Dispensing closure

Abstract

A dispensing cap (40, 40A, 40B) includes a first body (54, 54A, 54B) for positioning at an opening of a container (44, 44A, 44B) and having a first peripheral wall (56, 56A, 56B) and a diaphragm (60, 60A, 60B) integrally molded with the first peripheral wall (56, 56A, 56B) to initially block passageways to the interior of the container (44, 44A, 44B). The cap (40, 40A, 40B) includes a second body (55, 55A, 55B) for surrounding at least a portion of the first body (54, 55A, 55B) and defining a dispensing orifice (88, 88A, 88B). The first body (54, 54A, 54B) and / or the second body (55, 55A, 55B) includes means for adapting to a user's engagement so as to break only a portion of the diaphragm (60, 60A, 60B) in a direction toward the interior of the container (44, 44A, 44B), thereby allowing access to the interior of the container (44, 44A, 44B).

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 270,374, filed October 21, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to a dispensing cap for use with containers of liquid substances. Background Technology

[0004] A cap is used to selectively prevent or allow communication between the interior and exterior of a container (e.g., a flexible bag, a rigid bottle, a machine, a dispensing device, a containment system, etc.) through an opening in the container. Various liquid and non-liquid substances (including lotions, creams, food items, granules, liquids, powders, small items, etc.) can be packaged in containers. Typical caps include: (1) a body located at the opening leading to the interior of the container (e.g., a screw or snap-fit ​​base, bag fitting, structure, etc.); and (2) a closing element (e.g., a lid, cap, top cover, etc.).

[0005] The cap body can typically be: (1) a separate structure that (a) can be attached to such a container opening and (b) defines at least one access channel through the body to communicate with the interior of such a container through such a container opening; or (2) an integral structure that is an integral part of such a container and defines at least one access channel through the integral structure such that the access channel itself serves as the opening of the container.

[0006] Closure elements typically provide movement relative to the body access channel between (1) a closed position that blocks the access channel and (2) an open position that at least partially exposes the access channel. Some caps may include several additional elements (e.g., tamper-evident features, silicone valves, locking elements, seals, etc.).

[0007] A cap specifically designed for dispensing liquid substances can be described as a dispensing cap. Various liquid materials or substances (including oils, lotions, creams, gels, liquids, food items, granules, powders, etc.) can be packaged in rigid, flexible, or collapsible containers with dispensing caps that can be opened and closed. Users can pressurize the flexible container to force the liquid substance out of the container and through the cap body to dispense the liquid substance at a target area or onto a target surface. The container with the cap and the contents stored within it can be characterized as a "package".

[0008] A fitting cap can provide an initial hermetic seal and / or provide initial tamper protection to indicate to the user that the cap's integrity has been compromised. One type of cap includes a body with a discharge end that defines at least a portion of an inlet channel (which may be, for example, a discharge flow channel) initially sealed with a separable diaphragm. The discharge end of the body may be further covered with a closure element that is a cap or lid that can be removed or moved away from the discharge end, thereby "opening" the discharge end and allowing access to the separable diaphragm. Typically, a separation member, such as a pull tab or pull ring, extends from the diaphragm. The pull tab or pull ring protrudes above the diaphragm. The user first grasps the pull tab or pull ring to pull the diaphragm, thereby separating the diaphragm from the discharge end of the body at the inlet channel to establish communication between the external environment and the interior of the container or other system on which the cap is mounted. A brittle connection or tear path defines a separation line between the diaphragm and the remainder of the cap body. However, such a separable diaphragm may generate additional waste that must be disposed of by the user. Alternatively, some non-separable diaphragms are typically formed by a foil or metal liner sealed between the cap and the container, which does not need to be discarded separately, but this may make the cap and / or container unsuitable for many recirculation flows.

[0009] The inventors of this invention have determined that, at least for some applications, it will be desirable to provide an improved dispensing cap comprising a fragile but indivisible diaphragm located within a relatively small dispensing orifice, which presents an improved appearance to the user.

[0010] The inventors of this invention have also determined that it is desirable to provide an improved application cap with a fragile, but non-separable diaphragm that exhibits improved performance upon breakage from the remainder of the cap body and / or demonstrates a reduction in the force required for the user to initiate tearing or separation of the diaphragm from the remainder of the cap body. Preferably, the non-separable diaphragm will be integrally molded from the same thermoplastic material as the remainder of the cap to improve recyclability.

[0011] The inventors of this invention have also discovered that, for at least some applications, it is desirable to provide an improved application cap that can be manufactured and / or assembled at a relatively low cost, is adaptable to manufacturing by means of efficient, high-speed, high-volume technologies, and facilitates the minimization of the weight of plastic parts.

[0012] The inventors of this invention have discovered how to provide an improved application seal that includes novel advantageous features not previously taught or conceived in the art, and can be adapted to designs having one or more of the benefits or features discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0013] According to a broad aspect of one form of the invention, a dispensing cap is provided for dispensing a substance that may be stored inside a container. The cap includes a first body positioned at an opening of the container. The first body has a first peripheral wall and a diaphragm integrally molded with the first peripheral wall to initially block access to the interior of the container. The cap further includes a second body surrounding at least a portion of the first body and defining a dispensing orifice. The first body and / or the second body includes means for adapting to a user's engagement to disrupt only a portion of the diaphragm in a direction toward the interior of the container, thereby allowing access to the interior of the container.

