Screw cap and bottle assembly

Abstract

A screw cap and a bottle assembly are disclosed. The screw cap seals a neck of a bottle. The screw cap includes a shell that extends along a longitudinal axis and is configured to be disposed on the neck. The shell includes a head and a skirt having a nominal outer diameter and detachably connected to the head along a bridge line. The skirt includes a first support ring disposed proximate the bridge line, a second support ring disposed distal to the bridge line, and a third support ring disposed between the first support ring and the second support ring relative to the longitudinal axis. The first support ring has a first maximum outer diameter that is greater than the nominal outer diameter. The second support ring has a second maximum outer diameter that is greater than the nominal outer diameter. The third support ring has a third maximum outer diameter that is greater than the nominal outer diameter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to a screw cap and a bottle assembly, and more specifically to a screw cap for sealing the neck of a bottle and a bottle assembly including the screw cap. Background Technology

[0002] Screw caps are commonly used to seal bottles. However, traditional screw caps can deform during the capping process and experience various defects caused by this deformation. In some cases, these defects may lead to leakage of the product stored in the bottle. Furthermore, these defects may cause the product stored in the bottle to spoil. In other cases, these defects may cause the traditional screw cap to unintentionally detach from the bottle. Therefore, these defects may also facilitate tampering of the product stored in the bottle. In addition, these defects may negatively affect the appearance of the bottle. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A screw cap for sealing the neck of a bottle has been developed. The screw cap can reduce or eliminate various defects that may occur during the capping process. Furthermore, the screw cap can improve the appearance of the bottle after the capping process.

[0004] One embodiment of this disclosure is a screw cap for sealing the neck of a bottle. The screw cap includes a housing extending along a longitudinal axis and configured to be disposed on the neck. The housing includes a head. The housing further includes a skirt having a nominal outer diameter and detachably connected to the head along a bridging line. The skirt includes a first support ring disposed near the bridging line. The first support ring has a first maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt. The skirt further includes a second support ring disposed away from the bridging line. The second support ring has a second maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt. The skirt further includes a third support ring disposed relative to the longitudinal axis between the first and second support rings. The third support ring has a third maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt.

[0005] The first support ring can be configured to protect bridging connections during housing crimping. The second support ring can be configured to improve the appearance of the screw cap after housing crimping.

[0006] The third support ring reduces the deformation of the first and second support rings during the process of pressing the outer shell onto the neck of the bottle. Therefore, the third support ring prevents various defects that may occur during the capping process, such as the beak effect and facet effect.

[0007] The third support ring allows for improved crimping of the outer casing to the bottle neck, thereby enhancing the hold of the screw cap to the bottle. Specifically, the third support ring allows for a reduction in the crimping diameter of the outer casing at the neck. Therefore, the third support ring prevents the screw cap from unintentionally detaching from the bottle.

[0008] The third support ring allows for a further reduction in the position of the second support ring, thereby increasing the distance between the first and second support rings along the longitudinal axis. This can further reduce deformation of the second support ring during shell crimping. Furthermore, the third support ring can be invisible after crimping. Therefore, the screw cap can improve the appearance of the bottle after the capping process.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first support ring includes a first peak having a first maximum outer diameter. The second support ring includes a second peak having a second maximum outer diameter. The third support ring includes a third peak having a third maximum outer diameter. A first distance between the first peak and the third peak is less than a second distance between the second peak and the third peak.

[0010] In some embodiments, the second distance is at least 1.3 times the first distance.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first distance is about 3 millimeters (mm) and the second distance is about 4 millimeters.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first support ring further includes a first proximal end adjacent to the bridging wire and having a first minimum outer diameter of the first support ring. The first support ring further includes a first distal end distant from the bridging wire and having the first minimum outer diameter of the first support ring. A first spike is disposed along a longitudinal axis between the first proximal end and the first distal end. The first proximal spike distance along the longitudinal axis between the first proximal end and the first spike is greater than the first distal spike distance along the longitudinal axis between the first distal end and the first spike.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first proximal peak distance is at least about 1.3 times the first distal peak distance.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second support ring further includes a second proximal end adjacent to the bridging wire and having a second minimum outer diameter of the second support ring. The second support ring further includes a second distal end distal to the bridging wire and having the second minimum outer diameter of the second support ring. A second spike is disposed along the longitudinal axis between the second proximal end and the second distal end. The distance between the second proximal spike and the second spike along the longitudinal axis is less than the distance between the second distal spike and the second distal end along the longitudinal axis.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second distal peak distance is at least about 1.9 times the second proximal peak distance.

[0016] In some embodiments, the third support ring further includes a third proximal end adjacent to the bridging wire and having a third minimum outer diameter of the third support ring. The third support ring further includes a third distal end distal to the bridging wire and having the third minimum outer diameter of the third support ring. A third peak is disposed along the longitudinal axis between the third proximal end and the third distal end. The distance between the third proximal peak and the third peak along the longitudinal axis is substantially equal to the distance between the third distal end and the third peak along the longitudinal axis.

[0017] In some embodiments, the third maximum outer diameter is at least 0.5 mm larger than the nominal outer diameter.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first maximum outer diameter, the second maximum outer diameter, and the third maximum outer diameter are substantially equal to each other.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first support ring has a first length along the longitudinal axis. The second support ring has a second length along the longitudinal axis. The third support ring has a third length along the longitudinal axis. The third length is less than each of the first and second lengths.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first length is at least 1.16 times the third length.

[0021] In some embodiments, the second length is at least 1.45 times the third length.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first length is about 2.8 mm, the second length is about 3.5 mm, and the third length is about 2.4 mm.

[0023] In some embodiments, the third support ring has a symmetrical shape along the longitudinal axis.

[0024] In some embodiments, the third support ring has a V-shaped cross section along the longitudinal axis.

[0025] In some embodiments, each of the first support ring and the second support ring has a curved cross-sectional shape.

