Dispensing valve

Abstract

A TPE valve includes a head having a central axis and having an inner surface, an outer surface, and at least one self-sealing slit. The valve includes a peripheral attachment portion laterally spaced from the head and an intermediate portion extending laterally from the head to the peripheral attachment portion. The intermediate portion has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the head and the inner surface of the intermediate portion intersect at a first circular intersection line. The outer surface of the head and the outer surface of the intermediate portion intersect at a second circular intersection line. The first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are spaced by an axial distance of no greater than about 0.30 mm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to dispensing valves and systems and more particularly to valves for dispensing a product from a container or other source and, in a more particular application, to such valves suitable for use in dispensing closures for flexible containers that are squeezable to create a pressure differential across the valve. Background Art

[0002] A type of valve is a flexible, elastic, self-closing, slit-type valve that can be installed at an opening or port of a package or container of a flowing material, or alternatively installed in a conduit for a flowing material. Such valves typically have a single slit or have multiple slits that define a normally closed orifice in an initial closed configuration or state. In response to sufficient pressure differentials acting on the opposite sides of the valve, or in response to mechanical engagement of sufficiently rigid articles (such as probes, sleeves, conduits, or feed / discharge tools) inserted through the valve, the orifice opens to allow flow therethrough. Such valves that open in response to pressure differentials are typically designed so that they automatically close to seal or cut off flow therethrough in response to sufficient reduction of the pressure differential acting on the valve. Similarly, mechanically engageable valves are typically designed so that they automatically close to seal or cut off flow therethrough when the engaging article is removed.

[0003] The design of such valve and the closure member using such valve is described in U.S. Patent No 5,839,614 and No 8,678,249. The description of these patents is incorporated herein by reference to the extent relevant and to the extent not contradictory with this paper. Usually, the closure member includes a main body or base mounted on the neck of the container to define a seat for receiving the valve, and the closure member includes a retaining ring or other structure for holding the valve on the seat in the base. For example, referring to U.S. Patent No. 6,269,986. The valve is normally closed and can bear the weight of the flowing product when the container is completely inverted, so that the liquid will not leak unless the container is squeezed. Utilizing such system, the lid or cap does not need to be reclosed (although the lid or cap is usually reclosed when the packaging is to be transported to another place, packed in a suitcase, etc.).

[0004] Conventional valves are suitable for use with flowing substances such as liquids and gases, including beverages, lotions and creams in particular. Conventional valves are preferably molded into an integral structure (i.e., a single piece structure) from a single substance or material that is flexible, pliable, resilient, and elastic. This typically includes silicone rubber, such as that sold by Dow Corning Corporation under the trade names DC99-595 and RBL-9595-40. Another suitable silicone rubber material is sold by Wacker Silicone Company under the name Wacker 3003-40.

[0005] Typically, such conventional valves are not formed of the same type of plastic as the accompanying closure and / or container, which may present difficulties during recycling. For example, prior to or during the recycling process, the conventional valve may need to be disassembled from the retaining ring, closure and / or container.

[0006] The inventors of the present invention have discovered that, at least in some applications, valves formed from thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) can advantageously be more easily recyclable than conventional silicone valves, but may have undesirable performance (e.g., insufficient closure force, etc.) before, during, or after dispensing of a flowable substance through a TPE valve compared to conventional valves.

[0007] The inventors of the present invention have determined that for at least some applications where some types of fluent substances are contained within packages or containers, it may be desirable to provide a TPE valve that can appropriately perform the functions of a conventional valve.

[0008] The inventors of the present invention have also determined that, at least for one or more types of applications, it is desirable to provide an improved TPE valve that can be configured for use with a flowable material container to have one or more of the following advantages: (1) ease of manufacture and / or assembly, (2) relatively low cost of manufacture and / or assembly, (3) increased ease of recyclability, and (4) adaptability of valve manufacturing to produce valves with consistent operating characteristics using efficient, high-quality, high-volume techniques with reduced product scrap rates.

[0009] The inventors of the present invention have discovered how to provide a valve that includes novel, advantageous features not heretofore taught or contemplated by the prior art, and that can be adapted to designs having one or more of the above-mentioned advantages or features. Summary of the invention

[0010] The inventors of the present invention have discovered how to provide an improved valve formed from one or more TPE materials that has improved performance and recyclability compared to conventional valves made from TPE or other materials. The valve of the present invention can be assembled with or disposed in a package or container of a fluent substance or a fluid handling system (such as a fluent substance dispensing system) that has an opening between the exterior and interior of the container or system at which the valve can be assembled. The valve can also be used within a fluent substance container or system that utilizes a probe, cannula, conduit (e.g., a feed / discharge tool), or another engaging item that is mechanically inserted through the valve.

