[0178] Hinged connection means that the hinge body 80 is movably connected to the cover body 14 in a manner that allows relative axial movement. This is also called a "flip cover" arrangement. The connection between the tie end 84 of the hinge body 80 and the tie 76 is not a hinged connection.

[0179] The hinge end 82 of each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 is positioned inside the rim 86 of the second open end 44 of the cover 14 toward the first closed end 42 of the cover 14. The tie end 84 of each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 protrudes further than the rim 86 of the cover 14, so that the tie end 84 of each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 is respectively located outside the rim 86 of the second open end 44 of the cover 14, away from the second end 44 of the cover 14. The arrangement of the tongue 78 relative to the tie 76 defines a gap 87 that allows relative movement between the tongue 78 and the tie 76.

[0180] The tie 76 allows the cover 14 to be separated from the TE band 16 during the opening process (i.e., from the locked mode to the unlocked mode of the closed configuration 18) while remaining connected to the TE band 16. The tie 76 is sized and shaped to allow the cover 14 to have sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface 52, 54.

[0181] A breakable bridge 88 is provided between the tie 76 and the TE band 16, which is severed during rotational actuation of the closure device 10 from the locked mode to the unlocked mode. The tensile strength of the breakable bridge 88 is lower than the tensile strength of the tie 76. The severance of the bridge 88 causes the tie 76 and the TE band 16 to be separated, defining a foot support opening 90 between the tie 76 and the TE band 16. More than one breakable bridge 88 may be provided. The foot support opening 90 is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the TE flange 28 of the container 12. The tie 76 is sized to allow a certain degree of rotational movement of the cover body 14 to break the bridge 88 and disengage the threads 54. As in Figures 6A-6C As best shown in FIG. 1 , engagement of the TE flange 28 in the foot support opening 90 serves to maintain the position of the TE band 16 relative to the neck 24 of the container 12 during movement of the lid 14 between different open positions.

[0182] The tongue 78 includes a tongue 92 having a free end 94 extending from the lid 14 between the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74. The free end 94 of the tongue 78 does not protrude further than the rim 86 of the lid 14 and is aligned with the rim 86 of the lid 14. In the closed configuration, the free end 94 of the tongue 78 is spaced apart from the tie 76. A lip 96 is provided at the free end 94 of the tongue 78. When the lid 14 is actuated from the closed configuration 18 to the open configuration 20 in the fully open position, the interaction of the tongue 78 of the container 12 with the TE flange 28 is configured to be used to maintain the lid 14 in the fully open position. More specifically, the lip 96 of the tongue 78 is in contact with the tie 76 and the upper portion 98 ( Fig. 6A ) enables the cover 14 to be maintained in the fully open position.

[0183] Will refer to Figures 6A to 6C The function of the retaining mechanism 22 is described in more detail. When the lid 14 is actuated toward the fully open position, movement of the lid 14 away from the open end 26 of the container 12 causes the tongue 78 to move toward and contact the tie 76, which rests on the upper portion 98 of the TE flange 28. The lid 14 is hinged about the hinge ends 82 of the first hinge 70 and the second hinge 72, respectively. Then, the tie 76 is pushed against the TE flange 28 ( Fig. 6A and 6B The cover 14 moves to the fully open position ( Figure 6C ), so that the lip 96 of the tongue 78 is received between the tie 76 and the TE flange 28, thereby maintaining the fully open position. In other words, the direct interaction of the tie 76, the tongue 78 and the neck 24 enables the cover 14 to be maintained in the fully open position. It should be understood that the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 define a first pivot axis 100 ( Figure 1 ). The second pivot axis 102 ( Figure 2 ) is defined by a pivot point (connection points 75 , 77 ) where the tie 76 originates from the TE belt 16 .

[0184] As such, it can be said that the tie 76 serves to maintain the position of the closure 10 during the opening and / or closing process; and the tongue 78 serves to maintain the closure 10 in the fully open position.

[0185] Alternative Embodiment (Example 2)

[0186] Another embodiment of the closure device 10 is Figure 7-11D This embodiment of the closure device 10 is similar to Figure 1-6C The embodiments of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 differ in the configuration and function of the retaining mechanism 22 , and more specifically, in the manner in which the tie 76 is connected to the TE strap 16 .

[0187] exist Figure 7-11D In some embodiments, the tie 76 is connected to the TE strap 16 via a single connection point 106 located between the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74. The single connection point 106 is located below the tongue 78. In other words, the tie 76 includes a first tie arm 108 extending from the first hinge 72 and a second tie arm 110 extending from the second hinge 74, both of which extend toward the TE strap 16 to intersect the TE strap 16 at the single connection point 106. The first tie arm 108 and the second tie arm 110 originate from separate locations on the cover 14 and converge toward a pivot area 104 on the TE strap 16, which defines a second pivot axis 102. In some embodiments, the single connection point 106 defines the pivot area 104.

[0188] Thus, in this embodiment, the foot support opening 90 includes a first foot support opening 90a defined by the first tie arm 108 and the portion of the TE strap 16 opposite the first tie arm 108, and a second foot support opening 90b defined by the second tie arm 110 and the portion of the TE strap 16 opposite the second tie arm 110. As best shown, during opening, the first foot support opening 90a and the second foot support opening 90b are arranged to receive a portion of the TE flange 28.

[0189] A gap 87 between the tongue 78 and the tie 76 is defined by the first tie arm 108, the second tie arm 110, and the free end 94 of the tongue 78. The gap 87 is wider than the distance between the tongue 78 and the first tie arm 108 at a point corresponding to the single connection point 106, or wider than the distance between the tongue 78 and the second tie arm 110 at a point where the tongue 78 and the second tie arm 110 intersect the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74, respectively.

[0190] Will refer to Figures 11A to 11D The function of the retaining mechanism 22 is described in more detail. When the lid 14 is actuated toward the fully open position, the tie 76 interacts with the TE flange 28. The lid 14 is pivoted relative to the neck 24 of the container 12 about the first pivot axis 100 ( Figure 7 ) and the second pivot axis 102 ( Figure 7 ) rotates, the first pivot axis 100 is defined by the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74, and the second pivot axis 102 is defined by a single connection point 106 ( Fig.11A and 11B ) is defined by the pivot area 104 defined.

[0191] When the cover 14 is beyond Fig.11D The fully open position ( Fig. 11C), the tongue 78 is extended through the gap 87 at least partially defined by the first tie arm 108 and the second tie arm 110. The lip 96 of the tongue 78 faces the TE flange 28, and the lid 14 is in an inverted position compared to the position when the lid 14 is in the closed configuration. Movement of the lid 14 toward the neck 24 of the container 12 causes the lip 96 of the tongue 78 to engage the upper portion 98 of the TE flange 28, thereby maintaining the fully open position.

[0192] Figure 7-11D The closure device 10 and Figure 1-6C The closure device 10 is an example of “direct contact” between the tongue 78 and the neck 24.

[0193] Alternative Embodiment (Embodiment 3)

[0194] Another embodiment of the closure device 10 is Figure 12-14D This embodiment of the closure device 10 is similar to Figure 7-11D The embodiment of the present invention differs in the configuration and function of the retaining mechanism 22a and the relative positions of the first and second hinges 72a, 74a, and the tongue 78a of the tie 76a, wherein the retaining mechanism 22a is different from the retaining mechanism 22 of the previous embodiment.

[0195] The closure device 10 includes a cover 14 and a retaining mechanism 22a that is breakably attached to a tamper-evident tape (TE tape) 16. The closure device 10 is movable between a closed configuration 18 (locked and unlocked) and an open configuration (having different open positions including a fully open position). The retaining mechanism 22a associated with one or both of the cover 14 and the tamper-evident tape 16 is configured to retain the closure device 10 in the fully open position.

[0196] The retaining mechanism 22a is arranged to engage with a portion of the neck 24 of the container 12, in particular the TE flange 28, to retain the cap 14 in the open configuration 20. The retaining mechanism 22a is different from Figure 1-6C and Figure 7-11D The retention mechanism is that the engagement between the neck 24 of the container 12 and the cap 14 is "indirect".

[0197] As in Fig.12 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the cover 14 has a cutout 111 in the rim 86. The retaining mechanism 22a includes a tongue 78a of the cover 14 defined in the cover 14 above the cutout 111. The tongue 78a has a tongue 92a having a free end 94a with a lip 96a at the free end 94a. The free end 94a is aligned with the cutout 111.

