Closure for container

Abstract

A closure (1, 1.1, 1.2) having an annular side wall (6) comprising an annular skirt (10), a safety ring (8), and a first tether (12) and a second tether (14) permanently connecting the annular skirt (10) to the safety ring (8), the first tether and the second tether being delimited by a first cut line (30) and a second cut line (50) that do not converge with each other. The annular skirt (8) is provided with internal threads or lugs (18) defining an unscrewing direction (LR) for rotation about a reference axis (A) defined by the safety ring (8). At least in the region of the tethers (12, 14), orthogonal projections of the cut-out lines (30, 50) in the direction of the reference axis overlap and define first and second tethers (12, 14), the first and second tethers extend in the unscrewing direction (LR) from a respective first connection region (12-1, 14-1) connected to the safety ring (8) to a respective second connection region (12-2, 14-2) connected to the annular skirt (10).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a closure for a container. More specifically, the present invention relates to a closure which remains attached to the container after opening. BACKGROUND

[0002] WO2021 / 021095A1 shows a plastic closure which is designed to remain attached to the container after opening. The closure is made in one piece, comprising a cap and a safety ring protruding from the cap. The safety ring is permanently connected to the cap by a first tether and a second tether. A first cut line and a second cut line delimit the safety ring and the tethers. Fragile bridges are provided along the first and second cut lines and are designed to break when the cap is removed from the container to open.

[0003] WO2021 / 116468A1 shows another tethered closure which comprises two separation lines which delimit together two tethers between an annular skirt of the main body of the closure and a safety ring. Each separation line is provided with a fragile bridge in the area of the tethers which breaks when the annular skirt is moved relative to the safety ring.

[0004] In addition to remaining attached to the container after opening, it is desirable that the closure can remain in an arrangement of the mouth of the container (referred to herein as "open-remaining" arrangement) so that neither pouring nor drinking from the container is affected by the closure remaining attached to the container. SUMMARY

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a tethered closure which allows a controlled deployment of the tethers defined by the cut lines within the closure during opening. Preferably, by means of the deployed tethers, the closure can be moved into an open-remaining open arrangement in which the closure remains lateral to the mouth of the container with the open end of the closure oriented to the same direction as the mouth of the container.

[0006] The above objects are achieved by the features of the embodiments defined in independent claim 1.

[0007] Further embodiments and improvements are defined in the dependent claims.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tethered closure for a container.

[0009] A "container" as presented herein for use with the closure as described herein can be for example, but not limited to, a bottle, a flask, a jug, a glass jar, a tube or a metal can. Preferably, the container is for storing a fluid, for example a drinkable fluid, such as a beverage, for example a soft drink, or water, but not limited thereto. Such a beverage can be stored under pressure in the container as in the case of a sparkling beverage, or substantially pressureless as in the case of a non-aerated beverage. Another example can be a container for a petrochemical fluid such as motor oil, but not limited thereto. In other words, in the sense of the present application, a fluid is considered to be any material that can flow; thus, a material like fine sand can also be a fluid. The part of the container where the closure is typically applied is referred to as the mouth. The mouth is the opening or aperture of the container from which the fluid can be poured, or which can be filled first. The mouth is typically located at the neck of the container. The neck of the container can be provided with a continuous outer thread or lug, which is configured for mating with a corresponding inner thread of a screw closure, which can be screwed on and off by means of a thread connection. In addition, the neck of the container typically has an annular bead, an annular projection, an annular rim or an annular cantilevered tongue, which is configured to engage a hook device on a safety ring inside the closure when the closure is screwed onto the mouth of the container for the first time.

[0010] A "closure" as presented herein is to be understood as a device for closing or sealing the mouth of a container. The closure as described herein can also be referred to as a cap or a lid. A screw closure is a mechanical device, which is typically screwed on and off over a corresponding threaded mouth at the associated container. To this end, the closure can be provided with a continuous inner thread or lug. Preferably, the closure is a one-piece body screw closure with an inner thread or lug, which is configured to be screwed over a container mouth, which is provided with a corresponding outer thread or lug, which is configured to mate with the inner thread or lug of the screw closure. In addition, as mentioned in connection with the container, the closure has a hook device at a safety ring inside the closure, which is configured to engage with a corresponding annular bead, an annular projection, an annular rim or an annular cantilevered tongue at the neck of the container when the closure is screwed onto the mouth of the container for the first time. Preferably, the closure as presented herein is made as a one-piece body of a molded polymer.

[0011] The closure consists of a one-piece body. The one-piece body comprises an annular sidewall. The annular sidewall comprises an annular skirt, a safety ring, and a first tether and a second tether.

[0012] The "safety ring" presented herein can also be referred to as a tamper-evident ring or a safety ring; alternatively, the ring can be referred to as a band. The safety ring serves as a tamper-evident or tamper-evident function of the closure. The safety ring provides a tamper-evident warning: if the connection in the form of a frangible bridge between the safety ring and the annular skirt breaks, an indication is provided that the closure has been opened. To this end, the frangible bridge is preferably designed to be clearly visible in its broken state after the first opening of the closure. Thus, even if reclosed, the broken bridge provides a clear indication that the closure has been opened for the first time.

