Sealing assembly and container provided with same

Abstract

A closure assembly with a one-piece plastic fitting having a base and a tubular neck extending from the base for dispensing a product from a container body. The plug is connected with the top end of the neck part through a breakable peripheral connecting part to close the product channel. The closure assembly also has a plastic cap having a skirt defining a through-hole and fitted over the tubular neck and the stopper. The skirt has longitudinal ribs. The plug is provided with a lug protruding outwards, the lug is contained in the longitudinal groove to provide rotational locking, and the plug is further provided with an axial locking structure different from the lug and the groove and used for locking the plug and the cover body in the axial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] A first aspect of the invention relates to a closure assembly as described in the preamble of claim 1 and a container provided with the closure assembly, for example, the container containing a product that can be dispensed through the closure assembly. Exemplarily, the container is a collapsible bag container or a cardboard box.

[0002] The closure assembly includes an integral fitting formed from a plastic material, for example by injection molding, and includes: a base configured to be fixed or secured to a container body; a tubular neck disposed around a product channel, the tubular neck extending from the base along the main axis of the closure assembly and forming an opening at the apex of the tubular neck for dispensing product from the container body; and a stopper integrally formed with the apex of the tubular neck. The stopper has a sealing portion and is connected to the neck via a breakable peripheral connection to seal the product channel.

[0003] The closure assembly also includes a cover body formed from a plastic material, for example, by injection molding. The cover body has a skirt defining a through-hole extending from a lower opening at the lower end of the cover body to an upper opening at the upper end of the cover body. The cover body has at least one wing extending outward from the skirt.

[0004] In the closure assembly, a cap is fitted onto a tubular neck and a plug, such that the plug is located within a through-hole at or near the upper end of the cap, and a skirt extends around the tubular neck. The plug and cap are provided with a mating locking structure for locking the plug and cap relative to each other in the axial and rotational directions.

[0005] The closure assembly is configured so that, upon initial opening, the user can grasp the cap and break the fragile peripheral connection, thereby forming a cap and opening the product passage. The user can then reattach the cap to the tubular neck, placing it in a re-closed position, at which point the sealing portion of the plug enters the top portion of the tubular neck and seals against it, thus closing the product passage. Background Technology

[0006] An example of a closure assembly according to the preamble of claim 1 is disclosed in patent DE 10 2007 011 929. In this document it is stated that the closure assembly is formed by injection moulding as a plastic one-piece part comprising a fitment and a cap having two diametrically opposite wings. The lower end of the cap is integrally connected to the plug by a frangible connection and the cap extends along the main axis in a direction away from the plug and opposite to the tubular neck. Subsequently, the one-piece part is subjected to an axial compression action in which the cap is pushed towards the base of the fitment in such a way that the frangible peripheral connection between the neck and the plug remains intact, while the frangible connection between the plug and the cap breaks. In this operation, an annular rib with a plurality of fine teeth on the plug is snapped into an annular groove of the through hole, which is provided with matching fine teeth. In this way, the plug and the cap are locked to each other in rotation and in the axial direction. In this condition, the closure assembly is fixed to the container and the user can hold the wings of the cap and rotate it so that the frangible peripheral connection breaks, thus opening the product passage. At this point, the cap and the plug together form a cover which the user can put back on the tubular neck in a reclosing position in which the sealing portion of the plug enters the top end portion of the tubular neck and sealingly engages with the tubular neck to close the product passage.

[0007] The known closure assemblies are not satisfactory, for example, considering the desire to produce such closure assemblies with a smaller diameter of the tubular neck. Moreover, the closure assemblies of the prior art must in fact be formed from relatively hard plastic materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP), while the recycling technology tends more and more to require or to allow the formation of closure assemblies from other plastic materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). This requirement is particularly necessary, for example, when the container is also (partially, mostly or entirely) formed from such materials. SUMMARY

[0008] The first aspect of the application provides a closure assembly according to the preamble of claim 1, characterised in that the skirt of the cap has an outwardly protruding longitudinal rib extending parallel to the main axis; in that the through hole of the cap comprises a longitudinal groove extending parallel to the main axis and partially located within the longitudinal rib; in that the plug has an outwardly protruding tab which is accommodated within the longitudinal groove, the tab and the groove cooperating to achieve a rotational locking between the plug and the cap; and in that the plug and the cap are further provided with mutually cooperating axial locking means, distinct from the above-mentioned tab and groove, for locking the plug and the cap in the axial direction.

[0009] The invention provides a number of advantageous technical effects. The longitudinal ribs serve to strengthen the cap, allowing the skirt wall thickness to be reduced. The longitudinal ribs also allow the recesses to be made deeper relative to the skirt wall thickness, resulting in a more robust tab structure on the plug. For example, the recesses can be at least 0.5 times the skirt wall thickness, with the maximum depth being limited primarily by the relevant cross-section of the ribs. The first aspect of the invention also provides an optimised load transfer path between the cap and plug when the closure assembly is first opened by a user. When the user twists the cap, the torque is transferred via the tab and recess. Since the axial locking between the plug and cap is achieved by a different axial locking structure to the tab and recess, the tab itself does not need to bear axial loads.

[0010] In some embodiments, the cap is provided with at least one wing extending outwardly from the skirt and being integral with the longitudinal ribs, thereby optimising the transfer of torque from the wing to the skirt to the plug.

[0011] In some embodiments, the skirt of the cap has two outwardly projecting longitudinal ribs extending parallel to the main axis and diametrically opposite each other; wherein the through hole of the cap comprises two diametrically opposite longitudinal recesses extending parallel to the main axis, each recess being partially located within a corresponding one of the two longitudinal ribs; wherein the plug has two diametrically opposite outwardly projecting tabs, each tab being received within a corresponding one of the two longitudinal recesses, the tabs and recesses cooperating to achieve rotational locking of the plug and cap.

[0012] In some embodiments, the cap has two diametrically opposite wings extending outwardly from the cap, preferably each wing being integral with a corresponding one of the longitudinal ribs.

[0013] Although in some embodiments the cap can be provided with only one wing, it is preferred that two diametrically opposite wings are provided, for example to facilitate the user rotating the cap to open the closure assembly. This dual wing design can be combined with a plug provided with only one tab and a cap provided with only one longitudinal rib and one recess. However, for example, to optimise the transfer of torque from the wings to the plug to break the frangible peripheral connection, it is preferred that two tabs are provided in combination with two longitudinal ribs and recesses. For example, for a collapsible bag container having a top edge, it is envisaged that two wings are provided, the two wings lying in the same plane as the top edge of the container.

[0014] In some embodiments, one or both wings are planar, for example lying in a vertical plane through the main axis of the closure assembly. In other embodiments, one or both wings are non-planar, for example having a thickened edge or being curved.

[0015] In some embodiments, the axial locking structure is embodied as one or more outwardly protruding snap structures of the plug (distinguished from the at least one tab) and one or more complementary snap structures of the cap to effect axial locking of the plug and cap. For example, the plug has two diametrically opposed and outwardly protruding snap structures. In one practical embodiment, the two diametrically opposed and outwardly protruding snap structures are arranged perpendicular to the two tabs. For example, the cap is provided with diametrically opposed windows extending through the cap from the through hole, each window accommodating one of the snap structures to axially lock the plug.

[0016] In practical embodiments, the longitudinal ribs extend upwardly from the lower edge of the cap, for example to the upper end of the cap. In some embodiments, as discussed herein, the longitudinal ribs meet a collar portion of the cap at the upper end of the cap.

[0017] In some embodiments, the wall thickness of each of the longitudinal ribs varies (e.g. in steps) along its length, being greater at the location where the plug is accommodated than at the lower portion (e.g. lower end) of the cap. This allows for a maximum reduction in the use of plastic material without unduly compromising the strength of the cap. Furthermore, as discussed below, the lower end of the cap is more flexible than the location where the plug is accommodated, which is advantageous for the production of the closure assembly.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cap is provided with an outwardly protruding collar portion meeting the at least one longitudinal rib, for example both ribs. The collar portion locally reinforces the cap, for example at the location where the plug is locked to the cap and / or at the location where the wings meet the longitudinal ribs, thereby improving torque transmission.

[0019] For example, the one or more complementary snap structures of the cap are embodied as one or more windows extending through the collar portion of the cap from the through hole, each window accommodating a corresponding snap structure of the plug. For example, the plug has two diametrically opposed and outwardly protruding snap structures and the cap is provided with diametrically opposed windows extending through the collar portion of the cap from the through hole.

[0020] In some embodiments, the plug has a transverse wall portion, wherein the sealing portion is an annular sealing portion protruding downwardly from the transverse wall portion, and wherein the plug further has an annular top wall portion protruding upwardly from the transverse wall portion. The frangible peripheral connection portion adjoins the lower edge of the annular sealing portion of the plug. Based on this plug design, the sealing portion provides an optimal sealing effect when the assembly is reclosed, for example when it is designed with a small diameter. For example, the annular top wall portion adjoins the periphery of the transverse wall portion and the horizontal cross-section of the annular sealing portion is smaller than the horizontal cross-section of the transverse wall portion and the annular top wall portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, each of the tabs abuts a top wall portion of the plug.

[0022] In some embodiments, each of the tabs has a tab portion that projects downwardly relative to a lateral wall portion of the plug and is spaced from an annular sealing portion of the plug.

[0023] In some embodiments, an upper edge of each of the tabs lies in the same plane as an upper edge of the top wall portion of the plug.

[0024] In some embodiments, the lateral wall is planar or upwardly domed.