[0011] According to a broad aspect of the present invention, the valve of the present invention is a flexible elastic slit valve for allowing a fluent product to be selectively distributed from an internal environment to an external environment. The valve includes a flexible elastic head centered on a central axis and extending laterally from the central axis. The head has an inner surface facing the internal environment, a concave outer surface facing the external environment, and at least one self-sealing slit passing through the head. The head has an openable portion relative to at least one slit to define a normally closed orifice in an unconstrained state, wherein the openable portion can be moved to an open orifice configuration in a first direction toward the external environment and returned to a closed configuration in the opposite direction. The valve further includes an annular peripheral attachment portion centered on the central axis and laterally spaced from the head. The valve includes an annular flexible elastic middle portion centered on the central axis and extending laterally from the head to the peripheral attachment portion. The middle portion has an inner surface facing the internal environment and an outer surface facing the external environment. The inner surface of the head and the inner surface of the middle portion intersect at a first circular intersection line. The outer surface of the head portion and the outer surface of the middle portion intersect at a second circular intersection line. In the closed configuration of the valve, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance of no more than about 0.30 mm. At least the head portion and the middle portion of the valve are formed of a thermoplastic elastomer. More preferably, in the closed configuration of the valve, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance of no more than about 0.05 mm.

[0012] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the closed configuration of the valve, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are located at substantially the same position along the central axis.

[0013] According to another aspect of the invention, in the closed configuration of the valve, the first circular intersection line is located axially inward (closer to the interior of the container) of the second circular intersection line along the central axis.

[0014] According to yet another aspect of the invention, in the closed configuration of the valve, the second circular intersection line is located axially inwardly (closer to the interior of the container) of the first circular intersection line along the central axis.

[0015] In one form of the invention, the interior surface of the head defines a laterally outwardly facing peripheral region that flares laterally outwardly from the first circular intersection line along the central axis in a direction away from the external environment.

[0016] In another form of the invention, at least a portion of the head portion is substantially thicker than any portion of the middle portion of the valve.

[0017] According to yet another form of the invention, the head portion, the peripheral attachment portion and the intermediate portion of the valve are integrally molded from a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0018] In another form of the invention, the valve openable portion is configured to move from the open orifice configuration to the closed configuration when the pressure differential between the internal environment and the external environment acting on the head is about 2200 Pascals.

[0019] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, at least the head portion and the middle portion of the valve are formed of one of TPE-s or TPE-o materials.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, at least the head and the middle portion of the valve are formed from one of TPE-u or TPE-v materials.

[0021] In one presently preferred form of the invention, in the closed configuration of the valve, the first circular intersection line has a first diameter and the second circular intersection line has a second diameter, and a ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 1.09.

[0022] In another form of the invention, the intermediate portion has a substantially J-shaped cross-section when viewed in a plane containing the central axis.

[0023] According to another form of the invention, a valve is provided in combination with a closure and retaining ring as a subassembly for use with a container of a fluent substance.

[0024] According to yet another form of the invention, a valve is provided in combination with a closure and a container of a fluent substance, wherein the valve, closure and container of the fluent substance define a package.

[0025] According to another broad aspect of the present invention, the present invention includes a subassembly of a closure, a valve, and a retaining ring for maintaining the valve in the closure. The valve is a flexible, elastic slit valve for allowing a fluent product to be selectively dispensed from an internal environment to an external environment. The valve includes a flexible, elastic head centered on a central axis and extending laterally from the central axis. The head has an inner surface facing the internal environment, a concave outer surface facing the external environment, and at least one self-sealing slit passing through the head. The head has an openable portion relative to at least one slit to define a normally closed orifice in an unconstrained state, wherein the openable portion can be moved in a first direction toward the external environment to an open orifice configuration and returned to a closed configuration in the opposite direction. The valve further includes an annular peripheral attachment portion centered on the central axis and laterally spaced from the head and engaged by the retaining ring and the closure. The valve includes an annular, flexible, elastic middle portion centered on the central axis and extending laterally from the head to the peripheral attachment portion. The middle portion has an inner surface facing the internal environment and an outer surface facing the external environment. The inner surface of the head and the inner surface of the middle portion intersect at a first circular intersection line. The outer surface of the head and the outer surface of the middle portion intersect at a second circular intersection line. In the closed configuration of the valve, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance of no more than about 0.30 mm. The valve is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer so that the subassembly of the closure, valve, and retainer can be recovered without disassembly. Preferably, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance of no more than about 0.05 mm.