[0198] The first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74b are arranged to extend from the TE band 16. The first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a are spaced apart from each other along the circumference around the TE band 16. Each of the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a includes a hinge body 80a extending from the TE band 16 and having a hinge end 82a hingedly connected to the TE band 16 and a tie end 84a connected to the tie 76a. The tie 76a includes a first tie arm 108a and a second tie arm 110a, which start from separate locations 112, 114 on the cover body 14 and converge toward the pivot area 130.

[0199] The tie 76a extends from (i) a first point 112 on the cover 14 to the first hinge 72a (first tie arm 108a), (ii) from the first hinge 72a to the second hinge 74a, and (iii) from the second hinge 74a to the second point 114 (second tie arm 110a). The tie 76a and a portion of the cover 14 between the first point 112 and the second point 114 on the cover 14 define a closed opening 116, wherein the tie 76a extends from the first point 112 and the second point 114. The closed opening 116 is arranged to allow the distance of the tongue 78a to the cover 14 to be changed during opening and closing.

[0200] On the TE band 16, between the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a, a ratchet 118 is provided, which has a contact surface 120 for contacting the tongue 78a during the opening process. The ratchet 118 is wedge-shaped, and its free end 122 is thinner than the portion 124 of the ratchet 118 connected to the TE band 16. The inner surface 126 of the ratchet is arranged to engage with the TE flange 26. The size and shape of the contact surface 120 of the ratchet 118 are set to engage with the lip edge 96a of the tongue 78a. The portion of the tie 76a between the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a, the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a and the ratchet 118 defines a gap 128, similar to the gap 87.

[0201] When the cover 14 is moved from the closed configuration 18 ( Fig.12 ) is actuated to the open configuration 20 ( Fig.13 ), the portion of the tie 76a between the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a contacts the upper portion 98 of the TE flange 28. The lip 96a contacts the contact surface 120 of the ratchet 118. The lip 96a is located outside the portion of the tie 76a between the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a. The cover 14 rotates about a pivot area 130 defining a pivot axis 132, and the pivot area 130 includes the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a ( Fig.14A ) at least a portion of.

[0202] When the cover 14 rotates about the pivot axis 132 ( Fig. 14B and 14C ) is rotated, the distance of the tie 76 to the cover 14 increases. In turn, the contact of the lip 96 with the contact surface 120 of the ratchet 118 moves toward the portion 124 of the ratchet 118 connected to the TE band 16. Through the general downward movement of the TE band 16 caused by the pivoting of the cover 14, the TE band 16 contacts the step 133 of the support protrusion 34. At the same time, the contact of the portion of the tie 76a between the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a moves along the upper portion 98 of the TE flange 28 toward the ratchet 118. The TE band 16 with the ratchet 118 generally maintains its position between the TE flange 28 and the support protrusion 133.

[0203] In the fully open position ( Fig.14D ), the lip 96a of the tongue 78a reaches up to the free end 122 of the ratchet 188 to contact the tie 76a (the portion between the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a). The distance between the portion of the tie 76a between the first hinge 72a and the second hinge 74a and the cover 14 is reduced. The force of the hinges 72a, 74a and the tie 76a pulls the tongue 78a against the ratchet 118, thereby keeping the cover 14 in the fully open position. In some embodiments, the tongue 78a is positioned between the tie 76a and the ratchet 118, which creates a wedging effect, however this is not necessary to keep the cover 14 in the fully open position.

[0204] As such, it can be said that the closure opening 116 and the tie 76a enable the lid 14 to pivot and position the lip 96 relative to the tie to hold the closure 10 in the fully open position. The lid 14 is held in the fully open position by indirect contact between the tongue 78a and the neck 24 via the ratchet 118.

[0205] Alternative Embodiment (Example 4)

[0206] Another embodiment of the closure device 10 is Figure 15-17C This embodiment of the closure device 10 is similar to Figure 12-14D The embodiment of FIG. 7 differs in the configuration and function of the retaining mechanism 22b, which differs from the retaining mechanism 22a in the configuration of the tie and the omission of the hinges 72a, 74a.

[0207] Figure 15-17AThe closure device 10 comprises a cover 14 and a retaining mechanism 22b that is frangibly attached to a tamper-evident tape (TE tape) 16. The closure device 10 is movable between a closed configuration 18 (locked and unlocked) and an open configuration (having different open positions including a fully open position). The retaining mechanism 22b associated with one or both of the cover 14 and the tamper-evident tape 16 is configured to retain the closure device 10 in the fully open position.

[0208] The retaining mechanism 22b is arranged to engage with a portion of the neck 24 of the container 12, in particular the TE flange 28, to retain the cap 14 in the open configuration 20. The retaining mechanism 22b and Figure 1-6C as well as Figure 7-11D The retention mechanism of is different in that the engagement between the neck 24 of the container 12 and the cap 14 is indirect.

[0209] As in Fig.15 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the retaining mechanism 22b includes a tongue 78a defined in the cover 14 above the cut-out portion 111. The tongue 78a has a tongue 92b having a free end 94a with a lip 96a at the free end 94a.

[0210] On the TE band 16, a TE band cut-out area 134 is provided. Extending from the TE band 16 at the TE band cut-out area 134 is a ratchet 118 having a contact surface 120 for contacting the tongue 78a during the opening process. The ratchet 118 is wedge-shaped, and its free end 122 is thinner than the portion 124 where the ratchet 118 is connected to the TE band 16. The inner surface 126 of the ratchet is configured to engage with the TE flange 26. The contact surface 120 of the ratchet 118 is sized and shaped to engage with the lip 96a of the tongue 78a.

[0211] The tie 76b extends between the cover 14 and the ratchet 118 at the cutout 111. The tie 76b includes a first tie elbow 136 and a second tie elbow 138. The first tie elbow 136 extends within the cutout 111 from a first point 112a on the cover 14 to a first side 140 of the ratchet 118 within the TE band cutout area 134. The second tie elbow 138 extends from a second point 114a on the cover 14. The first point 112a and the second point 114a are spaced apart from each other and are located inside an edge 142 of the cutout 111.

[0212] The first tie elbow 136 and the second tie elbow 138 each have a "V" shaped configuration, giving them an expandable form. The first tie elbow 136 and the second tie elbow 138 can be considered to be arranged to resiliently bias the cover toward the ratchet. Other expandable or resiliently biased configurations are also possible and within the scope of the present invention.

[0213] The first tie elbow 136, the second tie elbow 138, the ratchet 118 and a portion of the cover 14 define the closure opening 116a. The breakable link 64 is disposed between the TE band 16 and the rim 86 of the cover 14, and between the first tie elbow 136 and the second tie elbow 138. The tie 76b is configured to allow sufficient rotational movement between the cover 14 and the TE band 16 to allow the breakable link 64 to be severed when the closure device 10 is opened.

[0214] When the cover 14 is moved from the closed configuration 18 ( Fig.15 ) is actuated to the open configuration 20 ( Fig.16 ), the cover 14 rotates about a pivot region 130a defining a pivot axis 132a, the pivot region 130a including a first tie elbow 136 and a second tie elbow 138 ( Fig.17A ). These can be considered as two articulated regions.

[0215] When the cover 14 rotates about the pivot axis 132a ( Fig. 17B ) When the lip 96 is rotated, the contact surface 120 of the ratchet 118a is contacted. The TE belt 16 is usually moved downward, resulting in the TE belt contacting the step 133 of the support protrusion 34.

[0216] In the fully open position ( Fig. 17C ), the TE band 16 and the ratchet 118 engage with the support protrusion 34 and the step 133 of the TE flange 28, respectively. This serves to position the TE band 16 and the ratchet 118 relative to the neck 24, providing a reaction force for the lip 96 pushed into the contact surface 120 of the ratchet 118, thereby maintaining the cover 14 in the fully open position.

[0217] The closure device 10 including the cover 14, TE band 16 and retaining mechanism 22 has a one-piece structure.

[0218] Alternative Embodiment (Example 5)

[0219] Another embodiment of the closure device 10 is shown in Figures 18-22. Figure 1 and Figure 2 18-22, the closure device 10 comprises a cover 14 that is frangibly attached to a tamper-evident band (TE band) 16 and can be in a closed configuration 18 (FIGS. 18 and 19) and an open configuration 20 ( Figure 20-2 1) Move between lock modes ( Fig.18A and Fig.18B ) and unlock mode ( Fig.19) is possible in the closed configuration 18. In the open configuration 20, the lid 14 is movable between a plurality of different open positions, ranging from a partially open position to a fully open position, see FIG. 21. The retaining mechanism 22 is arranged to retain the lid 14 in the fully open position.

[0220] The lid 14 is generally cylindrical and has a closed first end 42 and an open second end 44. The lid 14 is arranged to be received over the open end 26 of the container 12.