[0026] In some cases, the second support ring may have an asymmetrical cross-sectional shape along the longitudinal axis. The asymmetrical cross-sectional shape of the second support ring can provide increased stiffness to the second support ring during crimping.

[0027] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the third support ring is configured to deform and engage the shoulder of the neck after crimping.

[0028] In some embodiments, the housing has an average thickness of about 0.25 mm.

[0029] In some embodiments, the head of the screw cap includes at least one internal thread configured to engage with at least one external thread on the neck of the bottle.

[0030] In some embodiments, the screw cap further includes an insert disposed between the housing and the neck. The insert includes at least one internal thread configured to engage with at least one external thread of the neck.

[0031] In some embodiments, the screw cap further includes a plurality of bridging members disposed along a bridging line and detachably connecting the head to the skirt. The plurality of bridging members define a plurality of perforations therebetween.

[0032] As discussed above, the third support ring can reduce the deformation of the first support ring during shell crimping. Therefore, the third support ring can prevent the breakage or fracture of the plurality of bridging members arranged along the bridging line during crimping. Thus, the third support ring can prevent leakage of the product stored in the bottle.

[0033] In some embodiments, the screw cap further includes a sealing device disposed between the housing and the neck. The sealing device is configured to seal the opening in the neck.

[0034] This sealing device provides an airtight seal between the screw cap and the bottle opening.

[0035] Another embodiment of this disclosure is a bottle assembly. The bottle assembly includes a bottle and a screw cap. The bottle includes a neck. The neck includes a shoulder and an opening. A housing is crimped to the neck such that at least a portion of a third support ring deforms after crimping and engages the shoulder of the neck. The third support ring has a third maximum crimped outer diameter after crimping. The third maximum crimped outer diameter is smaller than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt.

[0036] The third support ring can reduce the deformation of the first and second support rings during the process of the outer shell being pressed against the neck of the bottle.

[0037] In some embodiments, the second support ring has a second maximum crimped outer diameter after crimping and a second minimum crimped outer diameter after crimping. The difference between the second maximum crimped outer diameter and the second minimum crimped outer diameter is less than about 0.25 mm.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first support ring has a first maximum crimped outer diameter after crimping. The first maximum crimped outer diameter is substantially equal to the first maximum outer diameter.

[0039] This subject matter has several other aspects that can be implemented independently or together. These aspects can be used alone or in combination with other aspects of this subject matter described herein, and the description of these aspects together is not intended to exclude the independent use of these aspects or to claim these aspects independently or in different combinations. Attached Figure Description

[0040] This disclosure can be more fully understood in light of the following detailed description of various embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of a bottle assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0042] Figure 2A A schematic front view of a screw cap according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0043] Figure 2B A schematic front view of a screw cap according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0044] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the housing according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0045] Figure 4 Showing Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the outer shell;

[0046] Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of a bottle assembly prior to crimping is shown, according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 5B A schematic cross-sectional view of a bottle assembly after crimping, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, is shown;

[0048] Figure 5C A schematic plan view of the second support ring after crimping, according to an embodiment of this disclosure; and

[0049] Figure 6 A graph is shown comparing the roundness ratio of the second support ring of this disclosure with that of a conventional screw cap at different positions relative to the crimping roller after crimping.

[0050] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. The same reference numerals used in the drawings denote the same parts. However, it should be understood that the use of reference numerals to denote parts in a given drawing is not intended to limit the parts to be identified with the same reference numerals in another drawing.

[0051] The accompanying drawings illustrate some, but not all, embodiments. The elements depicted in the drawings are illustrative and not necessarily drawn to scale, and in all drawings, the same (or similar) reference numerals denote the same (or similar) features. Detailed Implementation

[0052] This disclosure relates to a screw cap for sealing the neck of a bottle. The screw cap can reduce or eliminate various defects that may occur during the capping process. Furthermore, the screw cap can improve the appearance of the bottle after the capping process.

[0053] The screw cap includes a housing extending along a longitudinal axis and configured to be disposed on a neck. The housing includes a head. The housing further includes a skirt having a nominal outer diameter and detachably connected to the head along a bridging wire. The skirt includes a first support ring positioned close to the bridging wire. The first support ring has a first maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt. The skirt further includes a second support ring positioned away from the bridging wire. The second support ring has a second maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt. The skirt further includes a third support ring positioned relative to the longitudinal axis between the first and second support rings. The third support ring has a third maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt.

[0054] The first support ring can be configured to protect bridging connections during housing crimping. The second support ring can be configured to improve the appearance of the screw cap after housing crimping.

[0055] The third support ring reduces the deformation of the first and second support rings during the process of pressing the outer shell onto the neck of the bottle. Therefore, the third support ring prevents various defects that may occur during the capping process, such as the beak effect and facet effect.

[0056] The third support ring allows for improved crimping from the neck to the bottle's outer casing, thereby enhancing the hold of the screw cap to the bottle. Specifically, the third support ring allows for a reduction in the crimping diameter of the outer casing at the neck. Therefore, the third support ring prevents the screw cap from unintentionally detaching from the bottle.

[0057] The third support ring allows for a further reduction in the position of the second support ring, thereby increasing the distance between the first and second support rings along the longitudinal axis. This can further reduce deformation of the second support ring during shell crimping. Furthermore, the third support ring can be invisible after crimping. Therefore, the screw cap can improve the appearance of the bottle after the capping process.

[0058] As used in this application, the term "crimping" can refer to any suitable process of joining two parts by mechanically deforming one or both of them to hold the other in place, and the term "crimped portion" can refer to a deformable area that can be caused by crimping.

[0059] As used in this application, the term "bridging line" can refer to a weakening line in or through the surface of the housing, including a series of holes, vents, slits, slots, perforations, notches, piercings, openings, openings, inlets, channels, etc., whether continuous or discontinuous. Its depth can extend from a first surface of the housing to a second surface of the housing (i.e., through the entire thickness of the housing). Alternatively, its depth can extend to about 50% to about 95% of the thickness of the housing.

