Closure for container and container having such closure

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dispensing closure for a container, the dispensing closure comprising a base element and the base element comprising a platform portion, a skirt and a dispensing opening. The dispensing closure also includes a first flow control element and a second flow control element.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a closure or closure device for a container and to a container having such a closure or closure device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Such a closure is typically used for a product to be dispensed and contained in a container to which the closure is attached.

[0003] The product to be dispensed is typically a fluid product, for example a liquid or a powdery or granular product, for example in the food or beverage sector, for example ketchup, but also in other applications, for example for cleaning substances, detergents or other products.

[0004] Such a closure typically comprises a diaphragm valve, usually made of silicone, to ensure a proper and controlled dispensing and also to ensure a proper and controlled stop or end of the dispensing process.

[0005] Some products to be dispensed change or partially change some of their properties, in particular their viscosity, or some products can simultaneously but at different locations produce even different properties, for example due to a separation of various components within the product to be dispensed, so that the product to be dispensed has, for example, different viscosities simultaneously but at different locations within the container or within parts of the closure, where there are parts of the product to be dispensed or different components of the product to be dispensed. This can lead to undesirable or inadequate dispensing properties.

[0006] A dispensing bottle is known, for example, from document EP 3 752 432 B1, which comprises a container body and a cap having a base and a flip lid. SUMMARY

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide an enhanced closure and closure device that solves the above-mentioned problems and provides good dispensing properties for various liquid products to be dispensed, including, for example, thixotropic or pseudoplastic fluids, such as ketchup.

[0008] This object is solved by a closure according to claim 1 and a container having such a closure according to claim 15. Claims 2 to 14 relate to particularly advantageous implementations of the closure according to claim 1.

[0009] The invention relates to a dispensing closure for a container, the dispensing closure comprising a base element, wherein the base element (200) comprises a platform portion and a skirt portion extending from the platform portion, the skirt portion having attachment means for connecting the base unit to a container, in particular to a neck portion of the container, wherein the base element further comprises a dispensing opening for dispensing a fluid.

[0010] According to the present application, the base element further comprises a first flow control element having a plate element, which is preferred, but which is an optional element, which can also be omitted in certain embodiments, and at least two, preferably at least three, support elements, which extend from the platform portion of the base element to the plate element and are arranged around the dispensing opening, such that these support elements hold or keep the plate element, if provided, at a predetermined distance from the dispensing opening, such that a fluid can flow through the interspace between the plate element, if provided, the support elements and the platform portion, in particular the inner region of the deck portion. Alternatively, and in particular when embodiments are realized without a plate element, an interspace is established and / or created between the support elements, the platform portion and a further element, for example a second flow control element (see below).

[0011] The plate element can be an essentially flat or planar element, preferably extending in horizontal direction, or it can be a roof or dome-like element or a connecting element of any geometry, preferably connecting some or more preferably all support elements.

[0012] According to the present application, the dispensing closure further comprises a second flow control element, which is connected to the base element, preferably to the first flow control element, and preferably by snap fit, such that an interspace, preferably an annular interspace, is formed between the second flow control element and at least part of or a portion of the platform portion of the base element, such that a fluid can flow through the interspace between the second flow control element and the platform portion, and preferably liquid is prevented from flowing between the plate element of the first flow control element and the second flow control element.

[0013] This particular design leads to an enhanced dispensing process and / or to a proper and smoother dispensing and / or also to an increase of the mixing of the fluid to be dispensed during the dispensing process and before dispensing from the dispensing opening to the outside.

[0014] Independent of the above specific implementations, the present invention relates to a dispensing closure for a container, the dispensing closure comprising a base element, wherein the base element comprises a platform portion and a skirt portion extending from the platform portion, the skirt portion having attachment means for attaching the base unit to the container, in particular to the neck of the container, wherein the base element further comprises a dispensing opening for dispensing a fluid, while the base of the closure comprises a first flow control element and a second flow control element, which are designed and arranged such that the flow direction of the liquid is controlled or influenced by these first and second flow control elements during dispensing, such that the flow direction is changed at least once, preferably multiple times, during the dispensing process. This will result in a proper and more smooth dispensing and also in an increased mixing of the fluid to be dispensed during the dispensing process and before being dispensed from the dispensing opening to the outside. These effects and / or enhancements will preferably be achieved by the above described specific implementations and arrangements of the first and second flow control elements and / or by the preferred specific geometric arrangements as described below. However, other geometric arrangements are also possible and can be implemented.

[0015] The present invention or some of the embodiments and potential implementations disclosed therein have the advantage that an enhanced dispensing performance can be achieved even without providing a septum valve, in particular a septum slit valve, typically a silicone valve. The base element and / or the closure as described in the present application without providing an additional silicone membrane has the advantage that the complete base element and / or closure can be manufactured from the same material, which is advantageous for recycling purposes.

[0016] However, it has to be noted that the closure and the base element as disclosed in the present application can also be used with such a septum valve, in particular a septum slit valve, preferably inserted and / or positioned in the vicinity of or at the dispensing opening of the base element or at the dispensing passage or within or in the vicinity of the dispensing passage, e.g. directly at one of the dispensing passages.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing closure further comprises a lid unit, in particular in the form of a flip lid, which is attached or attachable to the base element. In case of a flip lid, the lid is preferably attached to the base element by means of a hinge.

[0018] The lid unit preferably comprises a sealing element for closing or sealing the dispensing opening of the base element when the lid unit is in its closed position. This is the preferred implementation in case of a flip lid, which can be moved around the hinge between the closed position and the open position.

[0019] The sealing element is preferably positioned at the top portion, preferably at the inner or downwardly pointing region of the top portion, which is pointing towards the base element when the flip lid is in its closed position, the sealing element is preferably positioned at the middle or central region.