[0026] Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, the claims and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] In the accompanying drawings which form a part of this specification, like reference numerals are used to designate like parts throughout the drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is an enlarged exploded isometric view taken from above of a first embodiment of a valve according to the invention before assembly with a closure and a retaining ring, and Figure 1 The closure is shown in an open state and the valve is shown in an unstressed, closed state or configuration;

[0029] Figure 2 The assembled Figure 1 an enlarged cross-sectional view of a valve, closure and retaining ring;

[0030] Figure 3 It is obtained from above only Figure 1An enlarged isometric view of a valve;

[0031] Figure 4 Obtained from below Figure 3 An enlarged isometric view of a valve;

[0032] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An enlarged top plan view of a valve;

[0033] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 An enlarged bottom plan view of the valve;

[0034] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 An enlarged side view of a valve;

[0035] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the valve shown taken along plane 8-8;

[0036] Fig. 9 yes Figure 5 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the valve shown taken along plane 9-9;

[0037] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 The valve is marked as " Fig.10 ” is a significantly enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the circled portion thereof; and

[0038] Fig.11 is a greatly enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a second embodiment of a valve according to the present invention, and Fig.11 Similar to Fig.10 A view of a first embodiment of a valve is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Although the valve of the present invention is susceptible of many different forms of embodiment, the present specification and drawings disclose only some specific forms as examples of the present invention. However, the present invention is not intended to be limited to only the embodiments so described.

[0040] For ease of description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the valve 20 of the present invention is described in a generally horizontal orientation, when the valve 20 is assembled into a subassembly or assembly 30 ( Figure 2 ) can have this generally horizontal orientation, the subassembly or assembly including the closure 40 (only Figure 1 and Figure 2 ), valve 20 and retainer or retaining ring 42 for use on a fluid container or system (not shown). The terms "axial", "radial" and "lateral" are used herein relative to an axis 43 ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 ) is used, the axis being generally defined by the center of the valve 20. As used herein, the phrase "axially outward" refers to a direction upward along the axis 43 in the figure relative to a direction away from the interior of the container on which the closure 40 and the valve 20 may be assembled. The phrase "axially inward" refers to a direction downward along the axis 43 in the figure relative to a direction into the interior of the container on which the closure 40 and the valve 20 may be assembled. As used herein, the phrase "radially inward" refers to a direction perpendicular to the axis 43 and moving toward the axis. The phrase "radially outward" refers to a direction perpendicular to the axis 43 and moving away from the axis. The phrase "laterally outward" refers to a direction away from the axis 43 and also within a plane perpendicular to the axis 43. However, it should be understood that the present invention may be manufactured, stored, transported, used or sold in orientations other than those shown.

[0041] The valve 20 of the present invention is suitable for use with various conventional or special flow material containers or systems having various designs (e.g., flow material handling or processing systems, distribution systems, etc.), the details of which, although not shown or described, are clear to those skilled in the art and those who understand such systems.

[0042] Figure 1-Figure 10 A preferred first embodiment of a valve 20 according to the present invention is shown. The valve 20 is used to selectively permit communication through the valve 20 from one side of the valve to the other side (e.g., into or out of a fluent material container or dispensing system, a conduit or a package), and the valve 20 will generally communicate with the interior of such a container or system. The valve 20 is particularly suitable for fitting in a closure 40 to be attached or assembled at an opening of a fluent material dispensing system (only Figure 1 and Figure 2 The fluent material container may be, for example, a flexible bag or bottle. The valve 20 may also be mounted on a reservoir containing a fluent material at or above ambient atmospheric pressure, a fluent material dispensing system (including systems in which pressure is generated by the static head of the fluent material within the system and / or in which the system generates or otherwise produces a pressurized fluent material).

[0043] Figure 1 and Figure 2The closure 40 shown in the figure includes a generally cylindrical base or body 44 and a lid 46 connected to the body 44 by a hinge 48. The body 44 defines a dispensing orifice 60, which is blocked or covered by a lid 46 in a closed position (not shown) rotated away from the molded open position as shown. The top plate 62 of the body 44 around the dispensing orifice 60 is connected to an outer wall or skirt 64, which is used to surround the top of the container when the assembly 30 is assembled at the opening of the container. The body 44 further includes an attachment device in the form of a screw thread 66 for matching with the thread (not shown) of the container. It should be understood that the body 44 can have other removable or non-removable attachment devices or features for fixing the body 44 to the opening or neck of the container, such as matching snap-fit ​​beads, deformable and non-removable bands or flanges, toggle clamps, friction fittings, locks, adhesives, welding, etc.

[0044] Reference now Figure 1 , hinge 48 can be of any suitable conventional or special design. For example, hinge 48 shown in the figure can be of 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 do not form part of the present invention. Hinge 48 can also be of non-snap-action type, such as a strap or tether. Lid 46 includes a hollow plug seal 68, which extends axially inward from the lid to seal the dispensing orifice 60 when the lid 46 is in its closed position. The body 44 and / or the lid plug seal 68 located in the area around the dispensing orifice 60 are flexible enough to accommodate elastic deformation, thereby establishing a leak-proof seal between them. Lid 46 can have other latching means, such as snap-fit ​​beads, locks, tabs, etc. Lid 46 can be matched with body 44 in a completely removable manner, such as matching screw threads, friction or snap-fit ​​beads, etc. In some non-preferred applications, lid 46 can be completely omitted.