[0221] The closure device 10 is arranged to be retained in the closed configuration 18 by a threaded interface with the neck 24 of the container 12. The inner surface 50 of the cap 14 has threads 52 defined therein that are arranged to cooperate with threads 54 on the outer surface 30 of the neck 24 of the container 12. Figure 20-22 The thread 54 is omitted.

[0222] The outer surface 60 of the cover 14 is configured to facilitate gripping of the cover 14. As shown in Figures 18-19, the texture includes a plurality of ribs 62 (also referred to as "knurling") extending in a direction between the first end 42 and the second end 44 of the cover 14. It should be noted that the size and pattern of the plurality of ribs 62 are not limited to those described herein. It should also be noted that in alternative embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of ribs 62 may be omitted entirely.

[0223] The cover 14 is breakably connected to the TE band 16 by a plurality of breakable links (bridges) 64. The links 64 are arranged to be severed when the cover 14 and the TE band 16 are rotatably moved relative to each other. The tensile strength of the links 64 is lower than the tensile strength of the TE band 16, which means that the links 64 will be severed before the tensile failure of the TE band 16.

[0224] In use, in the locked closed configuration (FIG. 18), the lid 14 is retained on the open end 26 of the container 12, adjacent the TE band 16 and connected thereto by the one or more connectors 64 and the retaining mechanism 22 when they are intact.

[0225] In unlocked closed configuration ( Fig.19 ), the connector 64 is severed and the cover 14 is connected to the TE band 16 only by the retaining mechanism 22. The connector 64 is arranged to be severed by rotational movement of the cover 14 relative to the TE band 16. In this regard, the retaining mechanism 22 is arranged to allow sufficient rotational movement of the cover 14 relative to the TE band 16 to sever the connector 64. The cover 14 is movable between the closed configuration 18 (in the unlocked mode) and the open configuration 20 by articulating movement around the pivot area of ​​the retaining mechanism 22.

[0226] Turning now to the retaining mechanism 22, the retaining mechanism 22 is capable of retaining the lid 14 on the container 12 in both the closed configuration 18 and the open configuration 20, and is capable of retaining the lid 14 in a fully open position in the open configuration.

[0227] As in Fig.18A and Fig.19 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the retaining mechanism 22 includes a first hinge 72 and a second hinge 74 defined on the cover 14 and a tongue 78 extending from the cover 14 between the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74. Figure 1 -6, in the embodiment of Figures 18-22, two tie members are provided: a first tie member 76a and a second tie member 76b. The first tie member 76a connects the TE band 16 to the first hinge 72, and the second tie member 76b connects the TE band 16 to the second hinge 74. The first tie member 76a is connected to the TE band 16 at a first connection point 75, and the second tie member 76b is connected to the TE band 16 at a second connection point 77. The first connection point 75 and the second connection point 77 are located on both sides of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74, respectively. In the embodiment of Figures 18-22, the distance between the first connection point 75 and the second connection point 77 is greater than Figure 1 -6 embodiment of the connection point 75, 77. Therefore, it can be said that the total tie length of the closure device of the embodiment of Figures 18-22 (the length of the first tie 76a and the length of the second tie 76b) is greater than Figure 1 The length of the first tie 76a and the second tie 76b is sufficient to enable the cap 14 to be removed from the neck 24.

[0228] The first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 are circumferentially spaced from each other around the second end 44 of the cover body 14. Each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 includes a hinge body 80 extending from the second end 44 of the cover body 14. Each hinge body 80 has a hinge end 82 hingedly connected to the cover body 14, and a tie end 84 connected to the corresponding first tie 76a or second tie 76b. Hinged connection means that the hinge body 80 is movably connected to the cover body 14 in a manner that allows relative axial movement. This is also called a "flip lid" arrangement. The connection between the tie end 84 of the hinge body 80 and the tie 76 is not a hinged connection.

[0229] The hinge end 82 of each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 is positioned inside the rim 86 of the second open end 44 of the cover 14 toward the first closed end 42 of the cover 14. The tie end 84 of each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 protrudes further than the rim 86 of the cover 14, so that the tie end 84 of each of the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 is respectively located outside the rim 86 of the second open end 44 of the cover 14, away from the second end 44 of the cover 14.

[0230] and Figure 1 -6, the TE band 16 has a protruding portion 150 extending toward the tongue 78. Figure 1 -6, the protrusion can be considered as the middle part of the tie that has been made into one piece with the TE band 16, and the tie 76 is converted into a first tie 76a and a second tie 76b. When the cover 14 is in the closed and locked configuration, the protrusion 150 is located between the free ends of the first tie 76b and the second tie 76b. The arrangement of the tongue 78 relative to the protrusion 150 defines a gap 87 that allows relative movement between the tongue 78 and the protrusion 150. The tie 76 allows the cover 14 to be separated from the TE band 16 during the opening process (i.e., from the locked mode to the unlocked mode of the closed configuration 18) while remaining connected to the TE band 16. The size and shape of the first tie 76a and the second tie 76b are set to allow the cover 14 to have sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface 52, 54.

[0231] During rotational actuation of the closure device 10 from the locked mode to the unlocked mode, a separation is created between the tongue 78 and the projection 150, defining therein a foot support opening 90a between the tongue 78 and the projection 150. The foot support opening 90a is sized and shaped to allow the tongue 78 to rotate relative to the projection 150 without interference.

[0232] The length of the tie members 76 a , 76 b allows a certain degree of rotational movement of the cover 14 to break the breakable connection 64 between the TE band 16 and the tie members 76 a , 76 b , respectively, and disengage the threads 54 .

[0233] like Fig. 20 21 , the engagement of the projection 150 against the TE flange 28 and the contact of the tongue 78 against the projection 150 serve to maintain the position of the TE band 16 relative to the neck 24 of the container 12 as the lid 14 moves between different open positions.

[0234] As previously described, the tongue 78 includes a tongue body 92 having a free end 94 with a lip 96 formed thereon. The free end 94 of the tongue 78 does not protrude further than the edge 86 of the cover 14 and is aligned with the edge 86 of the cover 14. Figure 1 -6, the lip edge 96 of the embodiment of Figures 18-22 is larger than Figure 1 -6 lip 96 extends further. Figure 1 -6 embodiment of the lip edge 96 of about 0.7mm to about 1.5mm length, the length of the lip edge 96 of the embodiment of Figures 18-22 is about 1mm to about 2mm. This increases the contact area between the tongue 78 and the protrusion 150 to increase stability in the open configuration. It can also provide a greater opening angle. Figure 3 and Fig. 20 It can be clearly seen from the comparison between Figure 1 18-22 allows a maximum hold open angle of about 180°, compared to a maximum open angle of about 120° in the embodiment of FIG. 18-22. Moreover, the increased size of the tie pieces 76a, 76b and the lip 96 enables the cover 14 to be further spaced from the neck and provide an audible signal (e.g., a click), as described below.

[0235] Will refer to Fig.21A , Fig. 21B and Fig. 21C The function of the retaining mechanism 22 is described in more detail. When the lid 14 is actuated toward the fully open position, the movement of the lid 14 away from the open end 26 of the container 12 causes the lip 96 of the tongue 78 to change its orientation relative to the protrusion 150. The lid 14 is hinged about the hinge ends 82 of the first hinge 70 and the second hinge 72, respectively. The first tie 76a and the second tie 76b are in turn pushed against the support protrusion 34, respectively.

[0236] When approaching the fully open position, the lip 96 contacts the top surface 152 of the projection 150, the TE band 16 rests on the support protrusion 34 and the projection 150 is spaced apart from the TE flange 28 ( Fig.21A As the lid 14 continues to rotate away from the open end 26 of the container 12, the lip 96 slides off the top surface 152 of the projection 150 and along the outer surface 154 of the projection 150 ( Fig. 21B In the fully open position, and once the cover 14 is released, the lip 96 abuts against the outer surface of the projection, and the projection 150 abuts against the TE flange 28 ( Fig. 21C). When the lid 14 is released, an audible sound is produced when the projection 150 contacts the TE flange 28. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that this is caused by the release of potential energy in the TE band 16 due to the extension of the TE band 16 away from the neck 24 of the container 12 during the opening process. The audible sound is a click or the like. In other words, the direct interaction of the first tie 76a, the second tie 76b, the projection 150, the tongue 78 and the neck 24 enables the lid 14 to be maintained in the fully open position. The first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74 define a first pivot axis 100. The second pivot axis 102 is defined by the pivot points at the connection points 75, 77.