[0060] As used in this application, the term "nominal outer diameter" may refer to the minimum outer diameter of the body before it undergoes a metalworking process (such as crimping).

[0061] As used in this application, the term "roundness" or "circularity" can indicate the degree to which an object deviates from a geometrically perfect circle. The term "roundness" or "circularity" can further indicate the tolerance zone defined between two concentric circles.

[0062] As used in this application, the term "roundness ratio" can refer to the difference between the maximum and minimum outer diameter of an object.

[0063] Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of a bottle assembly 300 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0064] Bottle assembly 300 includes bottle 100. Figure 1 Bottle 100 is shown in the middle portion. Bottle 100 includes a neck 102. Neck 102 includes a shoulder 104 and an opening 106. Neck 102 further includes at least one external thread 108.

[0065] In some embodiments, bottle 100 may be made of glass. Bottle 100 can be used to store any suitable product. In some cases, bottle 100 can be used to store liquid products. For example, bottle 100 can be used to store alcoholic beverages, such as wine, aperitifs, liqueurs, and alcoholic drinks. In another example, bottle 100 can be used to store fruit juice, carbonated beverages, etc.

[0066] The bottle assembly 300 further includes a screw cap 110 for sealing the neck 102 of the bottle 100. The screw cap 110 includes a housing 112 that extends along the longitudinal axis 10 and is configured to be disposed on the neck 102.

[0067] The housing 112 can be made of any suitable metal. In some embodiments, the housing 112 can be made of aluminum. The housing 112 can be formed using a suitable stretching process by stretching a metal sheet into a cylindrical shape that is open on one side.

[0068] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the screw cap 110 further includes an insert 114 disposed between the housing 112 and the neck 102. In some embodiments, the insert 114 includes at least one internal thread 116 configured to engage with at least one external thread 108 of the neck 102. The insert 114 can be made of any suitable plastic, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), etc.

[0069] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiments, the screw cap 110 further includes a sealing device 118 disposed between the housing 112 and the neck 102. In some embodiments, the sealing device 118 is configured to seal the opening 106 of the neck 102. In some embodiments, the sealing device 118 may contribute to providing an airtight seal between the neck 102 and the screw cap 110 to seal the opening 106. In some embodiments, the sealing device 118 may include a gasket. In some embodiments, the gasket of the sealing device 118 may be made of a composition including a thermoplastic elastomer, polyisobutylene, and polybutene. In some other embodiments, the gasket of the sealing device 118 may include a multilayer gasket comprising an expanded polyethylene (EPE) layer, a white kraft paper layer, a tin layer, a polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) layer, etc.

[0070] Figure 2A A schematic front view of a screw cap 110 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0071] like Figure 2A As shown, the outer casing 112 has an outer casing length 113. The outer casing length 113 can depend on the bottle 100 (in Figure 1 The design and dimensions are shown in the figure. The housing length 113 is measured along the longitudinal axis 10. In some embodiments, the housing length 113 may be from about 50 mm to about 70 mm. In some embodiments, the housing length 113 may be about 60 mm.

[0072] The outer casing 112 includes a head 120. For example... Figure 2A As shown, the head 120 has a head length 121. The head length 121 is measured along the longitudinal axis 10. The head length 121 may depend on the neck 102 (in Figure 1The design and dimensions are shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the head length 121 may be from about 10 mm to about 30 mm. In some embodiments, the head length 121 may be about 18 mm.

[0073] The housing 112 further includes a skirt 122. The skirt 122 is detachably connected to the head 120 along a bridge wire 126. Figure 2A In the illustrated embodiment, the screw cap 110 further includes a plurality of bridging members 128 disposed along bridging lines 126 and detachably connecting the head 120 to the skirt 122. Further, in Figure 2A In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of bridging members 128 define a plurality of through-holes 134 therebetween. Therefore, in some cases, the bridging line 126 may provide a weakening line around which the head 120 can be detached from the skirt 122. The head 120 can be detached from the skirt 122 around the bridging line 126 to access the contents stored in the bottle 100 (in... Figure 1 The product shown in the image. Bridging cable 126 can also serve as an anti-tamper feature.

[0074] In some embodiments, the width of each bridging member 128, which is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 10, may be from about 1.25 mm to about 1.35 mm. In some embodiments, the number of the plurality of bridging members 128 may be from about 5 to about 15. In some embodiments, the number of the plurality of bridging members 128 may be 8, and the plurality of bridging members 128 may define 8 through holes 134 therebetween.

[0075] The skirt 122 further includes a first support ring 140, a second support ring 160 and a third support ring 180.

[0076] like Figure 2A As shown, the first support ring 140 is positioned close to the bridging wire 126. Furthermore, the second support ring 160 is positioned away from the bridging wire 126. Additionally, a third support ring 180 is disposed relative to the longitudinal axis 10 between the first support ring 140 and the second support ring 160.

[0077] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the third support ring 180 is configured to deform and engage the neck 102 after crimping. Figure 1 The shoulder 104 (shown in) Figure 1 (as shown in the diagram). In other words, in some embodiments, the housing 112 can be press-fitted such that at least a portion of the third support ring 180 can deform and engage the shoulder 104. Thus, it can be noted that the positions of the first support ring 140, the second support ring 160, and the third support ring 180 can depend on the contour of the neck 102.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first support ring 140 may be configured to protect the bridging wire 126 during crimping of the housing 112. In some embodiments, the second support ring 160 may be configured to improve the appearance of the screw cap 110 after crimping of the housing 112. In some embodiments, the third support ring 180 may be configured to reduce or eliminate deformation of the first support ring 140 and the second support ring 160 during crimping of the housing 112.

[0079] like Figure 2A As shown, the skirt 122 has a nominal outer diameter 124. The nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122 can be defined as the minimum outer diameter of the skirt 122. Specifically, the nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122 can be defined as the minimum outer diameter of the skirt 122 before crimping. In some embodiments, the nominal outer diameter 124 is defined relative to the longitudinal axis 10 between the third support ring 180 and the second support ring 160. The nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122 can depend on the bottle 100 (in Figure 1 The design and dimensions are shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122 may be from about 25 mm to about 35 mm. In some embodiments, the nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122 may be from about 29.5 mm to about 30 mm.