[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, the device includes a pushing portion rotatably connected to the second body. The pushing portion defines a cantilevered end located above the diaphragm and near the first peripheral wall.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the dispensing cap defines a central axis extending outwardly away from the interior of the container and inwardly toward the interior of the container. The second body further includes a pouring lip extending laterally and axially outwardly around the dispensing orifice, and the pushing portion is recessed and located axially inside the pouring lip.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the invention, the pushing portion is located within the application orifice of the second body.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the pushing portion is hinged to the transverse wall of the second body, and the pushing portion extends axially outward from the transverse wall.

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, the actuating portion includes at least one rib facing the diaphragm and laterally located between the cantilever end and the hinge.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the invention, the application seal defines a central axis extending outward from the interior of the container and inward toward the interior of the container, and the diaphragm includes an annular peripheral portion axially inclined outward along the central axis, and the diaphragm includes a recessed central portion axially inclined inward from the annular peripheral portion toward the central axis.

[0020] In another embodiment of the invention, the device includes a push portion connected to the diaphragm. The first body includes at least one piercing rib extending from the first peripheral wall, whereby a user's push engagement of the push portion forces the diaphragm against the at least one piercing rib, thereby damaging only the portion of the diaphragm adjacent to the at least one piercing rib. Preferably, the first body of the cap includes a plurality of piercing ribs.

[0021] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least one or more piercing ribs terminate in a sharp end located axially outside the first peripheral wall.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the invention, the second body includes a tilting lip extending laterally and axially outward around the dispensing orifice, and the pushing portion is positioned laterally adjacent to the tilting lip. Preferably, the pushing portion is located within the dispensing orifice of the capped second body.

[0023] According to another broad aspect of the invention, a dispensing cap is provided for dispensing a substance that can be stored inside a container. The cap includes a first body positioned at an opening of the container. The first body has a first peripheral wall and a diaphragm integrally molded with the first peripheral wall to initially block passageways to the interior of the container. The cap further includes a second body surrounding at least a portion of the first body and defining a dispensing orifice, and includes a removable lid. The diaphragm and the lid include engagement means whereby an initial opening of the lid by a user separates the diaphragm from the first body, such that the diaphragm is retained within the lid of the second body. Preferably, the engagement means on the first body includes one or more ribs extending from the diaphragm, each rib defining a flange for engaging a portion of the lid. Preferably, the engagement means on the second body includes one or more inner walls extending downward from the interior of the lid, each wall defining a flange for engaging a portion of the diaphragm.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the diaphragm defines a circular, fragile connection.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the diaphragm defines a fragile connection in the shape of a boat with a tapered front and rear end.

[0026] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the diaphragm is defined in a wavy shape to allow for a fragile connection that can be torn from any angle.

[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, the device includes at least one protruding strut connected to the diaphragm and at least one adjacent member connected to the second body, whereby relative rotation between the first body and the second body forces the at least one protruding strut against the at least one adjacent member to disrupt only a portion of the diaphragm in the direction toward the interior of the container.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the cap, the at least one protruding strut has a V-shaped cross-section. Preferably, the diaphragm includes a plurality of protruding struts, and the second body includes a plurality of adjacent members.

[0029] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one protruding strut is connected to the arcuate, fragile section of the diaphragm. In one embodiment, the diaphragm includes a non-fragile central portion.

[0030] In another broad form of the invention, the first body includes a second peripheral wall connected to and surrounding the first peripheral wall. The first and second peripheral walls are used to receive a portion of the container to secure the first body to the opening of the container.

[0031] According to another aspect of the invention, the second body includes a top deck and a skirt extending downward from the top deck to surround a portion of the container. The second body further includes a lid rotatably connected to the top deck.

[0032] In one embodiment of the invention, the second body includes means for non-removably securing it to the first body at the opening of the container. Preferably, the means includes a flexible flange or a snap-fit ​​hem.

[0033] In another form of the invention, the container for the liquid substance is provided with the dispensing cap comprising the first and second bodies, wherein the cap, the container, and the liquid substance together define the packaging.

[0034] It should be understood that the present invention may include any or all of the foregoing features, only one of the foregoing features, more than one of the foregoing features, and any combination of the foregoing features. Furthermore, other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from a reading of the entire specification (including the appended claims and drawings). Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is an exploded isometric view taken from the front and top of a first embodiment of the fitting cap according to the invention, mounted on a portion of the upper part or neck of the container. Figure 1The cap is shown in the closed position.

[0036] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Only the front view of the cap being applied, and Figure 2 The lid is shown in the open position;

[0037] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The right-side front view of the sealing cap;

[0038] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A top view of the application and sealing of the cover;

[0039] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An isometric view of the application and sealing cap taken from the front and top;

[0040] Figure 6 It is the application of the sealing cap along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 6-6, and Figure 6 The pusher of the cover is shown in an actuated position above the unopened diaphragm;

[0041] Figure 7 It is the application of the sealing cap along Figure 4 An isometric cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 7-7;

[0042] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A top view of the application and sealing of the cover, and Figure 8 The pusher is shown in the actuated position, having pierced the diaphragm to allow fluid to flow through the filling orifice of the cap;

[0043] Figure 9 It is the application of the sealing cap along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 9-9;

[0044] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the application seal and a portion of the container, and Figure 10 The actuating member is shown in the actuated position, having pierced the diaphragm.