[0237] As such, it can be said that the first tie 76a and the second tie 76b are used to maintain the position of the closure device 10 during the opening and / or closing process; and the tongue 78 and the protrusion 150 play a role in maintaining the closure device 10 in the fully open position.

[0238] Fig. 22 The embodiment of the closure device 10 of FIG. 18-21 differs from the embodiment of FIG. 18-21 in that three ribs 180 are provided on the TE band 16. Each rib 180 is elongated and extends along the outer surface of the TE band 16. Each rib 180 extends outward from the outer surface to produce an embossed portion. The rib 180 is generally rectangular and extends through the TE band 16 in the direction from the TE band 16 to the cover body 14, and the three ribs 180 are substantially parallel to each other and spaced from each other. The rib 180 extends from the lower end of the TE band 16 and stops at the insufficient upper end of the TE band 16. Although shown as having similar or identical configurations, the ribs 180 may have different configurations from each other. Instead of three ribs 180, the TE band may have a single rib, two ribs, or any other number of ribs. The rib 180 may have a non-rectangular configuration. The purpose of the rib is to provide a raised contact surface for the lip 96 when the cover body 14 is in an open configuration, which produces a preload effect in some embodiments.

[0239] In some embodiments, rib 180 ensures that TE band 16 and lip 96 are engaged in the upper part of TE band 16, near the position of the neck that prevents theft. In addition, in some embodiments, rib ensures that the rotation point is above the rib 180 on the TE band, which can provide firmness for the open position.

[0240] Alternative Embodiment (Embodiment 6)

[0241] Another embodiment of the closure device 10 is Figure 23-3 3. Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 18-22, the closure device 10 includes a cover 14 that is breakably connected to a tamper evident tape (TE tape) 16 and can be in a closed configuration 18 ( Figure 23-27) and an open configuration 20 (FIGS. 28-33). In the closed configuration 18, locked and unlocked modes are possible. In the open configuration 20, the cover 14 is movable between a plurality of different open positions, which are Fig.33A , Fig.33B and Fig.33C The holding mechanism 22 is configured to hold the cover 14 on the TE band during the opening process and to hold the cover 14 in the fully open position.

[0242] The lid 14 is generally cylindrical and has a closed first end 42 and an open second end 44. The lid 14 is configured to be received on the open end 26 of the container 12.

[0243] The closure device 10 is configured to be retained in the closed configuration 18 by a threaded interface with the neck 24 of the container 12. The inner surface 50 of the cap 14 has threads 52 defined therein that are arranged to cooperate with threads 54 on the outer surface 30 of the neck 24 of the container 12 ( Fig.26 ).

[0244] The outer surface 60 of the cover 14 is configured to facilitate gripping of the cover 14. Figure 23-25 As shown, the texture includes a plurality of ribs 62 (also referred to as "knurling") extending in a direction between the first and second ends 42, 44 of the cover body 14. It should be noted that the size and pattern of the plurality of ribs 62 are not limited to those described herein. It should also be noted that in alternative embodiments of the present technology, the plurality of ribs 62 may be omitted entirely.

[0245] The cover 14 is breakably connected to the TE belt 16 by a plurality of breakable links (bridges) 64. The links 64 are arranged to be severed when the cover 14 and the TE belt 16 are rotatably moved relative to each other. The tensile strength of the links 64 is lower than the tensile strength of the TE belt 16, which means that the links 64 will be severed before the tensile failure of the TE belt 16.

[0246] In use, in the locked closed configuration ( Figure 23-26 ), the cover 14 is retained on the open end 26 of the container 12, adjacent to the TE band 16, and is connected thereto by one or more connecting rods 64 and the retaining mechanism 22 when they are intact.

[0247] In the unlocked closed configuration ( Fig.27Aand B), the link 64 is severed, and the cover 14 is connected to the TE band 16 only by the retaining mechanism 22. The link 64 is configured to be severed by rotational movement of the cover 14 relative to the TE band 16. In this regard, the retaining mechanism 22 is configured to allow sufficient rotational movement of the cover 14 relative to the TE band 16 to sever the link 64. The cover 14 is movable between the closed configuration 18 (in the unlocked mode) and the open configuration 20 by articulating movement about the pivot area of ​​the retaining mechanism 22.

[0248] Turning now to the retaining mechanism 22, the retaining mechanism is capable of one or both of: (i) retaining the lid 14 on the container 12 in the closed and open configurations 18, 20, and (ii) retaining the lid 14 in the fully open position of the open configuration.

[0249] As in Fig.23 and 24 18-22, the retaining mechanism 22 includes a first hinge 72 and a second hinge 74 defined on the cover 14, a tongue 78 extending from the cover 14 between the first hinge 72 and the second hinge 74, a first strap 76a connecting the TE band 16 to the first hinge 72, and a second strap 76b connecting the TE band 16 to the second hinge 74. The first tie 76a is connected to the TE band 16 at a first connection point 75, and the second tie 76b is connected to the TE band 16 at a second connection point 77. The first and second connection points 75, 77 are located on either side of the first and second hinges 72, 74, respectively. Figure 23-3 3, the distance between the first and second connection points 75, 77 is approximately the same as the distance between the connection points 75, 77 of the embodiment of Figures 18-22.

[0250] The first and second hinges 72, 74 are circumferentially spaced from one another around the second end 44 of the cover body 14. Each of the first and second hinges 72, 74 includes a hinge body 80 extending from the second end 44 of the cover body 14. Each hinge body 80 has a hinge end 82 hingedly connected to the cover body 14, and a tie end 84 connected to a corresponding first tie 76a or second tie 76b. Hinged means that the hinge body 80 is movably connected to the cover body 14 in a manner that allows relative axial movement. This is also referred to as a "flip top" arrangement. In some embodiments, the connection between the tie end 84 of the hinge body 80 and the tie 76 is not a hinged connection.

[0251] The hinge end 82 of each of the first and second hinges 72, 74 is positioned inside the edge 86 of the second open end 44 of the cover 14 toward the first closed end 42 of the cover 14. The tie end 84 of each of the first and second hinges 72, 74 protrudes further than the edge 86 of the cover 14, so that the tie end 84 of each of the first and second hinges 72, 74 is respectively located outside the edge 86 of the second open end 44 of the cover 14, away from the second end 44 of the cover 14.

[0252] The tongue 78 includes a tongue body 92 having a free end 94 with a lip 96 formed thereon. The free end 94 of the tongue 78 does not protrude further than the edge 86 of the cover 14 and is aligned with the edge 86 of the cover 14. Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 18-22, Figure 23-3 The lip 96 of the embodiment 3 is Figure 1 -6 lip 96 extends further. Figure 1 -6 embodiment, the length of the lip 96 is about 0.7mm to about 1.5mm, Figure 23-3 3, the length of the lip 96 is about 1 mm to about 2 mm.

[0253] TE band 16 has a projection 150 extending toward tongue 78. TE band 16 on either side of projection 150 is cut away to accommodate tie 76a and tie 76b. The arrangement of tongue 78 relative to projection 150 defines a gap 87 that allows relative movement between tongue 78 and projection 150. During rotational actuation of closure 10 from locked mode to unlocked mode, a separation is created between tongue 78 and projection 150, defining a pedal opening 90a therebetween. The size and shape of pedal opening 90a allows tongue 78 to rotate relative to projection 150 without interference.

[0254] Different from the embodiment of Figures 18-22, Figure 23-3 3, the first and second tie members 76a, 76b are extendable, as described below. In addition, the retaining mechanism 22 also includes a groove 190 and at least one rib 180, the groove 190 is defined in the outer surface 192 of the cover body 14 and extends at least partially around the cover body 14 circumferentially and positioned above the tongue 78, and the rib 180 extends along the TE band 16.

[0255] Turning first to the extendable tie members, each tie member 76a, 76b is provided with a fold 160 in the elongated tie member body 162. The fold 160 is located approximately midway along the elongated tie member body 162. The tie members 76a, 76b can be considered to have an extendable configuration by virtue of their respective folds 160, as will be explained below. In certain embodiments, the tie members 76a, 76b can be considered to have an elastically extendable configuration, wherein the tie members are elastically biased into a non-extended form. In certain embodiments, this is the case as long as the degree of deformation of the tie members 76a, 76b is within the elastic range of the tie members 76a, 76b without plastic deformation.

[0256] The folding portion 160 has a generally U-shaped configuration, including a first folding arm 164 spaced apart from a second folding arm 166. The first folding arm 164 is movably connected to the second folding arm 166. In other words, the first folding arm 164 and the second folding arm 166 are movable relative to each other. The elongated tie body 162 has a single-piece structure. Therefore, the first folding arm 164 and the second folding arm 166 are also one piece.