[0025] In some embodiments, the lower edge of the cap defines two diametrically opposed notches each of which defines a pair of inclined side edges that extend upwardly from a lowermost end of the cap to an apex of the notch at opposite inclined angles. The fitment has two diametrically opposed ramps, for example at or near the lower end of the tubular neck, for example projecting upwardly from the base portion. Each ramp has an inclined side edge and the ramps are complementary to the notches of the lower edge of the cap, such that in the reclosed position of the cap each ramp lies within a corresponding one of the notches. In a practical embodiment, prior to first opening, the lower end of the cap is above the ramps so that the ramps are not within the notches. When the user rotates the cap to its reclosed position, the engagement of the notches with the inclined side edges of the ramps causes a lifting action of the cap relative to the tubular neck, which facilitates re-opening of the closure assembly, for example by helping to overcome the resistance of a snap-fit connection between the tubular neck and the cap that acts in the reclosed position.

[0026] It is noted that in some embodiments, the ramps can have only one inclined side edge, so that the lifting action is obtained only when the cap is rotated in one direction.

[0027] In some embodiments, the tubular neck is provided with at least one circumferential rib, for example two axially spaced circumferential ribs, configured to engage (for example frictionally) with the inner wall of the cap. The rib or ribs (for example two) can stabilize the position of the cap relative to the tubular neck. The stabilizing rib or ribs can be configured and arranged to guide the cap during reclosing of the closure assembly so that the sealing portion of the plug does not collide with the top end of the neck. Such a collision can impose an axial load on the plug, in particular on the axial locking structure of the plug with the cap, so that the size of the axial locking structure needs to be increased to withstand this additional load. As described herein, it is advantageous to reduce the size of the snap structure on the plug, for example to facilitate access to the through hole during the axial compression action.

[0028] In some embodiments, the cap portion and the tubular neck portion are configured to form a snap connection when the cap portion is in its reclosed position (e.g. only in that position). For example, the cap is provided with a snap structure (e.g. an inwardly directed snap ledge) protruding into the through hole. For example, the inner wall of the skirt portion is provided with a snap structure that cooperates with the stabilizing ledge described herein, e.g. configured to snap under the stabilizing ledge, e.g. under the lower stabilizing ledge if the neck portion is provided with a plurality of ledges.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the snap connection for retaining the cap portion on the fitment in the reclosed position is formed by the residual part of the frangible peripheral connection on the tubular neck portion and the plug (e.g. the annular sealing portion of the plug). This way, the residual part of the frangible peripheral connection (which actually forms a snap ledge extending inwardly from the top end of the neck portion) is used to avoid the need for a separate snap structure on the neck portion.

[0030] In some embodiments, the closure assembly further comprises an integral connecting strap that is formed in one piece with the fitment and the cap, e.g. by molding. The connecting strap has a first end connected to the fitment and a second end connected to the cap, and is configured to retain the cap portion connected to the fitment after the closure assembly is opened for the first time. For example, the first end is connected to the base portion of the fitment, distal to the tubular neck portion. For example, the second end of the connecting strap is connected to one of the wings of the cap. For example, the connecting strap connects the base portion to one of the wings. In an embodiment with a single wing, two longitudinal ribs and a corresponding plug design, the wing is adjacent to one of the longitudinal ribs, and the connecting strap is connected to the other longitudinal rib.

[0031] In practical embodiments, the closure assembly is provided with only one integral connecting strap. In other embodiments, two connecting straps are provided between the fitment and the cap, one on each side of the cap.

[0032] In some embodiments, the connecting strap is a hinged connecting strap comprising a plurality of strap segments (in practical embodiments, straight strap segments) that are connected in series by one or more hinges. This design allows the connecting strap to be folded, e.g. during the production steps in which the cap is moved to the plug and the tubular neck portion.

[0033] In some embodiments, the connecting band is a hinged connecting band comprising: a first band segment connected to the fitment (e.g. the base) by a first hinge; a second band segment connected to the first band segment by a second hinge; a third band segment connected to the second band segment by a third hinge; the third band segment being connected to the cap by a fourth hinge; wherein the hinges define parallel hinge axes. This hinged design allows for an effective folding in the assembly production step of moving the cap onto the stopper and tubular neck, in case the cap is initially integrally molded (e.g. injection molded) with the fitment and stopper. In a preferred embodiment, the connecting band is configured such that, when the cap is in its reclosed position, the first band segment extends parallel to the main axis, the second band segment extends perpendicular to the main axis and away from the cap, and the third band segment extends along (e.g. parallel to) the second band segment. In practical embodiments, the first hinge allows the first band segment to pivot away from the neck, thereby enabling the cap to be moved to a position as far away as possible.

[0034] In some embodiments, the base of the fitment is embodied as having a sealing boat adapted to be secured or fixed (e.g. by heat sealing techniques) between opposing film walls of a foldable bag container. For example, the sealing boat is adapted to be secured or fixed between film walls of a bag container top end rim, preferably the wing extending in the same plane as the top end rim. In other embodiments, the base of the fitment is embodied as having a lower circumferential flange portion adapted to be secured or fixed to a panel of a container, such as a panel of a carton or a wall of a foldable bag. For example, the flange portion can be secured to a panel by heat sealing.

[0035] In some embodiments, the fitment and stopper, preferably also including the cap, are injection molded from polyethylene. The plastic material can be biodegradable and / or (partly) formed from recycled plastic.

[0036] In some embodiments, the tubular neck defines a product passage having a diameter between 2.0 and 5.0 mm, for example about 3 mm, but also larger neck inner diameters are contemplated.

[0037] The plastic fitment and cap (preferably also including the connecting band) of the closure assembly are preferably formed by injection molding, most preferably by molding an integral part, as described below. If no connecting band is provided, the fitment and cap can be molded separately and then assembled. 3D printing can be an alternative, but is not suitable for high productivity production.

[0038] The first aspect of the application also relates to a container provided with a closure assembly as described herein, for example the container is a foldable bag container or a carton.

[0039] The first aspect of the application also relates to a method for producing a closure assembly as described herein, in which method:

[0040] - forming an integral part from a plastic material by e.g. injection moulding, which integral part comprises the fitment and the cap, wherein the lower end of the cap is integrally connected with the plug by one or more breakable bridges, and the cap extends along the main axis in a direction away from the plug and opposite to the tubular neck (30); subsequently subjecting the part to an axial compression action to transform it into the closure assembly; in the axial compression action, the cap is pushed towards the base of the fitment such that the breakable peripheral connection remains intact, while the one or more breakable bridges break; and, in the axial compression action, the at least one tab of the plug enters the longitudinal groove and slides along the groove until the plug is located in or close to the through hole at the upper end of the cap, and the axial locking structures cooperate to axially lock the plug and the cap.

[0041] In some embodiments of the method, the integral part is realized such that, in the vicinity of each tab, a breakable bridge is provided (e.g. two breakable bridges on either side of the tab), which is connected at one end with the tab and at the other end with the lower end of the cap. Thereby, in the axial compression action, the tab is precisely aligned with the lower end of the longitudinal groove into which it is to slide.

[0042] In some embodiments, the plug has a top end face which, after completion of the compression action, is located in the through hole of the cap and at a distance below the upper opening of the through hole. This design is particularly advantageous when the breakable bridges which initially connect the plug and the lower end of the cap protrude above the top end face of the plug and, after completion of the compression action, are located below the upper opening of the through hole.

[0043] In some embodiments, the plug and the cap are dimensioned to have an interference fit, preferably only after completion of the compression action. Thereby, the plug can initially be relatively easily slid in the through hole, and the interference fit only comes into effect when the final position in the through hole is reached. For example, the tabs are dimensioned to have an interference fit with the groove, e.g. only the lower end of the tab has an interference fit dimension with respect to the groove. For example, the plug has one or more circumferential portions which, in the final position of the plug, have an interference fit with the through hole.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the integral part is formed by injection moulding in an injection mould, and the axial compression action is performed before the closure assembly is ejected from the injection mould. This method allows for a high production rate of the closure assembly and avoids the need for an additional robotized assembly process (i.e. sliding the cap onto the plug and the tubular neck) at a location remote from the injection mould.

[0045] In one embodiment of the method, the plug has a transverse wall and an annular seal projecting downward from the transverse wall, wherein the fragile peripheral connection is adjacent to the lower edge of the annular seal. Preferably, the injection mold has an inner core that defines a product channel through the tubular neck and an internal cavity adjacent to the annular seal. During in-mold compression, the inner core can be used to effectively support the plug, thereby keeping the peripheral connection intact. This support can also act in the direction of rotation to resist any torsion of the plug relative to the neck during compression.

[0046] In some embodiments of the method, the lower edge of the cap defines two radially opposing notches, each notch defining a pair of angled sides extending upward from the lowermost end face of the cap to the apex of the notch at opposite angles, and the plug has two radially opposing and outwardly projecting snap-fit ​​structures. For example, in embodiments with two radially opposing tabs, these snap-fit ​​structures are arranged perpendicular to the tabs. Each of these snap-fit ​​structures is axially aligned with its corresponding notch. For example, the cap has radially opposing windows extending through the cap from a through-hole. It is conceivable that during the axial compression action of the closure assembly, each snap-fit ​​structure enters its corresponding notch and begins to contact its angled side. This contact causes the angled side to elastically bend outward, thereby allowing the snap-fit ​​structure on the plug to gradually enter the through-hole of the cap. This design reduces the load on the snap-fit ​​structures during the axial compression step, for example, preventing the snap-fit ​​structures from shearing and / or other damage.