[0045] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 An isometric cross-sectional view of a portion of the filling cap and container;

[0046] Figure 12 This is an exploded isometric view taken from the front and top of a second embodiment of the fitting cap according to the invention, mounted on a portion of the upper part or neck of the container. Figure 1The cap is shown in the closed position.

[0047] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Isometric views of the filling cap and container taken from the front and top, and Figure 13 The lid is shown in the open position;

[0048] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Front view of the filling cap and container;

[0049] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 The right-side front view of the filling cap and container;

[0050] Figure 16 yes Figure 13 Top view of the filling cap and container;

[0051] Figure 17 It is the application of caps and containers along Figure 16 The cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 17-17, and Figure 17 The pusher of the cover is shown in the unactuated position above the unopened diaphragm;

[0052] Figure 18 It is the application of caps and containers along Figure 16 An isometric cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 18-18;

[0053] Figure 19 yes Figure 13 A top plan view of the filling cap and container, and Figure 19 The pusher is shown in the actuated position, having pierced the diaphragm to allow fluid to flow through the filling orifice of the cap;

[0054] Figure 20 It is the application of the sealing cap along Figure 19 A cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 20-20;

[0055] Figure 21 It is the application of the cap and the partial part of the container along Figure 19 An isometric cross-sectional view taken from observation plane 21-21;

[0056] Figure 22 This is an isometric view taken from the front and top of a third embodiment of the fitting cap according to the invention, mounted on a partial upper portion of the container, and... Figure 22 The cap is shown in the open position;

[0057] Figure 23 yes Figure 22Partial top view of the filling cap and container;

[0058] Figure 24 It is the application of caps and containers along Figure 23 A cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 24-24;

[0059] Figure 25 It is the application of caps and containers along Figure 23 A cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 25-25;

[0060] Figure 26 yes Figure 22 The application of the cap and container is viewed from the front and top isometric views, and Figure 26 Showing the cap and Figure 22 Compared to the already moved position, and the actuated position in which the container has been rotated to the point where the diaphragm has been broken to allow the liquid to flow through the sealed dispensing orifice;

[0061] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 Top view of the cap and container;

[0062] Figure 28 It is the application of caps and containers along Figure 27 A cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 28-28;

[0063] Figure 29 yes Figure 22 An isometric view of the first body or accessory of the cover taken from above, showing the intact diaphragm;

[0064] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 An isometric view of the first body of the cap taken from below, showing the intact diaphragm;

[0065] Figure 31 yes Figure 22 An isometric view of the first body or fitting of the cover taken from above, showing the damaged diaphragm;

[0066] Figure 32 yes Figure 31 An isometric view of the first body of the cap taken from below, showing the damaged diaphragm;

[0067] Figure 33 This is an isometric view taken from above of the fourth embodiment of the application and sealing cap according to the present invention, and Figure 33 The cap is shown in the open position before it is initially moved to the closed position to engage a portion of the removable diaphragm;

[0068] Figure 34 yes Figure 33A top view of the application and sealing of the cover;

[0069] Figure 35 yes Figure 33 The application of the sealing cap along Figure 34 A cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane at 35-35;

[0070] Figure 36 yes Figure 33 The application of the sealing cap along Figure 34 An isometric cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 36-36;

[0071] Figure 37 yes Figure 35 The cross-sectional view of the application seal shown, and Figure 37 The lid is shown moved to a closed position where it engages with a portion of the fragile diaphragm;

[0072] Figure 38 yes Figure 37 The cross-sectional view of the application seal shown, and Figure 38 The lid is shown moved to an open position in which the connection between the lid and the remaining part of the first body has been broken;

[0073] Figure 39 yes Figure 38 An isometric view of the application and sealing cap taken from above, and Figure 39 The lid is shown moved to the fully open position, whereby the diaphragm has been completely removed from the remainder of the first body and remains in the lid;

[0074] Figure 40 yes Figure 39 A top view of the application and sealing of the cover;

[0075] Figure 41 yes Figure 40 The application of the sealing cap along Figure 40 The cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 41-41; and

[0076] Figure 42 yes Figure 40 The application of the sealing cap along Figure 40 An isometric cross-sectional view taken from the observation plane 42-42. Detailed Implementation

[0077] While the invention allows for many different embodiments, this specification and drawings disclose only specific forms as examples of the invention. The invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, and the scope of the invention will be set forth in the appended claims.

[0078] For ease of description, the accompanying drawings of the present invention illustrate embodiments of an applied cap (or simply “cap”) 40 in a typical orientation that the cap 40 will have when positioned (i.e., mounted, attached, etc.) at the opening of a container 44 such as an upright bottle, and terms such as “inward,” “outward,” “upper,” “lower,” “axial,” “radial,” “lateral,” etc., are used with reference to this orientation. The term “axially inward” should be understood as the direction along the central axis “A” extending vertically through the center of the diaphragm of the cap 40 toward the interior of the container 44 when the cap 40 is mounted on top of the opening of the container 44. Figure 1 (Middle, downward). The term "axially outward" should be understood as the opposite direction along the central axis "A" away from the interior of container 44 (in Figure 1 (Centering, upward). The term "radially inward" should be understood as a radial direction toward the central axis "A". The term "radially outward" should be understood as a radial direction away from the central axis "A". The term "laterally inward" should be understood as a direction toward the central axis "A" in a plane normal to the central axis "A". The term "laterally outward" should be understood as a direction away from the central axis "A" in a plane normal to the central axis "A". However, it will be understood that the cap of the present invention can be manufactured, stored, transported, used, and sold in orientations other than the specific orientations described and illustrated herein.