[0257] At least a portion of the fold 160 (i.e., at least the lower end of the U-shaped structure) extends into a correspondingly shaped cutout 176 in the TE band 16. Portions of the tie bodies 76a and 76b that do not include the fold 160 generally extend circumferentially around a portion of the TE band 16 and are substantially parallel to the edge 86 when the cover 14 is in the closed configuration 18.

[0258] When the closure device 10 is in the closed configuration 18 ( Fig.24 ), the folding portion 160 has a first folding distance 168 and a first folding angle 170 between the first folding arm 164 and the second folding arm 166. This relates to the non-extended configuration of the restraining members 76a, 76b. In the open configuration of the closure device 10, the folding portion 160 has a second folding distance 172 and a second folding angle 174, which are greater than the first folding distance 168 and the first folding angle 168 (best seen in Fig.27B ). This involves an extended configuration of the tie members 76a, 76b, wherein the length 178 of the respective first tie member 76a and second tie member 76b is increased. The length 178 of the first tie member 76a can be considered as the distance from the connection point 75 to the hinge 82. The length 178 of the tie member 76b can be considered as the length 178 from the connection point 77 to the hinge 82.

[0259] In other words, during the process of opening the closure device 10, the tie members 76a, 76b move from the non-extended configuration to the extended configuration. The distance between the first fold arm 164 and the second fold arm 166 increases, which extends the length 178 of the tie members 76a, 76b connecting the cover body 16 to the TE band 16. In the closed configuration 18 of the closure device 10, when the tie members 76a, 76b are in the non-extended configuration, the first fold angle 170 is zero because the first fold arm 164 is substantially parallel to the second fold arm 166. In the extended configuration of the tie members 76a, 76b, the fold 160 has a "V" configuration instead of a "U" configuration, wherein the second fold angle 174 is greater than zero.

[0260] In certain embodiments, the tie members 76a, 76b have a certain amount of elasticity due to the elastic properties of the material used to make the container device 10 and the configuration of the fold 90, so that once the extension force is released, the length 178 of the tie members 76a, 76b can be restored. In the fully open position, the tie members 76a, 76b are stretched, and due to the elastic behavior of the tie members 76a, 76b, they rebound to a certain extent, thereby releasing the clamping force.

[0261] During opening, the increased length 178 of the tie members 76a, 76b increases the potential spacing between the lip 94 and the TE band 16. This can allow the cover 14 to rotate easily during opening, as well as allowing for over-rotation to help maintain the open position. Given the additional extension required on the tie members 76a, 76b, the protrusion distance of the lip 96 from the tongue 78 can be considered to account for the clearance required during opening. As will be discussed below with respect to Fig.32A and 32B As further described, the extendable restraints 76 a , 76 b allow the cover 14 to rotate to a greater degree during the opening process than in the stable open configuration and allow the cover 14 to have sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interfaces 52 , 54 .

[0262] Now, the at least one rib 180 is discussed. Figure 23-33, two ribs 180 are provided. Each rib 180 extends from the outer surface of the protruding portion 150 of the TE band to produce an embossed portion of the protruding portion 150. The rib 180 is generally rectangular and extends through the TE band 16 in the direction from the TE band 16 to the cover body 14, and the two ribs 180 are substantially parallel to each other and spaced from each other. The rib 180 extends from the lower end of the TE band 16 and stops at the insufficient upper end of the TE band 16. Although shown as having similar or identical configurations, the ribs 180 can have different configurations from each other. Instead of two ribs 180, the TE band can have a single rib. Alternatively, more than two ribs 180 can be provided. The rib 180 can have a non-rectangular configuration. The purpose of the rib is to provide a raised contact surface for the lip 96 when the cover body 14 is in an open configuration, which produces a preload effect in some embodiments.

[0263] Turning now to the groove 190 defined in the outer surface 192 of the cover 14. In some embodiments, the groove 190 is annular and extends completely around the cover 14. In other embodiments, the groove can extend partially around the cover. The groove 190 is configured to interact with the annular flange 28 when the cover 14 is in the fully open position. In this regard, in some embodiments, the groove 190 has a profile that corresponds to the profile of the annular flange 28.

[0264] like Figures 33A-33C As best shown, when the cap 14 is actuated to the fully open configuration, the lip 96 engages against the rib 180 and the annular flange 28 is received in the groove 190 , which helps maintain the cap 14 in the open configuration relative to the neck 24 of the container 12 .

[0265] like Fig.33A -C, a maximum hold open angle of about 180° can be achieved. Moreover, the increased size of the tie pieces 76a, 76b and the lip 96 enables the cover 14 to be further spaced from the neck and provide an audible signal (eg, a click), as described below.

[0266] The function of the retaining mechanism 22 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 27-33. Fig.27A and 27B as well as Fig.28A and 28BAs shown, the twisting of the cover 14 relative to the TE band 16 breaks the breakable connection 64 and allows the cover 14 to be separated from the TE band 16. The separation and rotation of the cover 14 causes the extension of the tie members 76a, 76b by the opening of the fold 160 (increasing the distance 168 and the angle 170 between the first fold arm 164 and the second fold arm 166). As the cover 14 continues to move toward the fully open position, the TE bead 28 prevents the TE band from lifting from the free end of the container. When the cover 14 is actuated toward the fully open position, the movement of the cover 14 away from the open end 26 of the container 12 causes the lip edge 96 of the tongue 78 to change its orientation relative to the protrusion 150.

[0267] As in Fig.29A and 29B As best seen in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, when the cover 14 is brought to an open position approximately 120° from the closed position, the lip 96 contacts the projection 150 at the top 194. As the cover 14 continues to rotate, the point of contact between the lip 96 and the projection 150 moves downward and onto the rib 180 ( Fig. 30A , 30B , 31A, 31B). In other words, when the cover 14 is rotated, the lip 96 contacts the rib 180.

[0268] like Fig.31A As best shown, when the cover 14 is in the 180° open position, the support flange 34 engages the knurling 62 on the outer surface 60 of the cover. Further rotation of the cover beyond 180° causes the groove 190 to engage the support flange 34 ( Fig.32A , 32B ). Subsequently, the release of the cover 14 causes the cover 14 to stably stay in the 180° open position. At this point, the fold 160 is elastically biased to a non-extended configuration, which allows the support flange 34 to remain in the groove 190.

[0269] 18-22, the cover 14 is hinged about the hinge ends 82 of the first and second hinges 70, 72, respectively.

[0270] An audible sound is produced when the support flange 34 snaps into the groove 160. The audible sound is a click or the like.

[0271] Thus, it can be said that certain features of the retaining mechanism are used to maintain the position of the closure device 10 during opening and / or closing (e.g., the first and second restraints 76a, 76b) and to maintain the closure device 10 in a fully open position (e.g., the tongue 78, the lip edge 96, the protrusion 150, the rib 180 and the groove 190).

[0272] In certain other embodiments (not shown), the closure device 10 is Figure 23-33 in that the closure device 10 includes the extendable tie members 76a, 76b with the fold 160, but does not include the groove 190 and does not include the rib 180. The extendable tie members 76a, 76b provide increased separation of the cover 14 from the TE band, which can facilitate opening of the closure device 10. In some embodiments, the closure device 10 also includes the groove 190, which in combination with the extendable tie members 76a, 76b can allow the cover 14 to be positioned in a manner that enables the groove 190 to engage with the support flange 34.

[0273] In certain other embodiments (not shown), the closure device 10 is Figure 23-3 3 in that closure device 10 includes ribs 180 but does not include extendable tie members 76a, 76b with folds 160 nor grooves 190. The ribs may provide a preloading effect.

[0274] In certain other embodiments (not shown), the closure device 10 is Figure 23-3 The closures of FIGS. 3 and 34 differ in that closure 10 includes a groove 190 but does not include the extendable tie members 76a, 76b with the fold 160 nor the rib 180. The groove helps to hold the lid 14 in the open position.

[0275] See now Fig.34A and 34B , which shows Figure 22-3 3 is an alternative embodiment of the tie members 76a, 76b. Fig.34A and 34B The tie members 76a, 76b have a substantially transverse Figure 22-3 3. As previously described, the fold 1601 has a first fold arm 164 and a second fold arm 166. However, the folds 1601, 1602 are not centrally located along the elongated tie body 162, but rather at one end thereof, with one of the first fold arm 164 and the second fold arm 166 connected to the TE band 16 at connection points 75, 77.