[0013] The first tether and the second tether permanently connect the annular skirt to the safety ring.

[0014] The safety ring defines a reference axis of the single-piece body.

[0015] The single-piece body has a first cut line and a second cut line that do not converge with each other.

[0016] In the context of the first cut line and the second cut line, "do not converge" means that the first cut line and the second cut line do not connect to each other, do not cross each other, i.e. do not overlap each other in a radial direction with respect to the reference axis. This definition is clearly distinct from any other definition herein based on an orthogonal projection in a given projection direction.

[0017] In particular in the context of the first cut line and the second cut line, a "cut line" presented herein refers to a line that is the result of a cutting process, e.g. by a cutting process of a correspondingly configured cutting device such as a blade or a cutting edge. This is in clear contrast to lines included in a closure that are produced during a molding process of the closure. It will be understood that while a line can be cut such that the resulting width can be similar to a molded line, a cut line is typically much thinner than it can be produced by an injection molding process.

[0018] An orthogonal projection of the one or more first line segments of the first cut line and the one or more first line segments of the second cut line in the direction of the reference axis at least partially overlap, whereby the one or more first line segments of the first cut line and the one or more first line segments of the second cut line define the first tether.

[0019] An orthogonal projection of the one or more second line segments of the first cut line and the one or more second line segments of the second cut line in the direction of the reference axis at least partially overlap, whereby the one or more second line segments of the first cut line and the one or more second line segments of the second cut line define the second tether.

[0020] In a particular implementation, the one or more first line segments of the first cut line extend parallel to the one or more first line segments of the second cut line in a circumferential direction of the closure. Further, the one or more second line segments of the first cut line extend parallel to the one or more second line segments of the second cut line in the circumferential direction of the closure.

[0021] The one or more first line segments of the first cut line do not belong to the one or more second line segments of the first cut line. Further, the one or more first line segments of the second cut line do not belong to the one or more second line segments of the second cut line.

[0022] Preferably, a respective one of the one or more first line segments of the first and second cut lines defines a first (terminal) end of the respective cut line, respectively. Further, a respective one of the one or more second line segments of the first and second cut lines defines a second (terminal) end of the respective cut line, respectively.

[0023] The length of the tether is preferably chosen such that the annular skirt can be flipped over in relation to the safety ring. Thereby, the closure can be removed from the mouth of the container and, if desired, brought into a position or arrangement that remains open.

[0024] The first cut line has one or more first intermediate line segments. The one or more first intermediate line segments do not belong to the first and second line segments of the first cut line. The orthogonal projection of the one or more first intermediate line segments and the second cut line in the direction of the reference axis do not overlap.

[0025] The second cut line has one or more second intermediate line segments. The one or more second intermediate line segments do not belong to the first or second line segments of the second cut line. The orthogonal projection of the one or more second intermediate line segments and the first cut line in the direction of the reference axis do not overlap.

[0026] The one or more first intermediate line segments of the first cut line have one or more first frangible bridges between the annular skirt and the safety ring.

[0027] The one or more second intermediate line segments of the second cut line comprise one or more second frangible bridges between the annular skirt and the safety ring.

[0028] The annular skirt is provided with an inner thread or lug defining a twist-off direction of rotation around the reference axis. The twist-off direction points in one of the two circumferential directions (i.e. clockwise and counter-clockwise) defined by the annular skirt.

[0029] Both the first and second tethers extend in the twist-off direction from a respective first connection area with the safety ring to a respective second connection area with the annular skirt.

[0030] When the closure is first unscrewed from the mouth of the container, the security ring is prevented from following the upward movement of the annular skirt, so that the frangible bridge breaks due to the tension. In other words, when the closure is unscrewed from the mouth of the container, the first tether and the second tether defined in the annular sidewall by the first cut line and the second cut line unfold in the direction of the reference axis.

[0031] Thereby, the unscrewing operation of the closure results in a controlled unfolding of the tethers. During unscrewing and thus during such unfolding, the tethers are subjected to a pulling force in their longitudinal direction, i.e. not to a compression or heading force. In other words, due to the particular orientation of the tethers in the unscrewing direction of the closed closure, by turning the closure in the unscrewing direction of rotation around the reference axis, both the first tether and the second tether are subjected to a pulling force of the closure in their longitudinal direction with respect to the security ring. Thereby, during the first unfolding of the tethers, no compression or heading of the tethers occurs.

[0032] The inventors surprisingly found that this pulling force on the tethers influences the tethers resulting in an improved open-keeping configuration of the opened closure with respect to the security ring that is still attached to the mouth of the container, more precisely to the neck of the container.

[0033] In the following, specific details and further improvements of the closure are discussed. If not explicitly stated otherwise, each of the additional features described in the text below can be used in combination with all or some of the other features described.

[0034] Preferably, the frangible bridge links the annular skirt directly to the security ring, both the annular skirt and the security ring being rigid parts of the body. This ensures a controlled breaking of the frangible bridge when the annular skirt moves away from the security ring during unscrewing of the closure from the mouth of the container.

