Safety closure device

Abstract

The invention relates to a closure device (100) comprising a closure element (1), a sealing element (20) and a closure cap (30), wherein the closure element (1) comprises a fluid channel (2) having an input opening (3) and an output opening (4), wherein the fluid channel (2) is aligned along a closure axis (50), wherein the closure element (1) comprises a first fastening, wherein the first fastening (5) is configured and arranged such that the closure element (1) can be connected to a neck of a container at least in the form of a form-fit or force-fit, such that a filling material inside the container can be guided into the fluid channel (2) through the input opening (3), wherein the closure element (1) comprises a receiving mechanism (6) for receiving the sealing element (20), wherein the receiving mechanism (6) comprises a latching nose (7) projecting towards the closure axis (50) or a latching recess oriented away from the closure axis (50) for at least a form-fit or force-fit connection of the closure element (1) with the sealing element (20), wherein the closure element and the sealing element are configured such that in a sealed state of the closure device (100) the sealing element (20) engages with the receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20) seals the fluid channel (2) at least liquid-tight, and in an unsealed state of the closure device (100) the sealing element (20) disengages from the receiving mechanism (6), wherein the closure element (1) and the closure cap (30) are configured and arranged such that the closure device (100) can be brought into a closed state, in which the closure cap (30) closes the output opening (4), and into an open state, in which the output opening (4) is released, characterized in that a sealing protrusion (8) is located at least at one of the receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20), wherein the sealing protrusion (8) is arranged at a sealing region between the receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20) such that in the sealed state of the closure device the sealing protrusion (8) abuts on the sealing region between the receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20) for sealing the fluid channel at least liquid-tight.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a closure device comprising a closure element, a sealing element, and a closure cap, wherein the closure element includes a fluid passage having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, wherein the fluid passage is aligned along a closure axis, wherein the closure element includes a first fastener configured and arranged such that the closure element can be connected to the neck of a container at least in a form-fit or force-fit manner, such that filling material inside the container can be guided into the fluid passage through the inlet opening, wherein the closure element includes a receiving mechanism for receiving the sealing element, wherein the receiving mechanism includes a latch nose projecting toward the closure axis. Or a latching recess oriented away from the closing axis for connection of the closing element and the sealing element, at least in the form of a form fit or force fit, wherein the closing element and the sealing element are configured such that in the sealed state of the closing device, the sealing element engages with the receiving mechanism and the sealing element at least liquid-tightly seals the fluid passage, and in the open state of the closing device, the sealing element disengages from the receiving mechanism, wherein the closing element and the closing cap are configured and arranged such that the closing device can enter a closed state and can enter an open state, in which the closing cap closes the output opening, and in which the output opening is released in the open state.

[0002] Such a closing element is known from WO 2018 / 034567 A1.

[0003] This type of closure is used in containers for transporting and storing agricultural chemicals. Some agricultural chemicals can cause irritation or chemical burns upon skin contact, or can have harmful environmental effects if released into the environment in an uncontrolled manner.

[0004] For the transport and storage of such chemicals, it is desirable that the closed systems used be configured to minimize the risk of direct contact between users and the chemical products or to minimize uncontrollable leakage of the chemical products.

[0005] Using the closure device mentioned at the beginning, containers containing agrochemicals can be closed to a certain extent without risk. To open this closure device equipped with a sealing element, the user uses an opening connector. As described in WO2018 / 034567 A1, the opening connector must be used to disengage the sealing element from the closure element, allowing free access to the interior of the container.

[0006] It has been shown that, with known closure devices, the connection between the sealing element and the closure element is not tight enough, so that during the transport or storage of the container, there is still a risk that agrochemicals may escape uncontrollably while the sealing element is still connected to the closure element.

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a closure device that includes a sufficiently tight connection between a closure element and a sealing element.

[0008] This objective is achieved through a closing mechanism, as described at the beginning.

[0009] According to embodiments of the invention, a sealing protrusion is located at least at one of the receiving mechanism and the sealing element, wherein the sealing protrusion is arranged in a sealing region between the receiving mechanism and the sealing element such that, in the sealed state of the closed device, the sealing protrusion abuts against the sealing region between the receiving mechanism and the sealing element to at least liquid-tightly seal the fluid passage. Accordingly, the sealing protrusion may be arranged at the sealing element or the receiving mechanism, or at both. In the sealed state, the sealing protrusion extends radially at least proportionally relative to the closure axis and is used to at least liquid-tightly seal the container in the sealed state. It has been shown that by using a closure device that includes a protrusion at the sealing element, the receiving mechanism, or both, a tight connection can be provided between the two elements, wherein a defined pre-tension should be maintained between the sealing element and the receiving mechanism to adequately seal the closure device. In particular, the sealing protrusion reduces surface pressure to a linearly distributed load and thus can balance the out-of-roundness of the sealing element and / or the closure element.

[0010] In the context of this invention, the sealing region should be understood as an area in which at least two portions abut against each other, thereby providing at least a liquid-tight seal for the closure device. Specifically, the receiving mechanism and the sealing element abut against each other and form with the sealing region an area that is impermeable to liquids and may also be impermeable to gases.

[0011] According to embodiments of the invention, the receiving mechanism can be at least partially flexible, and the sealing element can be configured such that, in the sealed state of the closed device, the sealing protrusion abuts against the sealing area under tension. Therefore, a defined pre-tension should be maintained between the sealing element and the receiving mechanism to ensure a sufficient seal for the closed device.