[0020] According to a further preferred implementation, the second flow control element is a ring-like element having an inner opening, a ring-like plate portion extending around the inner opening, preferably in a planar or substantially planar direction, and an outer edge portion extending at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion of the base element, preferably over a predetermined height. The inner opening is preferably of circular cross-section or substantially circular cross-section, but can also be adapted to other geometrical forms, preferably also depending on the form of the first flow control element, in particular the form of the plate of the first flow control element.

[0021] According to a preferred implementation, the plate element of the first flow control element has the form of a circular or substantially circular plate, also depending on the geometrical form and / or design of the second flow control element. The first flow control element is preferably positioned and designed such that the plate element of the first flow control element extends in a horizontal direction or in a direction parallel to the dispensing opening or in a direction parallel to the platform portion of the base element.

[0022] Further preferably, the plate element has a dimension or extension in a horizontal direction as mentioned above which is equal to or corresponds to the dimension or extension of the dispensing opening in the same horizontal direction. In a preferred embodiment, the dimension of the plate element is slightly smaller than the dimension or cross-section of the dispensing opening, preferably by about 5% to 20%, more preferably by about 5% to 10%. However, in other embodiments, the dimension of the plate element can also be larger than the dimension or cross-section of the dispensing opening, however in preferred embodiments not by more than 20%, more preferably not by more than 10%.

[0023] In a preferred implementation, the second flow control element is an element which is manufactured separately and / or separately from the other elements of the closure, in particular the base element, while further preferably the first flow control element is integral with the base element, in particular integrally manufactured, for example by injection molding.

[0024] In preferred embodiments, the first flow control element and / or the second flow control element are designed and arranged such that these elements can be connected to each other, preferably by a snap fit. In a preferred embodiment, the first flow control element and / or the second flow control element have one or more latching elements which can engage with each other, for example by a form fit or by an enhanced friction and / or a friction generated by the one or more latching elements exceeds a predetermined threshold, in order to hold and / or attach the second flow control element to the first flow control element, and thus preferably to the remaining portion of the base element. This not only enables an easy and inexpensive manufacture, in particular by injection molding, but also an easy and inexpensive assembly of the parts of the closure which are manufactured separately, for example by injection molding. Furthermore, such a snap fit also leads to a reliable connection between the first and the second flow control element.

[0025] According to another preferred implementation, the second flow control element comprises one or more fins, preferably extending along the annular plate portion of the second flow control element, preferably on the surface of the annular plate portion towards the platform portion of the base element, further preferably extending in radial or substantially radial direction, further preferably extending from the inner opening to the outer edge portion of the second flow control element.

[0026] These fins have the advantage of providing the second flow control element with enhanced capabilities and / or further influencing the flow of the liquid in order to enhance the dispensing performance.

[0027] The second flow control element comprises an inner opening and at least one extension element, preferably at least two or further preferably at least three extension elements, said at least one extension element being arranged at or around the inner opening such that it extends towards the platform portion of the base element. These extension elements have the advantage of further positively influencing the flow of the liquid to be dispensed, depending on the position of the extension element, also the advantage of creating a further modification of the flow direction of the liquid during dispensing, thereby also enhancing the mixing of the liquid to be dispensed.

[0028] Further preferably, the at least one extension element, preferably all of the at least one extension element, has a width, preferably measured in circumferential direction, which is different from the width, preferably measured in circumferential direction, of the at least one holder element of the base element, preferably from the width of all holder elements of the base element, wherein further preferably the angular position of the extension element around the circumference of the second flow control element is different from the angular position of the holder elements (320) of the base element. This further enhances the desired flow, in particular the flow direction, of the liquid to be dispensed.

[0029] In one embodiment, the second flow control element can be connected to the first flow control element in any relative angular position, in particular by a snap fit, further preferably the second flow control element is rotatable relative to the first flow control element and / or the base element, even after the second flow control element is connected to the first flow control element and / or the base element.

[0030] According to another preferred implementation, the base element comprises an annular extension which is arranged to extend at least partially in a direction towards the second flow control element, wherein the diameter of said annular extension is preferably smaller than the diameter of the second flow control element or the diameter of the outer extension. This annular extension further influences the flow, in particular the flow direction, of the fluid to be dispensed, in particular directly before or near the dispensing opening or dispensing channel, in particular such that the flow direction has to be changed more frequently, thereby causing the fluid to mix or homogenize before being dispensed.

[0031] According to another preferred embodiment, the second flow control element has an outer edge portion which extends at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion of the base element. The second flow control element and the portion extending towards the platform portion can have a predetermined height which is measured in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal direction of the second flow control element or in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the second flow control element or in a horizontal direction when assembled and attached to the base element.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the second flow control element has an outer edge portion which extends at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion of the base element, wherein the height of the outer edge portion of the second flow control element and the height of the annular extension of the base element are such that the outer edge portion and the annular extension at least partially overlap in the height direction. This further enhances the dispensing performance and / or leads to a more frequent change of the flow direction of the liquid to be dispensed or to a stronger and / or faster change of the flow direction.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the base element comprises a further skirt or outer skirt extending from the platform portion, which is located radially outside the skirt having the attachment means for attaching the base unit to the container. This further skirt or outer skirt enables a better fit onto closures and / or various containers to which the base element is to be attached and also leads to a covering or protection of the skirt or in the skirt having the attachment means for attaching the base unit to the container.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the second flow control element comprises an annular extension arranged between the outer edge portion and the inner opening or arranged between the outer edge portion and one or more extension elements arranged at or around the inner opening of the second flow control element, wherein the annular extension extends towards the platform portion of the base element, preferably over a predetermined height. This leads to a further opportunity to positively influence the flow and the flow direction of the liquid to be dispensed and in particular to a more frequent change of the flow direction.