[0047] In some embodiments, each snap-fit ​​structure on the plug has a top end with a top surface and chamfered side surfaces on either side of the top surface. The chamfered side surfaces facilitate interaction with the sloping sides of the notch, thereby effectively widening the lower end of the cap to facilitate the plug's entry into the through-hole. For example, the angle of the chamfered side surfaces is the same as or similar to the angle of the sloping sides of the notch. Preferably, in a practical embodiment, the top surface of the snap-fit ​​structure extends perpendicular to the main axis to optimize the plug's fixation within the through-hole.

[0048] It should be noted that, as described herein, providing two longitudinal grooves for the tabs of the stopper may also facilitate the entry of a stopper with an outwardly protruding snap-fit ​​structure into the through-hole of the cap. Compared to a design without grooves and with a closed circular cross-section for the through-hole, the grooves effectively improve the flexibility of the cap for the insertion of a stopper with a snap-fit ​​structure into the through-hole during compression. This enhanced flexibility reduces the load on the snap-fit ​​structure when entering the through-hole. This effect can be enhanced by reducing the wall thickness at the lower part of the rib and increasing the wall thickness at the upper part of the rib, thereby making the rib more rigid in the upper region where the stopper locks with the cap.

[0049] Preferably, the fitment has two radially opposite ramp portions, for example located at the lower end or near the lower end of the tubular neck, for example projecting upwardly from the base portion, each ramp portion having an inclined side, and the ramp portions are complementary to the notches of the lower edge of the cap, so that in the reclosed position of the cap, each ramp portion is located in a corresponding one of the two notches, and the cooperation of the notches with the inclined side of the ramp portions produces a lifting action of the cap with respect to the tubular neck when the user rotates the cap in its reclosed position.

[0050] In one embodiment of the method, the one-piece component is formed with an integral connecting band, for example by molding, as a one-piece plastic piece with the fitment and the cap, the connecting band having a first end connected to the fitment and a second end connected to the cap, and the connecting band is configured to maintain the cap connected to the fitment after the first opening of the closure assembly. In one embodiment, the connecting band is a hinged connecting band comprising a plurality of band segments connected in series by one or more hinges, and in the compression action, the connecting band is folded as the band segments are folded around the one or more hinges. For example, after the compression action is completed, a first band segment extends parallel to the main axis, a second band segment extends perpendicular to the main axis and away from the cap, and a third band segment extends along the second band segment.

[0051] A second aspect of the application relates to a closure assembly comprising:

[0052] - a one-piece fitment formed of a plastic material, for example by injection molding, the fitment comprising:

[0053] - a base portion configured to be fixed or fixed to a container body,

[0054] - a tubular neck surrounding a product passage, the tubular neck extending from the base portion along a main axis of the closure assembly and forming a mouth for dispensing the product from the container body at a top end of the tubular neck,

[0055] - a plug formed integrally with the top end of the tubular neck, wherein the plug has a sealing portion, and wherein the plug is connected to the neck by a frangible peripheral connection to close the product passage,

[0056] - a cap formed of a plastic material, for example by injection molding, the cap having a skirt portion defining a through hole extending from a lower opening at a lower end of the cap to an upper opening at an upper end of the cap,

[0057] wherein the cap is mounted on the tubular neck and the plug so that the plug is located in the through hole at or near the upper end of the cap and the skirt portion extends around the tubular neck,

[0058] wherein the plug and the cap are provided with mutually cooperating locking structures configured to lock the plug and the cap in axial and rotational directions,

[0059] wherein the closure assembly is configured to allow a user to initially open the closure assembly by operating the cap to break the frangible peripheral connection, thereby forming a cap portion with the plug and the cap, and opening the product passage,

[0060] and wherein a user can re-close the closure assembly by re-capping the cap portion on the tubular neck portion in a re-closed position, in which the sealing portion of the plug is inserted in a top region of the tubular neck portion and sealingly engages the tubular neck portion to re-close the product passage.

[0061] According to the closure assembly of the second aspect of the application, the through hole of the cap is provided with two diametrically opposed longitudinal recesses extending parallel to the main axis, and the plug has two diametrically opposed and outwardly protruding tabs, each tab being received in a respective one of the two longitudinal recesses, the tabs cooperating with the recesses to achieve rotational locking of the plug and the cap, wherein the plug further has two diametrically opposed and outwardly protruding snap structures, which are arranged perpendicular to the tabs, and wherein the cap is provided with complementary snap structures to achieve axial locking of the plug and the cap.

[0062] As discussed with reference to the embodiments of the first aspect of the application, the second aspect of the application allows for establishing a robust connection between the plug and the cap to achieve torque transmission and axial locking. Herein, the tabs are used for torque transmission, while the snap structures provide axial locking, e.g. to ensure that the plug reliably remains as part of the cap portion within the cap.

[0063] It is to be understood that the closure assembly of the second aspect of the application can also incorporate one or more of the technical features as described in the first aspect, e.g. the features mentioned in the claims, e.g. in one or more of the dependent claims.

[0064] For example, in the second aspect, the cap can be provided with diametrically opposed windows extending through the cap from the through hole, e.g. through the collar portion of the cap, wherein the snap structures of the plug snap into the respective windows.

[0065] For example, in some embodiments of the second aspect, the lower edge of the cap defines two diametrically opposed notches, each notch delimiting a pair of inclined side edges extending from the lowermost end of the cap to the apex of the notch at opposite inclined angles. For example, the cap is provided with diametrically opposed windows extending through the cap from the through hole. It is envisaged that during the axial compression action for producing the closure assembly according to the second aspect, each snap structure enters the notch and starts to contact its inclined side edges. This contact causes the inclined side edges to elastically flex outwards, thereby allowing the snap structure to gradually enter the through hole of the cap. This design reduces the load on the snap structure during the compression step, for example avoiding that the snap structure is sheared and / or otherwise damaged. Preferably, the fitment has two diametrically opposed ramps, for example located at or near the lower end of the tubular neck, for example protruding upwards from the base portion, each ramp having inclined side edges, and the ramps are complementary to the notches of the lower edge of the cap, such that in the reclosed position of the cap, each ramp is located within the corresponding one of the two notches, and the cooperation of the notches with the inclined side edges of the ramps causes a lifting action of the cap relative to the tubular neck when the user rotates the cap in its reclosed position.

[0066] In the context of the second aspect, the cap can be provided with longitudinal ribs as described herein, but this is not necessary.

[0067] The second aspect of the application also relates to a container provided with a closure assembly according to the second aspect, for example the container is a collapsible bag container or a carton.

[0068] The second aspect of the application also relates to a method for producing a closure assembly according to the second aspect, in which method:

[0069] - forming an integral part from a plastic material by, for example, injection moulding, the integral part comprising the fitment and the cap, wherein the lower end of the cap is integrally connected to the plug by one or more breakable bridges, and the cap extends in the direction away from the plug and opposite the tubular neck along the main axis,

[0070] wherein the part is subsequently subjected to an axial compression action in which the cap is pushed towards the base portion of the fitment such that the frangible peripheral connection remains intact while the one or more breakable bridges are broken,

[0071] In the axial compression action, each tab of the plug enters the corresponding longitudinal groove and slides along the groove until the plug is positioned in the through hole at or near the upper end of the cap, and two radially opposite and outwardly protruding snap structures of the plug cooperate with the complementary snap structures of the cap, thereby achieving axial locking of the plug and the cap.

[0072] A third aspect of the application relates to a closure assembly comprising:

[0073] - a one-piece fitting formed from a plastic material, for example by injection molding, the fitting comprising:

[0074] - a base configured to be fixed or secured to a container body,

[0075] - a tubular neck surrounding a product passage, the tubular neck extending from the base along a main axis of the closure assembly and forming, at a top end of the tubular neck, a mouth for dispensing a product from the container body,

[0076] - a plug integral with the top end of the tubular neck, wherein the plug has a sealing portion and is connected to the neck by a frangible peripheral connection to close the product passage,

[0077] - a cap formed from a plastic material, for example by injection molding, the cap having a skirt defining a through hole extending from a lower opening at a lower end of the cap to an upper opening at an upper end of the cap,

[0078] wherein the cap is mounted on the tubular neck and on the plug, such that the plug is positioned in the through hole at or near the upper end of the cap and the skirt extends around the tubular neck,

[0079] wherein the plug and the cap are provided with mutually cooperating locking structures configured to lock the plug and the cap in axial and rotational directions,

[0080] wherein the closure assembly is configured to allow a first opening by the user by operating the cap to break the frangible peripheral connection, thereby forming a cap with the plug and the cap and opening the product passage,

[0081] and wherein the user can reclose the cap on the tubular neck in a reclosed position in which the sealing portion of the plug is inserted in a top region of the tubular neck and is in sealing engagement with the tubular neck to reclose the product passage.

[0082] According to the closure assembly of the third aspect of the application, the lower edge of the cap defines two diametrically opposite notches, each notch delimiting a pair of inclined sides extending from the lowermost end of the cap to the apex of the notch at opposite inclined angles; wherein the fitment has two diametrically opposite ramps, e.g. protruding upwardly from the base, located in opposite positions outside the neck, each ramp having an inclined side; wherein the ramps are complementary to the notches of the lower edge of the cap, so that in the reclosed position of the cap, each ramp is located within the corresponding one of the two notches; wherein the mating inclined sides of the notches and ramps cause a lifting action of the cap relative to the tubular neck when the user rotates the cap in its reclosed position.