[0045] The first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20 is flexible, resilient, pressure-openable, self-closing, and slit-type. Forms of slit-type valves of generally related kinds are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,678,249 and 5,839,614. The descriptions of these patents are incorporated herein by reference to the extent relevant and to the extent not inconsistent herewith.

[0046] The valve 20 of the present invention is suitable for use with flowing substances (such as liquids and gases, including beverages, foods, lotions and creams in particular). The valve 20 is preferably molded into an integral structure (i.e., a single-piece structure) of a flexible, pliable, resilient and elastic thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material. This may include styrene block copolymers (TPE-s), thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers (TPE-o), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPE-u) or thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPE-v). Preferably, the valve 20 is formed integrally of TPE-s or TPE-o materials. In many applications, it is desired that the valve material is substantially inert to avoid reaction and / or contamination with the flowing substance in contact with the valve 20.

[0047] Although valve 20 is shown as being formed of a single material defining an integral material layer, it should be understood that for some applications, valve 20 may be formed of two or more layers of material defining different materials. For example, one layer of valve material may be formed of a first TPE material, and one or more layers of valve material may be formed of one or more coatings or laminations of different materials.

[0048] As shown, the valve 20 has an initial "closed", unactuated, substantially stress-free resting position or state. The valve 20 can be forced to an "open" position or state when a sufficiently high pressure differential acts on opposite sides of the valve 20, or when the valve 20 is engaged by a sufficiently rigid object in contact with the valve 20 material.

[0049] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , the valve 20 material has a first side 114 and a second side 116. In a preferred application, the first side 114 will face the interior of the fluent material container, and the second side 116 will face the external surrounding environment. In other applications, the valve 20 can be completely contained in a system or conduit for processing, dispensing or handling fluent materials.

[0050] Still reference Figure 8 and Fig.10 , the valve 20 has a mounting flange or peripheral attachment portion 120. The peripheral attachment portion 120 can have any suitable configuration for mounting to, attaching to, connecting with, or otherwise adapting to, fitting on, or fitting in a closure or container. Typically, this can be achieved by a retaining structure or retaining ring 42 (only Figure 1 and Figure 2 ) is achieved, the retaining structure or retaining ring can be connected to the features on the inside of the closure member 40 (such as Figure 2 ), or to match features of a container (not shown) in which the valve 20 may be assembled.

[0051] When viewed in a vertical cross-sectional plane containing the central axis 43, Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The specific configuration of the peripheral attachment portion 120 shown in FIG. 1 can be generally characterized as a modified dovetail configuration. The peripheral attachment portion 120 includes a first frustoconical surface 121 and a second frustoconical surface 122 for being clamped on the retaining ring 42 ( Figure 1 ) and closure member 40( Figure 1 ) between the valve 20 to hold or retain the valve 20 in place. Preferably, the peripheral attachment portion 120 is slightly elastically compressed to accommodate forming a secure leak-proof seal when the peripheral attachment portion 120 is compressively engaged within the closure 40 or container.

[0052] By making appropriate modifications to the closure 40 or container, other shapes may be used for the peripheral attachment portion 120. Some other shapes of flange cross-sections that may be used on the valve 20 are shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,409,144. In some applications, it may be desirable to configure the peripheral attachment portion 120 for attachment to the closure 40 or container by adhesive, heat bonding or other suitable means (bi-injection molding) so that the retaining ring 42 may be omitted entirely.

[0053] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, extending generally radially inwardly toward the central axis 43 and away from the peripheral attachment portion 120, the valve 20 includes a generally annular intermediate portion or sleeve 124 that is laterally connected between the peripheral attachment portion 120 and the central head portion or head 125. The head portion 125 is flexible and resilient. When the valve 20 is in a position such as Figure 1-Figure 10 In the illustrated closed position, state, or configuration, the intermediate portion 124 has a tubular configuration to position the head portion 125 such that a portion of the head portion 125 protrudes axially inward (eg, toward the interior of the container or system) beyond the peripheral attachment portion 120 .

[0054] The middle portion 124 of the valve 20 is preferably configured for use in conjunction with a specific flow material supply system or container and a specific type of flow material in order to achieve the desired flow characteristics. For example, the viscosity and density of the flow material are factors to be considered. The stiffness and hardness of the valve material and the size and thickness of the various parts of the head portion 125 and the middle portion 124 are additional factors to be considered.

[0055] like Figure 6 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the head portion 125 of the valve 20 has a generally circular configuration in plan view. The peripheral attachment portion 120, the intermediate portion 124, and the head portion 125 are arranged relative to the central axis 43 (at Fig. 9When the valve 20 is open, the fluid material can be dispensed (i.e., discharged) through the valve 20 in a discharge flow direction that is substantially axially outward along the axis 43, as will be discussed in detail below. An engaging article such as a probe can also be used to engage and open the valve 20 and facilitate the flow of the fluid material through the valve 20.