[0035] It is further preferred that the second flow control element comprises an outer edge portion (660) which extends at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion of the base element (200), the outer edge portion having a predetermined height, wherein the outer edge portion has at least one gap, preferably a plurality of gaps, which are arranged around the circumference of the edge portion, preferably at equal angular distances. This leads to an additional influence on the flow of the liquid to be dispensed, in particular with the flow direction, and the flow direction is changed not only in one plane or in one direction, but also in a second plane which is preferably perpendicular to the first plane. Thus, the flow or the change of the flow direction can be influenced and controlled completely in all three-dimensional directions.

[0036] Further preferably, the annular extension is arranged between the outer edge portion and the inner opening or between the outer edge portion and one or more extension elements arranged at or around the inner opening, with one or more gaps arranged around the circumference of the edge portion, preferably at equal angular distances, wherein preferably the second flow control element comprises an outer edge portion extending at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion of the base element, the outer edge portion having a predetermined height, wherein the outer edge portion has at least one gap, preferably a plurality of gaps, further preferably a plurality of gaps arranged around the circumference of the edge portion, preferably at equal angular distances, wherein preferably at least one gap of the outer edge portion and at least one gap of the annular extension are located at different angular positions, preferably such that there is no angular overlap between any of the at least one gap of the outer edge portion and any of the at least one gap of the annular extension. Independently or in particular in combination with the above features, this particular implementation further increases the variation of the flow direction during the dispensing process and in the vicinity of the dispensing opening or dispensing channel, the mixing of the liquids and the homogenization of the liquids.

[0037] In one embodiment, the second flow control element is connected to the base element, preferably by a snap-fit connection, while the base element and the second flow control element are designed such that the connection is independent of the angular position of the second flow control element relative to the base element. This makes it easy to connect without having to position the second flow control element relative to the angular position of the first flow control element and / or the base element. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the second flow control element can also be rotated relative to the first flow control element and / or relative to the base element after manufacture. Depending on the specific geometry of the first and second flow control elements, this even enables the user to influence the flow characteristics according to his or her preferences.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the base element and / or the closure can have aeration openings or aeration channels which are positioned and designed in such a way that air from the outside can flow into the inside of the base element and / or the closure and / or the container, so that a vacuum or a reduced pressure which can be generated by dispensing liquid out of the container can be compensated. Such aeration openings or aeration channels can be provided in the vicinity of the first flow control element and / or the second control element and / or in particular in the space or area which is covered or partially covered by the first and / or second flow control element. In another embodiment, such aeration openings or aeration channels are provided in different parts or areas of the base element in order not to influence or only slightly influence the flow control arranged by the first and / or second flow control element. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the base element and / or the closure do not have any additional aeration openings or aeration channels, so that air from the outside can only enter the container through the dispensing opening and / or the dispensing channel, which will lead to a specific flow and / or movement of the liquid still present in or in the vicinity of the base element and / or the dispensing opening and / or the dispensing channel, in particular in the area or space covered or generated by the first and / or second flow control element, further generating or enhancing or supporting the mixing or homogenization of the liquid, thus further enhancing or supporting the smooth dispensing properties.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the base element comprises at least one surface, preferably a flat surface, more preferably a ring-like surface, which is preferably provided on the inside of the base element facing the container to which the closure is to be connected, and which is preferably arranged on the radially outer side of the base element within the (circumferential) border of the skirt, which has attachment means for attaching the base element to the container, preferably to the neck of the container. If desired, such at least one surface, in particular a ring-like surface, can be used for positioning and / or for attaching a liner for indicating that the liquid has not yet been dispensed by the closure and / or that the liquid has not yet been dispensed from the container and / or that the container or the contents of the container have not yet been tampered with.

[0040] In another preferred embodiment, the base element comprises such a liner attached to the at least one surface.

[0041] The liner can be made of different materials, in particular of plastic or metallic materials, preferably providing certain properties, in particular liquid impermeability and / or preferably also providing a certain or desired gas tightness or limitation with respect to permeability. The liners can be attached to the container by gluing or by heating, or if preferred for a particular embodiment, and the liners can have a portion or gripping element for the user to grip and tear off the liner when using the closure or the container with the closure for the first time.

[0042] Preferably, the liner is positioned within the closure, in particular within the base of the closure, and further preferably in the vicinity of the flat surface of the base element, while the liner is held within the base element by e.g. clamping or by the internal thread for fastening the closure to the container, in particular to the neck of the container, such that the internal thread ensures that the liner does not fall off the base element or from the dispensing closure. Preferably, when attaching or mounting the dispensing closure to the container, preferably to the neck of the container, the liner is attached to the neck of the container or to another opening of the container, e.g. by heat welding, induction welding or gluing or the like. Before the first use of the container with the dispensing closure, the user can detach the dispensing closure from the container, and then the user can remove the liner attached to the neck of the container, as described above, preferably by welding, in particular induction welding, and then the dispensing closure can be reattached to the neck of the container for subsequent use and dispensing.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one surface, preferably the annular surface, is arranged and positioned such that it extends in the same or substantially the same plane as the outer surface of the second flow control element, preferably such that when the liner is located at or in the vicinity of the at least one surface of the base element, the liner extends parallel or substantially parallel to one surface of the second flow control element, which surface is directed towards the liner, while further preferably the liner is at least partially in contact with this surface of the second flow control element or has a very small distance, preferably less than 2 mm or less than 1 mm, even more preferably less than 0.5 mm, to the second flow control element. This will have the effect that the liner is supported and / or protected from damage by the second flow control element, thereby avoiding an undesired or unintentional breakage or damage or opening of the liner, in particular after manufacturing or during handling during transport and shipping, in particular when the closure is not yet attached to the container or to the neck of the container.