[0035] Preferably, the frangible bridge is distributed along both the first cut line and the second cut line, i.e. more evenly around the circumference of the annular sidewall than in case the first cut line only is provided with the frangible bridge. This ensures that no part of the annular skirt or the security ring protrudes outward when the closure is assembled on the mouth of the container.

[0036] Preferably, the frangible bridge is located in an intermediate region of the first cut line and the second cut line, at a distance from the first tether and the second tether. This ensures that the frangible bridge does not hinder the unfolding of the tethers during opening.

[0037] In any implementation of the closure, the first line segment and the second line segment of the first cut line and the second cut line can extend through the annular sidewall without the frangible bridge.

[0038] In any implementation of the closure, the width of the one or more second frangible bridges of the one or more second intermediate line segments of the second cut line can be preferably smaller than the width of the one or more first frangible bridges of the one or more first intermediate line segments of the first cut line.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second line segments of the first and second cut lines lies in an associated reference plane perpendicular to the reference axis. This makes it possible to cut the line segments with a blade extending perpendicular to the reference axis and less subject to stress and wear.

[0040] In a particular configuration, each of the first and second intermediate line segments of the first and second cut lines lies in an associated reference plane perpendicular to the reference axis. Preferably, most of the one or more first intermediate line segments of the first cut line lie in a common first reference plane perpendicular to the reference axis. In this way, the first reference plane defines the main separation plane between the annular skirt and the safety ring. If desired, at least one second intermediate line segment of the second cut line lies in a second reference plane perpendicular to the reference axis, the second reference plane being located at a distance from the first reference plane.

[0041] In any implementation of the closure, the first cut line can extend in a circumferential direction around the reference axis from the first end of the first cut line to the second end of the first cut line over an angle greater than 180° and less than 270°.

[0042] In any implementation of the closure, the orthogonal projections of the one or more first line segments of the first and second cut lines in the direction of the reference axis can overlap each other over an angle greater than 5°, preferably greater than 10° and less than 60°, preferably less than 30° around the reference axis.

[0043] In any implementation of the closure, the orthogonal projections of the one or more second line segments of the first and second cut lines in the direction of the reference axis can overlap each other over an angle greater than 5°, preferably greater than 10° and less than 60°, preferably less than 30° around the reference axis.

[0044] Preferably, the aforementioned overlap of the orthogonal projections of the one or more first line segments of the first and second cut lines in the direction of the reference axis is the same as the aforementioned overlap of the orthogonal projections of the one or more second line segments of the first and second cut lines in the direction of the reference axis.

[0045] In any implementation of the closure, the one or more second intermediate line segments of the second cut line can extend around the reference axis over an angle greater than 30° and less than 90°.

[0046] In any implementation of the closure, the second cut line can extend in a circumferential direction around the reference axis from the first end of the second cut line to the second end of the second cut line over an angle of less than 180°.

[0047] In any implementation of the closure, the safety ring can be provided with at least one first tab protruding towards the annular skirt, and the annular skirt can be provided with at least one second tab protruding towards the safety ring.

[0048] Preferably, at least one of the first tab and the second tab is defined by one or more third line segments of the one or more second intermediate line segments of the second cut line. Preferably, the one or more third line segments of the one or more second intermediate line segments of the second cut line comprise at least one of the one or more second frangible bridges. Each frangible bridge ensures that once the closure is assembled on the mouth of the container, i.e. in the closed position, the associated tab can be prevented from protruding radially outward. In some cases, one frangible bridge on one of the two tabs can be sufficient. In a particular implementation, the third line segments of the one or more second intermediate line segments of the second cut line are configured such that the tab has a side edge extending at an angle with respect to the reference axis, although it should be noted that the side edge can also extend parallel to the reference axis.

[0049] In any implementation of the closure, at least some and preferably all of the first and second line segments and / or the first and second intermediate line segments of the first and / or second cut line have abutting cut side walls.

[0050] In a particular implementation of the closure, the one-piece body further comprises a top wall from which the annular skirt protrudes to form a lid or cap of the closure. Here, the connector by tethering of the first and second tethers serves as a main hinge to open and close the lid or cap.

[0051] In another particular implementation of the closure, the annular side wall is part of a base of the closure, which further comprises a lid hinged to the base. Access to the content of the container through the mouth is generally obtained by opening the cap or lid through the hinge. More particularly, for example, if the container is to be completely emptied, access to the content of the container through the mouth is obtained by separating the annular skirt from the safety ring, however, the annular skirt and the safety ring are still connected to each other by the first and second tethers. Preferably, the cap or lid and the base are part of a one-piece body.

[0052] In any implementation of the closure, the safety ring is preferably provided with a hook-shaped resilient portion projecting towards the reference axis. This is a structural implementation example of the hook device. In order for the closure to be engaged at the neck of the container, the hook device inside the closure engages with a corresponding annular retaining device at the neck of the container. The annular retaining device can be an annular retaining bead, a protrusion, an edge or a cantilevered tongue.

[0053] For example, the resilient hook-shaped portion can be snap-fitted under an annular retaining bead formed on the neck of the container, in order to prevent the safety ring from being torn off. In this way, the annular retaining device at the neck of the container and the hook device of the safety ring implement the tamper-evident function of the safety ring.