[0012] According to embodiments of the invention, the sealing element includes a sealing protrusion extending and projecting away from the closed axis. The sealing protrusion and the receiving mechanism can be arranged at the sealing region of the receiving mechanism such that, in the sealed state of the closed device, the sealing protrusion abuts against the sealing region of the receiving mechanism to provide at least a liquid-tight seal of the fluid passage. Accordingly, when the sealing protrusion is arranged at the sealing element, in the sealed state, the sealing region contacts the sealing protrusion. The sealing region of the receiving mechanism is the region at the receiving mechanism whose surface normal extends in the direction of the closed axis, and this region is at least impermeable to liquids and may also be impermeable to gases.

[0013] It should be noted that any features, functions and / or elements described below with reference to the protrusion at the receiving mechanism can be equally applied to the protrusion at the sealing element, and vice versa.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the invention, the receiving mechanism is at least partially flexible, and the sealing element is configured such that the outer radius of the sealing element, as extended by the sealing protrusion at the sealing element in the sealed state, is greater than the inner radius of the receiving mechanism, such that in the sealed state of the closed device, the sealing protrusion abuts against the receiving mechanism under tension. The outer radius of the sealing element is the radius of the surface of the sealing element extending away from the closing axis. Conversely, the inner radius of the receiving mechanism is the radius of the surface of the receiving mechanism extending in the direction of the closing axis.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the invention, the receiving mechanism includes a sealing protrusion axially spaced from the latch nose or latch recess, wherein the sealing protrusion projects toward the closing axis, and wherein the sealing protrusion and the sealing element are configured such that, in the sealed state of the closed device, the sealing protrusion abuts against the sealing region of the sealing element to at least liquidally seal the fluid passage. Accordingly, in the sealed state, the sealing region of the sealing element contacts the sealing protrusion. In other words, the sealing protrusion extends radially at least proportionally to the closing axis.

[0016] If the protrusions at the sealing element and the protrusions at the receiving mechanism can be used in combination, then the functions, features and / or elements described with respect to the protrusions at the sealing element and the protrusions at the receiving mechanism can be applied to that combination.

[0017] The sealing protrusion extending to the closed axis allows for an effective and tight connection between the sealing element and the closing element.

[0018] In the context of this invention, a closing element should be understood as a component of a closing device.

[0019] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the closing element is configured as a cylindrical closing element.

[0020] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the sealing protrusion extends over the entire surface of the cylindrical housing; in other words, the sealing protrusion extends over a 360-degree circumferential angle.

[0021] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism includes an olive-shaped seal, wherein the olive-shaped seal includes a sealing protrusion. The olive-shaped seal preferably includes a stem section connecting the sealing protrusion in the direction of the output opening, wherein the stem section has a smaller thickness than the sealing protrusion, the thickness being measured radially relative to the closure axis, such that the sealing protrusion is flexibly supported relative to the latch nose.

[0022] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the sealing protrusion comprises a substantially semi-circular cross-section. The plane of the cross-section considered herein includes the closure axis and an axis extending radially from the closure axis.

[0023] It has been shown that a sufficiently good seal can be produced using sealing protrusions with a semi-circular cross-section. Furthermore, these sealing protrusions are particularly simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

[0024] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the sealing protrusion is configured as a sealing lip extending toward the closure axis.

[0025] In particular, this type of sealing lip, which may include a peaked cross-section, is especially flexible and allows the sealing element to be easily inserted into the closure element during the assembly of the closure element and the sealing element. At the same time, the sealing lip seals the connection between the sealing element and the closure element sufficiently well.

[0026] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the closure element includes an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder, wherein the inner cylinder has a maximum inner diameter smaller than that of the outer cylinder, wherein the inner cylinder is at least partially arranged inside the channel region surrounded by the outer cylinder, and wherein the receiving mechanism is arranged at the inner cylinder.

[0027] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the inner cylinder protrudes from the outer cylinder on the side of the closure element opposite to the input opening, wherein the inner cylinder is connected to the outer cylinder via a radially outwardly extending flange, and wherein the inner cylinder defines an output opening. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the output opening is preferably smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the input opening. This configuration allows the closure element to be tightly connected to the neck of the container.

[0028] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the inner cylinder includes a normal section and a tapered section, wherein the normal section has an inner diameter larger than that of the tapered section, wherein the tapered section is arranged closer to the input opening than the normal section, and wherein the receiving mechanism is arranged at least partially in the tapered section.

[0029] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the inner cylinder includes one or more centering protrusions disposed within the fluid channel on its outer shell surface. These centering protrusions are radially oriented away from the closure axis and are preferably configured as one or more circumferential rings. These radially extending centering protrusions serve to secure the automatically inserted sealing ring to prevent it from falling off during transport and handling of the closure device, and to stabilize the sealing ring during and after the closure device is applied to the neck of the container.

[0030] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the first fastener includes an internal thread. This allows for connection to the neck of the container in a simple and user-known manner.

[0031] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the first fastener includes a bayonet element. This allows the closure element to have a particularly short axial profile.

[0032] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism includes at least a latch nose projecting toward the closing axis, wherein the latch nose extends to a first inner radius, and the sealing protrusion extends to a second inner radius, wherein the first inner radius is smaller than the second inner radius.

[0033] In another alternative embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the first inner radius is the same as the second inner radius.