[0080] Figure 2B A schematic front view of a screw cap 110A according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown. The screw cap 110A is substantially similar to... Figure 2A The screw cap 110, wherein the same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals. However, the screw cap 110A includes a housing 112A, which has a different construction compared to the housing 112 of the screw cap 110.

[0081] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2B In some embodiments, the head 120 includes at least one internal thread 117 (shown by dashed lines) configured to engage with at least one external thread 108 of the neck 102. Therefore, the insert 114 can be omitted from the screw cap 110A.

[0082] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the housing 112 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0083] The housing 112 has an average thickness T. The average thickness T of the housing 112 can depend on the desired application properties and the material of the housing 112. In some embodiments, the housing 112 may have an average thickness T of about 0.20 mm to about 0.30 mm. In some embodiments, the housing 112 has an average thickness T of about 0.25 mm.

[0084] The first support ring 140 has a first maximum outer diameter 142 that is larger than the nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the first support ring 140 includes a first peak 144 having a first maximum outer diameter 142. In other words, in... Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the first maximum outer diameter 142 is the maximum outer diameter of the first support ring 140 at the first peak 144.

[0085] The second support ring 160 has a second maximum outer diameter 162, which is greater than the nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the second support ring 160 includes a second peak 164 having a second maximum outer diameter 162. In other words, in... Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the second maximum outer diameter 162 is the maximum outer diameter of the second support ring 160 at the second peak 164.

[0086] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, each of the first support ring 140 and the second support ring 160 has a curved cross-sectional shape. However, the first support ring 140 and the second support ring 160 can have any suitable cross-sectional shape depending on the desired aesthetic and application properties. In some embodiments, each of the first support ring 140 and the second support ring 160 can have an asymmetrical shape. The asymmetrical shape can increase the rigidity of the first support ring 140 and the second support ring 160 during the crimping of the housing 112. In some cases, the second support ring 160 can be positioned lower to further reduce the deformation of the second support ring 160 during the crimping of the housing 112. This can further reduce defects on the screw cap 110, such as facet effects.

[0087] The third support ring 180 has a third maximum outer diameter 182, which is greater than the nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the third support ring 180 includes a third peak 184 having a third maximum outer diameter 182. In other words, in Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the third maximum outer diameter 182 is the maximum outer diameter of the third support ring 180 at the third peak 184. In some embodiments, the third maximum outer diameter 182 is at least 0.5 mm larger than the nominal outer diameter 124. In some embodiments, the third maximum outer diameter 182 may be at least 0.2 mm, at least 0.3 mm, at least 0.4 mm, at least 0.6 mm, at least 0.7 mm, or at least 0.8 mm larger than the nominal outer diameter 124.

[0088] In some embodiments, the third support ring 180 has a symmetrical shape along the longitudinal axis 10. However, in some other embodiments, the third support ring 180 may have an asymmetrical shape along the longitudinal axis 10. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the third support ring 180 has a V-shaped cross section along the longitudinal axis 10.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first maximum outer diameter 142, the second maximum outer diameter 162, and the third maximum outer diameter 182 are substantially equal to each other. However, in some other embodiments, the first maximum outer diameter 142, the second maximum outer diameter 162, and the third maximum outer diameter 182 may be different from each other. For example, in some embodiments, the third maximum outer diameter 182 of the third support ring 180 may be greater than both the first maximum outer diameter 142 of the first support ring 140 and the second maximum outer diameter 162 of the second support ring 160.

[0090] In some embodiments, the first peak 144 and the third peak 184 define a first distance 202 therebetween. Further, in some embodiments, the second peak 164 and the third peak 184 define a second distance 204 therebetween. In some embodiments, the first distance 202 between the first peak 144 and the third peak 184 is less than the second distance 204 between the second peak 164 and the third peak 184. In some embodiments, the second distance 204 is at least 1.3 times the first distance 202. In other words, in some embodiments, the second distance 204 is greater than or equal to 1.3 times the first distance 202. In some embodiments, the first distance 202 is about 3 mm, and the second distance 204 is about 4 mm. Therefore, the second support ring 160 is positioned relatively low in the skirt 122 along the longitudinal axis 10.

[0091] Figure 4 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the skirt 122 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0092] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first support ring 140 further includes a first proximal end 146 near the bridging wire 126. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first support ring 140 further includes a first distal end 150 remote from the bridging wire 126. In some embodiments, a first spike 144 is disposed along the longitudinal axis 10 between the first proximal end 146 and the first distal end 150.

[0093] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first proximal end 146 has a first minimum outer diameter 148 of the first support ring 140. Further, in Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, the first distal end 150 has a first minimum outer diameter 148 of the first support ring 140. In other words, in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first proximal end 146 and the first distal end 150 have substantially equal outer diameters, namely the first minimum outer diameter 148.

[0094] In some embodiments, the first proximal end 146 and the first apex 144 define a first proximal apex distance 152 therebetween along the longitudinal axis 10. In some embodiments, the first distal end 150 and the first apex 144 define a first distal apex distance 154 therebetween along the longitudinal axis 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, the first proximal peak distance 152 between the first proximal end 146 and the first peak 144 along the longitudinal axis 10 is greater than the first distal peak distance 154 between the first distal end 150 and the first peak 144 along the longitudinal axis 10. In some cases, the first proximal peak distance 152 being greater than the first distal peak distance 154 can increase the rigidity of the first support ring 140 during the crimping of the housing 112.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first proximal peak distance 152 is at least about 1.3 times the first distal peak distance 154. In other words, in some embodiments, the first proximal peak distance 152 is greater than or equal to 1.3 times the first distal peak distance 154. In some embodiments, the first proximal peak distance 152 may be about 1.6 mm, and the first distal peak distance 154 may be about 1.2 mm.