[0083] As discussed herein with reference to embodiments of the first aspect, this design facilitates the user to re-open the closure assembly after it has been reclosed. Furthermore, in the reclosed position, the ramps can effectively stabilize the position of the cap on the tubular neck, e.g. in combination with one or more optional stabilizing ribs on the tubular neck as described herein.

[0084] The closure assembly of the third aspect of the application can further comprise one or more technical features as described in the first aspect, e.g. features mentioned in the claims, e.g. in one or more dependent claims.

[0085] In one embodiment of the third aspect, the plug has two diametrically opposite and outwardly protruding catch structures (e.g. perpendicular to the tabs in embodiments where two diametrically opposite tabs are present), wherein each of the catch structures of the plug is axially aligned with a corresponding notch when the cap is initially molded as part of a unitary component comprising the fitment and the plug, and the molded component is subjected to a compression action as described herein (e.g. described with reference to the second aspect).

[0086] The third aspect of the application also relates to a container provided with a closure assembly according to the third aspect, e.g. a collapsible bag container or a carton.

[0087] The third aspect of the application also relates to a method for producing a closure assembly according to the third aspect, in which method:

[0088] - forming a unitary component comprising the fitment and the cap from a plastic material by e.g. injection molding, wherein the lower end of the cap is integrally connected to the plug by one or more breakable bridges, and the cap extends in the direction away from the plug along the main axis and opposite the tubular neck,

[0089] wherein a subsequent axial compression of the assembly is performed, in which axial compression the cap is urged towards the base of the fitment so that the frangible peripheral connection remains intact while the one or more breakable bridges break,

[0090] wherein, in said axial compression, the plug enters the through hole and reaches the upper end or a position close to the upper end of the cap, until the cooperating locking structures lock the plug and cap in axial and rotational directions. Preferably, in this condition, each ramp is still outside (actually below) the respective notch. After the first opening (for example by the user breaking the frangible peripheral connection by twisting the cap), the user can reclose the cap onto the tubular neck. Subsequently, the plug enters the top end portion of the neck, the cap slides down the neck until the ramps enter the respective notches. When the user wishes to open the closure assembly again, rotating the cap in either direction will also cause a lifting action of the cap, facilitating the opening operation. For example, the lifting action resulting from the cooperation of the ramps with the inclined sides of the notches helps to overcome the retaining force of the snap connection between the cap and the fitment in the reclosed position of the cap.

[0091] A fourth aspect of the application relates to a closure assembly comprising:

[0092] - a one-piece fitment formed of a plastic material, for example by injection moulding, the fitment comprising:

[0093] - a base configured to be fixed or fixed to a container body,

[0094] - a tubular neck surrounding a product passage, the tubular neck extending from the base along a main axis of the closure assembly and forming, at a top end of the tubular neck, a mouth for dispensing the product from the container body,

[0095] - a plug integral with the top end of the tubular neck, wherein the plug has a sealing portion and is connected to the neck by a frangible peripheral connection to close the product passage,

[0096] - a cap formed of a plastic material, for example by injection moulding, the cap having a skirt defining a through hole extending from a lower opening at a lower end of the cap to an upper opening at an upper end of the cap,

[0097] wherein the cap is mounted on the tubular neck and on the plug so that the plug is located in the through hole at or close to the upper end of the cap and the skirt extends around the tubular neck,

[0098] wherein the plug and the cap are provided with cooperating locking structures configured to lock the plug and cap in axial and rotational directions,

[0099] wherein the closure assembly is configured to allow a first opening by the user by operating the cap to break the frangible peripheral connection, thereby forming a cap portion with the plug and opening the product passage,

[0100] and wherein the user can re-close the cap portion over the tubular neck portion in a re-closed position, in which the sealing portion of the plug is inserted into the top region of the tubular neck portion and sealingly engages with the tubular neck portion to re-close the product passage.

[0101] According to the closure assembly of the fourth aspect of the application, the closure assembly further comprises an integral connection band, which is formed as a one-piece plastic part with the fitment and the cap, for example by moulding; the connection band has a first end connected to the fitment and a second end connected to the cap; the connection band is configured to maintain the cap portion connected to the fitment after the first opening of the closure assembly.

[0102] As discussed herein with reference to embodiments of the first aspect, the provision of the connection band as an integral part of the moulded part allows for efficient production of the closure assembly and has the advantage that the cap portion remains connected to the fitment (and in turn to the container body) after opening by the user.

[0103] It will be appreciated that the closure assembly of the fourth aspect of the application can incorporate one or more of the technical features described in relation to the first aspect, for example the features described in the claims, for example in the dependent claims.

[0104] For example, in some embodiments of the fourth aspect, the connection band is a hinged connection band comprising a plurality of band segments connected in series by one or more hinges. As discussed with reference to embodiments of the first aspect, the hinged design of the connection band allows the connection band to be folded in a compression action during the production process. As preferred and discussed in relation to embodiments of the first aspect, this compression action can be performed before the closure assembly is ejected from the injection mould.

[0105] For example, in the fourth aspect, the connection band is a hinged connection band comprising: a first band segment connected to the fitment (for example the base portion) by a first hinge; a second band segment connected to the first band segment by a second hinge; a third band segment connected to the second band segment by a third hinge; and the third band segment is connected to the cap by a fourth hinge; wherein the hinges define parallel hinge axes. For example, the connection band is configured such that, when the cap portion is in its re-closed position, the first band segment extends parallel to the main axis, the second band segment extends perpendicular to the main axis and away from the cap, and the third band segment extends along the second band segment.

[0106] The fourth aspect of the application also relates to a container provided with a closure assembly according to the fourth aspect, for example the container is a collapsible bag container or a carton.

[0107] The fourth aspect of the application also relates to a method for producing a closure assembly according to the fourth aspect, in which method:

[0108] - forming, from a plastic material, by e.g. injection moulding, a one-piece part comprising said fitment, said cap and a connecting band connecting said fitment and cap, wherein said cap is integrally connected to said plug by one or more breakable bridges, and said cap extends along said main axis in a direction away from said plug and opposite said tubular neck,

[0109] wherein subsequently an axial compression action is performed on the part, in which axial compression action said cap is pushed towards the base of said fitment such that said frangible peripheral connection remains intact while said one or more breakable bridges break,

[0110] wherein, in said axial compression action, said plug enters said through hole and reaches a position at or close to the upper end of said cap, until said cooperating locking structures lock said plug and cap in axial and rotational directions, and wherein said connecting band is deformed, for example folded around said one or more hinges when deformed.

[0111] In one embodiment of the method of the fourth aspect, said connecting band is a hinged connecting band comprising a plurality of band segments connected in series by one or more hinges. As discussed with reference to embodiments of the first aspect, the hinged design of the connecting band allows folding of the connecting band in the compression action of the production process. As preferred and discussed in embodiments of the first aspect, the compression action can be performed before the closure assembly is ejected from the injection mould.

[0112] For example, in some embodiments of the fourth aspect, said connecting band is a hinged connecting band comprising: a first band segment connected to said fitment, e.g. said base, by a first hinge; a second band segment connected to said first band segment by a second hinge; a third band segment connected to said second band segment by a third hinge; said third band segment being connected to said cap by a fourth hinge; wherein said hinges define parallel hinge axes. For example, said connecting band is configured such that, when said cap is in its reclosed position, said first band segment extends parallel to said main axis, said second band segment extends perpendicular to said main axis and away from the cap, and said third band segment extends along said second band segment.

[0113] The fifth aspect of the application relates to a closure assembly comprising:

[0114] - a one-piece fitment formed, from a plastic material, by e.g. injection moulding, the fitment comprising:

[0115] - a base configured to be fixed or secured to the container body,

[0116] - a tubular neck surrounding the product passage, the tubular neck extending from the base along a main axis of the closure assembly and forming, at a top end of the tubular neck, a mouth for dispensing the product from the container body,

[0117] - a plug integral with the top end of the tubular neck, wherein the plug has a sealing portion and is connected to the top end of the neck by a frangible peripheral connection to close the product passage,

[0118] - a cap formed of a plastic material by, for example, injection molding, the cap having a skirt defining a through hole extending from a lower opening at a lower end of the cap to an upper opening at an upper end of the cap,

[0119] wherein the cap is mounted on the tubular neck and the plug so that the plug is located in the through hole at or close to the upper end of the cap and the skirt extends around the tubular neck,

[0120] wherein the plug and the cap are provided with cooperating locking structures configured to lock the plug and the cap in axial and rotational directions,

[0121] wherein the closure assembly is configured to allow a first opening by the user by operating the cap to break the frangible peripheral connection, thereby forming a cap portion with the plug and the cap and opening the product passage,

[0122] and wherein the user can reclose the cap portion on the tubular neck in a reclosed position in which the sealing portion of the plug is inserted in a top region of the tubular neck and sealingly engages with the tubular neck to reclose the product passage.

[0123] According to a fifth aspect of the application, the plug has a top face located in the through hole of the cap and below the upper opening of the through hole by a distance;

[0124] The breakable bridge (for example, a residual portion thereof) initially connecting the plug and the lower end of the cap protrudes above the top face and below the upper opening of the through hole.

[0125] The fifth aspect of the application is based on the insight that mass production of a closure assembly is most efficiently achieved by a production method in which:

[0126] - forming, from a plastic material, by injection moulding for example, a one-piece part comprising said fitment and said cap, wherein the lower end of the cap is integrally connected to the plug by one or more breakable bridges, and the cap extends along the main axis away from the plug and opposite the tubular neck,

[0127] wherein a subsequent axial compression action is performed on the part, in which the cap is pushed towards the base of the fitment, so that the breakable peripheral connection remains intact, while the one or more breakable bridges break,

[0128] wherein, in the axial compression action, the plug enters the through-hole until it is positioned in the through-hole near the upper end of the cap, and the locking structures cooperate with each other, thereby locking the plug and cap in the rotational and axial directions.