[0054] In a particular implementation of the closure, each of the first and second cut lines can be a fracture line consisting of a series of consecutive line segments, each of which is partially located in the associated blade plane. This fractured cut line is obtained by cutting or incising the side wall of the closure with a cutting or incising device, for example a blade with a blade segment of corresponding configuration, which is substantially flat and therefore easier to manufacture than a curved cutting or incising device, for example a curved blade.

[0055] Preferably, the cut lines are obtained by a cutting process with a cutting or incising device, such as a blade, which preferably does not remove material from the closure. In a preferred embodiment, at least some of the first and second line segments and / or the first and second intermediate line segments of the first and / or second cut lines, and preferably all of them, have contiguous incision side walls. The contiguous incision side walls contribute to the sealing of the closure.

[0056] As mentioned above, the features of the closure discussed separately can be combined within the implementation of the closure as required, if not otherwise described as incompatible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0057] Further advantages and features of the application become more apparent from the following description of a specific embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example only and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0058] Figure 1 a first side view of the closure according to the first embodiment is shown in the closed position;

[0059] Figure 2 a second side view of the closure of Figure 1 is shown in the closed position;

[0060] Figure 3 a third side view of the closure of Figure 2 is shown in the closed position; - The cross section;

[0061] Figure 4 The closed position is shown. Figure 1 Isometric views of the closure component;

[0062] Figure 5 It is shown in the open position. Figure 1 Top view of the closure component;

[0063] Figure 6 It is shown in the open position. Figure 4 The cross-section of the closure shown is through plane VV;

[0064] Figure 7 The closed position is shown. Figure 1 An isometric view of the closure that is screwed onto the container;

[0065] Figure 8 by Figure 8 The isometric view of the closure shown illustrates the unfolding of the fastener from the closed position to the open position during the unscrewing operation;

[0066] Figure 9 by Figure 8 The isometric view of the closure shown illustrates the retained open position of the closure after the unscrewing operation, wherein the closure is rotated approximately 180° from its orientation in the closed position toward the retained open position on the side of the safety ring.

[0067] Figure 10 A rear view of the closure according to the second embodiment in the closed position is shown;

[0068] Figure 11 A rear view of the closure according to the third embodiment in the closed position is shown; and

[0069] Figure 12 The closed position is shown. Figure 11 Side view of the closure component.

[0070] In all the accompanying drawings, the corresponding reference numerals or numbers refer to the same or corresponding parts in each drawing. Detailed Implementation

[0071] refer to Figures 1 to 6 The first embodiment of the closure 1 for the container consists of a single-piece body 2 including a top wall 4 and an annular side wall 6, the annular side wall 6 protruding from the periphery of the top wall 4 in an axial direction parallel to the reference axis A of the closure 1.

[0072] The annular side wall 6 forms, at its free end axially opposite the top wall 4, a safety ring 8, forms between the top wall 4 and the safety ring 8 an annular skirt 10, and forms a first tether 12 and a second tether 14 for permanently connecting the annular skirt 10 to the safety ring 8. The top wall 4 and the annular skirt 10 form a cap or lid 16 of the closure 1.

[0073] The annular skirt 10 is provided with an internal thread 18 depicted in Figure 3 the figure, which defines a loosening direction of rotation LR about the reference axis A. The loosening direction of rotation LR also corresponds, in the embodiment shown, to a counterclockwise circumferential direction CD of the closure 1. More precisely, the circumferential direction CD of the closure 1 is defined by the periphery of the annular skirt 10. It goes without saying that all the principles described here are also applicable to a screw closure with an internal thread or lugs that define a loosening direction as a clockwise circumferential direction. All the relevant features of the closure simply have to be adjusted accordingly. It will be understood that the description given here applies to both configurations, by virtue of the reference to the loosening direction.

[0074] In the particular embodiment shown, the safety ring 8 is provided with one or more hook-shaped resilient portions 20 as hook means projecting radially toward the reference axis A, configured to be snapped under corresponding annular beads, edges or cantilever tongues that are retaining means at the neck of the container, to fix the closure 1 to the container.

[0075] The first tether 12 and the second tether 14, as well as the safety ring 8, are defined or delimited by a first cutout line 30 and a second cutout line 50 that do not intersect or connect. That is, the first cutout line 30 and the second cutout line 50 do not converge.

[0076] As Figure 4 is particularly shown in the figure, in the embodiment shown, the first cutout line 30 extends along the loosening direction of rotation LR from a first end 32 to a second end 34 of the first cutout line 30 over an angle of approximately 280°. Preferably, the angle about the reference axis A between the first end 32 and the second end 34 of the first cutout line 30 is greater than 180°, for example greater than 220°.

[0077] Also as Figure 4 is particularly shown in the figure, in the embodiment shown, the second cutout line 50 extends along the loosening direction of rotation LR from a first end 52 to a second end 54 of the second cutout line 30 over an angle of approximately 150°. Preferably, the angle about the reference axis A between the first end 52 and the second end 54 of the second cutout line 50 can be greater than 50° and less than 180°.