[0276] In certain embodiments, the closure device 10 is made by injection molding using a mold suitable for forming the closure device 10. In use, the mold may be positioned within an injection molding machine (not depicted). Injection molding machines are well known in the art and therefore will not be described at any length herein. A detailed description of these known injection molding machines may be at least partially referenced in the following reference books (for example): (i) "Injection Molding Handbook" compiled by OSSWALD / TURNG / GRAMANN (ISBN: 3-446-21669-2); (ii) "Injection Molding Systems" 3rd edition compiled by ROSATO and ROSATO (ISBN: (iii) JOHANNABER (ISBN 3-446-17733-7); and / or (iv) "Runner and Gating Design Handbook" compiled by BEAUMONT (ISBN 1-446-22672-9).

[0277] A mold assembly for manufacturing a closure device 10 comprises a molding cavity, which is at least partially defined by a female mold cavity piece and a male mold core piece (and optionally a plurality of other molding components) mounted on a cavity plate and a core plate of the mold, respectively. The molding cavity is arranged to receive heated molding material for injecting the closure device (PET pellets in this embodiment) in a molten state under pressure.

[0278] The cavity plate and the core plate are pushed together and held together by a clamping force sufficient to hold the cavity member and the core member together against the pressure of the injected molding material. The molding cavity has a shape that substantially corresponds to the final cold shape of the closure device. The molding material so injected is then cooled to a temperature sufficient to enable the closure device so formed to be ejected from the mold. When cooled, the molded closure device shrinks within the molding cavity, and thus when the cavity plate and the core plate are forced apart, the molded object can be demolded, i.e., ejected from the core member. Known ejection structures help to remove the molded object from the core half. Examples of ejection structures include stripper plates, ejection pins, etc.

[0279] The mold assembly includes several plates, each of which receives a component of the mold assembly. More specifically, the mold assembly includes a cavity plate that receives one or more cavity inserts and a core plate that receives one or more cavity inserts. In certain embodiments, the mold assembly also includes a stripper assembly, which in the case of a preform mold can accommodate one or more neck rings. The mold assembly can also include one or more plates associated with the hot runner, such as a manifold plate, a backing plate, etc.

[0280] for Figure 23-33, provides a slide that can be laterally moved during demolding. The boss of the molded surface profile forming the extension on the slide is almost parallel to the central axis. Since the tie members 76a, 76b with their respective folded portions 160 are closer to the central axis of movement of the slide, this makes it difficult for the tie members 76a, 76b to deform when the slide is opened in some embodiments.

[0281] It should be clearly understood that it is not necessary to enjoy the various technical effects mentioned throughout the specification in each embodiment of the present invention. As such, it is expected that in some embodiments of the present invention, only some of the above-mentioned technical effects may be enjoyed. Although in other embodiments of the present invention, none of the technical effects listed above exist, other technical effects not specifically listed above may be enjoyed. It should be clearly understood that the technical effects listed above are provided only for illustrative purposes so that those skilled in the art can better understand the embodiments of the present invention, and are by no means intended to limit the scope of the present invention or the claims appended hereto.

[0282] Note that some of the more relevant non-limiting embodiments have been outlined above. It should be clear to those skilled in the art that the disclosed non-embodiments may be modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the one or more non-limiting embodiments described should be considered as merely an illustration of some more prominent features and applications. Other beneficial results may be achieved by applying the non-limiting embodiments in different ways or modifying them in a manner known to those skilled in the art. It is clearly contemplated herein that the mixing and matching of features, elements and / or functions including various non-limiting embodiments may be incorporated into another embodiment as would be understood by those skilled in the art from this disclosure, as would be understood by those skilled in the art from this disclosure, as would be appropriately incorporated into another embodiment, unless otherwise noted above. Although described for specific arrangements and methods, the intent and concept thereof may be applicable to other arrangements and applications.

[0283] Terms

[0284] 1. A closure device (10) for a container (12) having a neck (24) including an annular flange (28) along an outer surface (30) of the neck (24), the closure device (10) comprising:

[0285] Cover body (14);

[0286] a tamper-evident (TE) band (16) defined such that when assembled to the container (12), the TE band (16) is positioned below the annular flange (28) to cooperate therewith;

[0287] A first hinge (72) and a second hinge (74) defined on the cover (14);

[0288] a tie (76) connected to the TE band (16), the first hinge (72) and the second hinge (74); the tie (76) allows the cover (14) to be separated from the TE band (16) during opening, but remains connected to the TE band (16) via the tie (76);

[0289] a tongue (78) protruding from the cover (14) between the first hinge (72) and the second hinge (74);

[0290] When the lid (14) is actuated from a closed configuration (18) relative to the neck (24) to a fully open position (20):

[0291] The tie-down member (76) is configured to retain the cover (14) to the TE band (16);

[0292] The interaction of the tongue (78) and the neck (24) is configured to retain the lid (14) in the fully open position (20).

[0293] 2. A closure device (10) as described in clause 1, wherein the interaction of the tongue (78) with the neck (24) is direct.

[0294] 3. A closure device (10) as described in clause 2, wherein the interaction is between a lip (96) at the free end (94) of the tongue (78) and the annular flange (28).

[0295] 4. The closure device (10) of clause 1, wherein the interaction of the tongue (78) with the neck (24) is indirect via ratchet teeth (118) defined on the TE band (16).

[0296] 5. The closure device (10) of clause 4, wherein the ratchet (118) is located on the TE band (16) between the first hinge (72) and the second hinge (74).

[0297] 6. The closure device (10) as described in any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the cover (14) and the TE band (16) are realized in a flip cover arrangement via the first hinge (72) and the second hinge (74).

[0298] 7. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 1 to 6, wherein after the cover (14) is actuated from the closed configuration (18) to the fully open position (20) relative to the neck (24), the cover (14) is configured to actuate back to the closed configuration (18) and be maintained in the closed configuration (18).

[0299] 8. A closure device (10) as described in clause 7, wherein the cap (14) is retained in the closed configuration (18) by means of a threaded interface with the neck (24).

[0300] 9. A closure device (10) as described in clause 8, wherein the restraint (76) is sized to allow the cover (14) to have sufficient rotational freedom to disengage the threaded interface.

[0301] 10. The closure device (10) of any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the cover (14) is initially connected to the TE band (16) by a breakable connection (64).

[0302] 11. The closure device (10) of clause 10, wherein the breakable connection (64) is more breakable than the tie (76).

[0303] 12. The closure device (10) of clause 10, wherein there are a plurality of frangible links (64) positioned outside the first hinge (72) and the second hinge (74).

[0304] 13. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 1-12, wherein the annular flange (28) and the TE band (16) are sized so that the TE band (16) is retained by the annular flange (28) after the cover body (14) is actuated relative to the neck (24) from the closed configuration (18) to the fully open position (20).

[0305] 14. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 1-13, wherein the restraint (76) is configured to allow the cover (14) to have rotational freedom to separate the cover (14) from the neck (24) while retaining the cover (14) to the TE band (16).

[0306] 15. The closure device (10) according to any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein the interaction is an interaction of the tongue (78) with the tie (76) at an upper portion (98) of the annular flange (28).

[0307] 16. The closure device (10) according to any one of clauses 1 to 15, wherein:

[0308] The first hinge (72) and the second hinge (74) define a first pivot axis (100);

[0309] The tie down 76 originates from a pivot point 104 on the TE strap 76 , which defines a second pivot axis 102 .

[0310] 17. A closure device (10) for a container (12) having a neck (24) including an annular flange (28) along an outer surface of the neck (24), the closure device (10) comprising:

[0311] Cover body (14);

[0312] a tamper-evident (TE) band (16) defined such that when assembled to the container (12), the TE band (16) is positioned below the annular flange (28) to cooperate therewith;

[0313] A first hinge (72) and a second hinge (74) defined on the cover (14);

[0314] The cover (14) is connected to a first tie (76a) and a second tie (76b) on the TE band (16), wherein the first tie (76a) interconnects the first hinge (72) with the TE band (16), and the second tie (76a) interconnects the second hinge (74) with the TE band (16); the first tie (76a) and the second tie (76b) originate from separate locations on the TE band (16);

[0315] a tongue (78) protruding from the cover (14) between the first hinge (72) and the second hinge (74);

[0316] When the lid (14) is actuated from a closed configuration (18) relative to the neck (24) to a fully open position (20):

[0317] The first tie (76a) and the second tie (76b) are configured to separate from the TE band (16) during opening, but remain connected thereto to hold the cover (14) to the TE band (16);

[0318] The interaction of the tongue (78) and the TE band (16) is configured to maintain the cover (14) in the fully open position (20).

[0319] 18. The closure device (10) of clause 17, further comprising a protrusion (150) extending from the TE band (16) toward the tongue (78), wherein the interaction between the tongue (78) and the protrusion (150) is configured to maintain the cover (14) in the fully open position (20).