[0097] Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first support ring 140 has a first length 156 along the longitudinal axis 10. In some embodiments, the first length 156 may be defined as the sum of a first proximal peak distance 152 and a first distal peak distance 154. In some embodiments, the first length 156 is approximately 2.8 mm. However, in some other embodiments, the first length 156 may be approximately 2.5 mm, approximately 2.6 mm, approximately 2.7 mm, approximately 2.9 mm, or approximately 3 mm.

[0098] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the second support ring 160 further includes a second proximal end 166 near the bridging wire 126. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the second support ring 160 further includes a second distal end 170 remote from the bridging wire 126. In some embodiments, a second spike 164 is disposed along the longitudinal axis 10 between the second proximal end 166 and the second distal end 170.

[0099] exist Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, the second proximal end 166 has a second minimum outer diameter 168 of the second support ring 160. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the second distal end 170 has a second minimum outer diameter 168 of the second support ring 160. In other words, in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the second proximal end 166 and the second distal end 170 have substantially equal outer diameters, namely the second minimum outer diameter 168.

[0100] In some embodiments, the second proximal end 166 and the second peak 164 define a second proximal peak distance 172 therebetween along the longitudinal axis 10. Further, in some embodiments, the second distal end 170 and the second peak 164 define a second distal peak distance 174 therebetween along the longitudinal axis 10.

[0101] In some embodiments, the second proximal peak distance 172 between the second proximal end 166 and the second peak 164 along the longitudinal axis 10 is less than the second distal peak distance 174 between the second distal end 170 and the second peak 164 along the longitudinal axis 10. In some cases, the smaller second proximal peak distance 172 than the second distal peak distance 174 can increase the rigidity of the second support ring 160 during the crimping of the housing 112.

[0102] In some embodiments, the second distal peak distance 174 is at least about 1.9 times the second proximal peak distance 172. In other words, in some embodiments, the second distal peak distance 174 is greater than or equal to about 1.9 times the second proximal peak distance 172. In some embodiments, the second proximal peak distance 172 may be about 1.2 mm, and the first distal peak distance 154 may be about 2.3 mm.

[0103] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the second support ring 160 has a second length 176 along the longitudinal axis 10. In some embodiments, the second length 176 may be defined as the sum of a second proximal peak distance 172 and a second distal peak distance 174. In some embodiments, the second length 176 is approximately 3.5 mm. However, in some other embodiments, the second length 176 may be approximately 3.3 mm, approximately 3.4 mm, approximately 3.6 mm, approximately 3.7 mm, or approximately 3.8 mm.

[0104] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the third support ring 180 further includes a third proximal end 186 near the bridging wire 126. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the third support ring 180 further includes a third distal end 190 remote from the bridging line 126. In some embodiments, a third spike 184 is disposed along the longitudinal axis 10 between the third proximal end 186 and the third distal end 190.

[0105] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the third proximal end 186 has a third minimum outer diameter 188 of the third support ring 180. Further, in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the third distal end 190 has a third minimum outer diameter 188 of the third support ring 180. In other words, in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the third proximal end 186 and the third distal end 190 have substantially equal outer diameters, namely the third minimum outer diameter 188.

[0106] In some embodiments, the third proximal end 186 and the third apex 184 define a third proximal apex distance 192 therebetween along the longitudinal axis 10. Further, in some embodiments, the third distal end 190 and the third apex 184 define a third distal apex distance 194 therebetween along the longitudinal axis 10.

[0107] In some embodiments, the third proximal peak distance 192 between the third proximal end 186 and the third peak 184 along the longitudinal axis 10 is substantially equal to the third distal peak distance 194 between the third distal end 190 and the third peak 184 along the longitudinal axis 10. Specifically, in some embodiments, the third support ring 180 may be symmetrical about the third peak 184 along the longitudinal axis 10. In some embodiments, the third proximal peak distance 192 may be approximately 1.2 mm, and the third distal peak distance 194 may be approximately 1.2 mm.

[0108] However, in some other embodiments, the third proximal peak distance 192 between the third proximal end 186 and the third peak 184 along the longitudinal axis 10 may differ from the third distal peak distance 194 between the third distal end 190 and the third peak 184 along the longitudinal axis 10. In other words, in some embodiments, the third support ring 180 may be asymmetrical about the third peak 184 along the longitudinal axis 10.

[0109] Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the third support ring 180 has a third length 196 along the longitudinal axis 10. In some embodiments, the third length 196 may be defined as the sum of a third proximal peak distance 192 and a third distal peak distance 194. In some embodiments, the third length 196 is approximately 2.4 mm. However, in some other embodiments, the third length 196 may be approximately 2.2 mm, approximately 2.3 mm, approximately 2.5 mm, approximately 2.6 mm, or approximately 2.7 mm.

[0110] In some embodiments, the third length 196 is smaller than each of the first length 156 and the second length 176. That is, in some embodiments, along the longitudinal axis 10, the third support ring 180 may be smaller than each of the first support ring 140 and the second support ring 160.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first length 156 is at least 1.16 times the third length 196. In other words, in some embodiments, the first length 156 is greater than or equal to about 1.16 times the third length 196.

[0112] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second length 176 is at least 1.45 times the third length 196. In other words, in some embodiments, the second length 176 is greater than or equal to approximately 1.45 times the third length 196.

[0113] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A schematic cross-sectional view of a bottle assembly 300 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Specifically, Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of the bottle assembly 300 before it is pressed against the housing 112 is shown, and Figure 5B A schematic cross-sectional view of the bottle assembly 300 after being crimped onto the housing 112 is shown.

[0114] As discussed above, the bottle assembly 300 includes a bottle 100 and a screw cap 110.