[0079] The dispensing cap of the present invention is particularly suitable for use with a variety of conventional or special containers, the details of which, although not fully illustrated or described, will be apparent to those skilled in the art and to those who understand such containers. The specific containers illustrated are not intended to limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will also understand that novel and non-obvious inventive aspects are embodied solely in the described cap.

[0080] The application capping described herein is particularly suitable for the application of liquid substances. Such applied liquid substances can be, for example, food additives, personal care products, industrial products, household products, or other types of products. These substances can be used internally or externally by humans or animals, or for other purposes (e.g., in pharmaceutical, commercial or household maintenance, agricultural, manufacturing, and other activities).

[0081] The first illustrated embodiment of the dispensing cap 40 of the present invention has the form of an assembly of parts or articles configured to (i) selectively place or mount on a container (such as...) Figure 1 as well as Figure 10-11The container 44 is (ii) partially broken or damaged at its opening to allow communication through the dispensing orifice, and (iii) actuated to dispense a liquid substance from the interior of the container through the exposed dispensing orifice. The illustrated container 44 has the form of a bottle typically used to hold liquid substances. The liquid substance to be dispensed from the cap 40 is not shown in the figures because the substance can take many forms. The cap 40 can be attached to the container 44 by means of removable or non-removable means or features such as mating threads, snap-fit ​​crimps and grooves, toggle clamps, friction attachments, locks, adhesives, welding, non-removable flanges (as illustrated), etc.

[0082] It will be understood that container 44 can be any conventional type, such as a foldable flexible pouch, or it can be a generally rigid bottle with slightly flexible walls. Container 44, or a portion thereof, can be made of a material suitable for the intended application. For example, the container can be a pouch made of a thin, flexible material (wherein such material may be polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film or polyethylene film and / or aluminum foil). Alternatively, a more rigid container (e.g., a bottle) can be made of a thicker, less flexible material, such as molded polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, glass, metal, or other materials.

[0083] The concept is that, typically, after the cap manufacturer produces the fitting cap 40 (e.g., by molding its parts from one or more thermoplastic polymers), the manufacturer then ships the cap 40 to a filling facility at another location, where the container 44 will be filled with the product, assembled with the cap 40, and sealed in the form of packaging that the customer or user will encounter.

[0084] Reference Appendix Figure 1 The first illustrated embodiment of the fitting cap 40 includes the following main components: (i) a fitting or first body 54 for reception within the opening of the container 44; and (ii) a top cap or second body 55 for surrounding and covering at least a portion of the first body 54. As will be discussed in more detail below, once the second body 55 has been opened, the user can partially break the diaphragm or sealing portion 60 of the first body 54 only in an axially inward direction (downward along the central axis "A") to allow fluid to pass from the interior of the container 44 through the open cap 40.

[0085] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 11The fitting or first body 54 of the cap 40 is cylindrical and has a cup-like shape. The first body 54 includes an annular insert wall or first peripheral wall 56 for receiving within and sealingly contacting the opening of the container 44. The first body 54 further includes a second peripheral wall 58 connected to and surrounding the first peripheral wall 56. The first and second peripheral walls 56 and 58 define an annular notch therebetween for receiving a portion of the container 44 near its opening. A laterally inwardly extending rolled edge 59 (in...) Figure 11 An attachment device in the form of (visible in the image) is located on the second peripheral wall 58 for engaging with a laterally outwardly extending flange 45 located on the neck portion 46 of the container 44. In addition to the flange 59, other common or special devices for attaching the first body 54 to the container 44 may be used, such as mating threads, flanges, adhesives, welds, ribs, friction attachments, etc.

[0086] refer to Figure 6 The sealing disc or diaphragm 60 is connected to the bottom end of the first peripheral wall 56 via a brittle or thinned (reduced) material connection 61. When the first body 54 is mounted on the container 44, the diaphragm 60 extends radially inward from the connection 61 to seal the opening of the container 44. Figure 6 (Not shown in the image).

[0087] like Figure 6 As further illustrated, the diaphragm 60 includes an annular peripheral portion 68 positioned adjacent to a first peripheral wall 56, and tilted axially outward (away from the container interior) along the central axis "A" when moved radially away from the first peripheral wall 56. The diaphragm 60 further includes a recessed central portion 70 tilted axially inward (towards the container interior) in a direction from the annular peripheral portion 68 toward the central axis "A".

[0088] It will be understood that although the diaphragm 60 is generally disc-shaped in the illustrated preferred embodiment of the cap 40, the diaphragm 60 may have other non-circular shapes for closing the non-circular opening defined by the wall 56.

[0089] Now for reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The top cover 40 or the second body 55 is typically cylindrical, hollow, and surrounds several portions of the fitting or the first body 54. The second body 55 defines a fitting port 88. Figure 6 Before the diaphragm 60 is partially damaged or ruptured from the first peripheral wall 56, the dispensing orifice 88 is blocked or covered by the diaphragm 60 of the first body 54. The pouring lip 89 ( Figure 6 ) Around the perimeter of the application orifice 88 from the top plate 92 ( Figure 6Extending axially and laterally outward and defining a pouring path, it guides the flow of fluid material through the second body 55 when the diaphragm 60 is damaged.