[0056] Reference now Figure 8 When the valve 20 is in the closed state and viewed along a vertical cross-sectional plane containing the axis 43, the intermediate portion 124 has a substantially J-shaped or reverse J-shaped cross-section, and when the valve 20 is assembled on the dispensing orifice 60 ( Figure 2 ), the middle portion defines an inner surface 126 facing the interior of the container and an outer surface 127 facing the external environment.

[0057] Still reference Figure 8 , when the valve 20 is in the closed state and viewed along a vertical cross-sectional plane containing the axis 43, the valve head portion 125 has an inner surface 130 having a generally convex configuration. When the valve 20 is in the closed state, the inner surface 130 of the head portion 125 has a planar circular central region 132 extending laterally outward about the axis 43. The inner surface 130 of the valve head portion 125 further defines or includes a laterally outwardly facing peripheral region 133 that flares laterally outward from a connection with the middle portion 124 in an axially inward direction toward the container interior. The inner surface 130 of the head portion 125 lies on a partially spherical trajectory that also defines an arc of a circle in longitudinal cross-section when viewed along a plane containing the axis 43.

[0058] When valve 20 is in the closed state and Figure 8 When viewed along a vertical cross-sectional plane containing axis 43, outer surface 134 of valve head portion 125 has a partially spherical and concave configuration. The radius of the arc of head portion 125 on outer surface 134 is smaller than the radius of the arc of head portion 125 on inner surface 130.

[0059] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , when the head portion 125 is viewed in cross-section, a majority of the head portion 125 is significantly thicker than the relatively thin middle portion 124 of the valve 20. In addition, the head portion 125 is thicker at its radially outer portion and thinner at its radially inner portion proximate the axis 43. This configuration helps provide the desired opening and closing actions of the valve 20.

[0060] Although the first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20 has a different head portion 125, a middle portion 124, and a peripheral attachment portion 120, it should be understood that in a broad aspect of the invention, the valve 20 need not be limited to such a structure. For example, in one intended application of the valve 20, the peripheral attachment portion 120 (if provided) can be a rigid member (e.g., a thermoplastic ring or retainer) attached to the rest of the valve 20. Alternatively, the valve 20 can be molded with the closure 40 or container so that the closure 40 or container itself forms the peripheral attachment portion.

[0061] refer to Figure 5 , the head portion 125 of the valve 20 has a pair of self-sealing cross slits 140, each of which extends transversely and completely through the head portion 125. The slits 140 generally radiate from the center of the head portion 125. The slits 140 define an openable flap, segment, portion or flap 144 in the valve head portion 125 to define a normally closed orifice. Each flap has two transverse faces defined by the slits 140, and each transverse face seals against the opposite transverse face of an adjacent flap when the valve orifice is closed. Variations and forms of such openable portions are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,628,056. The description of that patent is incorporated herein by reference to the extent relevant and to the extent not inconsistent with this document.

[0062] like Fig.10 As best shown in FIG. 1 , in the normally closed position or configuration of the valve 20, the inner surface 130 of the head portion 125 (which includes the laterally outwardly facing peripheral region 133) and the inner surface 126 of the intermediate portion are at a first circular intersection line 150 (at Figure 4 In addition, the outer surface 134 of the head 125 and the outer surface 127 of the middle portion 124 are connected or intersected at a second circular intersection line 154 (also visible in FIG. Figure 3 It can also be seen that they are connected or intersected at Fig.10 In the preferred, illustrated first embodiment of the valve 20, the first circular intersection line 150 and the second circular intersection line 154 are located at substantially the same axial position along the central axis 43 ( Figure 8 ). Preferably, the first circular intersection line 150 and the second circular intersection line 154 are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance not greater than about 0.30 mm (0.011 inches). More preferably, the first circular intersection line 150 and the second circular intersection line 154 are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance not greater than about 0.05 mm (0.002 inches).

[0063] refer to Figure 8 , in the closed configuration of the valve 20, the first circular intersection line 150 defines a first diameter and the second circular intersection line 154 defines a second diameter, and a ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is approximately 1.09.

[0064] The inventors have discovered that the TPE valve 20 disclosed herein, in which the first circular intersection line 150 and the second circular intersection line 154 are located at substantially the same axial position, can solve many dispensing performance problems encountered with conventional TPE valves. For example, it has been found that the valve 20 of the present invention significantly improves (i.e., increases) the closing force of the valve 20 against pressure by 10-25% compared to conventional valves made of TPE. Specifically, it has been found that the valve 20 has a 10.4 inH 24-inch diameter on the inner surface of the valve. 2 0 (2590 Pascal) internal pressure differential when closing or reclosing, and it has been found that conventional valves made of TPE have a pressure difference of about 8.0 inH on the inner surface of the valve. 2 Preferably, the openable portion of the valve 20 will close (i.e., move from an open orifice configuration to a closed configuration) even when subjected to an internal pressure differential of about 2200 Pascals (i.e., +400 / -100 Pascals) between the internal environment and the external environment acting on the inner surface 130 of the valve head 125.