[0078] The first tether 12 is defined or delimited by a first segment 36 of the first cut line 30 and a first segment 56 of the second cut line 50. The orthogonal projection of the first segment 36 of the first cut line 30 and of the first segment 56 of the second cut line 50 in the direction of the reference axis A at least partially overlap.

[0079] More specifically, the first segment 36 of the first cut line 30 consists of a terminal segment lying in a first reference plane P1 perpendicular to the reference axis A and extending from a first (terminal) end 32 of the first cut line 30 towards a second (terminal) end 34 of the first cut line 30 in the unscrewing direction LR.

[0080] The first segment 56 of the second cut line 50 consists of a terminal segment lying in a second reference plane P2. The second reference plane P2 is parallel to and remote from the first reference plane P1.

[0081] The first segment 56 of the second cut line 50 extends from a first (terminal) end 52 of the second cut line 50 towards a second (terminal) end 54 of the second cut line 50 in a direction opposite to the unscrewing direction LR.

[0082] With this configuration, the first tether 12 extends in the unscrewing direction LR from a first connection region 12-1 with the safety ring 8 to a second connection region 12-2 with the annular skirt 8.

[0083] The second tether 14 is defined or delimited by a second segment 38 of the first cut line 30 and a second segment 58 of the second cut line 50. The orthogonal projection of the second segment 38 of the first cut line 30 and of the second segment 58 of the second cut line 50 in the direction of the reference axis A at least partially overlap.

[0084] More specifically, the second segment 38 of the first cut line 30 consists of a terminal segment lying in the second reference plane P2 and extending from the second (terminal) end 34 of the first cut line 30 towards the first (terminal) end 32 of the first cut line 30 in a rotation direction opposite to the unscrewing direction LR.

[0085] The second segment 58 of the second cut line 50 consists of a terminal segment lying in the first reference plane P1 and extending from the second (terminal) end 54 of the second cut line 50 towards the first (terminal) end 52 of the second cut line 40 in the unscrewing direction LR.

[0086] Therefore, the second tether 14 extends in the unscrewing direction LR from a first connection region 14-1 with the safety ring 8 to a second connection region 14-2 with the annular skirt 10.

[0087] As Figure 4As shown, the lengths of the first tether 12 and the second tether 14 in the circumferential direction CD are defined by the overlap of the orthogonal projections of the first cut line 30 and the second cut line 50 in the direction of the reference axis A.

[0088] Preferably, and as in the illustrated embodiment, the lengths of the first tether 12 and the second tether 14 are the same. Thus, the corresponding overlap angle α between the first segment 36 of the first cut line 30 and the first segment 56 of the second cut line 50, measured around the reference axis A, is equal to the overlap angle β between the second segment 38 of the first cut line 30 and the second segment 58 of the second cut line 50, measured around the reference axis A. These overlap angles α and β are preferably configured to be greater than 5°, more preferably greater than 10°, and preferably less than 60°, more preferably less than 30°.

[0089] like Figure 2 As shown, the first cut line 30 also includes one or more intermediate line segments 40, the orthogonal projection of which in the direction of the reference axis A does not overlap with the orthogonal projection of the second cut line 50 in the direction of the reference axis A.

[0090] like Figure 2 Combination Figure 1 As shown, one or more intermediate segments 40 of the first cut line 30 connect the first segment 34 of the first cut line 30 to the second segment 36 of the first cut line 30. Thus, the one or more intermediate segments 40 define or limit the separation between the front of the annular skirt 10 and the safety ring 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more intermediate segments 40 consist of a plurality of segments 40 located in the second reference plane P2, but other configurations are also possible.

[0091] Now, for reference Figure 1 and Figure 4 The second cut line 50 also includes a plurality of intermediate line segments 60, the projection of which onto the direction of the reference axis A does not overlap with the first cut line 30. Furthermore, the plurality of intermediate line segments 60 of the second cut line 50 connect the first line segment 54 of the second cut line 50 to the second line segment 56 of the second cut line 50.

[0092] The middle line segment 60 defines or limits the separation between the rear part or hinge of the annular skirt 10 and the safety ring 8.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate segments 62, 64 of the second cut line 50 include at least one intermediate segment 62 located in a second reference plane P2 perpendicular to the reference axis A, to define a first tab 72 of the safety ring 8 protruding toward the annular skirt 10.

[0094] The intermediate line segments 62, 64 of the second cutout line 50 comprise at least one intermediate line segment 64 which lies in a first reference plane P1 perpendicular to the reference axis A to form a second tab 74 of the annular skirt 10 which projects towards the safety ring 8.

[0095] The first and second tabs 72, 74 are adjacent to each other between the first and second tether 12, 14. The tabs 72, 74 preferably have a trapezoidal shape which converges towards their respective free end, i.e. towards the first and second reference planes P1, P2, respectively. In the embodiment shown, the side edges of the tabs extend at an angle with respect to the reference axis A. However, the shape of the tabs 72, 74 is not limited to a trapezoidal shape, in principle the tabs 72, 74 can also have a square or rectangular shape; in this case the side edges of the tabs would extend parallel to the reference axis A. However, the tabs 72, 74 having a trapezoidal shape can improve the separation of the annular skirt 10 and the safety ring 8 in the unscrewing operation.