[0129] As a result of the compression action, the one or more breakable bridges between the plug and the cap break, and the residual parts of the one or more bridges remain on the plug. Although these residual parts are actually very small, they can still be perceived by the user if they protrude from the top end of the cap. The fifth aspect of the application avoids this problem by positioning the plug at a distance below the opening of the through-hole, so that the residual parts of the one or more breakable bridges are located inside the through-hole. This effectively hides these residual parts from the user, who cannot perceive their presence.

[0130] It will be appreciated that the closure assembly of the fifth aspect of the application can incorporate one or more of the technical features as described in the first aspect, for example the features described in the claims, for example in the dependent claims.

[0131] For example, the through-hole of the cap is provided with two diametrically opposite longitudinal grooves, which extend parallel to the main axis; the plug has two diametrically opposite and outwardly protruding tabs, each of which is housed in a respective one of the two longitudinal grooves, the tabs cooperating with the grooves to achieve the rotational locking of the plug and cap; the plug also has two diametrically opposite and outwardly protruding snap structures (distinct from the tabs), for example arranged perpendicularly to the tabs; the cap is provided with complementary snap structures to achieve the axial locking of the plug and cap. For example, the breakable bridges are provided near the tabs, for example on opposite sides of the tabs.

[0132] The fifth aspect of the application also relates to a container provided with the closure assembly.

[0133] The sixth aspect of the application relates to a method for producing a closure assembly, wherein:

[0134] - an integral part formed by injection molding in an injection mold from a plastic material, comprising a fitment, a cap and a connecting band,

[0135] - the fitment comprising:

[0136] - a base configured to be fixed to a container body,

[0137] - a tubular neck surrounding the product passage, the tubular neck extending from the base along a main axis of the closure assembly and forming, at a top end of the tubular neck, a mouth for dispensing the product from the container body,

[0138] - a plug formed integrally with the top end of the tubular neck, wherein the plug has a sealing portion and is connected to the top end of the neck by a frangible peripheral connection to close the product passage,

[0139] - the cap having a skirt defining a through hole extending from a lower opening at a lower end of the cap to an upper opening at an upper end of the cap, and the lower end of the cap being integrally connected to the plug by one or more breakable bridges, the cap extending in a direction away from the plug along the main axis and opposite the tubular neck,

[0140] - the connecting band being integrally formed with the fitment and the cap by injection molding, the connecting band having a first end connected to the fitment and a second end connected to the cap, and the connecting band being configured to maintain the cap connected to the fitment after the closure assembly is opened for the first time,

[0141] - wherein, before the injection molded integral part is ejected from the injection mold, an axial compression action is performed to press the cap towards the base, so that the frangible peripheral connection remains intact, the one or more breakable bridges are broken, and the connecting band is folded in the axial compression action.

[0142] In a practical embodiment, the method can comprise opening the mold, leaving the part held by one mold part, for example having an inner core portion defining the product passage through the tubular neck and supporting the plug. The inner core portion can be used to effectively support the plug during the "in-mold" compression action, so that the peripheral connection remains intact. For example, the cap is pushed axially towards the base of the fitment by actuating a portion of the other mold part. The compression action can also be performed by an actuation mechanism independent of the mold.

[0143] In a practical embodiment, the plug has a transverse wall portion and an annular sealing portion projecting downwardly from the transverse wall portion, wherein the frangible peripheral connection portion adjoins a lower edge of the annular sealing portion. Preferably, the injection mould has an inner core portion defining a product passage through the tubular neck portion and an inner cavity adjacent to the annular sealing portion of the plug.

[0144] In some embodiments, the connection band is a hinged connection band comprising a plurality of band segments connected in series by one or more hinges, wherein the folding of the connection band takes place at the one or more hinges.

[0145] In some embodiments, the first end is connected to the base portion of the fitment and is spaced a distance from the tubular neck portion.

[0146] In some embodiments, the connection band is a hinged connection band comprising: a first band segment connected to the base portion by a first hinge; a second band segment connected to the first band segment by a second hinge; a third band segment connected to the second band segment by a third hinge; and the third band segment is connected to the cover by a fourth hinge; wherein the hinges define hinge axes which are perpendicular to the main axis and parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the connection band is configured such that, when the cover is in its reclosed position, the first band segment extends parallel to the main axis, the second band segment extends perpendicular to the main axis, and the third band segment extends perpendicular to the main axis.

[0147] In some embodiments, the second end of the connection band is connected to one wing portion of the cover. For example, the cover is provided with two diametrically opposed wing portions which extend in a plane which passes through the closure assembly main axis. Preferably, the connection band, for example the hinged connection band, lies in this plane. For example, the folding of the hinged connection band takes place in this plane.

[0148] The sixth aspect of the application also relates to a closure assembly obtained by carrying out the method.

[0149] The sixth aspect of the application also relates to a container provided with the closure assembly.

[0150] It will be understood that the assembly, method or closure assembly of the sixth aspect can include one or more of the technical features described in the first aspect, for example as described in the claims, for example in the dependent claims.

[0151] The seventh aspect of the application relates to a method for producing a closure assembly, wherein:

[0152] - forming, by injection moulding from a plastics material, a unitary part comprising a fitment and a cover,

[0153] wherein said fitment comprises:

[0154] - a base configured to be fixed to a container body,

[0155] - a tubular neck surrounding the product passage, the tubular neck extending from said base along a main axis of the closure assembly and forming at a top end of the tubular neck a mouth for dispensing the product from the container body,

[0156] - a plug integral with the top end of said tubular neck, wherein said plug has a sealing portion and a lower end of said plug is connected to the top end of said neck by a frangible peripheral connection to close said product passage,

[0157] wherein said cap has a skirt defining a through hole extending from a lower opening at a lower end of the cap to an upper opening at an upper end of the cap, and the lower end of the cap is integrally connected to said plug by a breakable bridge, the cap extending along said main axis away from said plug,

[0158] wherein said plug and said cap are provided with mutually cooperating locking structures configured to lock said plug and cap in axial and rotational directions,

[0159] wherein said plug has two radially opposite and outwardly projecting snap locking structures, and said cap is provided with complementary snap structures to achieve at least axial locking of said plug and cap,

[0160] wherein a lower edge of said cap defines two radially opposite notches, each notch defining a pair of inclined side edges extending from a lowermost end of the cap at opposite inclined angles to an apex of said notch,

[0161] wherein each notch is axially aligned with one of the snap locking structures of said plug,

[0162] wherein said injection molded parts are subsequently subjected to an axial compression action, pushing said cap towards said base, such that said frangible peripheral connection remains intact while said breakable bridge breaks; in this axial compression action, said snap locking structures enter the respective notches and interact with the inclined side edges of the notches, causing the cap to gradually expand so that said snap locking structures enter the through hole of the cap.

[0163] As described herein, for example with reference to the third aspect, the interaction between the inclined side edges of the notches and the snap locking structures on the plug facilitates that they do not experience excessive stress when entering the through hole.

[0164] The seventh aspect of the application also relates to a closure assembly obtained by performing the method, and to a container provided with such a closure assembly.

[0165] It should be understood that the components, methods and / or closure assemblies of the seventh aspect can include one or more of the technical features as described in the first aspect, e.g. the features described in the claims, e.g. in the dependent claims.

[0166] It should be understood that the technical measures described herein in relation to one aspect can be combined with the technical features of other one or more aspects described herein, e.g. as exemplified by the figures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0167] Figure 1 An integral plastic part by injection moulding before the compression action in the method for producing a closure assembly according to the application is shown;

[0168] Figure 2 The part of Figure 1 is shown from another angle;

[0169] Figure 3 The part of Figure 1 is shown from yet another angle;

[0170] Figure 4 A vertical cross-sectional view of the closure assembly of Figure 1 is shown;

[0171] Figure 5 A detail of the part of Figure 1 is shown at a larger scale;

[0172] Figure 6 The part of Figure 1 is shown from below at an angle;

[0173] Figure 7 The part of Figure 1 is shown from above at an angle;

[0174] Figure 8 A vertical cross-sectional view of the closure assembly of Figure 1 is shown after the compression action on the part of

[0175] Figure 9 The closure assembly of Figure 8 is shown in perspective view;

[0176] Figure 10 The closure assembly of Figure 9 is shown from another angle;

[0177] Figure 11 The closure assembly after the first opening by a user is shown;

[0178] Figure 12 from another angle Figure 11 the closure assembly of

[0179] Figure 13 is shown Figure 8 to Figure 11 the closure assembly of

[0180] Figure 14 is shown in vertical cross-section Figure 13 the reclosed closure assembly of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0181] The method of production and the closure assembly of the aspects of the present application are described in detail below, in connection with the drawings and with reference to embodiments. A general overview is provided first, followed by a discussion of specific details.

[0182] Figure 1 to Figure 7 An example of the unitary component 1 is shown, formed by injection moulding of a plastic material, for example polyethylene, for example low density polyethylene, through a corresponding mould. In actual embodiments, the mould will have a plurality of cavities, each defining one unitary component 1, taking into account mass production.

[0183] Generally, the unitary component 1 comprises a fitment 10 and a cap 60.