[0115] refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B In some embodiments, a crimping roller 304 can be used to crimp the outer casing 112 to the neck 102 of the bottle 100. In some cases, the outer casing 112 can be crimped to the neck 102 by the crimping roller 304 at an optimal position 302. The optimal position 302 can reduce defects and improve the seal of the screw cap 110 to the opening 106 of the bottle 100. In some embodiments, the optimal position 302 can be approximately 0.3 mm below the neck 102 of the bottle 100. Specifically, in some embodiments, the optimal position 302 can be approximately 0.3 mm below the shoulder 104 of the neck 102.

[0116] In some embodiments, the housing 112 is pressed against the neck 102 such that, after pressing, at least a portion of the third support ring 180 deforms and engages the shoulder 104 of the neck 102. The third support ring 180 has a third maximum press-fit outer diameter 198 after pressing. The third maximum press-fit outer diameter 198 is smaller than the nominal outer diameter 124 of the skirt 122.

[0117] Advantageously, the third support ring 180 allows the outer casing 112 to be pressed onto the neck 102 with greater penetration by the crimping roller 304, thereby reducing the third maximum crimping outer diameter 198. The reduction in the third maximum crimping outer diameter 198 can prevent the screw cap 110 from undesirably falling off the bottle 100.

[0118] Furthermore, compared to conventional screw caps, the third support ring 180 allows the second support ring 160 of the skirt 122 to be positioned lower. This can further reduce the deformation of the second support ring 160 during crimping, thereby preventing several defects such as the beak effect and facet effect.

[0119] Furthermore, in Figure 5B In the illustrated embodiment, the first support ring 140 has a first maximum crimped outer diameter 158 after crimping. In some embodiments, the first maximum crimped outer diameter 158 is substantially equal to the first maximum outer diameter 142. In other words, in some embodiments, the first maximum outer diameter 142 of the first support ring 140 may remain substantially unchanged after crimping.

[0120] Figure 5C A plan view of the second support ring 160 is shown, depicting the roundness of the second support ring 160 after crimping. (Reference) Figures 5A to 5C The second support ring 160 has a second maximum crimped outer diameter 178 after crimping (in Figure 5C (shown by the dashed circle in the middle) and has a second minimum crimp outer diameter of 179 after crimping (in Figure 5C (Indicated by a dotted line circle). In some embodiments, the second maximum crimp outer diameter 178 may be substantially equal to the second maximum outer diameter 162. In other words, in some embodiments, the second maximum outer diameter 162 may remain substantially unchanged after crimping.

[0121] In some embodiments, the difference between the second maximum crimp outer diameter 178 and the second minimum crimp outer diameter 179 is less than about 0.25 mm. That is, in some embodiments, the difference between the second maximum crimp outer diameter 178 and the second minimum crimp outer diameter 179 is less than 0.25 mm. In some embodiments, the difference between the second maximum crimp outer diameter 178 and the second minimum crimp outer diameter 179 can be in the range of about 0 mm to about 0.25 mm.

[0122] Therefore, the third support ring 180 can improve the roundness of the second support ring 160. This can further improve the appearance of the screw cap 110 on the bottle 100.

[0123] Figure 6 Chart 400 is shown. (Reference) Figures 5A to 6Figure 400 shows the roundness ratio for different positions of the crimping roller 304. The roundness ratio can be defined as the difference between the maximum and minimum crimping outer diameters.

[0124] Specifically, Figure 400 shows the roundness ratio of the second support ring 160 relative to different positions of the crimping roller 304 during the crimping of the housing 112. The roundness ratio of the second support ring 160 can be defined as the difference between the second maximum crimping outer diameter 178 and the second minimum crimping outer diameter 179. Figure 400 further illustrates the roundness ratio of the second support ring of a conventional screw cap relative to different positions of the crimping roller 304 during the crimping of a conventional screw cap.

[0125] Figure 400 plots the roundness ratio (in mm) on the vertical axis (Y-axis) and the different positions of the crimping roller 304 during crimping on the horizontal axis (X-axis). The different positions of the crimping roller 304 during crimping include a first position 402, a second position 404, and a third position 406. The first position 402 is the optimal position 302 of the crimping roller 304 during crimping. The second position 404 is approximately 0.5 mm lower than the optimal position 302. The third position 406 is approximately 1 mm lower than the optimal position 302.

[0126] Figure 400 includes a first bar 408 and a second bar 410, which represent the roundness ratios of the second support ring 160 of the screw cap 110 and the second support ring of a conventional screw cap at the first position 402, respectively. As depicted by the first bar 408 and the second bar 410, the second support ring 160 at the first position 402 has a smaller roundness ratio than a conventional screw cap (approximately 0.09 mm vs. approximately 0.13 mm). Therefore, the second support ring 160 at the first position 402 has a larger roundness than the second support ring of a conventional screw cap. Therefore, when crimped at the first position 402, the screw cap 110 of this disclosure can have a better appearance than a conventional screw cap.

[0127] Figure 400 further includes a third bar 412 and a fourth bar 414, which represent the roundness ratios of the second support ring of the screw cap 110 at the second position 404 and the second support ring of a conventional screw cap, respectively. As depicted by the third bar 412 and the fourth bar 414, the second support ring 160 at the second position 404 has a significantly smaller roundness ratio than a conventional screw cap (approximately 0.14 mm vs. approximately 0.28 mm). Therefore, the second support ring 160 at the second position 404 has a significantly larger roundness than the second support ring of a conventional screw cap. Therefore, when crimped at the second position 404, the screw cap 110 of this disclosure can have a significantly better appearance than a conventional screw cap. Furthermore, when crimped at the second position 404, the screw cap 110 can prevent the birdbeak effect, which a conventional screw cap may experience when crimped at the second position 404.

[0128] Figure 400 further includes a fifth bar 416 and a sixth bar 418, which represent the roundness ratios of the second support ring of the screw cap 110 and a conventional screw cap, respectively, at the third position 406. As depicted by the fifth bar 416 and the sixth bar 418, the second support ring 160 at the third position 406 has a significantly smaller roundness ratio than the conventional screw cap (approximately 0.20 mm vs. approximately 0.33 mm). Therefore, the second support ring 160 at the third position 406 has a significantly larger roundness than the second support ring of the conventional screw cap. Consequently, when crimped at the third position 406, the screw cap 110 of this disclosure can have a significantly better appearance than a conventional screw cap. Furthermore, when crimped at the third position 406, the screw cap 110 can prevent facet effects, which, in contrast, may occur with conventional screw caps when crimped at the third position 406.