[0320] 19. A closure device (10) as described in claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the tongue (78) includes a lip (96) extending outwardly from a free end (94) of the tongue (78), the length of the lip (96) being sufficient to allow the cover body (14) to rotate more than 180° from the closed configuration (18) to the fully open position (20).

[0321] 20. A closure device (10) as described in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the first tie (76a) and the second tie (76b) each have a length sufficient to allow the TE band (16) to be spaced apart from the neck (24) while allowing the cover (14) to rotate from the closed configuration (18) toward the fully open position (20), and causing the protrusion (150) to contact the neck (24) to cause an audible signal when the cover (14) is released in the fully open position (20), and optionally wherein at least one rib is provided on the TE band adjacent to the protrusion.

[0322] 21. A closure device (10) for a container (12), the container (12) having a neck (24), the neck (24) including an annular flange (28) along an outer surface of the neck (24), the closure device (10) comprising:

[0323] Cover body (14);

[0324] a tamper-evident (TE) band (16) defined such that when assembled to the container (12), the TE band (16) is positioned below the annular flange (28) to cooperate therewith;

[0325] at least one hinge (72, 74) defined on the cover (14);

[0326] at least one tie (76a, 76b) connected to the TE band (16) and the at least one hinge (72, 74), the at least one tie (76a, 76b) allowing the cover (14) to separate from the TE band (16) during opening but remain connected to the TE band (16) via the at least one tie (76a, 76b);

[0327] a tongue (78) projecting from the cover (14) adjacent the at least one hinge (72, 74), the tongue (78) having a lip (96) extending therefrom;

[0328] at least one rib (180) on the TE band (16) and positioned below the tongue (78) when the cover (14) is in a closed configuration (18) relative to the neck (24),

[0329] Wherein, when the cover (14) is actuated from the closed configuration (18) to the fully open position (20):

[0330] The at least one tie (76a, 76b) is configured to retain the cover (14) to the TE band (16); and

[0331] The lip (96) is arranged to interact with the at least one rib (180) when the cover (14) is in the fully open position (20).

[0332] 22. The closure device (10) of clause 21, wherein the at least one rib (180) extends in a direction from the TE band (16) to the cover (14).

[0333] 23. The closure device (10) of clause 21 or clause 22, wherein the at least one rib (180) extends from a lower end of the TE band (14) and stops at a less than upper end of the TE band (16).

[0334] 24. The closure device (10) according to any of clauses 21 to 23, wherein the at least one rib (180) comprises two ribs (180) which are spaced apart from each other on the TE band (16) and extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0335] 25. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 21-24, wherein the connection point (75, 77) of the at least one tie (76a, 76b) to the TE band (16) is circumferentially spaced from the connection point of the at least one tie (76a, 76b) to the at least one hinge (72, 74).

[0336] 26. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 21-25, wherein at least one of the restraints (76a, 76b) has an elongated restraint body (162) which generally extends circumferentially around a portion of the TE band (16) and has a folded portion (160) in the elongated restraint body (162).

[0337] 27. The closure device (10) of clause 26, wherein the folded portion (160) has a fold angle that can be increased during opening to extend the length of the tie (76a, 76b).

[0338] 28. The closure device (10) according to any one of clauses 21 to 27, wherein the length of the restraining member (76a, 76b) is elastically extendable.

[0339] 29. A closure device (10) according to any one of clauses 26 to 28, wherein the fold (160) is located approximately in the middle of the elongated tie body (162).

[0340] 30. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 26-29, wherein when the cover body (14) is in the closed configuration, a portion of the elongated restraint body (162) that does not include the folded portion (160) extends in a manner substantially parallel to the edge (86) of the cover body (14).

[0341] 31. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 26-30, wherein the folding portion (160) includes a first folding arm (164) movably connected to a second folding arm (166), and the first folding arm (164) and the second folding arm (166) are positioned to be substantially transverse to the portion of the elongated restraint body (162) that does not include the folding portion (160).

[0342] 32. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 26-31, wherein when the cover body (14) is in the closed configuration (18), a portion of the folded portion (160) extends into a cutout of a corresponding shape in the TE band (16).

[0343] 33. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 21-32, wherein the at least one tie (76a, 76b) comprises two ties (76a, 76b), and the at least one hinge (72, 74) comprises two hinges (72, 74), each of the two ties (76a, 76b), 76b) being connected to the TE band (16) and to a given hinge (72, 74), and the tongue (78) protruding from the cover body (14) between the two hinges (72, 74).

[0344] 34. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 21-33, further comprising a groove (190) defined in the outer surface of the cover body (14) and extending at least partially circumferentially around the cover body (14) and positioned above the tongue (78), such that when the cover body (14) is in the fully open position (20), the groove (190) is configured to interact with a support flange (34) on the outer surface of the neck (24) to maintain the cover body (14) in the fully open position.

[0345] 35. Closure device (10) according to clause 34, wherein the groove (190) is annular.

[0346] 36. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 21 to 35, wherein the free end of the lip edge (96) has a distance extending from the tongue (78) that is greater than the distance that the rib (180) extends from the TE band (16).

[0347] 37. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 21-36, wherein the tongue (78) protrudes downwardly from the cover body (14) and the lip (96) extends substantially laterally from the free end of the tongue (78) so that the profile of the tongue (78) and the lip (96) is 'L' shaped.

[0348] 38. A closure device (10) for a container (12) having a neck (24) including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising:

[0349] Cover body;

[0350] a tamper-evident (TE) band defined such that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith;

[0351] at least one hinge (72, 74) defined on the cover;

[0352] at least one tie (76a, 76b) connected to the TE band, the at least one tie allowing the cover to be separated from the TE band during opening but remaining connected to the TE band via the at least one tie; the at least one tie having an elongated tie body (162) extending generally circumferentially around a portion of the TE band and having a fold (160) therein;

[0353] Wherein, when the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position:

[0354] The at least one tie is configured to retain the cover to the TE band; and

[0355] The folding angle of the folded portion of at least one tie is increased to increase the distance between the cover and the TE band.

[0356] 39. The closure device (10) of clause 38, wherein the tie is arranged such that the length of the tie is elastically extendable.

[0357] 40. The closure device (10) of clause 38 or clause 39, wherein the fold (160) is located approximately midway along the elongate tie body (162).

[0358] 41. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 38-40, wherein when the cover body (14) is in the closed configuration, a portion of the elongated restraint body (162) that does not include the folded portion (160) extends in a manner substantially parallel to the edge of the cover body.

[0359] 42. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 38-41, wherein the fold includes a first folding arm movably connected to a second folding arm, the first folding arm and the second folding arm being positioned substantially transverse to the portion of the elongated restraint body (162) that does not include the fold.

[0360] 43. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 38 to 42, wherein when the cover is in the closed configuration, a portion of the fold extends into a correspondingly shaped cutout in the TE band (16).

[0361] 44. A closure device (10) as described in clause 46, wherein the connection point (75, 77) of the at least one tie (76a, 76b) to the TE band (16) is circumferentially spaced from the connection point (75, 77) of the at least one tie to the at least one hinge (72, 74).

[0362] 45. A closure device as described in any of clauses 38-44, wherein the at least one tie comprises two tie members (76a, 76b), and the at least one hinge comprises two hinges (72, 74), each hinge of the two tie members being connected to the TE band (16) and a given hinge.

[0363] 46. ​​The closure device (10) of clause 45, further comprising a tongue (78) projecting from the cover (14) between the two restraining members (76a, 76b), the tongue having a lip (96) extending therefrom.

[0364] 47. The closure device (10) of any one of clauses 38 to 45, further comprising a tongue (78) projecting from the lid (14) adjacent the at least one hinge, the tongue having a lip (96) extending therefrom.

[0365] 48. A closure device (10) as described in clause 46 or clause 47, wherein the tongue (78) projects downwardly from the cover body and the lip (96) extends substantially laterally from the free end of the tongue so that the profile of the tongue and the lip is 'L' shaped.

[0366] 49. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 38-48, further comprising a groove (190) defined in the outer surface of the cover body (14) and extending at least partially circumferentially around the cover body and positioned above the tongue (78), such that when the cover body is in a fully open position, the groove (190) is arranged to interact with a support flange (34) on the outer surface of the neck to maintain the cover body in the fully open position.

[0367] 50. Closure device (10) according to clause 49, wherein the groove (190) is annular.