[0184] The fitment 10 comprises:

[0185] - a base 20 configured to be fixed to a container body;

[0186] - a tubular neck 30 surrounding the product passage 3, which extends from the base along the main axis 5 and forms an opening 32 at a top end of the tubular neck, so as to dispense the product from the container body;

[0187] - a plug 40 moulded integrally with the top end of the tubular neck, wherein the plug has a sealing portion 41 and is connected to the top end of the neck 30 by a frangible peripheral connection 46, so as to close the product passage 31.

[0188] The lower end of the cap 60 is integrally connected to the plug 40 by a frangible bridge 55.

[0189] In the unitary component 1, the cap 60 extends along the main axis 5 away from the plug and opposite the tubular neck 30.

[0190] In order to transform the injection moulded unitary component 1 into a closure assembly 100 that can be fixed to a container body, an axial compression action is performed on the moulded unitary component 1, preferably before the unitary component is transformed into a closure assembly and ejected from the mould. In this operation, the cap 60 is pushed towards the base 20 of the fitment 10, so that the frangible peripheral connection 46 remains intact and the frangible bridge 55 breaks. The result is a closure assembly 100 as shown inFigure 8 to Figure 10 The enclosed component 100 shown.

[0191] Axial compression is performed before ejection from the mold, enabling high productivity of the closure component 100 without the need for additional robotic assembly processes (i.e., sliding the cap onto the plug and tubular neck) in a location far from the injection molding process.

[0192] The base 20 of the accessory is embodied herein as having a sealing boat-shaped portion adapted to be secured between opposing membrane walls of a collapsible bag container in a manner known in the art, for example, by means of (heat) sealing techniques known in the art, such as at the top seam of the bag. The closure assembly 100 is then secured to the collapsible bag container.

[0193] The container is filled with product, either through an opening that is closed when the closure assembly is secured or through another opening away from the closure assembly, and then the opening is closed.

[0194] With the container filled and the closure assembly 100 secured to the container, the fragile peripheral connection 46 between the tubular neck 30 and the plug 40 remains intact, ensuring the product channel 31 is sealed shut.

[0195] The user can initially open the container's closure assembly 100 by grasping the cap 60 (e.g., its wings) and applying appropriate force (e.g., torsional force) to twist the cap 60, thereby discharging the product from the container. This causes the fragile peripheral connection 46 to break, releasing the cap 70, formed by the cap 60 and the stopper 40 locked together, from the tubular neck 30, but still connected to the base via the connecting strap 90.

[0196] The user can move the cover 70 away from the tubular neck 30 by stretching the connecting strap 90, such as Figure 11 and 12 As shown, for example, it allows the product to be discharged without interference from the lid 70, such as when the product is a beverage or other drinkable food (e.g., yogurt), allowing the user to drink from the container.

[0197] The user can reseal the sealing assembly 100 by placing the cover 70 back onto the tubular neck 30, such as Figure 13 and 14 As shown. The sealing part of the plug 40 is inserted into the top part of the tubular neck 30 to seal the product channel 31 at this re-sealed position.

[0198] The cover 60 has a skirt 61 that defines a through hole 62 that extends from a lower opening at the lower end of the cover to an upper opening at the upper end of the cover.

[0199] As a result of the compression action, the cap 60 breaks away from the plug 40 and becomes fitted over the tubular neck 30 and the plug 40 so that the plug 40 is located within the through hole, here proximate the upper end of the cap, and the skirt 61 extends around the tubular neck 30.

[0200] Generally, the plug 40 and the cap 60 are provided with cooperating locking structures for locking the plug and the cap in axial and rotational directions.

[0201] In an actual exemplary embodiment, the unitary component 1 has a height of about 45 mm, as shown. The tubular neck 30 has a height of about 15 mm and an outer diameter of about 4.5 mm, and the product passage 31 inside it has a diameter of about 3 mm. The cap 60 has a height of about 17 mm, and the through hole 62 inside it has a diameter of about 5 mm. For example, the unitary component 1 has a weight of about 0.7 g. Although these dimensions are merely exemplary, they help to understand various aspects of the invention and their related effects / advantages.

[0202] The structure of the exemplary embodiment of the unitary component 1 and of the closure assembly 100 produced by performing the compression action will be discussed in more detail below.

[0203] The cap 60 has two radially opposite wings 65 that extend outwardly from the skirt 61 of the cap.

[0204] In this example, the wings 65 are planar and extend in a vertical plane that passes through the main axis 5 of the closure assembly.

[0205] In this example, the wings 65 have a height of 8 mm and a radial length of 3 mm.

[0206] The skirt 61 has two outwardly projecting longitudinal ribs 63 that extend parallel to the main axis 5 and are radially opposite. Each wing 65 is formed integrally with a corresponding longitudinal rib 63.

[0207] The through hole 62 of the cap is provided with two radially opposite longitudinal grooves 64 that extend parallel to the main axis 5, each longitudinal groove 64 being partly located within a respective one of the two longitudinal ribs 63.

[0208] The plug 40 has two radially opposite and outwardly projecting tabs 45.

[0209] As shown, the unitary component 1 is embodied such that, in the vicinity of each tab 45, a breakable bridge 55 is provided (here, two breakable bridges located on opposite sides of the tab 45), one end of which is connected to the tab 45 and the other end of which is connected to the lower end of the cap 60. In this way, the tab is precisely aligned with the lower end of the longitudinal groove 64, and during the axial compression action, the tab slides in the groove 64.

[0210] For example, from Figure 4 and Figure 7 It will be appreciated that the compression action causes each tab 45 to be received within a respective one of the two longitudinal grooves 64. The tabs 45 cooperate with the grooves 64 to achieve rotational locking of the plug 40 and the cap 60.

[0211] The provision of the longitudinal ribs 63 allows the wall thickness of the cap skirt 62 to be reduced, as the longitudinal ribs serve to reinforce the cap and structurally link the wing 65 with the skirt 61.

[0212] The longitudinal ribs 63 also allow the depth of the grooves 64 (perpendicular to the main axis 5) to be designed deeper relative to the wall thickness of the skirt 61, in turn allowing the structure of the two opposing tabs 45 of the plug 40 to be more robust. This creates an optimal load path between the wing 65 and the plug 40 when the closure assembly 100 is first opened by a user. The cooperation of the tabs 45 with the grooves 64 transfers torque when the cap 60 is rotated by a user.

[0213] In this example, the axial locking structure between the plug and the cap is achieved by outwardly projecting snap features 47 of the plug 40, which are distinct from the tabs 45. The cap 60 has complementary snap features 67 to provide axial locking of the plug and the cap. As the axial locking between the plug 40 and the cap 60 is achieved by axial locking features distinct from the tabs and grooves, the tabs 45 do not need to bear axial loads.

[0214] As shown, the plug 40 has two radially opposing and outwardly projecting snap features 47 for axial locking, which are here arranged perpendicular to the tabs 45. The snap features 67 of the cap are embodied as radially opposing windows extending through the cap from the through-hole 62.

[0215] Taking into account torque transfer and axial locking, a robust connection is formed between the plug 40 and the cap 60. Here, the tabs 45 are used to transfer torque, while the snap features 47 provide axial locking, for example to ensure that the plug 40 reliably remains as part of the cap 70 within the cap after the closure assembly 100 is first opened.

[0216] The cap 60 is provided with an outwardly projecting collar portion 66 extending around the circumference of the cap and merging with the longitudinal ribs 63. As shown, the windows 67 extend through the collar portion 66 of the cap from the through-hole. The cap can also be provided with a recess, for example an internal circumferential groove, adjacent to the through-hole 62, instead of the windows 67, in which the snap features 47 snap in. However, in view of the injection molding process, it is preferred to provide the windows 67, which can also be advantageous for computer vision inspection of the closure assembly after production, for example to assess whether the plug 40 is correctly locked within the cap.

[0217] As shown, in some embodiments, the wall thickness of the longitudinal rib 63 varies along its length, for example, in steps, with the wall thickness at the location where the plug 40 is received being greater than the wall thickness of the lower portion of the cap. This allows the use of plastic material to be minimized without unduly compromising the strength of the cap.

[0218] The plug 40 has a transverse wall portion 41 and an annular sealing portion 42 projecting downwardly from the transverse wall portion. The plug 40 also has an annular top wall portion 43 projecting upwardly from the transverse wall portion 41. The annular top wall portion 43 abuts the periphery of the transverse wall portion 41, and the horizontal cross-section of the annular sealing portion 42 is smaller than the horizontal cross-section of the transverse wall portion 41 and the annular top wall portion. The sealing portion 42 is dimensioned to sealingly fit into the top end of the neck 30 when the assembly 100 is reclosed. For example, the sealing portion is open downwardly here. For example, the sealing portion has a spherical outer periphery here to enhance the sealing action and facilitate snap locking of the cap when the assembly 100 is reclosed.

[0219] Each tab 45 abuts the top wall portion 43.

[0220] Each tab 45 has a tab portion projecting downwardly relative to the transverse wall portion 41 of the plug and disposed separately from the annular sealing portion 42 of the plug. For example, in the reclosed position of the cap, the tab portion is in contact with the outside of the top end portion of the neck 30.

[0221] As shown, the upper edge of each tab 45 is in the same plane as the upper edge of the top wall portion 43 of the plug.

[0222] As shown, the transverse wall 41 is planar.

[0223] The frangible peripheral connection 46 is formed by a thin wall portion and is disposed between the top end of the tubular neck 30 and the lower edge of the annular sealing portion 42 of the plug 40.

[0224] In the axial compression action, the plug 40 enters the through hole 62 until the plug 40 is located in the through hole near the upper end of the cap 60, and the tab 46 cooperates with the groove 64, the axial locking structure 47, 67 cooperates to lock the plug and the cap in the rotational direction and the axial direction.