[0129] As depicted in Table 400, the roundness ratio of the second support ring 160 of the screw cap 110 is lower than that of the second support ring of a conventional screw cap. At these different locations, the roundness ratio of the second support ring 160 of the screw cap 110 is less than 0.25 mm. Therefore, the second support ring 160 of the screw cap 110 can avoid defects such as beak effect and facet effect during crimping, and improves the appearance of the bottle 100.

[0130] Comparison Examples

[0131] The screw caps disclosed herein (hereinafter referred to as the "new screw caps") are pressed onto the neck of the bottle by crimping rollers at different locations and under different lateral loads (approximately 8.5 kg and approximately 9.5 kg). Similarly, conventional screw caps are pressed onto the neck of the bottle by crimping rollers at different locations and under different lateral loads.

[0132] For each of these different positions and lateral loads, the crimping of the new screw cap and the conventional screw cap was repeated 10 times. Defects were observed for different lateral loads applied to the new screw cap and the conventional screw cap at different positions by the crimping roller.

[0133] Case 1:

[0134] The new screw cap and the conventional screw cap are pressed into the neck of the bottle under different lateral loads at the optimal position using a pressing roller. The optimal position is approximately 0.3 mm below the neck of the bottle.

[0135] The percentage of defects in new and conventional screw caps due to crimping under different lateral loads at the optimal location was determined and is listed in Table 1 below.

[0136] Table 1: Details of Defect Occurrence Percentage

[0137]

[0138] Referring to Table 1, it was determined that when crimped at the optimal position and under a lateral load of 8.5 kg, conventional screw caps experienced a detachment defect 100% of the time (i.e., the screw cap undesirably detaches from the bottle upon application of force). Furthermore, at the optimal position and under a lateral load of 9.5 kg, conventional screw caps experienced a detachment defect 30% of the time. On the other hand, when crimped at the optimal position and under lateral loads of 8.5 kg and 9.5 kg, the new screw caps did not experience detachment defects. The new screw caps were observed to hold the bottle better after crimping.

[0139] Case 2:

[0140] The new screw cap and the conventional screw cap are pressed onto the neck of the bottle at a second position, approximately 0.25 mm below the optimal position, using a pressing roller, under different lateral loads.

[0141] The percentage of defects in new and conventional screw caps due to crimping under different lateral loads at the second position was determined and listed in Table 2 below.

[0142] Table 2: Details of Defect Occurrence Percentage

[0143]

[0144]

[0145] Referring to Table 2, it was determined that when pressed at the second position under a lateral load of 8.5 kg, conventional screw caps experienced detachment defects and bird beak effects 100% of the time. Furthermore, when pressed at the second position under a lateral load of 9.5 kg, conventional screw caps experienced bird beak effects 100% of the time and detachment defects 30% of the time.

[0146] However, at the second position and under lateral loads of 8.5 kg and 9.5 kg, the new screw cap did not experience detachment defects or birdbeak effects. When crimped at the second position under these different lateral loads, the new screw cap prevented both detachment defects and birdbeak effects.

[0147] Case 3:

[0148] The new screw cap and the conventional screw cap are pressed onto the neck of the bottle at a third position, approximately 0.375 mm below the optimal position, under different lateral loads using a pressing roller.

[0149] The percentage of defects in new and conventional screw caps due to crimping at the third position under different lateral loads was determined and listed in Table 3 below.

[0150] Table 3: Details of Defect Occurrence Percentage

[0151]

[0152] Referring to Table 3, it was determined that when pressed at the third position under a lateral load of 8.5 kg, conventional screw caps experienced detachment defects, facet effects, and bird beak effects 100% of the time. Furthermore, when pressed at the third position under a lateral load of 9.5 kg, conventional screw caps experienced bird beak effects and facet effects 100% of the time.

[0153] However, at the third position and under lateral loads of 8.5 kg and 9.5 kg, the new screw cap did not experience detachment defects, facet effect, or beak effect. At the third position under these different lateral loads, the new screw cap prevented all three defects.

[0154] Therefore, it can be concluded that, regardless of the different lateral loads and positions of the pressing rollers, the new spiral cap overcomes defects such as the beak effect, small face effect, and detachment.

[0155] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, every document cited in this application (including any cross-referenced documents) is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. A reference to any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any embodiment disclosed in this application, or that it, alone or in any combination with any other reference, has taught, suggested, or disclosed any such embodiment. Furthermore, in the event of any conflict between the meaning or definition of any term in this application and any meaning or definition of the same term in any referenced document, the meaning or definition given to that term in this application shall prevail.

[0156] Unless otherwise stated, all figures used in this application to represent size, quantity, range, limit, and physical and other properties should be understood to be preceded by the word "approximately" in all cases. Therefore, unless explicitly indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in this application are approximations that can vary depending on whether a person skilled in the art can obtain the desired properties without excessive experimentation using the teachings disclosed in this application.

[0157] As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “the” cover embodiments having plural referents, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. As used herein, the term “or” is generally adopted to include the meaning of “and / or”, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0158] Spatial terms, including but not limited to “down,” “up,” “below,” “below,” “above,” “bottom,” and “top,” if used in this application, are used to simplify the description of the spatial relationship between one or more elements and another element. In addition to the specific orientations depicted in the figures and described in this application, these spatial terms cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the object depicted in the figures is rolled or flipped, then an element previously described as being below or beneath other elements will be above those other elements.

[0159] The accompanying drawings illustrate some, but not all, embodiments. The elements depicted in the drawings are illustrative and not necessarily drawn to scale, and in all drawings, the same (or similar) reference numerals denote the same (or similar) features.