[0096] The intermediate line segments 40 of the first cutout line 30 are provided with first frangible bridges 60 which connect the front part of the annular skirt 10 to the safety ring 8 before the closure 1 is opened for the first time. The first frangible bridges 42 break when the closure 1 is unscrewed for the first time.

[0097] The intermediate line segments 62, 64 of the second cutout line 50 are provided with second frangible bridges 66 which connect the rear part of the annular skirt 10 to the safety ring 8 before the closure 1 is opened for the first time. The second frangible bridges 66 also break when the closure 1 is unscrewed for the first time.

[0098] All frangible bridges 60, 66 cross a line segment which lies in one of the planes P1, P2 perpendicular to the reference axis A.

[0099] Preferably, the width of the second frangible bridges 66 of the second cutout line 50 measured in the circumferential direction CD is preferably smaller than the width of the first frangible bridges 60.

[0100] Preferably, the first and second line segments 36, 56 and 38, 58 of the first and second cutout lines 30, 50 which delimit the first and second tether 12, 14 are free of frangible bridges.

[0101] As Figures 5 to 9 shown, when the closure 1 is moved in the unscrewing direction LR relative to the container 80, which in the embodiment shown is a bottle or a flask, the cap or lid 11 and the safety ring 8 are moved away from each other in the axial direction A.

[0102] By the unscrewing operation, the first and second frangible bridges 60, 66 break without difficulty, as they link the rigid portions of the safety ring 8 and the cap 11, which are preferably more rigid than the first and second ties 12, 14.

[0103] As the cap 11 continues to rotate and moves away from the safety ring 8 in the axial direction A, the first and second ties 12, 14 unfold in a controlled manner, which also causes the safety ring 8 to also rotate in the unscrewing direction LR relative to the container 80. As a result, the first and second ties 12, 14 are subjected to a pulling force in their longitudinal direction, which also causes the rotation of the safety ring 8 described.

[0104] As Figure 9 soon as the cap 11 is unscrewed, the user can flip the cap 11 around a momentary hinge axis relative to the safety ring 8, which at each instant lies in a plane perpendicular to the reference axis A, at a distance from the reference axis A.

[0105] As soon as the cap 11 reaches the open position, also as Figure 5 and Figure 6 shown, the second tab 74 of the annular skirt 10 presses against the first tab 72 of the safety ring 8, thereby holding the closure 1 in the open position, i.e. in the so-called “held open” arrangement or position as referred to herein. As discussed herein above, the particular arrangement of the first and second ties 12, 14 is found to result in the application of a pulling force upon unscrewing the closure 1 from the container 80, the intended effect of the “held open” arrangement or position is improved.

[0106] In Figure 9 , some features of the container 80 are indicated: in the embodiment shown, the container 80 is a bottle having a bottle neck 86, on which one or more external threads or lugs 82 are provided. The external threads or lugs 82 are configured to mate or cooperate with the internal threads or lugs 18 of the closure 1. As an orifice or opening, the container 80 has a mouth 84, which can be closed by the closure 1, i.e. by screwing the closure 1 having the internal threads 18 against the external threads 82 engaged to the bottle neck 86. In turn, the container 1 can be opened as described above by unscrewing the closure 1 from the bottle neck 86 by means of the unscrewing operation.

[0107] For completeness, once the closure 1 is first unscrewed, it can still be screwed back onto the container 1 to close the opening 84. During this closing or screwing-on operation, the first fastener 12 and the second fastener 14 almost fold back to their original positions, so that with the next unscrewing operation, the fasteners will unfold again as described above. As a result, after the first opening of the container 80, the container 80 also remains resealable, wherein the closure 1 is always held attached to the container 80 via the first fastener 12 and the second fastener 14, which connect the cap or lid 11 to the safety ring 8 that maintains a permanent assembly to the bottleneck 86.

[0108] The length and elasticity of the first fastener 12 and the second fastener 14 are such that when the cover 11 reaches the "keep open" position after being flipped against the safety ring 8, the first fastener 12 and the second fastener 14 are stretched, thereby supporting a stable "keep open" arrangement or position.

[0109] Figure 10 This shows the combination of the above text. Figures 1 to 9 A further improvement to the first embodiment of the closure 1 discussed herein. This further improvement is shown as a second embodiment of the closure 1.1. Because the closure 1.1 is consistent with the above in most details... Figures 1 to 9 Since the closure 1 discussed is the same, this document will only describe the relevant differences below, that is, all undescribed features of the second embodiment, refer to [reference needed]. Figures 1 to 9 The description.

[0110] exist Figure 10 The diagram shows two additional reference planes: the third reference plane P3 and the fourth reference plane P4. All reference planes P1, P2, P3, and P4 are coplanar.

[0111] The fourth reference plane P4 is located between the first reference plane P1 and the second reference plane P2. Essentially, the fourth reference plane P4 can be located anywhere between the first reference plane P1 and the second reference plane P2 to adjust the height of the first tab 72 of the safety ring 8 as needed. Preferably, the fourth reference plane P4 is positioned closer to the second reference plane P2 than to the first reference plane P1, such that the height and position of the first tab 72 of the safety ring 8 are set such that, in the held-open arrangement or position, the first tab 72 provides sufficient area for contact with the area provided by the second tab 74 of the annular skirt 10.