[0090] The top plate 92 of the second body 55 is connected to the outer wall or skirt 93. When the assembled cap 40 is installed at the opening of the container 44, the outer wall or skirt 93 surrounds the top 46 of the container 44 and the first body 54 (e.g., Figure 10 and Figure 11 (As illustrated in the figure). The second body 55 further includes means for adapting to a user engagement so as to break only a portion of the diaphragm 60 in an axially inward direction toward the interior of the container 44. In the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40, a preferred means is a push portion 94, which is rotatably connected to the remainder of the second body 55 via a membrane or movable hinge 95 connected to a transverse wall 96 extending across a portion of the orifice 88. The push portion 94 defines a shovel-shaped or cantilevered end 97 in an unactuated molded configuration ( Figure 6 In this configuration, the shovel-shaped or cantilevered end 97 is axially positioned above the diaphragm 60, close to the connection 61 with the first peripheral wall 56 of the first body 54. As will be discussed in more detail below, the arrangement of the push portion 94 allows the user of the cap 40 to easily separate or break only a portion of the diaphragm 60 without completely separating and removing the diaphragm 60 from the cap 40, and avoids the difficulties caused by the foil liner in the current recycling flow. The end 97 is shaped to guide the broken diaphragm 60 to tear in a predetermined area close to the thinning connection 61. The push portion 94 may include markings to indicate to the user the mechanical input required to actuate the push portion 94 to break the diaphragm 60.

[0091] Now for reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The second body 55 further includes an attachment device in the form of a rolled edge or protrusion 98 for engaging with a corresponding annular flange or shoulder 99 extending laterally outward from the neck 46 of the container 44. It will be understood that the second body 55 may have other removable or non-removable attachment devices or features for securing the body 55 to the container 44 and / or the first body 54, such as mating threads, deformable and non-removable bands or flanges, toggle clamps, friction attachments, locks, adhesives, welds, etc.

[0092] Now for reference Figure 7 The second body 55 includes a cover 100, which is connected to the top plate 92 via a hinge 104. The hinge 104 is integrally molded at the top plate 92 with the cover 100 and the second body 55 to accommodate the cover 100 in an open position that exposes the dispensing orifice 88 (e.g., Figure 7 ) and the closed position of the dispensing orifice 88 of the second body 55 (e.g., Figure 1Movement between the hinges. The hinge 104 can have any suitable conventional or special design. For example, the hinge 104 illustrated in the figures can be a conventional snap-action type such as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,356,017 or U.S. Patent No. 5,642,824, the details of which are not part of this invention. The hinge 104 can also be a non-snap-action type, such as a strap or cord. The cover 100 includes an annular wall 106 terminating at a top end 107. The top end 107 includes a hollow plug seal 108 that extends axially inward from the top end 107 to seal the fitting orifice 88 when the cover 100 is in its closed position. A second body 55 in the region surrounding the fitting orifice 88 and / or the cover plug seal 108 is flexible enough to accommodate resilient deformation to establish a leak-proof seal therebetween. The cover 100 can have other latching devices, such as snap-fit ​​crimps, locks, tabs, etc. The cover 100 can be engaged with the second body 55 in a completely removable manner, such as by screw threads, friction, or snap-fit ​​engagement with a rolled edge. In some less preferred applications, the cover 100 can be omitted entirely.

[0093] The second body 55 may optionally include one or more protrusions (not shown) that can increase the force required to move the pushing portion 94 from its unacted position above the diaphragm 60 (e.g., Figure 6 (As shown in the diagram) moved to the actuation position where it has already inwardly damaged the diaphragm 60 to expose the application orifice 88 (as shown in the diagram). Figure 9 (as illustrated in the diagram), and further holds the push portion 94 in a deflected position to maintain an open flow path through the cover 40. When the push portion 94 is actuated, these protrusions preferably provide an auditory and / or tactile sensation to the user of the cover 40. It will be understood that these protrusions may be unbreakable abutments extending from the transverse wall 93 and / or the push portion 94, and resist movement of the push portion 94 relative to the transverse wall 93.

[0094] Now for reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The push portion 94 is provided with ribs 114 to limit the inward movement of the push portion 94 and the diaphragm 60 during operation, and to provide sufficient rigidity to transmit the force of the user's fingers through the push portion 94 to the cantilever end 97 and the diaphragm 60. It can be further seen that the push portion 94 has an advantageously low profile or axial height (outward along the central axis "A") and is axially located below the pouring lip 89, which reduces the need for a relatively high cap 100.

[0095] The first body 54 and the second body 55 of the cap 40 are preferably formed or molded from a suitable thermoplastic material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene. Preferably, the first body 54 and the second body 55 are molded from the same polymer to improve the recyclability of the cap 40. Alternatively, other materials may be used. It will be understood that in alternative designs (not shown), one or more of these basic components or sub-components may be formed or molded individually or sequentially (e.g., by two-injection molding). Alternatively, in a non-preferred embodiment, these basic components may initially be molded as a single, connected monolithic structure and then disassembled and then reassembled into an operable combination or assembly.