[0044] The present application also relates to a container for storing a liquid, which container has a dispensing closure and / or a base element as described above and as shown in the following figures, when the dispensing closure is attached to the container, preferably to the neck of the container. The connection can be achieved by various means, including e.g. an internal thread and / or an external thread and / or a form fit or other means or elements.

[0045] Preferably, the container is a flexible container, which is arranged such that a user can apply or exert an external force and / or pressure from the outside of the container, thereby reducing the volume of the container and / or applying pressure to the liquid within the container in order to dispense the liquid from the container. Preferably, the container is made of an elastically deformable material, such that when the external pressure is no longer applied or released, the container returns to its original form or at least has a tendency to return to its original form. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0046] The above and further characteristics and / or advantages and / or effects of the closure and / or of the base element of the closure and / or of the container having such a closure will become more apparent from the following drawings, which show specific embodiments.

[0047] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a closure according to the present application, which is a flip-top closure, while the closure is shown with its flip-top lid in its open position,

[0048] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a closure as Figure 1 shown, however, from a different angle, and with its flip-top lid in its closed position,

[0049] Figure 3 is a partial cross-section through a base element of a closure according to the present application, wherein the second flow control element is shown shortly before final assembly,

[0050] Figure 4 is a partial cross-section through a base element of a closure as Figure 3 shown, wherein the second flow control element is shown in its final and assembled position,

[0051] Figure 5A , 5B and 5C show elements of one embodiment of a closure or of a component of a closure according to the present application,

[0052] Figure 6A , 6B and 6C show elements of another embodiment of a closure or of a component of a closure according to the present application,

[0053] Figure 7A , 7B and 7C show elements of another embodiment of a closure or of a component of a closure according to the present application,

[0054] Figure 8A , 8B and 8C show elements of another embodiment of a closure or of a component of a closure according to the present application,

[0055] Figure 9A , 9B and 9C show elements of another embodiment of a closure or of a component of a closure according to the present application,

[0056] Figure 10 shows a cross-section through another embodiment of a closure according to the present application,

[0057] Figure 11A , 11Band 11C show a further embodiment of a second flow control element,

[0058] Figure 12A , 12B and 12C show yet another embodiment of a second flow control element, and

[0059] Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a base element of a closure according to the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a closure 100 according to the present application. This embodiment realizes a so-called flip-top closure having a base element 200 and a flip-top 400, which can be moved by a hinge 150 between an open position (as shown in Figure 1 ) and a closed position (see Figure 2 ).

[0061] The base element 200 comprises a platform portion 220 and a skirt 260, which is an outer skirt, while the base element further comprises an inner skirt (240, see Figure 2 ). The platform portion 220 has an essentially flat, horizontally extending outer annular area 221 and a slightly dome-shaped inner area 223. The base element 200 further comprises a dispensing opening 250, which is positioned in the center of the inner area 223.

[0062] The flip-top 400 comprises a top portion 420, which is also an essentially flat portion extending in horizontal direction (when the flip-top is in its closed position, see Figure 2 ), and a skirt 460, which extends from the top portion 420. As can be seen from Figure 2 , the skirt 460 of the flip-top 400 is essentially flush with the skirt 260 of the base element 200 when the flip-top 400 is in its closed position, such that both skirts 260 and 460 independently and together form an essentially cylindrical boundary or outer side wall of the closure 100.

[0063] The flip-top 400 further comprises a sealing element 450, which extends from the top portion 420 and in the direction of the base element 200 when said flip-top is in its closed position. The sealing element 450 is at least partially introduced into the dispensing opening 250 or a corresponding dispensing channel when the flip-top 400 is in its closed position, such that the dispensing opening 250 is closed and no fluid can be dispensed therethrough.

[0064] As can be seen in particular from Figure 2As can be seen, the base element 200 comprises a skirt 240, also referred to as inner skirt, while this skirt 240 comprises attachment means, in this case, a range of inner threads 242 for attaching the closure to a container (not shown), in particular to the inner threads of the neck of the container.

[0065] The base element 200 further comprises connecting walls or reinforcements 225, which extend in a substantially radial direction between the skirt 240 and the skirt 260. These reinforcements 225 increase the stability of the closure, in particular of the base element 200, and in particular ensure a constant and stable position and / or distance of the two skirts 240 and 260.

[0066] As can be seen in the embodiment shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 this embodiment further comprises a partial recess 405, which in this embodiment extends on both the skirt 460 of the flip top 400 and the skirt 260 of the base element 200. On the upper side of the recess 405 a prolongation or handle 406 is provided. Both the notch or recess 405 and / or the handle 46 support the user when bringing the flip top 400 from its closed position (as shown in Figure 2 ) to its open position (as shown in Figure 1 ).

[0067] Figure 2 Also shown is an embodiment of the second flow control element 600 and a part of the first flow control element 300, namely the plate element 340. More details of the first flow control element 300 and the second flow control element 600 and various embodiments thereof are shown and described in the following figures.

[0068] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A partial cross-section through an embodiment of a closure according to the present application is shown. As can be well seen in both figures, the base element comprises a platform portion 220, while the partial cross-section in particular shows the dome portion 223 of the platform portion 220.

[0069] The base element 200 further comprises a dispensing channel 251 and a dispensing opening 250 at the end (outer end) of the dispensing channel 251.

[0070] As can be well seen in both figures, the first flow control element 300 comprises a holder element 320, which is connected to the inside of the dispensing channel 251 and supports the plate element 340. The figures only show two holder elements, however, this embodiment comprises a total of 4 holder elements, which are positioned at equal angular distance, one every 90°.