[0112] Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the third reference plane P3 is located at a distance from the second reference plane P2, and preferably below the first reference plane P1, thus being closer to the first reference plane P1 than to the second reference plane P2 or the fourth reference plane P4. By setting the position of the third reference plane P3, the height and position of the second protrusion 74 of the annular skirt 10 can be adjusted. Similarly, like the fourth reference plane P4, the third reference plane is configured such that, in the open position, the second tab 74 provides sufficient area for contact with the area provided by the first tab 72 of the safety ring 8.

[0113] Basically, the third reference plane P3 can be located anywhere below the first reference plane P1 and at a certain distance from the second reference plane P2 and the fourth reference plane P4.

[0114] Note that if the second reference plane P2 and the fourth reference plane P4 are set to be identical, and if the first reference plane P1 and the third reference plane P3 are simultaneously set to be identical, then the closure 1.1 of the second embodiment can be transformed as described above. Figures 1 to 9 The closure 1 of the first embodiment described. Therefore, Figures 1 to 9 The description is correspondingly applicable to Figure 10 The implementation method.

[0115] Now about all Figures 1 to 12 Each of the first cut line 30 and the second cut line 50 consists of a series of continuous line segments.

[0116] Unlike any closure with a structure resulting from corresponding features of a somewhat complex molding form, the cut lines 30, 50 are obtained by a cutting or slit device (such as a blade or cutting edge of a corresponding construction) adapted to partially or completely cut into or cut open the sidewalls 6 of the closures 1, 1.1. The cutting or slit is preferably performed without removing the plastic material, such that the segments of the first and second cut lines have adjacent cut walls.

[0117] The appropriate cutting method is described in WO2021 / 021095A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0118] Therefore, closure 1 ( Figures 1 to 9 ), closure 1.1 ( Figure 10 ) and closure 1.2 ( Figure 11 and Figure 12(These will be briefly described below) can be mounted on the spindle such that their reference axis A is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the spindle. Thus, the closure can roll along the slit or cutting device to produce a first slit line 30 and a second slit line 50. Consequently, each segment of each of the first slit line 30 and the second slit line 50 is associated with a corresponding blade segment. A first fragile bridging element 60 and a second fragile bridging element 70 can be formed by indentations in the blade segment. It is preferred that the blade cuts into or completely cuts through the sidewalls 6 of the annular skirt 10 and the safety ring 8 formed by the closures 1, 1.1, and 1.2. Alternatively, a fragile film of material can be left at the bottom of the segment. The blade segment is preferably flat rather than curved.

[0119] Most preferably, each of the first cut line 30 and the second cut line 50 corresponds to a break line, i.e., a line composed of a series of continuous "straight" line segments. In this way, each line segment is located in the associated blade plane.

[0120] at last, Figure 11 and Figure 12 A third embodiment is shown, which is about Figures 1 to 10 Further improvements to the closures 1 and 1.1 of the first and second embodiments shown and described. It will be understood that... Figure 10 The closure 1.1 in the text can also be used in Figure 11 and Figure 12 Used in the implementation methods.

[0121] Third implementation method and Figures 1 to 10 The difference between the first and second embodiments is that the closure 1.2 includes a cover 90 hinged to the base 3, the base 3 having an annular wall 6, the annular wall 6 having the first cut line 30 and the second cut line 50 described above, both the first cut line 30 and the second cut line 50 defining the annular skirt 10, the safety ring 8, and the first fastener 12 and the second fastener 14. The achieved functions and effects are essentially the same as described above.

[0122] In summary, the closures 1, 1.1, and 1.2 described herein are provided with annular sidewalls 6, which include annular skirts 10, safety rings 8, and first fasteners 12 and second fasteners 14. The first fasteners 12 and second fasteners 14 permanently connect the annular skirts 10 to the safety rings 8 and are defined or demarcated by a first cut line 30 and a second cut line 50, which do not converge. The annular skirts 8 are provided with internal threads or lugs 18, which define an unscrewing direction LR about a reference axis A defined by the safety rings 8. At least in the regions of the first tether 12 and the second tether 14, the orthogonal projections of the cut lines 30 and 50 in the direction of the reference axis A overlap and define the first tether 12 and the second tether 14, which extend in the unscrewing direction LR from the corresponding first connection regions 12-1 and 14-1 connected to the safety ring 8 to the corresponding second connection regions 12-2 and 14-2 connected to the annular skirt 10.