[0034] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the closing element includes a second fastener, wherein the second fastener is configured and arranged such that the closing element can be connected in the region of the output opening to an opening mechanism configured for separating the sealing element in a form of form fit or force fit.

[0035] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the second fastener includes another latch nose extending away from the closure axis, or another latch recess pointing towards the closure axis. Such another latch nose or another latch recess allows for a simple and quick connection between the closure element and the opening mechanism, which is desirable in practice.

[0036] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism includes at least a latch nose extending radially relative to the closure axis, wherein the latch nose of the receiving mechanism and the sealing protrusion are connected to each other via a wall section extending in the axial direction, wherein the wall section has a thickness smaller than that of the sealing protrusion, the thickness being measured radially relative to the closure axis, and wherein, preferably, the wall section has a thickness smaller than that of the latch nose, the thickness being measured radially relative to the closure axis. This reduced wall thickness of the wall section is accompanied by the elastic adjustability of the sealing protrusion. When the sealing protrusion engages with the sealing element, this allows the sealing protrusion to elastically deform from its equilibrium position. This, in turn, results in a force due to the elastic deformation, by which the sealing protrusion is pushed against the corresponding sealing area of ​​the sealing element, thereby increasing the sealing effect.

[0037] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism includes at least a latching recess extending radially away from the closing axis, wherein the latching recess of the receiving mechanism and the sealing protrusion are connected to each other via a wall section extending in the axial direction, wherein the wall section includes a thickness smaller than that of the sealing protrusion, the thickness being measured radially relative to the closing axis.

[0038] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, in the sealed state of the closing device, the sealing element is completely arranged inside the fluid channel.

[0039] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism and the sealing element are configured such that, in the sealed state of the closing device, the sealing element engaging with the latch nose or latch recess can only disengage from the latch nose or latch recess by axial movement in the direction of the input opening, thereby causing the closing device to open.

[0040] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the latch nose on the side facing the output opening or the latch recess on the side facing the input opening includes a contact area extending at an angle greater than 0 degrees but less than 90 degrees to the closing axis, wherein, in the sealed state, the sealing element abuts against the contact area.

[0041] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the contact area and the imaginary extension of the closing axis form an angle between 30 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0042] It has been shown that if the sealing element is simultaneously configured to be removable in the direction of the inlet opening, then a contact area inclined relative to the closing axis in this manner is particularly suitable for the latching of the sealing element and the receiving mechanism. Thus, the contact area acts as a ramp through which the corresponding latching element of the sealing element can move to disengage the sealing element and the closing element if a sufficiently high pressure is applied to the sealing element in the direction of the inlet opening.

[0043] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism includes a stop region, wherein, in the sealed state, the sealing element abuts or may abut against the stop region, such that conditional separation of the sealing element and the closing element can be prevented due to movement of the sealing element in the direction of the outlet opening.

[0044] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the stop area is arranged substantially perpendicular to the closing axis.

[0045] Such a stop area allows the sealing element to be formed in an easy manner, such that the sealing element can only move in the direction of the inlet opening to remove the sealing element from the closing element.

[0046] In another embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the stop area of ​​the receiving mechanism is arranged at the end of the receiving mechanism closest to the input opening, and preferably at the end of the sealing protrusion closest to the input opening.

[0047] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the axial portion of the surface normal of the contact area of ​​the latch nose or latch recess is aligned in the direction of the output opening, wherein the axial portion of the surface normal of the stop area of ​​the receiving mechanism is aligned in the direction of the input opening.

[0048] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the sealing element includes a cylindrical sealing region extending in 360 degrees, wherein the sealing region of the sealing element fully abuts against the sealing protrusion of the receiving mechanism in a sealed state for liquid-tight closure of the connection channel.

[0049] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism, sealing protrusion, and sealing element are configured such that the sealing element hermetically closes the fluid passage in a sealed state. This embodiment is particularly advantageous if the container is to be closed to contain volatile agrochemicals.

[0050] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the receiving mechanism is at least partially flexible, and the sealing element is configured such that the inner radius of the sealing protrusion extending in the sealed state is greater than the inner radius of the sealing protrusion extending in the open state. In this case, the action of the radial force due to material deformation is preferably used to seal the connection between the sealing protrusion and the sealing element well.

[0051] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the sealing element includes a substantially circular sealing plate and at least one hook element that extends from the sealing plate toward the output opening in the sealed state of the closure device, wherein, in the sealed state of the closure device, the hook element engages with a latch nose or latch recess of the closure element.

[0052] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the sealing element includes a plurality of hook elements that extend from the sealing plate toward the output opening and engage with one or more latch noses of the closing element in the sealed state.

[0053] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the sealing element and the receiving mechanism are arranged such that, in the sealed state of the closure device, there is a free gap between the latch nose of the receiving mechanism, the sealing protrusion, and the hook element of the sealing element. This free gap allows the sealing element to be supported with higher tension, and thus provides a higher sealing effect relative to the receiving mechanism.

[0054] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the hook element includes a connecting bar and a latch body integrally connected to the connecting bar, wherein the connecting bar is arranged at a portion of the latch body opposite to the output opening, and wherein the connecting bar has a smaller thickness relative to the latch body, the thickness being measured radially relative to the closure axis. This shaping results in the hook element having elastic variability, which can be used to facilitate latching and unlocking of the hook element and the latch nose (correspondingly, the latch recess of the receiving mechanism).