[0071] The plate element 340 extends horizontally, parallel to the dispensing opening 250 or parallel to the plane generated by the outer boundary of the dispensing channel 251, and the plate element 340 maintains a predetermined distance (in the vertical direction) from the dispensing opening 250 or the dispensing channel 251 by the support element 320.

[0072] The base element 200 also includes a second flow control element 600, which in Figure 3 The location shown is during manufacturing, therefore not in its final location. Specifically from... Figure 4 as well as Figure 3 and Figure 4 The comparison between them clearly shows that the second flow control element 600... Figure 3 and Figure 4 It moves upward and is pushed onto the first flow control element until it is connected to the first flow control element, which in this embodiment is connected to the plate 340 or to the base element 200 by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

[0073] The snap-fit ​​engagement is achieved through a notch 601 in the second flow control element 600, which extends radially inward, and through corresponding notches 341 in the plate element 340 of the first flow control element 300, which extend radially outward. Figure 4 As can be clearly seen, in the final position of the second flow control element 600, the notches 341 and 601 engage with each other and hold the second flow control element 600 in its final position.

[0074] In this regard, it should be noted that the final position of the second flow control element 600 is relative to the vertical direction, while at least in this embodiment, the second flow control element can still rotate relative to the base element 200 and / or the first flow control element 300 or the plate element 340 of the first flow control element 300.

[0075] Figure 5A , 5B Figures 5C and 5C illustrate an embodiment of various parts of the closure according to the invention. Figure 5A The diagram shows a cross-section of an embodiment having a base element 200, wherein the (outer) skirt 260 and inner skirt 240 have internal threads 242, wherein one embodiment of the second flow control element 600 is connected to the first flow control element 300, also in this embodiment by a snap-fit ​​engagement, such as a combination. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The explanation given.

[0076] Figure 5A and 5BOne embodiment of the second flow control element 600 is shown, which has a circular form and has an inner circular opening 620 and an outer circular edge portion 660, which in the assembled position extends towards the inner side of the platform portion 220. The second flow control element 600 further comprises three extensions 622, which are positioned around the central opening 620 and in their assembled position extend towards the platform portion 220 or the dispensing channel 251, partially covering the interspaces resulting from the plate element 350 and the bracket element 320 and the platform portion 220, while still leaving at least one interspace or at least one interspace or a portion of the interspaces or all interspaces partially open to allow the passage of liquid. However, due to the design of the bracket element 320 and the extensions 622 and due to the number of (four) rack elements 320 and (three) extensions 622 chosen, it is not possible to completely close all interspaces between the plate element 340, the bracket element 320 and the platform portion 220, even when rotating the second flow control element 600, so that liquid is always possible to flow through the interspaces, independent of the (angular) position of the second flow control element 600 relative to the base element 200 or the first flow control element 300. However, at least to some extent, the flow and the flow direction can be controlled or influenced by the angular position of the second flow control element 600 relative to the base element 200.

[0077] In this regard, it must also be noted that in another embodiment, the first flow control element 300 and / or the base element 200 and / or the second flow control element 600 are arranged such that the relative angular position between the first and the second flow control element is fixed.

[0078] The second flow control element 600 further comprises three fins 630, which extend in radial direction and on the inner side or surface of the annular plate portion 640 from the inner opening 620 to the outer edge portion 660. These fins 630 are arranged at equal angular distances, one every 120°. The fins 630 both increase the stability of the second flow control element 600 and influence the flow of the liquid or the flow direction of the liquid. This can be seen very well in Figure 5A , Figure 5A A cross-section through the second flow control element 600 is shown, through one of the fins 630 on the right side and through the portion where no fin is arranged on the left side.

[0079] Figure 5A In the cross-section shown, the interspaces through which the fluid can flow between the second flow control element 600 and the annular extension 222, extending from the platform portion 200 to the second flow control element 600, are significantly smaller in the area where a fin is arranged (right side) and in the area where no fin is arranged (left side). Thus, not only the flow direction of the liquid is changed during dispensing, but also the flow properties differ depending on the angular position of the second flow control element or the base element, respectively.

[0080] From Figure 5A It can be further well seen from the figures that the height of the annular extension 222 extending downwardly from the platform portion 220, in this case from the dome-shaped portion 223, and the height of the edge portion 660 are chosen such that the edge portion 660 and the annular extension 222 on the one hand and on the other hand are flush with each other or partially overlap each other in the height direction or vertical direction. This increases the effect of changing the flow direction of the liquid during dispensing.

[0081] Figure 6A , 6B and 6C show a further embodiment of a component of a closure according to the present application. This embodiment is very similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 5A , 5B and 5C, such that reference is made to the above described sequence to avoid repetition. It has to be noted as well that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference signs.

[0082] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C The embodiment shown in Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C differs from the embodiment shown in Figure 6A ,

[0083] Figure 7A , 7B and 7C show yet another embodiment of a component of a closure according to the present application. This embodiment is very similar to the embodiments shown in the previous figures, such that reference is made to the above described sequence to avoid repetition. It has to be noted as well that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference signs.

[0084] Figure 7A , 7B and 7C show yet another embodiment of a component of a closure according to the present application. This embodiment is very similar to the embodiments shown in the previous figures, such that reference is made to the above described sequence to avoid repetition. It has to be noted as well that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference signs.

[0085] It can be well seen in particular in Figure 7A that the flow control of the liquid to be dispensed differs from the two above described embodiments and that the change of the flow direction and / or the mixing and / or homogenization of the liquid to be dispensed will further increase during the dispensing process.

[0086] In this respect, it must be noted that this additional annular extension 650 can also be applied very well to the embodiment shown in Fig. 5.