[0225] Preferably, the plug and the cap are dimensioned to form an interference fit when the compression action is completed. Here, the lower end of the tab 45 has an interference fit dimension relative to the upper portion of the groove 64.

[0226] In a practical embodiment, the production method can comprise opening the mould so that the one-piece part 1 remains clamped by one mould part, for example with an inner core which defines the product passage 31 within the tubular neck 30 and which supports the plug 40, for example with the inner core projecting into the annular sealing portion. During the compression action "in the mould", the inner core can effectively support the plug 40 so that the peripheral connection 46 remains intact even if the cap is pressed downwards. For example, the cap is pushed axially towards the base 20 of the fitting by actuating a portion of the other mould part. The compression action can also be performed by an actuating mechanism separate from the mould.

[0227] As a result of the compression action, the breakable bridge 55 between the plug 40 and the cap 60 breaks, leaving a residual portion of the bridge 55 on top of the plug 40. Although these residual portions are in fact very small, they can be noticed by the user if they project from the top end of the cap. By locking the plug 40 within the through hole and at a distance below the upper end of the through hole, as shown, this problem is avoided, so that the residual portions of the breakable bridge 55 are located within the through hole. This effectively conceals the residual portions so that the user does not feel their presence.

[0228] As shown, the cap 60 has a lower edge 69 which defines two diametrically opposite grooves 75. Each groove 75 defines a pair of inclined side walls 76 which extend upwards from the lowermost end face 77 of the cap in opposite inclined directions to the vertex of the groove.

[0229] The fitting 10 has two diametrically opposite ramps 80, here at the lower end of the tubular neck 30. The ramps 80 project upwards from the base 20.

[0230] Each ramp 80 has inclined side walls. The ramps 80 are complementary to the grooves 75 of the lower edge of the cap 60, so that in the reclosed position of the cap, each ramp 80 is located within a respective one of the two grooves 75, for example Figure 13 as shown.

[0231] When the user wishes to open the reclosed closure assembly 100, the user will rotate the cap 70 initially in the reclosed position. The inclined side walls which cooperate between the grooves 75 and the ramps 80 then drive an elevation action of the cap with respect to the tubular neck 30.

[0232] The provision of the grooves 75 and the ramps 80 enhances the opening of the closure assembly 100 by the user after reclosing. Furthermore, in the reclosed position, the ramps 80 effectively stabilise the cap 70 on the tubular neck 30.

[0233] The stability of the cap 70 on the tubular neck 30 is enhanced by the provision of one or more stabilising ribs 32, 33 on the tubular neck.

[0234] The tubular neck 30 here is provided with two axially spaced circumferential beads 32, 33, also called stabilizing beads, configured to engage, for example frictionally, the inside of the cap. For example, as shown. Figure 8

[0235] Preferably, the neck 30 is provided with a lower circumferential bead 32 and an upper circumferential bead 33. Preferably, the lower bead 32 is located at a height above the ramp 80 and the upper bead 33 is located at a height below the top end of the neck 30. The beads 32, 33 are in frictional engagement with the inside of the cap 60, both in the position obtained after the compression action and in the reclosing position.

[0236] The stabilizing beads 32, 33 guide the cap during reclosing of the closure assembly 100 so that the sealing portion 42 of the plug 40 does not collide with the top end of the neck 30.

[0237] The provision of the grooves 75 in alignment with the snap structures 47 of the plug 40 also has advantages during the axial compression action. Here, the axial locking structures 47 enter the respective grooves 75 and interact with the inclined side walls 76 thereof, thereby gradually elastically expanding the lower end of the cap 60 so as to snap the locking structures into the through hole of the cap. This interaction between the inclined side walls of the grooves 75 and the snap locking structures 47 on the plug 40 facilitates the entry of the snap locking structures 47 into the through hole without excessive stress in this step.

[0238] As Figure 3 As best shown, each snap structure 47 on the plug has a top end with a top face 47a and chamfered side faces 47b on either side of the top face. The chamfered side faces 47b facilitate interaction with the inclined side walls 76 of the grooves 75, thereby effectively expanding the lower end of the cap so as to enter the plug 40 into the through hole 62. For example, the inclination of the chamfered side faces is the same or similar to the inclination of the inclined side walls of the grooves. Preferably, the top face 47a extends perpendicular to the main axis to optimize the axial fixation of the plug 40 within the through hole.

[0239] Two longitudinal grooves 64 extend upwardly from the lower edge of the cap. Their presence effectively increases the flexibility of the cap, facilitating the entry of the plug 40 into the through hole, wherein the plug 40 has axial locking structures 47 perpendicular to the tabs 45, so that during the compression action the axial locking structures 47 do not enter the grooves 64. This reduces the load during the entry of the snap structures 47 into the through hole. This effect can be enhanced by measures that reduce the wall thickness at the lower part of the ribs 63 and increase the wall thickness at the upper part of the ribs 63, so that the ribs 63 are stiffer at the upper part of the locking of the plug with the cap, wherein they also interface with the collar portion.

[0240] ​The cap portion 60 and the tubular neck portion 30 are configured to form a snap connection when the cap portion is in its reclosed position, here only in its reclosed position. In this example, the residual part of the frangible peripheral connection 46 on the tubular neck portion, although it will actually be a thin and small annular rim, also allows a snap connection to be formed with the sealing portion 42 of the plug 40.

[0241] The one-piece component 1 and the closure assembly 100 obtained thereby also comprises an integral connection band 90, here preferably a single integral connection band. This connection band is formed in one piece with the fitment 10 and the cap 60 by injection molding as a one-piece plastic part, as the one-piece component 1.

[0242] The fact of having the connection band 90 as an integral part of the molded component 1 makes it possible to achieve an efficient production of the closure assembly 100, with the advantage that the cap portion 70 remains connected to the fitment 10, and thus to the container body, after the user has opened it.

[0243] The connection band 90 has a first end connected to the fitment 10 and a second end connected to the cap, here to the wing 65. Generally, the connection band 90 is configured to keep the cap portion 70 connected to the fitment after the closure assembly 100 has been opened for the first time.

[0244] As illustrated, the first end is connected to the base portion 20 of the fitment, away from the tubular neck portion 30, and the second end of the connection band 90 is connected to the wing 65 of the cap.

[0245] The connection band 90 is a hinged connection band comprising a plurality of band segments connected in series by hinges.

[0246] Preferably, the connection band 90 is a hinged connection band comprising a first band segment 92 connected to the base portion 20 by a first hinge 91, a second band segment 94 connected to the first band segment 92 by a second hinge 93, and a third band segment 96 connected to the second band segment 94 by a third hinge 95. The third band segment 96 is connected to the cap, here to the wing 65, by a fourth hinge 97. The hinges 91, 93, 95, 97 define parallel hinge axes.

[0247] The band segments 92, 94, 96 each extend in one vertical plane, here a vertical plane passing through the main axis 5, and these segments remain in this plane when the connection band 90 is folded. As illustrated and preferably, this plane also contains the (top) edge of the bag container to which the closure assembly is fixed.

[0248] The connecting band 90 and the band segments 92, 94, 96 are initially molded in an extended or stretched configuration of the connecting band. Due to the compression action, the connecting band 90 is folded, herein the second and third band segments are folded around the hinges 93, 95 of the connecting band. In this example, the first band segment 92 is molded to extend parallel to the tubular neck 30, i.e. parallel to the main axis 5. The second band segment 94 is angled outwardly from the top end of the first band segment 92, and the third band segment 96 is angled inwardly from the top end of the second band segment 94.

[0249] During the compression action, the first band segment 92 substantially maintains its orientation upwardly, while the second and third band segments 94, 96 are folded around the hinges from their extended configuration to a configuration in which the second band segment 94 extends perpendicular to the main axis 5 and in a direction away from the cap 60. After the compression action is completed, the third band segment 96 extends along the second band segment 94. As shown, the second and third band segments 94, 96 allow them to be closer to each other, which design is envisioned for the reclosing position of the cap 70: in this position, the cap is substantially further down the neck than in the position after the compression step, which refers to the stage in which the frangible peripheral connection 46 is still intact. Figure 8

[0250] As shown, the connecting band 90 is configured such that, when the cap 70 is in its reclosing position, the first band segment 92 extends parallel to the main axis 5, preferably close to the cap 70, the second band segment 94 extends perpendicular to the main axis 5 in a direction away from the cap, and the third band segment 96 extends along the second band segment 94, in effect back to the cap 60.

[0251] As shown, the first hinge 91 is mainly used to allow the first band segment 92 to pivot outwardly, away from the neck 30, in order to place the cap 70 in a position as far away from the neck as possible, for example to facilitate the unobstructed flow of the product and / or to facilitate the drinking of the product in the container when the user places the neck between the lips. For example, the first hinge allows the first band segment to be pivoted to a position close to horizontal. Figure 11

[0252] The connecting band 90 is also provided with an anti- nesting structure 98 on one or both of the second and third band segments 94, 96, for blocking the gap between them, for example to prevent the folded connecting band of another closure assembly from entering during handling and / or transport of the assembly 100.