[0055] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, in the closed state, the closing cap is at least partially removably connected to the closing element, such that in the open state, at least a portion of the closing cap is completely separated from the closing device and the remainder of the closing device, and is therefore releasable from the closing device and the remainder of the closing device. This allows the opening of an output opening at which any portion of the closing cap that might interfere with the insertion of the opening mechanism is not retained at the closing element.

[0056] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, in the closed state of the closing device, the closing cap includes a cap cover covering the output opening and a cap shell circumferentially connected to the cap cover, wherein the cap shell is inseparably connected to the closing element, and the cap cover is at least releasably connected to the cap shell via a tearable bar.

[0057] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, in the closed state of the closing device, the closing cap includes a bar extending into the output opening, which at least partially abuts against at least one hook element of the sealing element in the sealed state of the closing device, or is configured such that if the hook element performs a latching movement, the hook element abuts against the bar, such that the bar prevents the hook element and the latch nose (correspondingly, the latch recess) from latching.

[0058] In one embodiment of the closing device according to the invention, the hook element disengages from the latch nose or latch recess via radial movement toward the closing axis. Preferably, in this embodiment, in the closed and sealed state of the closing device, the bar of the closing cap extends into the fluid passage, such that during the radial movement of the hook element toward the closing axis, the hook element abuts against the bar of the closing cap, thereby preventing the hook element from disengaging from the latch nose or latch recess.

[0059] In one embodiment of the closure device according to the invention, the closure device is adapted to reliably provide a fluid connection between the interior and exterior of a container, wherein the closure device additionally includes an opening mechanism separable from the closing element, wherein the opening mechanism includes a connecting element and a pouring nozzle defining a pouring channel, wherein the connecting element can engage with the closing element in a form-fit or force-fit manner for connecting the opening mechanism to the closing element, wherein the opening mechanism and the closing element are configured such that a fluid connection can be provided between the interior and exterior of the container via the pouring channel of the opening mechanism through the engagement of the opening mechanism and the closing element engaged with the pouring nozzle, wherein the opening mechanism and the closing element are configured such that if the opening mechanism is engaged with the closing element and the output opening is released, the pouring nozzle can move along the closing axis and relative to the connecting element, wherein the opening mechanism, the closing element, and the sealing element are configured such that after an axial opening movement of the pouring nozzle in the direction of the input opening of the closing element, the sealing element separates from the closing element and engages with the pouring nozzle, such that the closure device is in an open state and a fluid connection is provided between the interior and exterior of the container.

[0060] In embodiments of the invention, the sealing element may include an outer annular segment extending in a direction opposite to the closure axis, the outer annular segment including a U-shaped cross-section, wherein the U-shaped cross-section partially surrounds the receiving mechanism on one side of the input opening. In other words, the receiving mechanism can be inserted into the U-shaped cross-section. The end of the receiving segment extending in the direction of the input opening is partially surrounded by the U-shaped cross-section. The U-shaped cross-section can be used to reliably position the receiving mechanism, thereby preventing misalignment. Furthermore, the sealing performance of the closure device is improved. The U-shaped cross-section may also be referred to as a notch or channel.

[0061] It has been shown that a circumferentially arranged channel or notch at the lower end of the sealing element (extending in the direction of the inlet opening) improves the sealing connection between the sealing element and the receiving mechanism. In particular, the U-shaped cross-section of the sealing element can enable the stabilization of a portion of the closing element, namely the receiving mechanism, which is part of the sealing connection. Accordingly, the closing element, especially the receiving mechanism, can be stabilized during the assembly of the components of the closing device. Therefore, the closing element can be stable during dimensional changes in the sealing element and other parts of the closing device (which may be due to expansion of these parts caused by the liquid contained in the container). The notch can surround (e.g., retain) the receiving mechanism of the closing element in contact with the sealing element, as the receiving mechanism engages with the notch, for example, latching into it.

[0062] According to an embodiment of the invention, a first portion of the U-shaped cross-section may extend from the lower end of the sealing element in a direction away from the closed axis, and a second portion of the U-shaped cross-section may extend along the closed axis in the direction of the output opening to partially form a U-shape, wherein a space may be formed between the first and second portions of the U-shaped cross-section to partially accommodate the receiving mechanism on one side of the input opening. According to this embodiment, two walls of the U-shaped cross-section are described. A third portion of the U-shaped cross-section may be a wall of the sealing element, extending along the closed axis towards the input opening. The third and second portions of the U-shaped cross-section may be arranged parallel to each other, particularly parallel to the closed axis. Alternatively, the second and third portions may be arranged at an angle relative to the closed axis. For example, the second and third portions may be arranged in a tapering manner towards the input opening. Accordingly, the minimum distance between the second and third portions of the U-shaped cross-section may be at the first portion, and the maximum distance between the second and third portions may be at the opening side of the U-shaped cross-section, which is the side towards the output opening.

[0063] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the receiving mechanism includes a stop region arranged vertically relative to a closed axis, wherein the stop region is disposed at an end of the receiving mechanism extending toward an input opening, wherein the end of the receiving mechanism includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall, both of which extend parallel to each other along the closed axis from the stop region toward an output opening.

[0064] According to an embodiment of the invention, the closure device further includes a first chamfer disposed between the first sidewall and the stop region, and / or further includes a second chamfer disposed between the second sidewall and the stop region. These chamfers can be used to limit deformation and / or pressure at the U-shaped cross-section, thereby providing a better seal.