[0087] Figure 8A 、 8B Figs. 7 and 8C show yet another embodiment of a component of a closure according to the application. This embodiment is very similar to the embodiments shown in the previous figures, so reference is made to the above described sequence to avoid repetition. It must also be noted that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference numerals.

[0088] Also in this embodiment, the second flow control element 600 comprises an annular extension 650, however, which is not provided continuously, but is interrupted by gaps 652, which are provided at equal angular distances around the circumference. Of course, the number of gaps 652 and their size as well as their position can be adapted.

[0089] As can be well seen in Figure 8A , this also results in a different flow control of the liquid depending on the angular position, in Figure 8A where the left side is a position where a gap is present and the right side is a position where no gap is present. This also results in a variation of the flow direction and / or mixing and / or homogenization of the liquid to be dispensed during the dispensing process.

[0090] Figure 9A 、 9B Figs. 7 and 8C show yet another embodiment of a component of a closure according to the application. This embodiment is very similar to the embodiments shown in the previous figures, so reference is made to the above described sequence to avoid repetition. It must also be noted that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference numerals.

[0091] This embodiment is very similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 8A 、 8B Figs. 7 and 8C show yet another embodiment of a component of a closure according to the application. This embodiment is very similar to the embodiments shown in the previous figures, so reference is made to the above described sequence to avoid repetition. It must also be noted that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference numerals.

[0092] As can be well seen in Figure 9A , this also results in a different flow control of the liquid depending on the angular position, in Figure 9A where the right side is a position where a gap is present and the left side is a position where no gap is present in the outer edge portion 660. This also results in a variation of the flow direction and / or mixing and / or homogenization of the liquid to be dispensed during the dispensing process.

[0093] It can be well seen when comparing the embodiment shown in Fig. 9 with the embodiment shown in Fig. 8 that the height of the outer edge portion 660 and the annular extension 650 is different, i.e. higher in the embodiment as shown in Fig. 9. Thus, the embodiment as shown in Fig. 9 leads to a stronger influence and change of the flow direction and / or mixing and / or homogenization of the liquid to be dispensed during the dispensing process.

[0094] Figure 10 A cross-section of another embodiment of a closure according to the present application is shown. This embodiment is very similar to the embodiments shown in the preceding figures, thus reference is made to the above described sequence of description to avoid repetition. It has to be noted as well that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference signs.

[0095] In this embodiment, the base element 200 further comprises a liner 900 which is positioned at the annular inner surface 209. It can be well seen that the liner 900 extends over the entire cross-section and within the circumferential border defined by the skirt 240. In this particular embodiment, the cross-section of the liner and the inner portion of the base element 200 and in particular the skirt 240 are arranged such that the liner 900 is held or clamped in this position. In particular, the inner thread 242 ensures that the liner 900 is held in position at or near the flat surface 209 and that the liner 900 cannot fall off.

[0096] As can be further well seen in Figure 10 , the design and structure of the closure according to the present application, in particular according to the embodiments shown and described above, is very well suited to provide such a liner, in particular because this structure can be realized within very small space and / or height, such that in particular the height of the closure can be kept very small. As can be well seen in Figure 10 , and in the other figures, the first and second flow control elements can be completely covered within the space defined by the dome-shaped portion 223, thus a closure with reduced height or small height can be realized, which is a significant advantage for the user and for the manufacturing costs.

[0097] As can be further well seen, the liner 900 is supported and / or protected by the lower surface of the second flow control element 660, which avoids or at least limits the risk of undesired or unintentional damage of the liner, in particular during the transportation of the closure and before the closure is attached to the container. In this particular embodiment, the liner 900 is at least partially in contact with the second flow control element 600, but in another embodiment it can be in full contact with the outer surface of the second flow control element 600, while in other embodiments there can be a small distance between the liner 900 and the second flow control element 600, which distance is preferably very small, preferably at maximum 2 mm or at maximum 1 mm or more preferably at maximum 0.5 mm.

[0098] Fig. 11 shows another embodiment of a second flow control member 600 which can be used in a dispensing closure according to the application. Figure 11A a perspective view is shown, Figure 11B a view from below is shown, Figure 11C a cross-section of the second flow control member 600 is shown. This embodiment of the second flow control member 600 is very similar to the flow control members of the embodiments shown in the preceding figures, therefore reference is made to the above description to avoid repetition. It has to be noted, too, that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference signs.

[0099] This embodiment of the second flow control member 600 is comparable and similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 9, however the outer edge portion 660 is not continuously provided around the whole circumference, but gaps 662 are provided therebetween at equal angular distances. Such gaps 662 in the outer edge portion 660 are also provided in the embodiment shown in Fig. 9, however in this embodiment of Fig. 11 the gaps are not squared, but the outer edge portion continuously changes its height with inclined surfaces 661. In this embodiment a total of 5 gaps are provided.

[0100] Furthermore and in contrast to the embodiment shown in Fig. 9, the second flow control member 600 according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 11 does not have an additional annular extension (see 650 in Fig. 9 or the embodiment shown in Fig. 7).

[0101] As can be seen in particular in Figure 11C the second flow control member 600 is not completely flat at its lower side or its lower side is curved, too, i.e. at the lower side or the lower side is curved, too. This saves material and thus costs and has a positive influence on the flow of the liquid, too.

[0102] Fig. 12 shows yet another embodiment of a second flow control member 600 which can be used in a dispensing closure according to the application. Figure 12A a perspective view of the second flow control member 600 is shown, Figure 12B a view from below is shown, Figure 12C a cross-section of the second flow control member 600 is shown. This embodiment of the second flow control member 600 is very similar to the flow control members of the embodiments shown in the preceding figures, therefore reference is made to the above description to avoid repetition. It has to be noted, too, that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference signs.