[0253] The width of the hinge or hinges, herein the width of the hinge 95, is greater than the width of the adjacent band segments 94, 96. This enhances the strength of the hinge 95 and also helps to prevent the undesired nesting of the connecting bands 90 of different closure assemblies 100. In alternative embodiments, the base of the fitment 10, in particular the lower circumferential flange portion, is adapted to be secured or secured to a panel of a container, for example a panel of a carton or to a wall of a collapsible bag.​​

Claims

1. A closure assembly (100) comprising: - a one-piece fitment (10) formed of plastic material, for example by injection molding, and comprising: - a base (20) configured to be fixed or fixed to a container body; - a tubular neck (30) provided around a product passage (31), the tubular neck extending from the base along a main axis (5) and forming at a top end of the tubular neck a mouth for dispensing a product from the container body; - a plug (40) formed integrally with the top end of the tubular neck (30), wherein the plug has a sealing portion (42), and wherein the plug is connected to the neck (30) by a frangible peripheral connection (46) to close the product passage; - a cap (60) formed of plastic material, for example by injection molding, the cap having a skirt (61) defining a through hole (62) extending from a lower opening at a lower end of the cap to an upper opening at an upper end of the cap; wherein the cap (60) is fitted on the tubular neck (30) and the plug (40) so that the plug is located in the hole (62) at or close to the upper end of the cap, and the skirt (61) extends around the tubular neck; wherein the plug (40) and the cap (60) are provided with mutually cooperating locking structures configured to lock the plug and the cap in axial and rotational directions; wherein the closure assembly (100) is configured to allow a first opening by the user by operating the cap (60) to break the frangible peripheral connection (46), so that the plug forms a cover (70) with the cap and opens the product passage (31); and wherein the user can reclose the cover (70) on the tubular neck in a reclosed position in which the sealing portion (42) of the plug is inserted in a top region of the tubular neck (30) and sealingly engages with the tubular neck to reclose the product passage; characterized in that: the skirt (61) of the cap has a longitudinal rib (63) projecting outwardly, the longitudinal rib (63) extending parallel to the main axis (5); wherein the hole (62) of the cap comprises a longitudinal groove (64) extending parallel to the main axis (5), wherein the longitudinal groove is partially located in the longitudinal rib (63); wherein the plug (40) has a tab (45) projecting outwardly, the tab being housed in the longitudinal groove (64), the tab cooperating with the groove to provide a rotational locking of the plug (40) and the cap (60); and wherein the plug and the cap are further provided with mutually cooperating axial locking structures (47, 67) different from the tab and the groove (45, 64) and configured to lock the plug and the cap in axial direction.

2. The closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cap (6) has two wings (65) radially opposite and extending outwardly from the skirt. wherein the skirt of the cap has two outwardly projecting longitudinal ribs (63) extending parallel to the main axis and diametrically opposite to each other; wherein each of the wings (65) is an integral structure with a corresponding one of the longitudinal ribs (63); wherein the aperture of the cap comprises two diametrically opposite longitudinal grooves (64) extending parallel to the main axis, each of the longitudinal grooves being partially located within a corresponding one of the two longitudinal ribs (63); wherein the plug (40) has two diametrically opposite and outwardly projecting tabs (45), each of the tabs being received within a corresponding one of the two longitudinal grooves (64), the tabs cooperating with the grooves to provide rotational locking of the plug with the cap.

3. The closure assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The axial locking structure is embodied as one or more outwardly projecting snap structures (47) of the plug and one or more complementary snap structures (67) of the cap to provide axial locking of the plug with the cap, wherein the outwardly projecting snap structures (47) are different from the at least one tab (45); wherein, for example, in embodiments according to claim 2, the plug (40) has two diametrically opposite and outwardly projecting snap structures (47), for example perpendicular to the tabs (45), and wherein the cap is provided with diametrically opposite windows (67) extending through the cap from the aperture (62).

4. The closure assembly of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The cap is provided with an outwardly projecting collar portion (66) which is contiguous with the at least one longitudinal rib (63); wherein, for example, in embodiments according to claim 3, the one or more complementary snap structures (67) of the cap are embodied as one or more windows (67) of the collar portion (66) extending through the cap from the aperture (62), a corresponding snap structure (47) of the plug being received within each of the windows (67); wherein, for example, the plug has two diametrically opposite and outwardly projecting snap structures (47) and the cap is provided with diametrically opposite windows (67) extending through the collar portion of the cap from the aperture.

5. The closure assembly of any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The plug has a transverse wall portion (41), wherein the sealing portion (42) is an annular sealing portion projecting downwardly from the transverse wall portion, and wherein the plug further has an annular top wall portion (43) projecting upwardly from the transverse wall portion (41); wherein the frangible peripheral connection portion (46) is contiguous with a lower edge of the annular sealing portion (42) of the plug; wherein, for example, the annular top wall portion (43) is contiguous with a periphery of the transverse wall portion (41) and a horizontal cross-section of the annular sealing portion is smaller than horizontal cross-sections of the transverse wall portion (41) and the annular top wall portion.

6. The closure assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The lower edge of the cap (60) defines two diametrically opposite notches (75) each delimiting a pair of inclined sides (76) extending from the lowermost end of the cap upwardly to the apex of the notch at opposite inclined angles; and the fitment (10) has two diametrically opposite ramps (80), for example at or near the lower end of the tubular neck (30), for example projecting upwardly from the base (20), each of the ramps (80) having inclined sides; and wherein the ramps (80) are complementary to the notches (75) of the lower edge of the cap, so that in the reclosed position of the cap (70), each of the ramps (80) is located within the corresponding one of the two notches (75); and wherein the mating inclined sides of the notches (75) and the ramps (80) drive the cap to perform a lifting action relative to the tubular neck when the user rotates the cap (70) in the reclosed position.

7. The closure assembly of any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The tubular neck (30) is provided with at least one circumferential rib (32, 33), for example two axially spaced circumferential ribs, configured to frictionally engage the inside of the cap.

8. The closure assembly of any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The cap (70) and the tubular neck (30) are configured to form a snap connection when the cap is in its reclosed position, for example only in that reclosed position; wherein, for example, the remaining part of the frangible peripheral connection (46) on the tubular neck forms a snap connection with the plug, for example with the annular sealing portion (42) of the plug (40) in the embodiment according to claim 5.

9. The closure assembly of any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The closure assembly further comprises a one-piece connecting band (90), preferably only one connecting band, which is formed integrally with the fitment (10) and the cap (60), for example by moulding, as a one-piece plastic piece; wherein the connecting band (90) has a first end connected to the fitment (10) and a second end connected to the cap (60), and wherein the connecting band is configured to keep the cap connected to the fitment after the first opening of the closure assembly; wherein, for example, the first end is connected to the base (20) of the fitment, away from the tubular neck; for example, the second end of the connecting band is connected to the wing (65) of the cap.

10. The closure assembly of claim 9, wherein, The connecting band (90) is a hinged connecting band comprising a plurality of band segments (92, 94, 96) connected in series by one or more hinges (93, 95).

11. The closure assembly of claim 9 or 10, wherein, The connecting band is a hinged connecting band (90) comprising: a first band segment (92) connected to the fitment, for example to the base (20), by a first hinge (91); a second band segment (94) connected to the first band segment by a second hinge (93); a third band segment (96) connected to the second band segment by a third hinge (95); and the third band segment (96) is connected to the cap (60) by a fourth hinge (97); wherein the hinge axes of the hinges (91, 93, 95, 97) are parallel to each other.

12. The closure assembly of claim 11, wherein, The connecting band (90) is configured so that, in the reclosed position of the lid portion (70), the first band segment (92) extends parallel to the main axis (5), the second band segment (94) extends perpendicular to the main axis and away from the lid body, and the third band segment (96) extends along the second band segment.

13. The closure assembly of any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The base portion (20) of the fitment (10) is embodied as having a sealing boat adapted to be secured or secured between opposing film walls of a collapsible bag container; or wherein the base portion of the fitment is embodied as having a lower circumferential flange portion adapted to be secured or secured to a container panel, such as a carton panel or a wall of a collapsible bag.

14. A container provided with a closure assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1-13, such as a collapsible bag container or a carton.

15. A method for producing a closure assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1-13, in which method: - an integral part (1) is formed from a plastic material by means of injection moulding, said integral part comprising the fitment (10) and the lid body (60), wherein the lower end of the lid body (60) is integrally connected with the plug (40) by one or more breakable bridges (55) and the lid body (60) extends in the direction away from the plug along the main axis (5) and opposite the tubular neck portion (30); wherein the part (1) is subsequently subjected to an axial compression action in which the lid body (60) is pushed towards the base portion (20) of the fitment (10) so that the breakable peripheral connection (46) remains intact while the one or more breakable bridges (55) break; wherein in the axial compression action the at least one tab (45) of the plug (40) enters and slides along the respective longitudinal groove (64) until the plug is positioned in or close to the aperture (62) in the upper end of the lid body (60) and the axial locking structures (47, 67) cooperate to axially lock the plug and the lid body.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, The integral part (1) is formed by injection moulding in an injection mould, and wherein the axial compression action is performed before the closure assembly (100) is ejected from the injection mould.

17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein, The integral part (1) is formed with an integral connecting band (90) which is formed integrally with the fitment and the lid body, for example by moulding, as a one-piece plastic piece, which connecting band has a first end connected to the fitment and a second end connected to the lid body, and which connecting band (90) is configured to keep the lid portion connected with the fitment after the closure assembly has been opened for the first time.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, The connecting band is a hinged connecting band (90) comprising a plurality of band segments (92, 94, 96) connected in series by one or more hinges; and wherein the connecting band is folded as a result of the compression action, the band segments being folded around the one or more hinges; wherein, for example, after the compression action is completed, the first band segment (92) extends parallel to the main axis, the second band segment (94) extends perpendicular to the main axis and away from the cover, and the third band segment (96) extends along the second band segment.

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