[0065] Further features, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the figures described below. These figures illustrate:

[0066] Figure 1A A first side view of an embodiment of the closing device according to the present invention.

[0067] Figure 1B according to Figure 1A A second side view of an embodiment of the closing device of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 2A according to Figure 1A A first cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the closing device of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 2B according to Figure 1AA second cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the closing device of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 2C according to Figure 1A A top plan view of an embodiment of the closing device of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 3 Figure 1A Detailed views of the receiving mechanism and the sealing element engaging with the receiving mechanism in an embodiment.

[0072] Figure 4 according to Figure 1A A perspective view of an embodiment of the closing device of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 5 Detailed views of embodiments of the sealing element and receiving mechanism of the closing device according to the present invention.

[0074] Figure 6 Detailed views of embodiments of the sealing element and receiving mechanism of the closing device according to the present invention.

[0075] Figure 7 Detailed views of embodiments of the sealing element and receiving mechanism of the closing device according to the present invention.

[0076] As from Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 4 As can be seen, the embodiment of the closure device 100 according to the present invention, as shown in the figure, includes a cylindrical closure element 1 having a gripping riffle 40 on its outer surface. In the closed state of the closure device 100 as shown here, the closure element is closed with a closure cap 30. Thus, the closure cap 30 is partially detachably connected to the closure element 1. The closure cap 30 includes a generally circular cap 33 and a cap shell 35, the cap having an actuating flap 36, wherein a plurality of axially extending bar portions are mounted on the cap, and in the closed state as shown here, these plurality of axially extending bar portions are arranged in corresponding recesses formed in the cap shell 35. The cap 33 and the cap shell 35 are connected to each other via a plurality of easily tearable bars 34, such that the cap 33 can be completely separated from the cap shell 35 by lever-like movement of the actuating flap 36, thereby putting the closure device 100 in the open state, i.e., releasing the output opening 4 of the closure element 1.

[0077] Figure 2A and Figure 2B They are shown respectively Figure 1A and Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of an embodiment. Thus, the cross-sectional plane includes a closed axis 50 and a spatial direction extending radially relative to the closed axis 50. Figure 2C middle, Figure 2A and Figure 2B An embodiment is shown in a plan view, wherein, Figure 2A The cross-sectional plane is shown by line BB 51, and Figure 2B The cross-sectional plane is shown by line AA 52.

[0078] As part of the closing device 100 shown according to the present invention Figure 2A and Figure 2B The illustrated closure element comprises an outer cylinder 9 and an inner cylinder 10, wherein the inner cylinder 10 extends partially into the outer cylinder 9. The outer cylinder includes a first fastener 5 formed with internal threads and defines an input opening 3 located at the bottom in the illustration. During use of the illustrated closure element 1, the outer cylinder 9 engages, for example, with a pouring spout (not shown here) of a container, which includes corresponding external threads. The inner cylinder 10 connects to the outer cylinder 9 in the direction of the output opening 4 defined by the inner cylinder 10 and is connected to the outer cylinder via a flange 16 formed radially relative to the closure axis 50. Below the flange 16, i.e., in the direction of the input opening 3, a tapered portion 12 of the inner cylinder 10 is arranged, which also represents the receiving mechanism 6. In this region, the diameter of the inner cylinder 10 gradually tapers compared to the normal section 11 arranged above the output opening 4 (i.e., aligned with the direction of the output opening). In the embodiment shown here, the normal section 11 includes a substantially constant inner diameter that only slightly expands near the output opening 4.

[0079] In other words, the receiving opening 6 is formed as a radially inwardly extending shoulder of the inner cylinder 10, thereby providing a latch nose 7 extending at a 360-degree circumferential angle, which is adapted to receive the hook element 21 of the sealing element 20. According to the invention, a radially inwardly extending sealing protrusion 8 is formed below the latch nose 7, such that a recess is formed between the latch nose 7 and the sealing protrusion 8, and in the embodiment shown here, a reduction in the wall thickness of the inner cylinder 10 accompanies this recessed region. This reduced wall thickness has the effect that the sealing protrusion 8, formed as part of an inwardly sealing olive-shaped seal, includes radial mobility, i.e., the sealing protrusion is elastically adjustable. This improves the sealing performance when mating with the sealing element 20, which radially pushes the olive-shaped seal outward. The radial mobility must be neither too high nor too low to achieve optimal sealing.

[0080] Another latch nose, located precisely at the output opening 4 and extending radially outward, represents the second fastener 13 and is used to connect the closing element 1 to the opening mechanism, which is not shown here but is known from WO 2018 / 034567 A1.

[0081] At the end of the closing element 1 closest to the input opening 3, a flexible, inwardly foldable strip 14 is arranged, which interacts with a tearable bar, or more precisely with a tearable weakening line, to form a thief-proof ring integrally formed with the closing element 1.

[0082] The tamper-evident ring indicates whether the closure element 1 has been previously unscrewed after it was first attached to the container's pouring spout. Therefore, the tamper-evident ring provides an as-is guarantee for the closure device 100, which includes this closure element 1.

[0083] Furthermore, centering protrusions 15 are visible on the outer surface of the inner cylinder 10 and are arranged inside the fluid channel 2. These centering protrusions are configured to center and secure the sealing ring arranged within the gap formed between the outer cylinder 9 and the inner cylinder 10. The sealing ring is used to seal the connection between the closure element and the container neck.