[0096] The following describes a method of assembling a cap 40 with a container 44 for a liquid substance to form the packaging that a customer or user will encounter. It will be understood that the assembly method described herein is merely illustrative, and other methods of assembling packaging may exist. The cap 40, comprising a first body 54 and a second body 55, is preferably molded as a separate article and can be transported individually or as a sub-assembly (i.e., wherein the first body 54 is loosely held within the bottom of the second body 55) to a filling facility. Prior to transport, the plug seal 108 of the cap 100 can be positioned to seal frictionally engage with the dispensing orifice 88 of the second body 55. The filling facility then fills the interior of the container 44 with a predetermined amount or dose of the dispensing substance (not shown). The first and second peripheral walls 56 and 58 of the first body 54 are axially mounted around the neck 46 of the container 44 such that the crimp 59 of the first body 54 engages with and slides beneath the crimp 45 of the container 44, and the first peripheral wall 56 seals against the opening of the container 44.

[0097] Then, the top cap or second body 55 is axially mounted around the top of the container 44 such that the non-removable attachment crimp 98 slides beneath and engages the underside of the flange 99 on the neck 46 of the container 44, such that the cantilever end 97 of the push portion 94 is axially positioned above the inclined peripheral portion 68 of the diaphragm 60. Advantageously, the inventive design of the cap 40 does not require the first and second bodies 54 and 55 to be oriented in any particular rotational arrangement, thereby reducing the cost and complexity of assembling the cap 40.

[0098] Therefore, the filled container 44, in which the cap 40 is installed in the closed position, is provided to the consumer in the form of a complete package.

[0099] The detailed operation and function of the cap 40 will be described next. Typically, users (such as customers) will encounter situations where the cap 100 is in the closed position (e.g., as...). Figure 1The lid 100 shown is mounted on the liquid container 44 as a cover 40 for packaging. The user will open the lid 100 by rotating it to the open position relative to the top plate 92 about the hinge 104, so that the plug seal 108 is disengaged from the filling port 88.

[0100] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 9 The user then presses down on the push portion 94 with their finger or thumb. The downward force acting on the push portion 94 overcomes any resistance from any protrusions (not shown), thus providing the user with a tactile and / or auditory indication. Further contact with the push portion 94 drives the free end 97 of the cantilever to abut against the inclined peripheral portion 68 of the diaphragm, initiating the tearing or breaking of the connection 61 between the diaphragm 60 and the remainder of the first body 54. As the user continues to press the push portion 94 inward, the diaphragm 60 folds or deflects inward toward the interior of the container 44 while remaining attached to the first body 54 in a position opposite the pouring lip 89. The arrangement of the first body 54 and the second body 55 advantageously provides the user of the cap 40 with a clear indication of tamper resistance.

[0101] The user can grasp and tilt the container 44 and pour a certain amount of liquid material from the inside of the container 44 through the exposed orifice 88 along the pouring path defined by the pouring lip 89.

[0102] After the liquid substance is dispensed through the cap 40, the user can then return the cap 100 to its closed position by rotating the cap 100 about the hinge 104 relative to the top plate 92, so that the cap plug seal 108 reseals around the orifice 88.

[0103] A second embodiment of the cap 40A according to the present invention is illustrated in... Figure 12-21 The cap 40A has an actuating configuration for allowing dispensing through the cap 40A. The sealing arrangement between the first body 54A and the second body 55A is otherwise identical to the first embodiment of the cap 40 previously discussed. Similar elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40 and the second illustrated embodiment of the cap 40A are indicated by the same reference numerals (the numbering features of the first embodiment have no suffix, while the numbering features of the second embodiment have an "A" suffix). The second illustrated embodiment of the cap 40A has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40, namely the first body 54A installed within the opening of the container 44A and the second body 55A covering the first body 54A.

[0104] refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18The second illustrated embodiment of the cap 40A differs from the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40 in that the first body 54A includes a modified structure comprising a disc-shaped push portion 62A connected to and extending axially outward above the diaphragm 60A. The first body 54A further includes a plurality of wedge-shaped piercing ribs 68A extending radially inward from the first peripheral wall 56A below the diaphragm 60A. Each piercing rib 68 terminates in a pointed end located axially outward (i.e., above) of the first peripheral wall 56A. The push portion 40A is advantageously laterally adjacent to the dispensing orifice 88A of the second body 55A, thereby providing a favorable low profile or axial height for the cap 40A, which eliminates the need for a relatively tall cap 100A.

[0105] refer to Figure 20 The diaphragm 60A is flexible enough that a user's finger or thumb can axially drive the diaphragm 60A and the push portion 62A inward against the engagement of the push portion 62A to tear or break the portion of the diaphragm adjacent to the puncture rib 68A. The puncture rib 68A inherently stops or restricts the axial inward movement of the push portion 62A. Liquid substances stored in the container 44A can flow through the torn or broken portion of the diaphragm 60A between the puncture ribs 68A. Tearing the diaphragm 60A advantageously provides a clear tamper-evident indication to the user of the cap 40A. The first body 54A and / or the second body 55A may be provided with a locking mechanism or engaging protrusion to hold the push portion 62A in its actuated deflection position to ensure sufficient flow through the dispensing orifice 88A.

[0106] refer to Figure 17 The first body 54A of the cap 40A preferably does not have any second peripheral wall connected to and surrounding the first peripheral wall 56A. However, it will be understood that in some applications, such a second peripheral wall may be provided, which functions like the wall 58 in the first embodiment of the cap 40.

[0107] The first body 54A and the second body 55A of the cap 40A are preferably formed or molded from a suitable thermoplastic material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene. Alternatively, other materials may be used. It will be understood that in alternative designs (not shown), one or more of these basic components or sub-components may be formed or molded individually or sequentially (e.g., by two-injection molding). Alternatively, in a non-preferred embodiment, these basic components may initially be molded as a single, connected monolithic structure and then disassembled and then reassembled into a functional combination or assembly. Preferably, the first body 54A and the second body 55A are molded from the same polymer to improve recycling.