[0065] The inventors have discovered that the first circular intersection line 150 and the second circular intersection line 154 should be spaced apart by a distance of no more than about 0.30 mm (0.011 in) in either direction along the central axis to produce a functional TPE valve for many applications. In addition, the inventors have discovered that the first circular intersection line 150 and the second circular intersection line 154 should be spaced apart by a distance of no more than about 0.05 mm (0.002 in) in either direction along the central axis to achieve at least a 10% improvement or increase in valve closing force against pressure as compared to conventional TPE valves. Specifically, it has been discovered that a variation of the TPE valve 20 in which the intersection line 154 is located at a distance of no more than about 0.05 mm axially outward of the intersection line 150 resists approximately 9.0 inH 2 0 (2242 Pascals) internal pressure. In addition, it has been found that a variation of the TPE valve 20 in which the intersection line 150 is located at a distance no greater than about 0.05 mm axially outward of the intersection line 154 resists about 8.9 inH 2 The present invention contemplates that the spacing of intersections 150 and 154 can be located in either direction along central axis 43, with intersection 150 located axially outside of intersection 154, or with intersection 154 located axially outside of intersection 150.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment of the valve 20, the valve 20 is injection molded from a TPE material and the slits 140 are subsequently cut or stamped into the head portion 125 by suitable special or conventional techniques. Alternatively, the valve 20 may be molded to define the slits 140. It should be understood that in some applications, the valve 20 may be provided with one slit 140 or more than two slits 140 arranged in a configuration different from that shown.

[0067] The inventors have discovered that, compared to conventional TPE valves, the valve 20 of the present invention can improve the transportability and / or storage characteristics of a container or other system in which the valve 20 is installed. In particular, the improved valve 20 can eliminate or at least reduce or minimize undesired, premature valve opening events or other ingress or egress leakage events during transportation, storage, heating, or overpressurization of a fluent material container or system in which the valve 20 is installed.

[0068] In some applications, it may be desirable to modify valve 20 to remain closed under even greater pressure differentials, such as when (i) the valve is assembled in a package in an orientation different from that shown, (ii) the package in which the valve is assembled is subjected to a longer or higher temperature pasteurization process, or (iii) the package in which the valve is assembled may be subjected to greater vibration and shock during transportation, etc.

[0069] Fig.11 A second embodiment of a valve 20A according to the present invention is shown. The second illustrated embodiment of the valve 20A can be formed from one or more TPE materials that are the same as the TPE materials discussed in detail above with respect to the first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20. Similar elements between the first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20 and the second illustrated embodiment of the valve 20A are indicated with the same reference numerals (the first embodiment has no suffix, while the second embodiment has an "A" suffix).

[0070] The second illustrated embodiment of the valve 20A has the same basic elements and functions in the same basic manner as the first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20. The valve 20A includes a peripheral attachment portion 120A for securing at an opening of a closure or container and an intermediate portion 124A connecting the peripheral portion 120A to a central valve head 125A, and these components or portions of the valve 20A have the same basic shapes as discussed above with respect to the first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20. The valve head 125A includes a pair of cross slits 140A arranged in the same orthogonal manner as discussed above with respect to the first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20.

[0071] However, Fig.11The second illustrated embodiment of the valve 20A shown in FIG. 1 differs from the first illustrated embodiment of the valve 20 discussed previously in that the valve 20A has a modified arrangement of the internal and external connections between the intermediate portion 124A and the head portion 125A. Specifically, a first circular intersection line 150A on the inside of the valve 20A and a second circular intersection line 154A on the outside of the valve 20A are spaced a distance "D" no greater than about 0.05 mm (0.002 inches) along the central axis, wherein the first circular intersection line 150A on the inside of the valve 20A is located axially inward (i.e., toward the interior of the container or dispensing system) of the second circular intersection line 154A.

[0072] Although not shown, the present invention includes a modified valve design in which a first circular intersection line 150A on the inside of the valve 20A and a second circular intersection line 154A on the outside of the valve 20A are separated by a distance "D" of no more than about 0.05 mm (0.002 inches) along the central axis, wherein the second circular intersection line 154A on the outside of the valve 20A is located axially inward of the first circular intersection line 150A (i.e., toward the interior of the container or dispensing system).

[0073] In one broad aspect of the invention, the invention may be limited to the valve disclosed herein. In another broad aspect of the invention, the invention may include a fully recyclable subassembly of the valve, retaining ring and closure disclosed herein. In another broad aspect of the invention, the invention may include a fully recyclable package comprising the valve and closure (with or without retaining ring) disclosed herein and a container for a fluent substance. The container may be of any conventional or special design.

[0074] It should be understood that although various theories and explanations have been set forth herein regarding how component configurations and arrangements may affect the operation of the valve of the present invention, it is not intended to be bound by such theories and explanations. Furthermore, it is intended that all structures falling within the scope of the appended claims will not be excluded from the scope of the claims simply because the operation of such valves may not be explained by the explanations and theories given herein.