[0084] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the centering protrusion 15 can be arranged in the opposite direction. This means that the centering protrusion 15 can be arranged on the inner surface of the outer cylinder 9, and particularly inside the gap between the outer cylinder 9 and the inner cylinder 10. The centering protrusion can be formed as a protrusion extending along the circumference of the cylinder and / or the centering protrusion can be formed as a discontinuous, intermittent protrusion.

[0085] Figure 3 Showing from Figure 2B A focused view of the receiving mechanism 6 of the focusing window 200 and the hook element 21 of the sealing element 20 that engages with it. Based on Figure 3 It can be clearly seen that the receiving mechanism 6 of the closing element 1 (formed as the tamper-evident section 12 of the inner cylinder 10) is in a sealed state of the closing device 100, as shown here, the receiving mechanism contacts the sealing element 20 via at least three turning surfaces. The sealing surface 22 of the sealing element 20 contacts the sealing protrusion 8 at a full 360-degree angle, thereby ensuring an extremely tight closure of the fluid passage 2. In addition, the lower end of the inner cylinder 10 and the lower end of the sealing protrusion 8 contact the outer annular section 25 of the sealing element 20 via a stop region 26, which includes an L-shaped cross section, and the stop region surrounds the sealing protrusion 8 on the lower side (i.e., on the side of the inlet opening 3). This engagement prevents the sealing element 20 from potentially moving in the direction of the outlet opening 4 and separating the sealing element from the closing element 1.

[0086] On the opposite side, i.e., along the direction of the output opening 4, a plurality of hook elements 21 surround the latch nose 7 of the receiving mechanism 6. This latch nose is formed as a ring and extends over the entire circumference of the inner cylinder 10, thus preventing undesirable disengagement of the sealing element 20 from the closing element 1. The hook elements 21 rest on the contact area 23 of the latch nose 7. In the open state of the closing device 100, the hook elements 21 can be folded radially inward with the aid of an opening mechanism (not shown here), disengaging the hook elements from the latch nose 7 but engaging with the connector of the opening mechanism. The sealing element 20 can also be moved toward the input opening 3 and can be separated from the closing element 1 by axial movement of the connector of the opening mechanism toward the input opening 3.

[0087] like Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 3 As shown, the engagement of the sealing element 20 and the receiving mechanism 6 in the sealed and closed states can be further reinforced by a bar 32 extending from the output opening 4 of the closing cap 30. This bar 32 contacts the hook element 21 via the contact area 24, thereby preventing the hook element 21 from folding radially inward, so that in the closed and sealed states as shown here, inward folding of the hook element 21 and therefore, release of the sealing element 20 from the closing element 1, are impossible.

[0088] As in Figure 2A and Figure 2B As can be seen, the closure cap 30 includes a radially outwardly oriented olive-shaped seal 31 that provides the tightest possible connection between the closure cap 30 and the closure element 1. In the embodiment shown here, the closure cap 30 includes a cap cover 33 that is detachably connected to a cap housing 35 via a tearable strip 34, which is inseparably connected to the closure element 1, such that the closure cap 30 can be opened by the user pulling the cap cover 33 off the closure element 1, thereby releasing the output opening 4.

[0089] like Figure 5 As can be seen, the sealing element 20 includes a protrusion 8 that can extend along the sealing element, particularly circumferentially. A receiving mechanism 6 abuts against a stop region 26 of the sealing element 20, thereby providing a sealing contact between the two elements. In this embodiment, the sealing element 20 includes an outer annular segment 25 extending in a direction away from the closing axis 50, the outer annular segment comprising an L-shaped cross-section. According to another embodiment, the sealing element 20 may include more than one protrusion, wherein the plurality of protrusions (e.g., at least two protrusions instead of one) may include radii smaller than the radius of a single protrusion.

[0090] like Figure 6As can be seen, the protrusion 8 is arranged at the receiving element. Further, it can be seen that the sealing element 20 includes an outer annular section 25 extending in a direction away from the closing axis 50, the outer annular section comprising a U-shaped cross-section, wherein the U-shaped cross-section partially surrounds the receiving mechanism 6 on one side of the input opening 3. A first portion 27 of the U-shaped cross-section extends from the lower end of the sealing element 20 in a direction away from the closing axis 50, and a second portion 28 of the U-shaped cross-section extends along the closing axis 50 in the direction of the output opening to partially form a U-shape. A space 43 is formed between the first portion 27 and the second portion 28 of the U-shaped cross-section to partially accommodate the receiving mechanism 6 on one side of the input opening. The space 43 between the first portion 27 and the second portion 28 of the U-shaped cross-section is large enough to allow insertion of the receiving mechanism and small enough to allow a snap-fit ​​connection. Figure 6 As can be seen, the receiving mechanism 6 includes a stop region 29, which is arranged vertically relative to the closed axis. The stop region 29 is located at the end of the receiving mechanism and extends toward the input opening 3.

[0091] As from Figure 6 As can be seen from this, the receiving mechanism 6 includes a first side wall (the side wall is below) arranged in the middle. Figure 7 The first chamfer 41 between the second sidewall and the stop area (as shown in the image) and / or further includes a second chamfer 42 disposed between the second sidewall and the stop area.