[0108] The third embodiment of the cap 40B according to the present invention is illustrated in... Figure 22-32 In this embodiment, compared to the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40, it has a modified configuration of a first body 54B and a second body 55B, which can present different modes of actuation of the cap 40B to the user. Similar elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40 and the third illustrated embodiment of the cap 40B are indicated by the same reference numerals (the numbering features of the first embodiment have no suffix, while the numbering features of the third embodiment have a "B" suffix). The third illustrated embodiment of the cap 40B has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40, namely, an accessory or first body 54B installed in the opening of the container 44B and a top cap or second body 55B covering the first body 54B.

[0109] Now for reference Figure 23 and Figure 27 The third illustrated embodiment of the cap 40B differs from the first illustrated embodiment in that the cap 40B is initially actuated by rotation of the second body 55B relative to the first body 54B (causing the diaphragm 60B to break). While the snap-fit ​​connection between the first body 54B and the container 44B allows relative rotation, the snap-fit ​​connection between the second body 55B and the first body 54B allows axial rotation of the second body 55B relative to the first body 54B.

[0110] like Figure 23 and Figure 27 As can be seen, the relative rotation of the first body 54B and the second body 55B by the user has the following effect: one of the spokes or adjacent members 110B driving the second body 55B abuts against a corresponding one of the protruding struts 62B that project axially outward from the diaphragm 60B. The struts 62B have a V-shaped cross-section configuration (in a plane normal to the central axis "A", as shown in...). Figure 23 (Observation in China).

[0111] refer to Figure 23 and Figure 29 As can be seen, each of the pillars 62B is connected to an arc-shaped or kidney-shaped fragile section 66B, which is separated from the remainder of the diaphragm 60B by a fragile connection or tearing path 61B.

[0112] refer to Figure 28 and Figure 31 The continued relative rotation of the first body 54B and the second body 55B drives the support column 62B to abut against the adjacent member 110B, thereby tearing or breaking the connection 61B of the fragile section 66B. Figure 31This forces the support 62B and the fragile section 66B downward toward the interior of the container, exposing the interior of the container 44B. The fragile section 66B advantageously retains its connection to the remaining portion of the diaphragm 60B and is supported by the non-fragile central portion 68B. The permissible angular travel of the second body 55B relative to the first body 54B can be configured according to the application and can be limited by positive stops on both the first and second bodies 54B.

[0113] The arrangement of the first body 54B and the second body 55B advantageously provides the user of the cap 40B with clear instructions on how to prevent tampering.

[0114] The inventors have discovered that the embodiments of caps 40, 40A, and 40B described above can have several advantages over prior art caps and removable diaphragm caps for foil-lined packaging. The entire package on which caps 40, 40A, and 40B are mounted can be recycled without any separately discarded parts. Accessories or first bodies 54, 54A, and 54B can be sized to fit various orifice sizes and are not limited by the minimum diameter of the finger-sized pull tab required to accommodate the removable diaphragm cap. The actuation force and method for breaking diaphragms 60, 60A, and 60B are designed to be more suitable for aging populations who may have difficulty removing pull tabs and / or removing the foil lining. The broken diaphragms 60, 60A, and 60B indicate whether the packaging has been previously opened, allow sufficient product flow, allow liquids to drain back into containers 44, 44A, and 44B after dispensing, and do not affect the external aesthetics of caps 40, 40A, and 40B.

[0115] Furthermore, the caps 40, 40A do not require any specific rotational orientation between the first bodies 54, 54A, the second bodies 55, 55A, and / or the containers 44, 44A. Advantageously, the user's pushing or pressing to open the engagement of the caps 40, 40A is intuitive for the consumer, especially when there are clear opening markings or instructions on the pushing portion 94 of the cap 40 or the pushing portion 62A of the cap 40A.

[0116] Regarding the cap 40B, the product can be used without opening the cap 100B, which prevents splashing or contamination of the orifice 88B when the diaphragm 60B is broken.

[0117] The fourth embodiment of the cap 40C according to the present invention is illustrated in... Figure 33-42In this fourth illustrated embodiment of the cap 40, compared to the first illustrated embodiment, it has a substantially modified configuration of a first body 54C and a second body 55C, which can present different modes of actuation of the cap 40C to the user. Similar elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40 and the fourth illustrated embodiment of the cap 40C are indicated by the same reference numerals (the numbering features of the first embodiment have no suffix, while the numbering features of the fourth embodiment have a "C" suffix). The fourth illustrated embodiment of the cap 40C has the same basic elements as the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40, namely, an accessory or first body 54C for installation within the opening of the container 44C and a top cap or second body 55C covering the first body 54C.

[0118] Now for reference Figure 37 , Figure 38 and Figure 41 The fourth illustrated embodiment of the cap 40C differs from the first illustrated embodiment of the cap 40 in that the cap 40C is initially actuated by opening the cap 100C for the first time (causing the diaphragm 60C to break), causing the diaphragm 60C to break or tear from the first body 54C to remain attached to the cap 100C of the second body 55C. It will be understood that although the cap 100C is rotatably connected to the top plate 92C of the second body 54C via a hinge 104C, the cap 100C can be attached by screw threads, tethers, or other removable means.