[0368] 51. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 38-50, further comprising at least one rib (180) on the TE band (16) and positioned below the tongue (78) when the cover body (14) is in the closed configuration relative to the neck, wherein, when the cover body is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position: the lip edge (96) is arranged to interact with the at least one rib (180) in the fully open position.

[0369] 52. The closure device (10) of clause 51, wherein the at least one rib (180) extends in a direction from the TE band (16) to the cover (14).

[0370] 53. The closure device (10) of clause 51 or clause 52, wherein the at least one rib (180) extends from a lower end of the TE band and stops at a less than upper end of the TE band.

[0371] 54. The closure device (10) according to any of clauses 51-52, wherein the at least one rib (180) comprises two ribs (180) which are spaced apart from each other on the TE band (16) and extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0372] 55. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 51-54, wherein the free end of the lip edge (96) has a distance extending from the tongue (78) that is greater than the distance that the rib (180) extends from the TE band (16).

[0373] 56. A closure device (10) for a container having a neck, the neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising:

[0374] Cover body (14);

[0375] a tamper-evident (TE) band (16) defined such that when assembled to the container, the TE band is positioned below the annular flange to cooperate therewith;

[0376] at least one hinge (72, 74) defined on the cover;

[0377] at least one tie (76a, 76b) connected to the TE band and the at least one hinge, the at least one tie allowing the cover to be separated from the TE band during opening but remain connected to the TE band via the at least one tie;

[0378] a tongue (78) projecting from the cover adjacent the at least one hinge, the tongue having a lip (96) extending outwardly therefrom;

[0379] a groove (190) defined in the outer surface of the cover and extending at least partially circumferentially around the cover and positioned above the tongue,

[0380] Wherein, when the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position:

[0381] The at least one tie is configured to retain the cover to the TE band;

[0382] The lip is configured to interact with the outer surface of the TE band when the cover is in the fully open position; and

[0383] The groove (190) is configured to interact with the annular flange and retain the cover in a fully open position.

[0384] 57. A closure device (10) as described in clause 56, wherein the groove (190) extends partially around the circumference of the cover body.

[0385] 58. A closure device (10) according to clause 56 or clause 57, wherein the at least one tie has an elongated tie body (162) extending circumferentially generally around a portion of the TE band (16), and the fold (160) is provided in the elongated tie body (162); wherein when the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position:

[0386] The at least one tie (76a, 76b) is configured to retain the cover to the TE band; and

[0387] The folding angle of the folded portion (160) of the at least one tie is increased, so that the length of the at least one tie is increased.

[0388] 59. The closure device (10) of clause 66, wherein the at least one tie (76a, 76b) is arranged such that the length of the at least one tie is elastically extendable.

[0389] 60. The closure device (10) according to any of clauses 58-59, wherein the fold (160) is positioned approximately in the middle of the elongate tie body (162).

[0390] 61. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 58-60, wherein when the cover is in the closed configuration, a portion of the elongated restraint body (162) that does not include the folded portion (160) extends in a manner substantially parallel to the edge of the cover.

[0391] 62. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 58-61, wherein the folding portion (160) includes a first folding arm (162) movably connected to a second folding arm (164), the first folding arm and the second folding arm being positioned substantially transverse to a portion of the elongated restraint body (162) that does not include the folding portion.

[0392] 63. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 58 to 62, wherein when the cover is in the closed configuration, a portion of the fold (160) extends into a correspondingly shaped cutout in the TE band.

[0393] 64. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 56-63, wherein the connection point (25, 27) of the at least one tie (76a, 76b) to the TE band is circumferentially spaced from the connection point (25, 27) of the at least one tie to the at least one hinge.

[0394] 65. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 56-64, wherein the at least one tie comprises two ties (76a, 76b), and the at least one hinge comprises two hinges, each hinge of the two tie is connected to the TE band and a given hinge.

[0395] 66. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 56-65, wherein the tongue (78) protrudes downwardly from the cover (14) and the lip (96) extends substantially laterally from the free end of the tongue (78) so that the profile of the tongue and the lip is 'L' shaped.

[0396] 67. A closure device (10) as described in any of clauses 56-66, further comprising at least one rib (180) on the TE band and positioned below the tongue when the cover body is in the closed configuration relative to the neck, wherein, when the cover body is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position, the lip edge is arranged to interact with at least one rib in the fully open position.

[0397] 68. A closure device (10) as described in clause 67, wherein the at least one rib extends in a direction from the TE band (16) to the cover body (14).

[0398] 69. A closure device (10) as described in clause 67 or clause 68, wherein the at least one rib extends from the lower end of the TE band and stops at a less than upper end of the TE band.

[0399] 70. The closure device (10) according to any one of claims 67 to 69, wherein said at least one rib comprises two ribs, said two ribs being spaced apart from each other on said TE band and extending substantially parallel to each other.

[0400] 71. The closure device (10) of clauses 67-70, wherein the free end of the lip (96) has a distance extending from the tongue that is greater than the distance the rib (180) extends from the TE band (16).

[0401] 72. A mold for forming a closure device by injection molding, the mold comprising a female mold cavity and a male mold core, the female mold cavity and the male mold core defining a molding cavity, the molding cavity being configured to form a closure device as described in any one of clauses 21 to 37, 38 to 55, and 56 to 71.

Claims

1. A closure device for a container having a neck, the neck including an annular flange along an outer surface of the neck, the closure device comprising: Cover body; a tamper-evident band, the tamper-evident band being defined such that when assembled to the container, the tamper-evident band is positioned below the annular flange so as to cooperate therewith; a first hinge and a second hinge defined on the cover; a first tie and a second tie connecting the cover to the tamper-evident tape, the first tie interconnecting the first hinge with the tamper-evident tape and the second tie interconnecting the second hinge with the tamper-evident tape; The first and second restraining members originate from separate locations on the tamper-evident tape; a tongue portion protruding from the cover between the first hinge and the second hinge; a projection extending from the tamper-evident band toward the tongue; When the cover is actuated from a closed configuration relative to the neck to a fully open position: The first and second ties are configured to separate from the tamper-evident tape during opening but remain connected to the tamper-evident tape to retain the cover to the tamper-evident tape; The interaction of the tongue and the projection is configured to retain the cover in the fully open position.

2. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein: The tongue includes a lip extending outwardly from a free end of the tongue, the length of the lip being sufficient to allow the cover to rotate more than 180° from the closed configuration to a fully open position.

3. The closure device according to claim 2, wherein: The first and second tie members each have sufficient length to allow the tamper-evident band to be spaced apart from the neck while rotating the cover from the closed configuration toward the fully open position and causing the protrusion to contact the neck when the cover is released in the fully open position, thereby generating an audible signal.

4. The closure device of claim 1 further comprising at least one rib on the tamper-evident strip.

5. The closure device of claim 4, further comprising a lip extending from the tongue; and When the cover is in a closed configuration relative to the neck, the at least one rib on the tamper-evident strip is positioned below the tongue, in, When the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position, The lip is configured to interact with the at least one rib when the cover is in a fully open position.

6. A closure device according to claim 5, wherein at least one rib extends in a direction from the tamper-evident strip to the lid.

7. A closure device according to claim 5, wherein the at least one rib comprises two ribs on the tamper-evident strip, the two ribs being spaced apart from each other and extending substantially parallel to each other.

8. A closure device according to claim 5, wherein the tongue projects downwardly from the cover and the lip extends substantially transversely from a free end of the tongue such that the profile of the tongue and lip is 'L' shaped.

9. The closure device according to claim 1, wherein: Each tie has an elongated tie body extending generally circumferentially around a portion of the tamper-evident strip and having a fold therein; When the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position, The folding angle of the folded portion of at least one tie member is increased to increase the distance between the cover body and the tamper-evident tape.

10. The closure device according to claim 9, wherein: The tie member is arranged such that the length of the tie member can be elastically extended.

11. The closure device of claim 9, wherein the folding portion comprises a first folding arm movably connected to a second folding arm, the first and second folding arms being positioned generally transverse to a portion of the elongated tie body not including the folding portion.

12. The closure device of claim 1, further comprising a lip extending outwardly from the tongue; and a groove defined in an outer surface of the cover and extending at least partially circumferentially around the cover and positioned above the tongue, in, When the cover is actuated from the closed configuration to the fully open position, the lip being arranged to interact with the outer surface of the tamper-evident strip when the cover is in the fully open position; and The groove is configured to interact with the annular flange and retain the cover in the fully open position.

13. A closure device according to claim 12, wherein the groove extends partially around the circumference of the cover.

14. A mould for forming a closure device by injection moulding, the mould comprising a female mould cavity piece and a male mould core piece defining a moulding cavity configured to form a closure device according to any preceding claim.

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