[0092] Figure 7 An embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the end of the receiving mechanism 6 includes a first sidewall 37 and a second sidewall 38, both of which extend parallel to each other along the closed axis 50 from the stop region 29 toward the output opening 4. According to this embodiment, a protrusion may be formed at the receiving mechanism 6 or at the sealing element 20, or the protrusion may be omitted. The receiving mechanism 6, with its parallel-extending first and second sidewalls, can be precisely fitted into the gap 43 of the U-shaped section of the sealing element, such that the first sidewall 37 abuts against the second portion of the U-shaped section, and the second sidewall 38 abuts against the wall of the sealing element 20 that forms the third portion of the U-shaped section.

[0093] Although the invention has been shown and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, these illustrations and descriptions are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of protection defined by the claims. The invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

[0094] Variations of the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the accompanying drawings, description, and appended claims. It should be noted that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude multiple. The fact that certain features are claimed in different claims does not exclude combinations of those features. Reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0095] List of reference numerals

[0096] 1. Closing element

[0097] 2. Fluid Channel

[0098] 3. Input opening

[0099] 4 Output openings

[0100] 5. First fastener (here: internal thread)

[0101] 6. Receiving institutions

[0102] 7. Latch nose

[0103] 8. Sealing protrusion

[0104] 9 outer cylinder

[0105] 10 Inner cylinder

[0106] 11 Normal Section

[0107] 12 Conical Sections

[0108] 13 Second fastener (here: another latch nose)

[0109] 14 Flexible Belt

[0110] 15 pairs of protrusions

[0111] 16 flanges

[0112] 20 Sealing elements

[0113] 21 Hook components

[0114] 22 Sealed area

[0115] 23 Contact Area

[0116] 24. Arrival Area

[0117] 25th Ring Road Section

[0118] 26 Stopping area

[0119] 27. The first part of the U-shaped cross section

[0120] 28. The second part of the U-shaped cross section

[0121] 29. Stop area of ​​the receiving mechanism

[0122] 30 Closed Cap

[0123] 31 Olive-shaped seal

[0124] 32 bars

[0125] 33 Cap

[0126] 34 Tearable strips

[0127] 35 Cap Shell

[0128] 36 Actuated flip-up panel

[0129] 37 First sidewall

[0130] 38 Second sidewall

[0131] 40 Grip shallow groove

[0132] 41 First chamfer

[0133] 42 Second chamfer

[0134] 43 Space

[0135] 50 Closed axis

[0136] 51 Line BB

[0137] 52 lines AA

[0138] 100 Closure Device

[0139] 200 Focus Window

Claims

1. A closing device (100) comprising a closing element (1), a sealing element (20), and a closing cap (30), in, The closing element (1) includes a fluid channel (2) having an inlet opening (3) and an outlet opening (4). The fluid channel (2) is aligned along the closed axis (50). The closing element (1) includes a first fastener. The first fastener (5) is configured and arranged such that the closing element (1) can be connected to the neck of the container at least in a form-fit or force-fit manner, so that the filling material inside the container can be guided into the fluid channel (2) through the inlet opening (3). The closing element (1) includes a receiving mechanism (6) for receiving the sealing element (20). The receiving mechanism (6) includes a latch nose (7) protruding toward the closing axis (50) or a latch recess oriented away from the closing axis (50) for connecting the closing element (1) and the sealing element (20) at least in a form-fit or force-fit manner. The closing element and the sealing element are configured such that, in the sealed state of the closing device (100), the sealing element (20) engages with the receiving mechanism (6), and the sealing element (20) at least liquid-tightly seals the fluid passage (2). Furthermore, in the open state of the closing device (100), the sealing element (20) disengages from the receiving mechanism (6). The closing element (1) and the closing cap (30) are configured and arranged such that the closing device (100) can enter a closed state and an open state. In the closed state, the closing cap (30) closes the output opening (4), and in the open state, the output opening (4) is released. Its features are, The sealing protrusion (8) is located at least at one of the receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20). The sealing protrusion (8) is disposed in the sealing area between the receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20), such that when the closed device is in the sealed state, the sealing protrusion (8) abuts against the sealing area between the receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20) to at least liquid-tightly seal the fluid passage. The receiving mechanism (6) includes a sealing protrusion (8) that is axially spaced from the latch nose (7) or the latch recess. The sealing protrusion (8) protrudes along the direction of the closed axis (50). The sealing protrusion (8) and the sealing element (20) are configured such that, in the sealed state of the closed device, the sealing protrusion (8) abuts against the sealing area of ​​the sealing element (20) to at least liquid-tightly seal the fluid passage (2). The sealing element includes an outer ring section (25) extending in a direction opposite to the closed axis (50), the outer ring section having a U-shaped cross-section. The U-shaped cross section partially surrounds the receiving mechanism (6) on one side of the input opening (3). The first portion (27) of the U-shaped cross-section extends from the lower end of the sealing element (20) in a direction opposite to the closed axis (50), and the second portion (28) of the U-shaped cross-section extends along the closed axis (50) in the direction of the output opening (4) to partially form the U-shape. A space (43) is formed between the first part (27) and the second part (28) of the U-shaped cross section to partially accommodate the receiving mechanism (6) on one side of the input opening.

2. The closing device (100) according to claim 1, in, The receiving mechanism (6) is at least partially flexible, and the sealing element (20) is configured such that the sealing protrusion (8) abuts against the sealing area under tension in the sealed state of the closure device.