[0075] Various modifications and alterations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.The illustrative embodiments and examples are provided as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A flexible, resilient slit valve for permitting selective dispensing of a fluent product from an internal environment to an external environment, the valve comprising: a flexible, resilient head centered about and extending laterally from the central axis, the head having an inner surface facing the internal environment, a concave outer surface facing the external environment, and at least one self-sealing slit through the head; an opposed openable portion along at least one of the slits for defining a normally closed orifice in an unrestrained state, wherein the openable portion is movable in a first direction toward the external environment to an open orifice configuration and in an opposite direction back to a closed configuration; an annular peripheral attachment portion centered about the central axis and laterally spaced from the head; an annular flexible resilient middle portion centered about said central axis and extending laterally from said head to said peripheral attachment portion, said middle portion having an inner surface facing said internal environment and an outer surface facing said external environment; and wherein The inner surface of the head and the inner surface of the middle portion intersect at a first circular intersection line, The outer surface of the head and the outer surface of the middle portion intersect at a second circular intersection line, In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance of no greater than about 0.30 millimeters; and At least the head portion and the intermediate portion are formed from a thermoplastic elastomer.

2. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are separated along the central axis by a distance of no greater than about 0.05 millimeters.

3. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are located at substantially the same position along the central axis.

4. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: In the closed configuration, the first circular line of intersection is located axially inwardly of the second circular line of intersection along the central axis.

5. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: In the closed configuration, the second circular line of intersection is located axially inwardly of the first circular line of intersection along the central axis.

6. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The head inner surface defines a laterally outwardly facing peripheral region that flares laterally outward from the first circular intersection line in a direction away from the external environment along the central axis.

7. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: At least a portion of the head portion is significantly thicker than the middle portion.

8. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The head portion, the peripheral attachment portion and the intermediate portion are integrally molded from a thermoplastic elastomer.

9. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The openable portion is configured to move from the open aperture configuration to the closed configuration when a pressure differential between the internal environment and the external environment acting on the head is approximately 2200 Pascals.

10. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: At least the head portion and the middle portion are formed from one of TPE-s or TPE-o.

11. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: At least the head portion and the middle portion are formed from one of TPE-u or TPE-v.

12. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line has a first diameter and the second circular intersection line has a second diameter, and a ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is approximately 1.

09.

13. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The intermediate portion has a substantially J-shaped cross-section when viewed in a plane containing the central axis.

14. The valve of claim 1 in combination with a closure and retaining ring for use with a container of fluent substances.

15. The valve of claim 1 in combination with a closure and a container of a fluent substance, the valve, closure and container of a fluent substance defining a package.

16. A subassembly comprising: Closures; valve; and a retaining ring for maintaining the valve within the closure; Wherein, the valve comprises: i) a flexible, resilient head centered about and extending laterally from the central axis, the head having an inner surface facing the internal environment, a concave outer surface facing the external environment, and at least one self-sealing slit through the head, ii) opposing openable portions along at least one slit for defining a normally closed orifice in an unconstrained state, wherein the openable portions are movable in a first direction toward the external environment to an open orifice configuration and return in an opposite direction to a closed configuration, iii) an annular peripheral attachment portion centered about the central axis and laterally spaced from the head, and iv) an annular flexible, resilient middle portion centered on said central axis and extending laterally from said head to said peripheral attachment portion, said middle portion having an inner surface facing said internal environment and an outer surface facing said external environment, wherein the inner surface of the head and the inner surface of the middle portion intersect at a first circular intersection line, the outer surface of the head and the outer surface of the middle portion intersect at a second circular intersection line, in the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line and the second circular intersection line are spaced a distance of no more than about 0.30 mm along the center axis, and the valve is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer so that the subassembly can be recycled without disassembly.

17. A flexible, resilient slit valve (20, 20A) for permitting selective dispensing of a fluent product from an internal environment to an external environment, the valve (20, 20A) comprising: a flexible, resilient head (125, 125A) centered about and extending laterally from the central axis (43), the head (125, 125A) having an inner surface (130, 132, 133; 130A, 132A, 133A) facing the internal environment, a concave outer surface (134, 134A) facing the external environment, and at least one self-sealing slit (140, 140A) passing through the head (125, 125A); an opposed openable portion (144) along at least one of the slits (140, 140A) for defining a normally closed orifice in an unrestrained state, wherein the openable portion (144) is movable in a first direction toward an external environment to an open orifice configuration and in an opposite direction back to a closed configuration; an annular peripheral attachment portion (120, 120A) centered about the central axis (43) and laterally spaced from the head (125, 125A); an annular flexible resilient intermediate portion (124, 124A) centered about the central axis (43) and extending laterally from the head portion (125, 125A) to the peripheral attachment portion (120, 120A), the intermediate portion (124, 124A) having an inner surface (126, 126A) facing the internal environment and an outer surface (127, 127A) facing the external environment; and wherein, The inner surface (130, 132, 133; 130A, 132A, 133A) of the head portion (125, 125A) and the inner surface (126, 126A) of the middle portion (124, 124A) intersect at a first circular intersection line (150, 150A), The outer surface (134, 134A) of the head portion (125, 125A) and the outer surface (127, 127A) of the intermediate portion (124, 124A) intersect at a second circular intersection line (154, 154A), In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line (150, 150A) and the second circular intersection line (154, 154A) are spaced apart along the central axis (43) by a distance not greater than about 0.30 mm; and At least the head portion (125, 125A) and the middle portion (124, 124A) are formed of a thermoplastic elastomer.