Claims

1. A closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) for a container (8), the closure comprising a one-piece body (2), the one-piece body (2) comprising an annular sidewall (6), the annular sidewall (6) comprising an annular skirt (10), a safety ring (8), and a first fastening element (12) and a second fastening element (14) permanently connecting the annular skirt (10) to the safety ring (8), the safety ring (8) defining a reference axis (A) of the one-piece body (2), the one-piece body (2) having a first cut line (30) and a second cut line (50) that do not converge with each other, wherein, One or more first segments (36) of the first cut line (30) and one or more first segments (56) of the second cut line (50) are orthogonally projected onto the closure (1) in the direction of the reference axis (A); The first tether (12) overlaps at least partially in the circumferential direction (CD) of the first cut line (30) and the first segment (36) of the second cut line (50) thereby defining the first tether (12). One or more second segments (38) of the first cut line (30) and one or more second segments (58) of the second cut line (50) are orthogonally projected in the direction of the reference axis (A) onto the circumferential direction (CD) of the closure (10), thereby defining the second tethering member (14). The first cut line (30) has one or more first intermediate line segments (40), the first intermediate line segments (40) are not part of the first line segment (36) and the second line segment (38) of the first cut line (30), and the orthogonal projection of the first intermediate line segment (40) in the direction of the reference axis (A) does not overlap with the second cut line (50). The second cut line (50) has one or more second intermediate segments (62, 64), which are not part of the first segment (56) and the second segment (58) of the second cut line (50), and the orthogonal projection of the second intermediate segments (62, 64) in the direction of the reference axis (A) does not overlap with the first cut line (30). The one or more first intermediate segments (40) of the first cut line (30) are defined by one or more first vulnerable bridging members (60) between the annular skirt (10) and the safety ring (8). The one or more second intermediate segments (62, 64) of the second cut line (50) are defined by one or more second vulnerable bridging elements (66) between the annular skirt (10) and the safety ring (8). The annular skirt (8) is provided with an internal thread or lug (18), which defines the unscrewing direction (LR) about the reference axis (A), and The first tether (12) and the second tether (14) extend in the unscrewing direction (LR) from the corresponding first connection area (12-1, 14-1) connected to the safety ring (8) to the corresponding second connection area (12-2, 14-2) connected to the annular skirt (10).

2. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to claim 1, wherein, The first segment (36) and the second segment (56) of the first cut line (30) and the second cut line (50) extend completely through the annular sidewall (6) without any weak bridging; and / or Each of the first vulnerable bridging element (60) and the second vulnerable bridging element (66) of the first cut line (30) and the second cut line (50) is located in an associated reference plane (P1, P2, P3, P4) perpendicular to the reference axis (A).

3. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Most of the one or more first intermediate segments (40) of the first cut line (30) lie in a common second reference plane (P2) perpendicular to the reference axis (A); and Preferably, at least one of the second vulnerable bridging elements (66) of the second cut line (50) is located in the second reference plane (P2).

4. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to claim 3, wherein, At least one of the second vulnerable bridging elements (66) of the second cut line (50) is located in a first reference plane (P1) perpendicular to the reference axis (A), the first reference plane (P1) being located at a certain distance from the second reference plane (P2).

5. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first cut line (30) extends from the first end (32) of the first cut line (30) to the second end (34) of the first cut line (30) in the circumferential direction (CD) around the reference axis (A) at an angle greater than 180° and less than 270°.

6. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The orthogonal projections of one or more first line segments (36, 56) of the first cut line (30) and the second cut line (50) onto the direction of the reference axis (A) overlap each other at an angle greater than 5°, preferably greater than 10° and less than 60°, preferably less than 30° around the reference axis (A); The orthogonal projections of the first cut line (30) and the second cut line (50) of one or more second line segments (38, 58) onto the direction of the reference axis (A) overlap each other at an angle greater than 5°, preferably greater than 10° and less than 60°, preferably less than 30° around the reference axis (A); and The one or more second intermediate segments (62, 64) of the second cut line (50) extend around the reference axis (A) at an angle greater than 30° and less than 90°.

7. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second cut line (50) extends at an angle of less than 180° from the first end (52) of the second cut line (50) to the second end (54) of the second cut line (50) in the circumferential direction (CD) around the reference axis (A).

8. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The safety ring (8) is provided with at least one first tab (72) protruding toward the annular skirt (10), and the annular skirt (10) is provided with at least one second tab (74) protruding toward the safety ring (8).

9. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to claim 8, wherein, At least one of the first protrusion (72) and the second protrusion (74) is defined by one or more third segments (68) of the one or more second intermediate segments (62, 64) of the second incision line (50).

10. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to claim 9, wherein, The third segment (68) of the one or more second intermediate segments (62, 64) of the second cut line (50) includes at least one of the one or more second vulnerable bridging elements (66).

11. The closure according to any one of claims (1; 1.1; 1.2), wherein, At least some, and preferably all, of the first segment (36) and the second segment (56) and / or the first intermediate segment (60) and the second intermediate segment (62, 64) of the first cut line (30) and / or the second cut line (50) have adjacent cut sidewalls.

12. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The single-piece body (2) also includes a top wall (4), and the annular skirt (10) protrudes from the top wall (4) to form a cap or cover (11) of the closure (1; 1.1).

13. The closure (1.2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The annular sidewall (6) is part of the base (3) of the closure (1.2), which also includes a cap or cover (90) hinged to the base (3), wherein preferably, the cap or cover (90) and the base (3) are part of the one-piece body (2).

14. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The safety ring (8) is provided with a hook-shaped elastic portion (20) protruding toward the reference axis (A).

15. The closure (1; 1.1; 1.2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the first cut line (30) and the second cut line (50) is a break line consisting of a series of continuous line segments, with a portion of each continuous line segment located in the associated blade plane.

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