3. The closing device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The sealing element (20) includes the sealing protrusion (8), The sealing protrusion (8) extends away from the closed axis (50). The sealing protrusion (8) and the receiving mechanism (6) are arranged at the sealing area of ​​the receiving mechanism (6) such that when the closed device is in a sealed state, the sealing protrusion (8) abuts against the sealing area of ​​the receiving mechanism (6) to at least liquid-tightly seal the fluid passage (2).

4. The closing device (100) according to claim 1, in, The receiving mechanism (6) is at least partially flexible, and the sealing element (20) is configured such that the inner radius of the sealing protrusion (8) in the sealed state is greater than the inner radius of the sealing protrusion (8) in the unsealed state, such that the sealing protrusion abuts against the sealing element under tension in the sealed state of the closed device.

5. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The receiving mechanism (6) is at least partially flexible, and the sealing element (20) is configured such that the outer radius of the sealing protrusion (8) at the sealing element (20) in the sealed state is greater than the inner radius of the receiving mechanism (6), such that the sealing protrusion abuts against the receiving mechanism (6) under tension in the sealed state of the closure device.

6. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The receiving mechanism (6) includes at least a latch nose (7) protruding toward the closing axis (50). The latch nose (7) extends to the first inner radius, and the sealing protrusion (8) extends to the second inner radius. The first inner radius is smaller than the second inner radius.

7. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The sealing protrusion extends in a ring around a 360-degree circumferential angle.

8. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The latch nose (7) or latch recess on one side and the sealing protrusion (8) on the other side are connected to each other via wall sections extending in the axial direction. The wall section includes a thickness smaller than that of the sealing protrusion (8), which is measured radially relative to the closed axis (50).

9. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The receiving mechanism includes an olive-shaped seal, wherein the olive-shaped seal includes the sealing protrusion and a stud section connecting the sealing protrusion in the axial direction of the output opening, wherein the stud section includes a thickness smaller than that of the sealing protrusion, the thickness being measured radially relative to the closed axis (50).

10. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The sealing protrusion has a semi-circular cross-section.

11. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The closing element (1) includes an outer cylinder (9) and an inner cylinder (10). The inner cylinder (10) has a maximum inner diameter that is smaller than that of the outer cylinder (9). The inner cylinder (10) is at least partially arranged within the channel area surrounded by the outer cylinder (9). The receiving mechanism (6) is located in the inner cylinder (10).

12. The closing device (100) according to claim 11, in, The inner cylinder (10) includes a normal section (11) and a conical section (12), wherein the normal section (11) has an inner diameter larger than that of the conical section (12). The conical section (12) is arranged closer to the input opening (3) than the normal section (11). The receiving mechanism (6) is at least partially arranged on the conical section (12).

13. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The closing element (1) includes a second fastener (13), The second fastener is configured and arranged such that the closing element (1) can be connected in the region of the output opening (4) to the opening mechanism configured to separate the sealing element (20) in a form of form fit or force fit.

14. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The receiving mechanism (6) and the sealing element (20) are configured such that, in the sealed state of the closing device (100), the sealing element, which engages with the latch nose (7) or the latch recess, can only disengage from the latch nose (7) or the latch recess by axial movement toward the input opening (3) in order to achieve the open state of the closing device (100).

15. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The sealing element includes a substantially circular sealing plate and at least one hook element (21) that extends from the sealing plate toward the output opening (4) in the sealed state of the closure device (100), wherein, in the sealed state of the closure device (100), the at least one hook element (21) engages with the latch nose (7) or latch recess of the closure element (1).

16. The closing device (100) according to claim 15, in, The closure cap (30) includes a bar (32) extending into the output opening (4) in the closed state of the closure device (100), and in the sealed state of the closure device (100), the bar at least partially abuts or is capable of abutting against at least one hook element (21) of the sealing element (20).

17. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The receiving mechanism (6) includes a stop region (29) arranged vertically relative to the closed axis, wherein the stop region (29) is located at an end of the receiving mechanism and extends toward the input opening (3). The receiving mechanism (6) includes a first sidewall (37) and a second sidewall (38) at its end, which extend parallel to each other along the closed axis (50) from the stop area (29) toward the output opening (4).

18. The closing device (100) according to claim 17, Further including a first chamfer (41) disposed between the first sidewall (37) and the stop area, and / or A second chamfer (42) is arranged between the second sidewall (38) and the stop area.

19. The closing device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, for reliably providing a fluid connection between the interior and exterior of the container. in, The closing device (100) includes an opening mechanism that can be separated from the closing element (1). The opening mechanism includes a connecting element and a pouring nozzle that defines a pouring channel. The connecting element can engage with the closing element (1) in a form-fit or force-fit manner to connect the opening mechanism to the closing element (1). The opening mechanism and the closing element (1) are configured such that, through the engagement of the opening mechanism and the closing element (1) which engages with the pouring spout, a fluid connection can be provided between the interior and exterior of the container via the pouring channel of the opening mechanism. The opening mechanism and the closing element (1) are configured such that if the opening mechanism is connected to the closing element (1) and the output opening (4) is released, the pouring nozzle can move along the closing axis (50) and relative to the connecting element. The opening mechanism, the closing element (1), and the sealing element (20) are configured such that after the pouring spout moves axially toward the input opening (3) of the closing element (1), the sealing element separates from the closing element (1) and connects to the pouring spout, so that the closing device (100) is in the open state and provides a fluid connection between the inside and outside of the container.

Images