18. The valve according to claim 17, wherein In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line (150, 150A) and the second circular intersection line (154, 154A) are spaced apart along the central axis by a distance no greater than about 0.05 millimeters.

19. The valve (20) according to claim 17, wherein: In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line (150) and the second circular intersection line (154) are located at substantially the same position along the central axis (43).

20. The valve (20A) according to claim 17, wherein: In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line (150A) is located axially inward of the second circular intersection line (154A) along the central axis (43).

21. The valve (20A) according to claim 17, wherein: In the closed configuration, the second circular intersection line (154A) is located axially inward of the first circular intersection line (150A) along the central axis (43).

22. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-21, wherein: The inner surface (130, 132, 133; 130A, 132A, 133A) of the head (125, 125A) defines a laterally outwardly facing peripheral region (133, 133A) that flares laterally outward from the first circular intersection line (150, 150A) along the central axis (43) in a direction away from the external environment.

23. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-22, wherein: At least a portion of the head portion (125, 125A) is significantly thicker than the middle portion (124, 124A).

24. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-23, wherein: The head portion (125, 125A), the peripheral attachment portion (120, 120A) and the intermediate portion (124, 124A) are integrally molded from a thermoplastic elastomer.

25. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-24, wherein: The openable portion (144) is configured to move from the open aperture configuration to the closed configuration when a pressure differential between an internal environment and an external environment acting on the head (125, 125A) is approximately 2200 Pascals.

26. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-25, wherein: At least the head portion (125, 125A) and the middle portion (124, 124A) are formed of one of TPE-s and TPE-o.

27. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-25, wherein: At least the head portion (125, 125A) and the middle portion (124, 124A) are formed of one of TPE-u or TPE-v.

28. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-27, wherein: In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line (150, 150A) has a first diameter and the second circular intersection line (154, 154A) has a second diameter, and a ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is about 1.

09.

29. The valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17-28, wherein: The intermediate portion (124, 124A) has a substantially J-shaped cross-section when viewed in a plane containing the central axis (43).

30. A valve (20, 20A) according to any one of the preceding claims 17 to 29, in combination with a closure (40) and a retaining ring (42), for use with a container of a fluent substance.

31. The valve (20, 20A) according to any of the preceding claims 17-29, in combination with a closure (40) and a container of a fluent substance, the valve (20, 20A), closure (40) and container of a fluent substance defining a package.

32. A subassembly (30), comprising: A closure member (40); Valve (20, 20A); and a retaining ring (42) for maintaining the valve (20, 20A) within the closure (40); Wherein, the valve (20, 20A) comprises: i) a flexible, resilient head (125, 125A) centered about and extending laterally from the central axis (43), the head (125, 125A) having an inner surface (130, 132, 133; 130A, 132A, 133A) facing the internal environment, a concave outer surface (134, 134A) facing the external environment, and at least one self-sealing slit (140, 140A) passing through the head (125, 125A), ii) an opposed openable portion (144) along at least one of the slits (140, 140A) for defining a normally closed orifice in an unconstrained state, wherein the openable portion (144) is movable in a first direction toward the external environment to an open orifice configuration and in an opposite direction back to a closed configuration, iii) an annular peripheral attachment portion (120, 120A) centered about said central axis (43) and laterally spaced from said head (125, 125A), and iv) an annular flexible resilient intermediate portion (124, 124A) centered about said central axis (43) and extending laterally from said head portion (125, 125A) to said peripheral attachment portion (120, 120A), said intermediate portion (124, 124A) having an inner surface (126, 126A) facing said internal environment and an outer surface (127, 127A) facing said external environment, in, The inner surface (130, 132, 133; 130A, 132A, 133A) of the head portion (125, 125A) and the inner surface (126, 126A) of the middle portion (124, 124A) intersect at a first circular intersection line (150, 150A), The outer surface (134, 134A) of the head portion (125, 125A) and the outer surface (127, 127A) of the intermediate portion (124, 124A) intersect at a second circular intersection line (154, 154A), In the closed configuration, the first circular intersection line (150, 150A) and the second circular intersection line (154, 154A) are spaced apart along the central axis (43) by a distance not greater than about 0.30 mm; and The valve (20, 20A) is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer, allowing the subassembly (30) to be recycled without disassembly.

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