[0103] This embodiment of the second flow control member 600 shown in Fig. 12 is comparable and very similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 11, however, the radial extension or width of the edge portion 660 is larger than in the embodiment shown in Fig. 11, in particular the edge portion 660 extends further towards the inner region and the inner opening of the second flow control member 600. When comparing Figure 12C with Figure 11C in particular the larger extension in radial direction can be seen.

[0104] Figure 13 Another embodiment of a dispensing closure according to the application is shown. This embodiment is similar to the embodiments shown in the previous figures, therefore reference is made to the above described sequence to avoid repetition. It has to be noted as well that identical or similar elements are denoted by identical reference signs.

[0105] It can be well seen from Figure 13 that the second flow control member 600 according to this embodiment does not have an inner opening (see e.g. 620 in Figure 3 and Figure 4 , therefore has a substantially flat lower surface. In this embodiment, the second flow control member 600 is not connected to the first flow control member 300 either, but to the base element, more precisely to the annular extension 222 of the base element 200, which protrudes in downward direction from the dome-shaped portion 223 of the platform portion 220. The annular extension 222 has various protrusions 201 extending in radial outward direction, in this embodiment a total of four protrusions 201, and the outer edge portion 660 of the second flow control member 600 has a corresponding protrusion 601 extending in inward direction. Similarly, as shown and described in connection with Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the second flow control member 600 can be connected to the platform 220 of the base element 200 by snap-fit, however not via or directly to the first flow control member 300.

[0106] In this regard, it should be noted that Figure 13 the cross-section shown is along one angular position, in which there are protrusions 201 and 601 on both sides, whereas in other angular positions (not shown in this cross-section) no protrusions are provided, in particular to allow liquid flow through the gap created between the second flow control element 600 and other elements of the base element 200, in particular between the second flow control element 600 and the annular extension 222. It is clear that the connection of the second flow control element 600, in particular by snap-fit, but also by other means of connection, can be realized in various ways without departing from the disclosure of the present application.

[0107] It can be well seen from Figure 13It can further be seen in this embodiment that the platform portion 220 has a recess or channel 820 at a position near the outer edge portion 660 of the second flow control element 600, which serves as a void and enables the flow of liquid to be dispensed and the flow of air, for example the flow of air from the outside into the container after the fluid has been dispensed out of the container, also or in particular at those angular positions where the protrusions 201 and 601 are present. In this particular embodiment, the recess or channel 820 is annular and the annular channel 820 extends through all angular positions, however, in other embodiments, the recess or channel 820 can only be provided at those angular positions where the protrusions 21 and 601 are present.

[0108] In this regard, it must further be noted that the plate 340 of the first flow control element 300 can be omitted in another embodiment, which plate 340 in this embodiment extends parallel or substantially parallel to the lower extension or plane of the second flow control element 600. In this case, the bracket element 320 can preferably extend further downwards, in a preferred embodiment closer to the second flow control element 600. In a particular embodiment, the bracket element 320 extends uniformly until it is in contact with the second flow control element 600. In such a particular embodiment, a respective void is created or provided between the bracket element 320, the platform portion 220 and the second flow control element 600.

[0109] Figure 13 The base element of the embodiment shown in Fig. 9 comprises not only the annular flat surface 209, but also a liner 900 positioned at and / or attached to the annular flat surface 209. From Figure 13 It can be well seen in Fig. 9 that also in this embodiment, the liner 900 is well supported not only by the flat surface 209, but also by the lower surface of the second control element 600, which provides additional support, protecting the liner 900 and avoiding or at least reducing the risk of undesired or unintentional damage of the liner 900, in particular during manufacturing of the closure and during transport, in particular before the closure has been attached to the container.

[0110] It must be noted that all the above features and elements can be realized in any combination, but also separately and independently from each other, and that each element alone and in each combination can be essential and important for the realization of the present application. It must also be recognized that further embodiments can be realized based on the above disclosure, without departing from the teachings of the present application.

Claims

1. A dispensing closure (100) for a container, the dispensing closure (100) comprising a base element (200), wherein, The base element (200) comprises: - a platform portion (220), and - a skirt portion (240) extending from the platform portion (220) and having attachment means (242) for attaching the base unit (200) to the container, in particular to a neck portion of the container, - a dispensing opening (250) for dispensing a fluid, wherein the base element (200) further comprises a first flow control element (300) having a plate element (340) and at least two, preferably at least three, stand element (320) extending from the platform portion (220) of the base element (200) to the plate element (340) and being arranged around the dispensing opening such that these stand elements (320) hold the plate element (340) at a predetermined distance from the dispensing opening (250) such that a fluid can flow through a gap between the plate element (340), the stand elements (320) and the platform portion (220), wherein the dispensing closure (100) comprises a second flow control element (600) connected to the base element (200), preferably to the first flow control element (300), and preferably by a snap fit, such that at least one gap (710), preferably an annular gap (710), is formed between at least a portion of the second flow control element (600) or a portion and at least a portion of the platform portion (220) of the base element (200), such that - a fluid can flow through the gap (710) between the second flow control element (600) and the platform portion (220), and - thereby preferably preventing a liquid from flowing between the plate element (340) of the first flow control element (300) and the second flow control element (600).

2. The dispensing closure according to claim 1, further comprising: - a cap unit (400), in particular a flip cap, attached or attachable to the base element (200), wherein the cap unit (400) comprises a sealing element (450) for closing or sealing the dispensing opening (250) of the base element (200) when the cap unit is in its closed position, wherein the cap unit (400) preferably further comprises: - a top portion (420), and - a skirt portion (460) extending from the top portion (420), wherein preferably the sealing element (450) extends from the top portion (420) of the cap unit (400), preferably from a central inner area of the top portion (420) of the cap unit (400).