[0160] The disclosed descriptions, examples, embodiments, and drawings are illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting. The invention includes, but is not limited to, the disclosed descriptions, examples, embodiments, and drawings. As briefly described above, unless expressly indicated to the contrary, the reader should assume that features of one disclosed embodiment can also be applied to all other disclosed embodiments. Modifications and other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art of packaging, and all such modifications and other embodiments are intended to be, and are considered to be, within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A screw cap for sealing a neck of a bottle, the screw cap comprising: a shell extending along a longitudinal axis and configured to be disposed on the neck, the shell comprising: a head; and a skirt having a nominal outer diameter and detachably connected to the head along a bridge line, the skirt comprising: a first support ring disposed proximate the bridge line, the first support ring having a first maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt; a second support ring disposed distal to the bridge line, the second support ring having a second maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt; and a third support ring disposed between the first support ring and the second support ring relative to the longitudinal axis, the third support ring having a third maximum outer diameter greater than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt; wherein at least a portion of the third support ring is configured to deform and engage a shoulder of the neck after crimping; wherein the nominal outer diameter refers to a minimum outer diameter prior to being subjected to a metalworking process.

2. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein: the first support ring comprises a first cusp having the first maximum outer diameter; the second support ring comprises a second cusp having the second maximum outer diameter; the third support ring comprises a third cusp having the third maximum outer diameter; and a first distance between the first cusp and the third cusp is less than a second distance between the second cusp and the third cusp.

3. The screw cap of claim 2, wherein, the second distance is at least 1.3 times the first distance.

4. The screw cap of claim 2, wherein, the first distance is 3 mm and the second distance is 4 mm.

5. The screw cap of claim 2, wherein, the first support ring further comprises: a first proximal end proximate the bridge line and having a first minimum outer diameter of the first support ring; and a first distal end distal to the bridge line and having the first minimum outer diameter of the first support ring; wherein the first cusp is disposed between the first proximal end and the first distal end along the longitudinal axis; and wherein a first proximal cusp distance between the first proximal end and the first cusp along the longitudinal axis is greater than a first distal cusp distance between the first distal end and the first cusp along the longitudinal axis.

6. The screw cap of claim 5, wherein, the first proximal cusp distance is at least 1.3 times the first distal cusp distance.

7. The screw cap of claim 2, wherein, the second support ring further comprises: a second proximal end proximate the bridge line and having a second minimum outer diameter of the second support ring; and a second distal end distal to the bridge line and having the second minimum outer diameter of the second support ring; wherein the second cusp is disposed between the second proximal end and the second distal end along the longitudinal axis; and wherein a second proximal cusp distance between the second proximal end and the second cusp along the longitudinal axis is less than a second distal cusp distance between the second distal end and the second cusp along the longitudinal axis.

8. The screw cap of claim 7, wherein, the second distal cusp distance is at least 1.9 times the second proximal cusp distance.

9. The screw cap of claim 2, wherein, the third support ring further comprises: a third proximal end proximate the bridge line and having a third minimum outer diameter of the third support ring; and a third distal end distal to the bridge line and having the third minimum outer diameter of the third support ring; a third distal end distal from the bridge and having the third smallest outer diameter of the third support ring; wherein the third tip is disposed along the longitudinal axis between the third proximal end and the third distal end; and wherein a third proximal tip distance between the third proximal end and the third tip along the longitudinal axis is equal to a third distal tip distance between the third distal end and the third tip along the longitudinal axis.

10. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein, The third maximum outer diameter is at least 0.5 mm greater than the nominal outer diameter.

11. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein, The first maximum outer diameter, the second maximum outer diameter, and the third maximum outer diameter are equal.

12. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein: the first support ring has a first length along the longitudinal axis; the second support ring has a second length along the longitudinal axis; the third support ring has a third length along the longitudinal axis; and the third length is less than each of the first length and the second length.

13. The screw cap of claim 12, wherein, the first length is at least 1.16 times the third length.

14. The screw cap of claim 12, wherein, the second length is at least 1.45 times the third length.

15. The screw cap of claim 12, wherein, the first length is 2.8 mm, the second length is 3.5 mm, and the third length is 2.4 mm.

16. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein, the third support ring has a symmetric shape along the longitudinal axis.

17. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein, the third support ring has a V-shaped cross-section along the longitudinal axis.

18. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein, each of the first support ring and the second support ring has a curved cross-sectional shape.

19. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein, an average thickness of the shell is 0.25 mm.

20. The screw cap of claim 1, wherein, the head includes at least one internal thread configured to engage with at least one external thread of the neck.

21. The screw cap of claim 1, further comprising an insert disposed between the shell and the neck, wherein the insert includes at least one internal thread configured to engage with at least one external thread of the neck.

22. The screw cap of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bridges disposed along the bridge line and detachably connecting the head to the skirt, wherein, the plurality of bridges define a plurality of perforations therebetween.

23. The screw cap of claim 1, further comprising a sealing device disposed between the shell and the neck, wherein the sealing device is configured to seal the opening of the neck.

24. A bottle assembly, the bottle assembly comprising: a bottle including a neck, the neck including a shoulder and an opening; and the screw cap of claim 1, wherein the shell is crimped to the neck such that at least a portion of the third support ring is deformed and engages the shoulder of the neck after crimping, wherein the third support ring has a third maximum crimped outer diameter after crimping, and wherein the third maximum crimped outer diameter is less than the nominal outer diameter of the skirt.

25. The bottle assembly of claim 24, wherein, the second support ring has a second maximum crimped outer diameter after crimping, and has a second minimum crimped outer diameter after crimping, and wherein a difference between the second maximum crimped outer diameter and the second minimum crimped outer diameter is less than 0.25 mm.

26. The bottle assembly of claim 24, wherein, the first support ring has a first maximum crimped outer diameter after crimping, and wherein the first maximum crimped outer diameter is equal to the first maximum outer diameter.

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