[0119] The diaphragm 60C includes a plurality of axially upwardly extending ribs 62C, each of which includes a radially outwardly extending flange 66C for engaging one or more mating structures on the cap 100C. Specifically, the cap 100C includes an inner wall 120C located inside the sealing plug wall 108C and extending axially inwardly or downwardly from the top end 107C. The inner wall 120C includes a radially inwardly extending flange or flange 124C for engaging the flanges 66C of the ribs 62C. The engagement force of the mating flanges 66C and 124C is strong enough to ensure that the connection 61C between the diaphragm 60C and the remainder of the first body 54C fails or tears before disengagement of the flanges 66C and 124C can occur. Therefore, the user rotating the cover 100C relative to the top plate 92C of the second body 55C has the following effect: it breaks the connection 61C to allow the diaphragm 60C to be removed from the remainder of the first body 54C in order to expose the application port 88C. Figure 40Importantly, the diaphragm 60C remains attached to the lid 100C of the opened cap 40C to eliminate additional waste that would otherwise need to be disposed of separately by the user. While the diaphragm 60C is provided with multiple ribs 62C, it will be understood that in some applications (not shown), the diaphragm 60C may have only a single rib 62C extending from it. Similarly, it will be understood that in some applications (not shown), the cap 100C may have multiple inner walls 120C extending downward therefrom to engage one or more ribs 62C of the diaphragm 60C.

[0120] refer to Figure 36 As can be seen, the connection 61C that separates the diaphragm 60C from the annular plug wall or the first peripheral wall 56C is circular, and the separated diaphragm 60C has a disc-like shape when completely separated from the remainder of the first body 54C. In other forms of the invention (not shown), the fragile connection may be boat-shaped to allow directional pouring through the dispensing orifice 88C when the cap 100C is opened; or the fragile connection may have a series of arcuate floral corrugations, which would allow tearing to begin from many different orientations to reduce the tear initiation force.

[0121] The presence of a diaphragm 60C on the underside of the cap 100C advantageously provides the user of the cap 40C with a clear indication of tamper protection.

[0122] Other configurations of the invention are set forth in the claims.

[0123] Various modifications and variations to this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Illustrative embodiments and examples of the system are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A dispensing cap for dispensing a substance that can be stored inside a container, the dispensing cap comprising: A first body for positioning at the opening of a container, the first body having a first peripheral wall and a diaphragm, the diaphragm being integrally molded with the first peripheral wall to initially block passageways to the interior of the container. A second body is used to surround at least a portion of the first body and define an application orifice; and The first body and / or the second body includes means for adapting to a user's engagement so as to break only a portion of the diaphragm in a direction toward the interior of the container, thereby allowing access to the interior of the container; The device includes a push portion connected to the diaphragm, and the first body includes at least one piercing rib extending from the first peripheral wall, whereby a user's push engagement of the push portion forces the diaphragm against the at least one piercing rib, thereby damaging only the portion of the diaphragm adjacent to the at least one piercing rib.

2. The application cap according to claim 1, wherein the first body includes a plurality of piercing ribs.

3. The dispensing cap of claim 1, wherein the second body includes a pouring lip extending laterally and axially outward around the dispensing orifice, and the pushing portion is laterally adjacent to the pouring lip.

4. The application cap according to claim 1, wherein the pushing portion is located within the application orifice of the second body.

5. The application seal according to claim 1, wherein the at least one piercing rib terminates in a sharp end located axially outside the first peripheral wall.

6. The application seal of claim 1, wherein the first body further includes a second peripheral wall connected to and surrounding the first peripheral wall, the first peripheral wall and the second peripheral wall being used to receive a portion of the container to secure the first body at the opening of the container.

7. The application cap of claim 1, wherein the second body includes a top plate and a skirt extending downward from the top plate to surround a portion of the container, the second body including a cap rotatably connected to the top plate.

8. The application cap according to claim 1, wherein the second body includes means for irremovably securing it to the first body at the opening of the container.

9. The dispensing cap according to claim 1, in conjunction with a container for the liquid substance, wherein the dispensing cap, the container, and the liquid substance together define the packaging.

10. A dispensing cap for dispensing a substance that can be stored inside a container, the dispensing cap comprising: A first body for positioning at the opening of a container, the first body having a first peripheral wall and a diaphragm, the diaphragm being integrally molded with the first peripheral wall to initially block passageways to the interior of the container. A second body is used to surround at least a portion of the first body and define an application orifice; and The first body and / or the second body includes means for adapting to a user's engagement so as to break only a portion of the diaphragm in a direction toward the interior of the container, thereby allowing access to the interior of the container; The device includes at least one protruding strut connected to the diaphragm and at least one adjacent member connected to the second body, whereby relative rotation between the first body and the second body forces the at least one protruding strut against the at least one adjacent member to destroy only a portion of the diaphragm in the direction toward the interior of the container.

11. The application seal of claim 10, wherein the application seal defines a central axis extending outwardly away from the interior of the container and inwardly toward the interior of the container, and the at least one protruding post has a V-shaped cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the central axis.

12. The application seal of claim 10, wherein the diaphragm includes a plurality of projecting struts, and the second body includes a plurality of adjacent members.

13. The application seal according to claim 10, wherein the at least one protruding support is connected to the arcuate fragile section of the diaphragm.

14. The application seal according to claim 10, wherein the diaphragm includes a non-breakable central portion.

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