3. The dispensing closure of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second flow control element (600) is a ring-like element having an inner opening (620), a ring-like plate portion (640) extending around the inner opening (620), and an outer edge portion (660), the ring-like plate portion (640) preferably extending in a plane or in a substantially planar direction, the outer edge portion (660) extending at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion (220) of the base element (200), preferably extending beyond a predetermined height.

4. The dispensing closure of any preceding claim wherein, The second flow control element (600) comprises one or more fins (630) extending along the ring-like plate portion (640) of the second flow control element (600), preferably on a surface of the ring-like plate portion (640) pointing towards the platform portion (220) of the base element (200), and preferably in a radial or substantially radial direction, and further preferably extending from the inner opening (620) to the outer edge portion (660) of the second flow control element (600).

5. The dispensing closure of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The second flow control element (600) comprises an inner opening (620) and at least one extension element (622), preferably at least two or further preferably at least three extension elements (622), the at least one extension element (622) being arranged at or around the inner opening (620) such that the at least one extension element (622) extends towards the platform portion (220) of the base element (200).

6. The dispensing closure of claim 5, wherein, The at least one extension element (622), preferably all of the at least one extension element (622), has a width, preferably measured in a circumferential direction, which is different from a width, preferably measured in a circumferential direction, of at least one of the holder elements (320) of the base element (200), preferably from a width of all of the holder elements (320) of the base element (200), wherein further preferably an angular position of the extension element (622) around a circumference of the second flow control element (600) is different from an angular position of the holder elements (320) of the base element (200).

7. The dispensing closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base element comprises a ring-like extension (222) arranged such that it extends at least partially in a direction towards the second flow control element (600), wherein a diameter of the ring-like extension (222) is preferably smaller than a diameter of an outer extension of the second flow control element (600), wherein further preferably The second flow control element (600) has an outer edge portion (660) extending at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion (220) of the base element (200), wherein the height of the outer edge portion (660) of the second flow control element (600) and the height of the annular extension (222) of the base element (220) are such that the outer edge portion (660) and the annular extension (222) at least partially overlap in the height direction.

8. The dispensing closure of any preceding claim wherein, The base element (200) comprises a further skirt or outer skirt (260) extending from the platform portion (220), the further skirt or outer skirt (260) being positioned radially outside the skirt (240), the skirt (240) having attachment means (242) for attaching the base unit (200) to the container.

9. The dispensing closure of any preceding claim, wherein, The second flow control element (600) comprises an annular extension (650) arranged between the outer edge portion (660) and the inner opening (620), or between the outer edge portion (660) and one or more extension elements (622) arranged at or around the inner opening (620) of the second flow control element, wherein the annular extension (650) extends towards the platform portion (220) of the base element (200), preferably over a predetermined height.

10. The dispensing closure of any preceding claim, wherein, The second flow control element (600) comprises an outer edge portion (660) extending at least partially in a direction towards the platform portion (220) of the base element (200), the outer edge portion (660) having a predetermined height, wherein the outer edge portion (660) has at least one gap (662), preferably a plurality of gaps (662), the at least one gap (662) preferably being arranged at equal angular distances around the circumference of the edge portion (660).

11. The dispensing closure of claim 9 or 10, wherein, The annular extension (650) arranged between the outer edge portion (660) and the inner opening (620) or between the outer edge portion (660) and one or more extension elements (622) arranged at or around the inner opening (620) has one or more gaps (652) arranged around the circumference of the edge portion (660), preferably arranged at equal angular distances, wherein preferably the second flow control element (600) comprises an outer edge portion (660) extending at least partially into a direction towards the platform portion (220) of the base element (200), the outer edge portion (660) having a predetermined height, wherein the outer edge portion (660) has at least one gap (662), preferably a plurality of gaps (662), further preferably a plurality of gaps (662) arranged around the circumference of the edge portion, preferably arranged at equal angular distances, wherein preferably the at least one gap (662) of the outer edge portion (660) and the at least one gap (652) of the annular extension (650) are located at different angular positions, preferably such that there is no angular overlap between any of the at least one gap (662) of the outer edge portion (660) and any of the at least one gap (652) of the annular extension (650).

12. A dispensing closure according to any of the preceding claims, designed such that the second flow control element (600) is connected to the base element (200), preferably by a snap-fit connection, whereas the base element (200) and the second flow control element (600) are designed such that the connection is independent of the angular position of the second flow control element (600) relative to the base element (200).

13. The dispensing closure of any preceding claim wherein, The base element comprises at least one surface (209) for attaching and / or positioning a liner (900), preferably a flat or substantially flat surface, more preferably a ring-shaped surface (209), preferably arranged on the inner side of the base element (200) pointing towards the container to which the closure can be attached or is attached.

14. The dispensing closure of any preceding claim wherein, The dispensing closure comprises a liner (900) positioned at or in the vicinity of an inner surface (209) of the base element (200) and / or attached to an inner surface (209) of the base element (200), preferably a ring-shaped surface (209) of the base element (200), the liner (900) preferably extending over an area defined by the cross-section of the skirt (240) having attachment means (242) for attaching the base unit (200) to the container, wherein further preferably the base element (200) comprises a vent passage (820) which is covered and / or closed by the liner (900) in its attached position.

15. A container for storing a liquid, the container having a dispensing closure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The dispensing closure is attached to the container, preferably to a neck of the container, wherein it is further preferred that The container is a flexible container, such that the volume of the container can be reduced by applying an external pressure to the container from the outside, wherein preferably the container is made of an elastically deformable material.

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